Attractions and places to see around Saint-Germain-Des-Grois include historical landmarks and natural spaces within the Perche Regional Natural Park. This commune in the Orne department of France offers insights into regional history and tranquil natural beauty. The area is characterized by its countryside setting and features like the Huisne River. Visitors can explore various sites that reflect the region's past and natural environment.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Castle
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Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Highlight • Religious Site
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This ancient fortified castle dominates the Huisne Valley at 360° with its imposing keep. The building, with its troubled history, has undergone numerous modifications in its architecture and functions. A visit is essential to understand the complexity of its history and to observe the architectural evolutions.
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A must-see that overlooks the valley.
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The Huisne is a river in central France, flowing in the regions of Normandy, Centre-Val de Loire and Pays de la Loire. It rises in the municipality of La Perrière, in the Perche Regional Nature Park, initially drains to the northeast, later to the southeast, finally turns to the southwest near Condé-sur-Huisne and, after around 165[2] kilometres, flows into the Sarthe in Le Mans as a left tributary.
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It is a magnificent castle... Calm!
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Near the greenway.
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The building now houses a restaurant “En Gare”. This is absolutely recommended! So be sure to make a reservation and treat yourself to culinary delights. (3-course menu for 19 euros)!
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The nave of Notre-Dame church dates from the 12th and 13th centuries. Originally the chapel of the Hôtel-Dieu, built in 1182, it was then placed under the name of Saint-Jacques and only became a parish church after the Revolution, after the destruction in 1798 of the Notre-Dame church. des Marais from which it will take its name. The church does not have a bell tower, the monks of the Saint-Denis abbey of Nogent-le-Rotrou not wanting a new bell tower to exceed theirs. The collaterals were added in the 14th and 15th centuries. It has been classified as a historic monument since 1907 for its nave and in 1949 for the funeral chapel of Sully.
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Opened in 1873 to goods and in 1874 to passengers, the railway operated for 110 years. We took the train at 5:53 a.m. in Condé to arrive at 8:49 a.m. in Alençon, after a 20-minute stop in Mortagne. Thirteen stations punctuated the route, including that of Rémalard-Bellou which also had its freight station serving, among other things, the cider house, where the BFC factory has since been established. In 1934, the red and cream diesel micheline replaced the steam locomotive. The Japanese and the Americans continue to use the line to go in search of Percheron horses. Then, passenger traffic ceased in 1954. Portions of the lines were still used until the 1980s by companies along the route. Since June 2010, the old railway line has become the Voie Verte.
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You can visit several historical sites, including the impressive Nogent-le-Rotrou Castle, which overlooks the Huisne Valley and has a rich, complex history. Another significant site is the Notre-Dame Church, Nogent-le-Rotrou, with its nave dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The Former Rémalard-Bellou Station also offers a glimpse into the region's past transportation history.
Yes, the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway is a popular choice. This former railway line has been converted into a cycle path that winds through forests and meadows, offering a route without steep gradients. It's ideal for both cycling and walking, and you'll pass by old, often inhabited, stations along the way. You can find various cycling routes, including easy and moderate options, on the Cycling around Saint-Germain-Des-Grois guide.
The region is characterized by the tranquil beauty of the Perche Regional Natural Park. A key natural feature is the Huisne River, highlighted by Above the Huisne, which flows through the regions of Normandy, Centre-Val de Loire, and Pays de la Loire, offering peaceful natural surroundings for walks and contemplation.
Beyond walking and cycling on the greenways, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for touring bicycles, gravel biking, and mountain biking. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, refer to the Cycling around Saint-Germain-Des-Grois, Gravel biking around Saint-Germain-Des-Grois, and MTB Trails around Saint-Germain-Des-Grois guides.
Yes, the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway is an excellent option for families, offering flat, easy routes for cycling and walking. The Former Rémalard-Bellou Station, now housing a restaurant, can also be an interesting stop for families, especially those interested in local history and a meal.
The Perche Regional Natural Park and its surroundings are ideal for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural beauty of the region, including the greenways and river areas.
While specific hiking trails are not detailed in the highlights, the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway provides a flat and easy path suitable for casual walkers and beginners. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery without challenging gradients. You can find easy cycling routes that are also suitable for walking in the Cycling around Saint-Germain-Des-Grois guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth of sites like Nogent-le-Rotrou Castle, noting its architectural evolution and troubled history. The peaceful natural surroundings, especially along the Huisne River and the greenways, are also highly valued for their tranquility and opportunities for gentle exploration. The community has shared over 30 photos and given more than 70 upvotes to the attractions in the area.
Yes, nearby towns like Mortagne-au-Perche, Rémalard, and Bellême offer various options for cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. The Former Rémalard-Bellou Station, for example, now houses a recommended restaurant called “En Gare”.
The Perche Regional Natural Park and the greenways, such as the Alençon–Condé-sur-Huisne Greenway, generally offer dog-friendly environments for walks, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. These natural spaces are perfect for enjoying with your canine companion.
To find less crowded walks, consider exploring the smaller paths and trails within the Perche Regional Natural Park, away from the main greenway sections. The areas along the Huisne River, such as those highlighted by Above the Huisne, often provide a more serene experience. Early mornings or weekdays are generally quieter for any route.


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