Discover Brionne, Eure, Haute-Normandie: hidden gems and history

This is a walk in the middle of fields surrounded by hedgerows and a forest in the unspoilt Vièvre valley, an authentic terroir in Normandy. Along a former railway line, a ravine developed during a rainstorm or on a hillside, the walk offers a succession of panoramic views and surprising atmospheres. Mystery still remains just like the rebus on the church...

Close to the Risle valley, at the edge of the state forest of Montfort, this easy hike reveals a rich heritage which includes three chateaux. The contrasting landscape alternates between forest, with two particularly remarkable beech groves, and plains and open lands, including beautiful bocage areas that feature large pollarded trees.

Exceptional heritage sites, numerous panoramic views over a lush valley, forests and a bocage landscape: this walk is the one that best reflects the identity of the Risle valley and of the Pays Risle Estuaire. It offers a walk in an authentic and lively Normandy, shown in the Priory Park, the starting point, which also holds great events.

With its holloways and its abundant pastures, the Véronne valley is the perfect example of typical Norman bocage landscape. This short but very hilly walk crosses the river four times thanks to footbridges and follows its bank twice. In this green setting, tree is king, especially the impressive pollarded hornbeams and ash trees planted on the banks.

An authentic Norman terroir, the Véronne valley displays an unspoilt bocage landscape and provides a pleasant place to hike. Here is a 9.6-km long (5.5 miles) hilly walk for a strenuous and varied walk along paths of the Vièvre region.

Between the plains of the Lieuvin area and the bocage landscape of the du Pays d'Auge, Barville is a small village located before the source of the river Calonne. Visitors will be able to admire the pine tree alley, the ruins of the feudal motte and the sundial. A section of the walking trail runs along the forest on a path called the "rivère morte" (dead river).

In the peaceful Sébec valley, a small wild river that flows towards the Risle river, the waymarked path reveals an unspoilt bocage landscape: banks surmounted by hedgerows with pollarded trees which create holloways. This very hilly walk crosses the river four times thanks to footbridges or fords. You'd better wear good walking shoes to tackle the water and the stones!

In the hills along the Risle river, between pastures and woodlands, this walk offers beautiful panoramic views over this verdant valley. Halfway, in the hamlet called Vieille Vallée, the landscape combines Norman holloways and Vosgian forests. At the start, in the village, the former abbey reminds us of the legend of the bells of Corneville that inspired Robert Planquette's famous comic opera.

Close to Pont-Audemer and the Risle valley, this walk winds among hills and forests to explore the bocage, this man-made landscape, and learn more about the popular belief in Holy Healers, which is still very much alive nowadays.

Come and spend a day among France's biggest monuments, all in one park! It's bound to appeal to both young and old! Prepare to explore France and its biggest landmarks in just a few hours by visiting the France Miniature park. Set off on a trip through France and discover 117 monuments reproduced at 1:30 scale and in the setting of a five-hectare park set out in the form of a map of France. Admire all of France's most beautiful sites, from Paris' most beautiful monuments in minature form, to Versailles, the Chateaux of the Loire region, the Auvergne Volcanoes, the Arles Amphitheatre, gothic and roman architecture, Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel and more... On this unconventional yet cultural tour you will find out the stories behind many French monuments. An attractions area, based upon the regions of France is also to be found in the park. Find inspiration for your future trips to France at France Miniature!

This gîte is located in the Parc Normandie Maine in Ravigny, on the borders of the Mayenne (Mont des Avaloirs), Sarthe (Alpes Mancelles) and Orne (St Céneri-le-Gérei: most beautiful villages in France). An undulating site, with remarkable views over the bocage countryside. La Muletière is close to Mont des Avaloirs (highest point in the Armorican Massif, 417m). Numerous hiking trails. 3km from the VéloScénie Paris/Le Mont-Saint-Michel, at Saint-Denis-sur-Sarthon. La Muletière is a spacious 130m² accommodation, with large living rooms on the ground floor, 2 bath/shower rooms, 1 separate toilet and 3 bedrooms. Overhanging sheltered terrace, very large garden of 1500m² where children love to hide! Swing set. Unenclosed land. Less than an hour away, enjoy the spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne, with its casinos and spa. Shops: Saint Denis sur Sarthon (2.5km), Saint Pierre des Nids (6km), Pré-en-Paille (10km), Alençon (10km).

Stay in the "Rêver ailleurs" eco-domain and enjoy all the comforts of home, in miniature! The windows and terrace offer a marvellous view of the animals in the meadow: llamas, goats, donkeys, ponies... The caravan has a fully-equipped kitchen, 2 bunk beds for children, a bedroom with a double bed and a bathroom with shower and toilet. Private wooded area adjoining. The "Rêver ailleurs" eco-domain is just 5km from the Mont des Avaloirs lookout point, in the Alpes Mancelle, in the Normandie Maine Regional Nature Park. An exceptional stopover on the Véloscénie (Paris / Mont St Michel cycle route). Small towns with character, hiking and mountain biking trails, water sports centre and accrobranches less than 15km from the site. Shops in Saint Pierre des Nids 5km away. Alençon 19km. Breakfast, picnic basket and packed lunch available on reservation. Out and about? The Domaine can accommodate your horse in the meadow. Electric bikes: recharging point available. Other on-site accommodation: tent pitch, a yurt for 2 people (H53H030046), an Indonesian hut for 2 people (H53H030041), each with its own private Nordic bath, a 4-person caravan with outdoor spa under a pergola (H53G030050). Rental of 4 units for up to 12 people: H53G030042.

The Château du Champ de Bataille is one of the most important private constructions and restoration works in France. An architectural masterpiece with 17th century furniture. A unique collection of royal furniture and objects. A harmonious design of 44 hectares (108 acres) of French landscape gardens inspired by Antiquity since 1992. The unequalled talent and skill of the renowned interior designer and owner Jacques Garcia restored the Château du Champ de Bataille to its original splendour. Combining history, extravagance, passion, creation, imagination, poetry, beauty and longevity.

In Giverville, in the heart of the Lieuvin region in Normandy, immerse yourself in the surprising atmosphere of the Philadelphus Garden. Roland Nuisement's imagination and gardening skills led him to design "Le Philadelphus", an out-of-the-ordinary botanic garden where numerous plants coming from all over the world, surprising colourful picnic areas, ponds, embankments, etc. and even an underground tunnel are mixed together! The promise of an unusual visit. Did you know? Philadelphus is a flowering shrub also known as "mock-orange".

In Saint-Georges-du-Vièvre, in the heart of a bucolic Normandy, explore this medieval church. Saint Georges Church comprises a bell tower with a hip roof, a 19th century nave and a rectangular choir dating from the end of the 13th century that goes with a 12th century tower on the northern side, traces it has kept from its medieval past. During the restoration works of the paving of the choir, a well was discovered in the north-east side of the church. Abbot Corbet decided to use different tiles to show the location of this well. Stained-glass windows depict Saint Georges' life. Quirky detail: on the outside walls, you can see nails that were hammered by believers to ask or thank for healing, as well as feet, boat and glasses graffiti.

Green Normandy, the way like it!!! You will enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside, between the Risle Valley and the Vièvre Forest. Saint-Georges was famous for its hand-woven fabrics for individuals. On the village's main square, linen cloth was sold and was known as "fleuret", "blancard" or "Saint Georges cloth". During your visit of the village, do not miss Saint Georges' Church, comprising a 19th century nave and a late 13th century choir (higher than the nave) with a 12th century tower on the northern side.

A 12 hectares park where you can see the castle, the dovecote and gardens recreated according to the old plans.

In the heart of the Eure, Saint Pierre and Saint Paul's Church takes centre stage in the main square of the busy Norman town of Le Neubourg. It was rebuilt in the 15th century on the site of a former sanctuary and is characterized by its triangular choir and its three naves. Inside, have a look at its opulent furniture and the splendid retable, which was fully restored in 1987 by Norman craftsmen: its paintings, its gold decoration, its marble columns and its 17th century painting have regained their bygone splendour.

In the craft of Bonnel's plows, Henri Bonnel arranged a complete collection of plows produced by the family company until 1946.

During the 19th century, Doctor Auzoux created what he called "les Ecorchés", anatomical models made of paper paste that would sell throughout the world and train generations of doctors. The museum displays this significant legacy - the only one of its kind in the world - and this unusual and very precise know-how: a model of a human body that requires 2,000 numbered parts! It also displays species of fauna and flora including a Tsetse fly, a bee, a fern and an algae.

Stop in Le Neubourg, a land of flax and cereals, and discover an important and unusual heritage. With its shops and its market held on Wednesday mornings, considered as one of the most important ones in the Eure Department, Le Neubourg is a busy town with authentic heritage sites. The ruins of the old castle, the square Dupont de l'Eure, the listed church, the Ecorchés Anatomy museum, the Château du Champ-de-Bataille are part of the town's highlights. Just like many Norman towns, Le Neubourg welcomed some crowned heads: Henry Beauclerc, Stephen of Blois, Margaret of France, etc. and some illustrious figures: Corneille, Dupont de l'Eure, etc. The Tourist Information Centre is located in the former train station that borders the Evreux - Bec Hellouin Greenway.

The staff at the Atelier du Bon Goût welcomes you to a warm setting where you will discover numerous products coming from different regions of France, a wide range of wines and beers, and enjoy meals made with fresh produce. Various events and activities including a tea room with board games, temporary trade shows, themed evenings, etc. will allow you to spend a pleasant time. The Atelier du Bon Goût serves meals made with locally sourced produce served with drink pairings, and offers a take away service and soon a delivery service for those who would like.

The chef of this restaurant by the Seine mixes traditional Norman cooking with savours of North Africa using only fresh local products. A very good service.

Restaurant located in L'Hôtellerie.

Bacchus et Marmitons, a culinary bistro and wine bar located in the village of Moyaux, invites you to rediscover homemade French cuisine based on fresh produce Measures in place for visitors: Compliance with the health protocol proposed by the Government.

Restaurant of traditional and generous cuisine in Moyaux. The Bar - Hotel - Restaurant Le Bras d'or has a large room of 60 places and another of 20 places. Menu at 14.50 € (from Monday to Friday for lunch). Dish of the day at 9.50€. Menu at 20.OO € (Week-End). Do not hesitate to call us at 02.31.63.60.07 for any information. Measures in place for visitors : Respect of the sanitary protocol proposed by the Government.

In this inn by the water you can savour a traditional cooking with a beautiful view on the Seine bay. Very nice terrace.

On the little square, near the beautiful Abbey of Jumieges, this old inn was renovated in 2002 with a contemporary decoration completely in harmony with the old wood beams and the monumental fire place. This old inn revival is perfectly appropriate to the cooking of Loic Henry , the owner of the place. This young chef was a brilliant student of the famous Alban Perret, at the catering school of Rouen. A real reference ! Imagination and creativity with an infinite precision to achieve dishes such as Breton scampis roasted on a cold pulp of green olives or calf’s sweetbread with vegetables in their syrup and a light lemon cream. Loic Henry uses Norman products in a wonderful way with a Breton touch thanks to his roots (fish from Fecamp, poultry from Anneville Ambourville, fruits and vegetables from Jumièges and the beautiful Seine Valley).

A family atmosphere for this not-to-be-missed brasserie. Everything is homemade and the products are chosen with the greatest care. You'll appreciate the simplicity and precision of the dishes. Large sunny terrace with breathtaking views of the towers of Jumièges Abbey!

The skillful transformation of this former bread oven into a gite is a beautiful architectural success blending comfort, originality and authenticity. Beautiful walks in the Risle Valley await you. A 2500m² private garden. Table tennis. GROUND FLOOR : dining room with fireplace, living room, kitchenette, toilet, shower room. 1ST FLOOR : bedroom (1 double bed).

The origins of this mill are closely tied with those of the abbey of the Bec Hellouin and the "ânerie" benefits from the same ideal environment. Surrounded by water, set between the mill canal and river in this lush valley, classed Natura 2000, it's an unique and unexpected place to relax. Tastefully furnished, pleasant and functionnal, it promises a magical stay in Normandy. GROUND FLOOR : living-room with kitchen area, shower-room with toilet. 1ST FLOOR : 2 communicating bedrooms (2 twin beds, 2 single beds). Electric heating (included). A 200m² garden.

The mill of the park is one of the mills formerly installed in the valleys of Risle and Bec. Completely restored, it also includes this beautiful building that highlights the apparatus of bricks and white stones. The place, crossed by small streams, is exceptional. The cottage, with a very contemporary design and decoration is not left out and offers a great level of comfort. The abbey of Bec Hellouin is very close as is the castle of Champ de Bataille and its golf course. On the ground floor : Large living room with kitchen opening onto the living room and lounge. Office area with wardrobe, separate toilet. On the floor : A bedroom with 1 double bed (160x200). A bedroom with 1 single bed (90x200) and a bedroom with a large double bed separable into 2 beds 90x200. Shower room with large shower and separate toilet. Parking, terrace. Unprotected river on site (old mill). Unclosed property of 5000 m² in common with another gite (ref 727) 500 m² of which are reserved for you. Presence of a small enclosed ground for young children.

It is an out of this world place. This outstanding house is an architect's work of the 70s. Opened onto nature in a wooded park of 4 hectares, it is very bright. Made of bricks in a very technical construction, the house has benefited from a great renovation and a very original contemporary decoration. Spacious, quiet, it offers great comfort and an unusual layout. You can see wild animals that venture nearby, such as deer. On the ground floor : Large entrance, laundry room, wc with washbasin. Very large living room with stove and relaxation area. Detached kitchen and refectory. A bedroom with 1 double bed 140x190, bathroom and private adjoining wc. On the first floor : A bedroom with 1 electric double bed 160x200 and 1 single bed 90x200. A reading area, a sauna and an independent toilet. A bedroom with 1 single bed 90x200, a bedroom with 1 single bed 90x200 and 1 single bed 110x190. A bedroom with 1 double bed 160x200 and 1 single bed 90x190, 2 bathrooms with toilet in each one. On the second floor : two bedrooms with 1 double bed 140x190, each with a private bathroom.

Water flowing by the meadow, a beautiful and huge wheel turning, small bridges nestled in lush meadows... discover this outstanding mill. It's restored with taste and authenticity; you can admire its authentic furniture. It's the promise of an original and welcoming stay ! Ground floor : big living-room, small lounge with fireplace and kitchen, toilet. 1st floor : 3 bedrooms (2 single beds, 2 double beds), Shower room, lounge. 2nd floor : 2 bedrooms (1 double bed, 4 single beds), bathroom, wc. Oil central heating. Swing. Come to discover the village of Bec Hellouin with Claire, the owners'daughter.

This very spacious half-timbered house displays a preserved authenticity. Fully restored in the respect of the past works, it proudly stands on Bec Hellouin's heights, a village known for its beautiful abbey. These large volumes offer an exceptional comfort, and the layout and the decoration were very carefully thought. The view over grasslands and animals reflects the setting's tranquillity. Linens and towels provided. Ground floor: lounge with stove and fireplace, dining room, kitchen, two bedroom (2 single beds 0.90x200 and 1 double bed 160x200), shower room with wc, wc. 1 ST FLOOR: 3 bedroom (2 double beds 160 x 200, 2 single beds 0.90x200), bathroom, wc. For your comfort, bed linen and towels are provided. Wood : 50€/stere.

A very pleasant and lovely little house at the heart of the Bec valley (Abbey of Le Bec Hellouin nearby). There is a 4500m² private and unfenced garden. An unprotected stream goes through the property. Many hiking trails to explore. The Bec Hellouin is one of the most beautiful villages of France. Ground floor: living room with kitchenette, shower room, toilet. 1st floor: 1 bedroom (2 single beds, 1 cot). Electric heating, microwave. mobile phone at your disposal. Sun loungers.

In the heart of the Bec valley, this lovely house with timber-framed walls and restored with local materials, is located nearby the gite 497, though not facing. You have a private area in the heart of the 4500m² property. The abbey of the Bec Hellouin is 1km away. The village of Bec Hellouin is one of France's most beautiful villages. Ground floor: living room with kitchenette, shower room, toilet. 1st floor: 1 bedroom (2 single beds, 1 cot). Electric heating. Sun loungers. Mobile phone at your disposal. Microwave.