Discovering the manor houses of the Perche: our 4 favourites around Bellême
Stair towers, steep roofs, mullioned windows and honey-coloured stone: the manor house is the emblem of the Perche. Between the late Middle Ages and the 17th century, the local gentry and wealthy landowners built these homes, halfway between a fortified farm and a château. Many still stand, tucked away in the valleys. Here are four manor houses to discover from Le Green de Bellême, ideally located for exploring the Perche.
1. Manoir de Courboyer, home of the Regional Park
This is the best-known manor in the Perche, and the perfect introduction to its heritage. Built at the end of the 15th century in Perche-en-Nocé and listed as a historic monument, it has housed the Maison du Parc naturel régional du Perche since 2003. Its large round tower, stair turret and stone dormers make it a living postcard. Around it: meadows and orchards, a vegetable garden, walking trails, a local produce shop and exhibitions about the area. Allow half a day to make the most of it.
2. Manoir de Lormarin, a stone's throw from Courboyer
Also in Perche-en-Nocé, the Manoir de Lormarin is protected as a historic monument. It is a fine example of the discreet Perche manor houses set in the countryside, and easy to combine with a visit to Courboyer on the same bike ride or drive. It is private property: admire it from the road, respectfully.
3. Manoir de la Vove and its Gothic chapel
In Corbon, near Mortagne-au-Perche, the Manoir de la Vove brings together buildings from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries and a Gothic chapel saved from destruction. Good news: the exterior can be visited free of charge on Mondays and Saturdays from 2pm to 6:30pm (check opening times before you go). It lies close to the greenway, perfect for a bike outing.
4. Manoir du Pontgirard, a jewel of the Perche
In Monceaux-au-Perche (Longny les Villages), the Pontgirard is a private estate whose history goes back to the 16th century and the Féron family, while the present house dates mainly from the 17th century. The manor has been listed as a historic monument since 1972, and its 1614 barn, terraced garden and old kitchen-garden walls have been protected since 1989. A detour that pairs well with a walk in the Longny forest.
Our tips for a manor-house day
Start with Courboyer in the morning for the big picture, have lunch in Bellême or Nocé, then head on to La Vove or Pontgirard in the afternoon. The Perche is best discovered slowly: country lanes, hedgerows, characterful villages… Remember to check opening times before each visit, as many manors are private homes.
Where to stay? At Le Green de Bellême
After a day of heritage, come back to the calm of Le Green de Bellême, beside the Bellême golf course: fully equipped rooms and apartments, ideal for a weekend or a longer stay in the heart of the Perche. Book directly on our website for the best available rate and our direct-booking perks.
Comments