The oak tree at Le Verdier
A must-see!and it's not far!
A must-see!The Chêne-au-Verdier crossroads
The oak tree at Le VerdierAt the bend in a peaceful path in the majestic Écouves forest, in the centre of the star-shaped Chêne-au-Verdier crossroads between Alençon and Carrouges, stands a wooden giant steeped in mystery and history. It’s the trunk of a hundred-year-old giant sequoia broken by a storm more than 20 years ago, and now it’s been given a second life!
Its top has been sculpted with a forester, an owl and an eagle, all three guardians of the forest. Don’t hesitate to make a diversion to find this ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers in search of unusual photos!
If you fancy stretching your legs, there’s a 1.5 km fitness trail just around the corner from the Chêne-au-Verdier crossroads.
A must-see!Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei
Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, nestling on a rocky promontory in a natural setting in the heart of the Alpes Mancelles, is listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France®”. Its flower-filled stone houses are home to numerous artists’ studios, a reminder of the period in the late 19th century when many painters, including Mary Renard, Paul Saïn, Camille Corot, Eugène Boudin and Bernard Buffet, found inspiration here.
You’ll be enchanted by the pretty 11th-century Romanesque church with its impressive murals. A little further on, hidden away in its secluded meadow, is the chapel of Petit Saint-Célerin… Take advantage of the opportunity to go on some great walks in the surrounding area, including the 5 km “Trotté par la corniche” loop, which starts at the bottom of the village.
Our favouritesSaint-Pierre church in La Roche-Mabile
Located in the charming village of La Roche-Mabile, in the heart of the bocage region of Orléans, Saint-Pierre Church opens its doors to a place steeped in history. This small, discreetly elegant building is a true testament to Normandy’s rural heritage. Built between the 11th and 15th centuries, its sober, authentic architecture is a delight to behold. The interior, bathed in soft light filtered through modest stained glass windows, invites contemplation.
Saint-Pierre church is often the ideal starting point for a walk through the village of La Roche-Mabile. Whether you’re travelling by car, motorhome, hiking or cycling along the Véloscénie itinerary, the village is an ideal stop-off on your way. Take the time to walk down to the banks of the river Le Sarthon and enjoy a peaceful, bucolic interlude.
Not to be missedThe Park House and the Normandie-Maine Geopark
The Maison du Parc et Géoparc Normandie-Maine is a lively and inspiring place. Housed in the former outbuildings of the Château de Carrouges, an architectural gem dating back to the 15th century, it is much more than an information centre: it is a genuine discovery centre, designed to educate young and old alike about the area’s natural, cultural and landscape heritage.
Through interactive exhibitions, nature activities, educational workshops and guided walks, visitors can immerse themselves in the unique world of the park: local flora and fauna, fascinating geology, rural know-how, environmental issues… everything is covered in a fun and accessible way.
The Maison du Parc is also an ideal starting point for exploring the park on foot, by bike or on horseback, thanks to the many signposted trails that take you through a variety of landscapes.
