Les Marronniers de Ste Opportune: Explore Nature and Heritage

Panoramas on the Val Durand, fording on the stream, springs and wash-house, many thatched cottages, landscapes alternating the plain and the valley. BLUE TRAIL MARKERS

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).

Explore the valleys of the Mayenne and discover La Petite Vallée gite in a rural setting. Everything you need to relax and indulge your senses! The 113m² gîte, with its 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2 separate WCs, is fully restored, south-facing, detached and not overlooked. Ground floor: fitted kitchen opening onto the 52 m² living room with fireplace (wood-burning stove), flat-screen TV - 1 bedroom (1 double bed) - shower room (walk-in shower, washing machine, tumble dryer) - separate wc. 1st floor: 1 bedroom (1 x 160cm bed) - 1 bedroom (1 x 140cm bed and 1 x 90cm bed) - 1 bathroom - separate wc. Baby equipment available on request. Children can enjoy the swing set in the garden and the games available in the gîte. Wifi, very good network ideal for teleworking with Fibre and television. Parking, south-facing terrace, garden furniture, charcoal barbecue, wooded and landscaped grounds. Access path to the river La Mayenne with river fishing (fishing licence required). Hiking trails (GR22 C) and farmyard animals, goats and ponies nearby. 1 hour from Le Mans. Shops: Pré en Paille 7km - La Ferté-Macé: leisure centre -Bagnoles de l'Orne, 20km: casino, spa...golf.

Mountain biking, walking, gravel and nature races from 10 to 70 km with refreshments in the Multonne forest around Mont des Avaloirs, the highest point in the west at 417 metres. Most of the routes are in the forest, and are as varied as they are varied, with lovely views over the Butte Chaumont and the surrounding area via the Corniche de Pail. Elevation gain: 228 to 1600 metres. Car park, bike wash, on-site restaurant open to all. MTB 6€, under 14s 5€, Gravel 7€, pedestrians 4€ and nature races 5€. Online registration via Hello-asso and possible on site from 7.15 a.m. with an additional charge of €2. Free start from 7.30am to 9.30am for all mountain bikers, runners and walkers of 20 kms and more. and a group start for shorter distances at 9.30am. Two 70 and 100 km Gravel courses with free start from 7.30 am on GPX tracks. Registration on Hello-asso only (track sent by e-mail the week before the event). A free drink for each participant.

Listed a Historic Monument, the Château d’Etelan was built at the end of the 15th century, from 1494, which makes it the first Italian Renaissance chateau built in France. The Château d’Etelan is located in the heart of the Pays de Caux and Seine Valley between the bridges of Brotonne and Tancarville, and it overlooks the last big meander of the river Seine. A place where Francis I of France, Catherine de’ Medici, and even Voltaire and Gustave Eiffel stopped, the Château d’Etelan comprises a chapel dedicated to Sainte Madeleine dating back to the Early Norman Renaissance, which Abbot Cochet compared to those of the chateaux of Blois, Chenonceau and Amboise. Its park is a unique place where the environment hasn't changed over the centuries and is designed to walk around or admire the site.

Visits for groups, nature horse riding activities for a day, children birthday parties, hen parties.

Ceramics Centre: Open to anyone who would like information about: - training programmes leading to qualification and diploma - specialised training courses - leisure activities - Open Days: visit of the workshops - introduction courses (schools, groups of all kinds public) - temporary and permanent exhibitions - artists in residence - clay and material supply for professional and hobby potters and ceramicists

20 ha country park, with Telhuet river running through. Themed areas : orchard with 300 different varieties of apple-trees, a water garden, grazing area for Scottish herd, as well as fishing lakes.

Former castle of the count of Evreux, of which the walls have been restored. Medieval tower with view-point dominating the Seine Valley and pathway around walls with drawbridge. Inside the walls, remnants of wood store and old chapel. At the foot of the site,an old washhouse has been completely restored.

The Théâtre de Lillebonne, built in the 1st century and transformed during the 2nd and 3rd centuries, is a symbole of Haute-Normandie and one of the biggest sites in the north of la Loire.

Located in front of the Roman theatre, the museum contains collections of Gallo-Roman archaeologue and regional ethnography. A 2nd /3rd C tomb, said to be that of Marcus, holds 47 beautiful pieces made of bronze, glass and silver... Furniture, local jewellery and items which come from the pottery town of Melamare, as well as mementoes from the textile factories which recall the town's more recent history.

We invite you to discover the castle of Vatteville-la-Rue in virtual reality. Vatteville was an important stronghold in the Middle Ages: located on the banks of the Seine, it had a port with dense traffic dominated by the castle, whose architecture is quite original since it is found mostly in England. Traces of it remain today, more precisely those of a keep and a large hall. Built at the end of the 11th century, this castle was involved in a revolt against the King of England and Duke of Normandy Henry I Beauclerc, was besieged and partially demolished, and was rebuilt in the 12th century. Download the application ! A digital device has been set up for visitors: 5 terminals placed in different places of the castle ruins invite you to visualize the building as it was at the time via a telephone. As if you were there! Application to download on Play Store Application to download on Apple Store To get a free pair of 3D glasses go to : - At the grocery store in Vatteville la Rue - At the restaurant Auberge du Moulin, Vatteville la Rue - At the Maison de la Randonnée et du Trail, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rives-en-Seine - At the Maison du Parc naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande, Notre-Dame-de-Bliquetuit

In the Seine valley, on the heights of Villequier, the church of Saint-Pierre de Bébec is the perfect example of a country church that can be discovered on a Sunday walk. This local heritage, which is the charm of our villages and contains many treasures, has been labeled "Rural Heritage" by the Department of Seine-Maritime in 2021. It was during a walk with my friend Rachel that we discovered the Saint-Pierre de Bébec church, indicated by signs from Villequier. The charm of the place conquered us immediately. Only the birdsong kept us company in the middle of all this greenery, it was magical. We learned on an information panel that the Saint-Pierre de Bébec church is a former parish of the deanery of Saint-Georges, attached to Villequier since September 3, 1823. We begin our visit quietly by the exterior to appreciate the bucolic setting of this timeless place. A very small cemetery adjoins the body of the church, and we are seduced by the large lawns on which the stone building seems to stand. The surrounding shrubs are pruned in topiary and the smell of freshly mown grass awakens memories. Rachel invites me to come and see the graves of the Protestant denominations, which are oriented in the opposite direction to the Catholic ones. I see curious graffiti on the outside of the church: a gallows, a ladder, ships? No doubt in thanksgiving to Saint Peter, the patron saint of sailors? Indeed, the Seine is very close. We walk around the chevet and exit the cemetery to enter the church. The tranquility and the spirituality of the place instantly give us an unsuspected well-being. A beautiful light highlights the pointed arch choir and then descends on the painted wooden altar. We look up at the vault of the nave. The polychrome wooden statues from the 17th century that inhabit the place are remarkable. We also discover Greek crosses painted on the walls, a life-size crib in the only chapel. So many details that challenge us, question us and delight us in their progressive discovery. We have not seen the time pass and we must leave. Rachel tells me that it would be too stupid to go back like that. "And why not visit the Victor Hugo Museum on the banks of the Seine in Villequier? "Excellent idea, it's been years since I've been there and I've heard about a flower carpet in the garden. Spectacular it seems!" says Rachel.

Passionate about the events of the 1st World War, I was delighted to learn of the existence of this stained-glass window when the Seine-Maritime department announced its list of "Rural Heritage" sites. Let's go and discover it! As I drive through the pretty, flower-filled village of Saint-Jean-de-Folleville, I head for the church and park in the Mairie parking lot. This is a former presbytery, beautifully constructed in white sandstone and brick. The landscaping is most pleasing, with perfectly trimmed boxwood topiaries. My nostrils perk up as I pass the fragrant rosebushes. An excellent start to the visit! As I tread the ancient cobblestones, I spot the "rural heritage label" totem at the entrance to the cemetery. It tells the story of the stained-glass memorial window, with explanations and photos that only increase my desire to discover it. Pushing open a black gate, I walk along the wall of the church, surrounded by the graves of the follevillais. Next to the church porch is a calvary, with the war memorial topped by a war cross not far away. I push open the church door and discover a place that shimmers in the light of the colored stained-glass windows. In front of me is the altar, with pews arranged on either side of the nave. On my right, close to the confessional, I can see the stained-glass memorial window depicting twenty-five soldiers who fell in battle or died of wounds sustained in the First World War. The military portraits are based on photographic archives of the poilus, except for one whose name is Isidore and whose photo has not been found. I was amazed and moved by the depictions of these lost soldiers, whose gazes will stay with us forever. They are so real, ready to come to life. Each has his first and last name, as well as the place and date of the moment when life stopped for him. Their representation moves me. Some are dressed in combat gear, as if ready to go to the front. Others look at us wearing their caps or kepis, depending on their rank or corps. I remember leafing through family photo albums with my grandmother, in which I could see my ancestors proudly wearing their military uniforms. There are definitely a lot of emotions running through me. Combining patriotism and religion, a soldier is depicted in agony in the center of the work, in the arms of a nurse, the latter showing him Christ on the cross. The link between religious and patriotic sacrifice is symbolically highlighted in the center of the stained-glass window. A lectern with a book of remembrance is available to visitors, with personal letters from the poilus in the stained-glass window and archival documents. I find myself reading some of them. With their beautiful handwriting, it's as if the lost soldiers come to life again through their thoughts. I close the door of the church softly, full of emotion, with the tragic memories of our French history fresh in my mind. As I drive back to my car, I become aware of the need for remembrance, and tell myself that we are fortunate to have at our disposal so many memorial sites from the 1st and 2nd World Wars, which left their mark on our Normandy region.

Located in Notre Dame de Gravenchon/Port Jérôme sur Seine, the Brasserie des Halles serves dishes made with fresh ingredients.

Located in Tancarville, the restaurant La Grillade offers traditional cuisine.

Magnolia, Lieu de Convivialité is a unique site: an unobstructed view of the Seine, an immediate proximity to the Victor Hugo museum, and a complete offer: a restaurant with traditional cuisine, a tea room and a delicatessen, an accommodation offer: guest house or PMR cottage, as well as a reception room for your group meals or company seminars.

The tea room “La Laiterie” allows you to enjoy a well-deserved break after a walk in the park of the Valasse Abbey. A new layout brings the shop closer to the bar and offers a whole new display. There are new products available including the Godène beer brewed in the region, which is now standing next to the Monks' beer made at Saint-Wandrille Abbey. A relaxing and friendly sitting area with sofas and armchairs has also been set up. Exhibitions are held throughout the year. And still available for free: mölkki, petanque balls, beach rackets, badminton. You just have to choose which game you want to play to make the most of the park.

The tea room “La Laiterie” allows you to enjoy a well-deserved break after a walk in the park of the Valasse Abbey. A new layout brings the shop closer to the bar and offers a whole new display. There are new products available including the Godène beer brewed in the region, which is now standing next to the Monks' beer made at Saint-Wandrille Abbey. A relaxing and friendly sitting area with sofas and armchairs has also been set up. Exhibitions are held throughout the year. And still available for free: mölkki, petanque balls, beach rackets, badminton. You just have to choose which game you want to play to make the most of the park.

The restaurant La Presqu’île welcomes you to the charming town of La Mailleraye sur Seine. You will enjoy the dishes prepared by the chef while watching the ships passing by on the river Seine.

Welcome to the restaurant the Saint Thomas located in the town centre of Gruchet le Valasse. The Saint Thomas serves traditional French cuisine.

The Brasserie du Mascaret offers pleasant dishes on the bank of the river Seine.

The Brasserie du Bac welcomes you in front of the river Seine.

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

Located close to the river Seine, the motorhome service point in Norville offers 4 parking spaces. It provides water et electricity supply and waste disposal services. Shops nearby (bar, restaurant, bread vending machine).

The Sure Hotel by BESTWESTERN Port Jérome Le Havre is an ideal place for visitors who are exploring Normandy and want to immerse themselves in the charm of the Seine Valley. Perfectly located, it is an ideal starting point to go and visit major Norman sites: Le Havre, Etretat, Rouen, Honfleur, the D-Day Landing beaches, etc. This beautiful Norman building set within 2,500 sq m of grounds planted with trees, has 29 bedrooms. You will appreciate the spacious and comfortable bedrooms, all with Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and French and American plug sockets. The bathrooms are equipped with either a bath or a shower and a hair dryer. Complementary tea and coffee facilities are available in each room. The restaurant and brasseries nearby will complete your stay. Have a look at the list of restaurants: www.entreseineetmer.fr/dormir-manger/restaurants/

Sophie's hotel is located in the Seine Valley and the Boucles de la Seine Normande Regional Natural Park. This small inn offers a warm and friendly setting, ideal for a weekend getaway exploring Normandy or a business trip. The hotel has 9 simple or double bedrooms. They are comfortable and well-equipped. The hotel's restaurant allows you to have lunch and dinner on site. It serves traditional and generous dishes.

The “Foyer des Sports” in Notre-Dame-de-Gravenchon (Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine) is open to groups as well as seminars.

The Télhuet gite offers a bright living room, opening onto a terrace and private garden. An open and fully equipped kitchen is at your disposal. On the first floor, you will find: - room 1, with a bed 140x190 - bedroom 2, with 2 beds 90x190 - a mezzanine, with 2 beds 90x190 The beds will be ready on your arrival. Cleaning at the end of your stay is charged. The house is bordered by the Télhuet park, a 20ha landscaped park.

This former independent forest home on the edge of the forest of Brotonne, offers its charm and beauty to each change of season. You will have a terrace on the nature and an enclosed garden of 2000 m² and thus discover the surrounding flora and fauna. Ground floor: kitchen (dishwasher, oven, microwave, plates gas/induction, freezer), dining room with fireplace, living room with TV screen and DVD player, 1 bedroom (1 bed 2 persons 160x200cm), bathroom with separate shower and bath (washing machine), wc. 1st floor: 1 bedroom (4 beds 1 person 90x190cm), 1 bedroom (1 bed 2 persons 160x200cm, 1 bed person 90x190cm), small bathroom with wc. BED LINEN INCLUDED. Heating and electricity extra. Package possible household.

Set in a meander of the Seine, this haven of peace is the former chicken coop of the Norman barn. Made of brick and flint, it has been completely restored. Authentic and warm, it features a semi-covered terrace with no facing walls, so you can enjoy the outdoors in complete privacy. You'll appreciate the gîte's tranquil setting, with a hiking trail in front of it. A cycle path along the Seine is 5km away.

A former forest house, the Coutume gîte is located in the heart of the Brotonne forest and can accommodate 6 people. It has a 4-star rating. On the first floor, the living room and sitting room offer a lovely space for relaxation, thanks in particular to the pellet stove and the decoration featuring wood. Particular attention has been paid to the equipment in the bright, spacious kitchen. You'll also find a games room filled with toys, books and games for all ages. A large shower room and separate toilet are located on the first floor, with a second toilet upstairs. Upstairs, the first bedroom has a queen-size bed, and the other two bedrooms have four single beds. The enclosed, shady garden, with its garden furniture, looks out directly onto the forest, where you can enjoy many walks. Situated in the Seine Valley, between Seine-Maritime and Eure, and just a stone's throw from Calvados, the Coutume gîte is an ideal base for discovering our beautiful Normandy: Étretat, Giverny, Caen or Rouen are just 1 hour away.

Located in the Boucles de la Seine Natural Park, on the edge of the Brotonne forest, you are in the heart of a region with a wealth of architectural heritage. Comfortable holiday cottage with a refined decor and adjoining our property. Terrace, private garden with flowers and trees. Children's play area with swings and sandpit, cycling and hiking trails. Shiatsu massage to relax available. Ground floor: large living/sitting room, TV, phone, Wi-Fi, kitchen (dishwasher, microwave), toilet, washing machine. Upstairs: 1 bedroom with 2 single beds, cradle + cot, 1 bedroom with 1 double bed (160 cm), shower room and toilet. Sheets provided. Central heating: 10€/day. Housecleaning service: 35€. Linen rental. Free crossing of the Brotonne Bridge.

The Hôtel de France is located in the heart of the former Roman city Juliobona, nowwadays known as Lillebonne. A stone's throw away from major Norman tourist attractions, it is located in the between the river Seine and the sea. This hotel is the ideal starting point to go and explore Etretat, Fécamp, Le Havre and the Normandy Coast. The hotel comprises 19 bedrooms divided between simple and double bedrooms. Perfectly equipped, the bedrooms are cosy and comfortable. The hotel's restaurant allows you to have lunch and dinner on site. It serves traditional and generous cuisine. Located in the town centre, shops are within easy reach.