Lyons-la-Forêt

Lyons la Forêt, a charming village listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"®, is located in the heart of the state forest of Lyons, the largest beech grove in France, 1 hour 30 minutes away from Paris and 40 minutes away from Rouen.
Explore this undoubtedly characterful village and its remarkable historical and natural heritage. Its 17th and 18th century half-timbered houses and its streets create a circle around the former feudal motte. Former monasteries by the river Lieure, watermills, the Hôtel de la Maréchaussée (former constabulary) dot the heritage trail that takes visitors to the heart of the turbulent history of this village. Lyons-la-Forêt was an administrative centre in the 18th century, under the protection of the Duke of Penthièvre. As testified by the Bailiwick Court, listed in the French Historic Monuments second record, its 18th century dungeon, which you can visit in the Town Hall. As early as the first rays of light, you will see this discreetly charming village come to life around the covered market (dating back to the 15th and 18th centuries and listed in the French Historic Monuments second record) that holds markets, art exhibitions and other events. The terraces of the cafés and restaurants in Square Isaac Benserade, adjoining the covered market that still holds a charming market on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday mornings, lie at the heart of the village life. Its green setting, the authentic charm of its architectural heritage and its peaceful atmosphere made Lyons-la-Forêt a holiday destination and a source of inspiration for many modern artists and illustrious figures. Some of them have left their mark: Maurice Ravel, the painter Jean Dollfus, Paul-Emile Pissaro, the set dresser Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann and the architect Pierre Patout, Art Déco icons. The film directors Jean Renoir and Claude Chabrol used the village as the setting for their adaptations of Madame Bovary. You'll enjoy the peaceful and lively atmosphere of this small village surrounded by the largest beech grove in France, which offers numerous walking trails. Lyons-la-Forêt is also awarded the "Station Verte" (Green Holiday Resort) certification and 4 flowers in the "French towns and villages in bloom" competition.