Discover Harcourt, Eure, Haute-Normandie and its charms

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 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.

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!

A special place, assembling a collection of objects associated with the famous French composer in the house where he was born: Claude Debussy's birthplace is located in the historic quarter of Saint-Germain-en-Laye. It was in this 17-century house in the town that Claude Debussy was born, on 22 August 1862, and spent his early childhood. His father ran a china shop on the ground floor. After the composer's death in 1918, it soon became the main gathering place of his many admirers. Once inside, you will discover a wonderful little inner courtyard, where a splendid wooden staircase will lead you up to the museum. The museum, officially recognised as a 'Maison des illustres' ('Houses of the Famous'), displays objects and photographs that help provide a better understanding of the composer's creative process. In fact, Debussy liked to surround himself with objects from different places and artistic movements, which influenced his music. For example, a Japanese lacquered panel, which came from his Parisian mansion, depicting two fish swimming under a willow, musically metamorphosed into 'Poissons d'or', a piano piece (1907). A small museum but a grand tribute to one of France's greatest composers!

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).

The Grand Trianon was designed in 1687 by Jules Hardouin-Mansart to allow King Louis XIV to escape the excessive luxury of the Court and to safeguard his love affairs there. The site indeed exudes a sense of intimacy and refinement. The palace is inspired by Italian architecture and invites you to poetry and leisurely strolls. It was built on the site of Louis XIV’s former Porcelain Trianon. A little fun fact: in the past, the Grand Trianon was surrounded by thousands of potted flowers, which were changed every day. Today, this tradition is still maintained with each season. The spectacle was truly unique: flowerbeds bursting with blooms of every color and a wide variety of fragrances filled the air. Later on, the Grand Trianon was frequented by Napoleon Bonaparte and by Presidents of the Republic. From 1962 to 1966, General de Gaulle entrusted André Malraux, then Minister of Cultural Affairs, with the restoration of the Grand Trianon.

The Petit Trianon was built between 1763 and 1768 by the architect Gabriel, requested by Madame de Pompadour, mistress then friend of king Louis XV. Madame de Pompadour, who wished to “relieve the king’s boredom” — though no longer his mistress, she remained his friend — was the instigator of this small château, built by architect Gabriel between 1763 and 1768. It was erected near the Botanical Garden and the new menagerie, as Louis XV had a keen interest in the sciences. To please the marquise, always at the forefront of fashion, the king’s architect broke away from the rococo aesthetic and adopted a cubic form with very pure lines, in keeping with the brand-new “Greek style” then in vogue. Its simplicity is only apparent, for each façade is different, designed in relation to the space it overlooks: the courtyard, the French Garden with its elegant pavilion, the Botanical Garden, and the Florist’s Garden. Inside, one finds the same modernity of style. Simpler than the rest of the estate, the decoration of the Petit Trianon lies not in lavish materials — gilding is almost absent — but in the refinement of its sculptures, in a château entirely dedicated to nature. Madame de Pompadour died in 1764 and never saw the château completed. Today, it is above all the memory of Marie-Antoinette that it evokes. In 1774, Louis XVI gave the Trianon estate to his wife, who was able to live here a life apart — too much so for some — from the Court.

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 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.

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

With its 13th century vaulted choir, its splendid Louis XIV style retable supported by twisted columns and Saint Michel's tower, which can be seen like a lighthouse in the country, the Church Notre-Dame in Iville is listed in the French Historic Monuments second record. The numerous statues inside arouse curiosity, especially in relation to the Holy Healers, a former firmly established popular belief in this part of Normandy. The yew in the graveyard is more than 270 years old.

Take time to discover the history of the most important commandry in Normandy. This institution, the Knights Templar Commandry, was founded in the middle of the 12th century by Richard d'Harcourt. There are a few remaining buildings: a large barn with a splendid framework resting on two rows of columns that delineate a nave and two side aisles. Two 13th century constructions including a remarkable bakehouse comprising three bread ovens.

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".

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.

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!

Restaurant located in L'Hôtellerie.

In Gravigny, just outside Evreux, the Saint Nicolas is concealed behind a discreet facade. The chef and owner, Claude Sauvant, does not like routine in his cooking and makes a point of regularly changing his menu, working with high quality produce and looking for new recipes to please his customers. The menu is varied and suits all budgets and there are several rooms available including a large dining room with terrace that looks out to the garden. The wine list is interesting.

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.

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.

In the calm of this small village, this spacious and comfortable gite is ideally designed for a holiday with family or friends. Independent and practical with a 1500m² enclosed garden. The gite is located in a calm area. GROUND FLOOR : living room with lounge and fireplace, kitchen, living room, bedroom (1 double bed 1.60 m x 2 m), shower room, toilet, laundry. 1ST FLOOR : 5 bedrooms (6 single beds - 2 are bunk beds, and 2 double beds of 1.60 m x 2 m), bathroom, toilet. Fuel central heating. Microwave, raclette machine. Swing, sandpit.

For lovers of nature and space, this gite is magical. It proudly shows off its timber-framed walls and its roof of local tiles. With a modern interior, well equipped, comfortable and bright, it is also very cosy. You will appreciate the superb view over 40 000m² of nature and water which makes this site exceptional. Rivers and ponds are located in this huge space dedicated to nature and fishing (extra fee). Warning: unprotected river banks. GROUND FLOOR : living room with kitchen, 1 bedroom (1 double bed of 160x200), bathroom (bathtub, shower and toilets).

Ground floor: commonroom with fireplace, kitchen, shower room, toilet, 1 bedroom (2 people). 1st floor: 2 dormitories (7 and 4 people), shower room, toilet. Between the rich plateau of le Neubourg and the woods of Champ de Bataille, the gîte is situated at the edge of fields, at the entrance of a hamlet crossed by a large road. The old stables of the farm have been turned into this gîte.

This beautiful house with colorful half-timbered frames, in the middle of its pretty landscaped garden is the ideal holiday home ! Jacques and Eric wanted it to be elegant, friendly and very comfortable : on the garden side, you can enjoy the various spaces equipped for your meals in the open air under the superb decorated charm, for a nap in a hammock, picking red fruits or some vegetables in the garden in season. On the interior side, the character of this old farmhouse blends perfectly with a very modern decor and comfort. Everyone will find their favorite little corner and activity there, between the very cocooning lounge in front of a beautiful blaze, the library, the leisure area with table football, the game of darts, board games, the games console, the bar area. for a coffee break, and why not a friendly cooking workshop. Your hosts have thought of everything ; they live right next door and can give you their tips on the region. Ground floor: entrance hall, large, welcoming living room with old terracotta tiles and exposed timber framing, lounge area with fireplace and beautiful dining area. Kitchen next door separated by a bar, utility room. Two large bedrooms, each with a 160x200 separable double bed and desk, one with its own bathroom with walk-in shower. Second shower room and separate toilet. Upstairs, beautiful lounge-leisure area : according to your desires, cocoon lounge for a moment of reading or TV (Netflix and children's channels) or friendly games room between the Xbox one console (with games), the table football, a game of darts or a board game ; also 2 spacious bedrooms with double separable bed 160x200 and a small shower room with wc. Everything is really comfortable and very well equipped. The large garden is closed and is about 5000 m² of which about 2000 are private. You are right next to the exceptional Château du Champ de Bataille, its gardens and golf course, or Neubourg, a lively town.