Attractions and Places To See around Bellême - Top 20

Bellême is rich in history. You can visit the Saint-Sauveur Church, largely rebuilt between 1675 and 1710, or discover the ancient Crypt of the Saint-Santin Chapel, which dates back to the 10th century and features old wall paintings. Don't miss the 15th-century Bellême City Gate Entrance, the 13th-century Clock Tower, and the Old Ramparts and Château Gatehouse for a glimpse into the town's medieval past. Many well-preserved 17th and 18th-century houses also line the streets, particularly along Rue Ville Close.

Absolutely. Bellême is nestled within the picturesque Le Perche Regional Natural Park, offering rolling hills and woodlands. The magnificent Forêt de Bellême, a 2,400-hectare state-owned forest, is a major natural highlight. It's famous for its majestic oak and beech trees, and includes the tranquil Etang de la Herse lake, perfect for relaxation. You can also find the impressive 300-year-old Chêne de l'École oak tree within the forest.

The area around Bellême is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking through the Forêt de Bellême, which offers numerous trails. Cycling is popular, especially on the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway, a flat route winding through forests and meadows. For more specific routes, you can find various options for hiking, road cycling, and running.

Yes, Bellême and its surroundings offer several family-friendly options. The charming medieval village of Bellême itself is lovely to explore with its historical sites. Nearby, the village of La Perrière, with its characterful buildings, is also a pleasant visit. For active families, the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway provides a safe and easy path for cycling and walking through nature.

Bellême is charming year-round, but autumn is particularly beautiful when the foliage in the Forêt de Bellême changes color, making it a haven for nature lovers. The town also hosts an annual mushroom festival, the Mycologiades Internationales de Bellême, from late September to early October. Summer brings the Annual Medieval Festival, offering lively cultural experiences.

Bellême offers a vibrant cultural scene. You can experience the lively Bellême Market on Saturday mornings in the Place de la République. For artisanal crafts, visit La Savonnerie de la Chapelle, which produces natural, handmade soaps. The town also hosts an Annual Medieval Festival each summer and the Mycologiades Internationales de Bellême, an annual mushroom festival in early autumn.

Beyond the main sights, Bellême has several unique details. Look for the antique sundials dotted around town, including on rue du Château and Place de la République. The Crypt of the Saint-Santin Chapel, with its ancient wall paintings, is a less-known but fascinating historical spot. Exploring the well-preserved 17th and 18th-century houses along Rue Ville Close also reveals the town's architectural charm.

Yes, you can. While much of Bellême's original château was destroyed, the remaining gatehouse and fortifications offer panoramic views. A short distance away, you can visit Monthimer Castle, which features a house built in the mid-1600s and a significant 1500s tower that was part of the original castle walls.

Bellême's designation as a 'Petite Cité de Caractère' highlights its exceptional historical charm and architectural heritage. This label recognizes towns that have preserved their authentic character through their historical buildings, unique atmosphere, and commitment to heritage. Bellême's medieval layout, well-preserved houses, and significant landmarks contribute to this special status.

Bellême, being built on a spur, offers beautiful views. From the old ramparts and the Place de l'Europe (former castle square), you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding Percheron countryside and the flat tiled roofs of the town, including the Saint-Sauveur Church. The Éperon site near La Perrière also provides magnificent views of the Percheron landscape.

Yes, the Forêt de Bellême is well-known for mushroom picking, especially during the autumn months. It's a popular activity, and the forest even hosts the annual Mycologiades Internationales de Bellême festival, which includes picking trips, talks, and workshops dedicated to mushrooms.

The Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway is a dedicated cycle path that follows an old towpath. It offers a route without steep gradients, making it suitable for both cycling and walking. The greenway winds through picturesque forests and meadows, providing a peaceful way to experience the natural beauty of the region.