Domfront Tourist Information

Address: 12 Place de la Roirie, 61700 Domfront, France

Telephone - +33 2 33 38 53 97

http://www.ot-domfront.com/

Domfront

In the 11th century Domfront was the scene of much action and fighting, since it occupied an important point on the border between Brittany and Normandy. Hence Domfront castle, originally built at the beginning of the 11th century, was much fortified during the decades that followed. Much of the castle was destroyed as a result of the Wars of Religion but you can visit the ruins of the castle and stroll through the gardens which have lovely views of the surrounding countryside and the river Varenne. The town itself was also fortified, and many of the towers survive, along with sections of the ramparts, which now provide a good backdrop for the numerous medieval houses and buildings to be seen in Domfront.

Within the fortifications is the old town, an attractive region with narrow cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and some grander townhouses, interspersed with pleasant cafes and open squares.

Another historically interesting building in the town is the 11th century roman style church of Notre-Dame sur l'Eau. The church once formed part of an adjoining abbey, on an important pilgrimage route, and played host to such medieval dignitaries as Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Be sure to venture into the church to see some impressive frescoes and carvings.

Surrounding Area

There are numerous historic towns, villages and attractions in the region including:

Lassay les Chateaux, with it’s impressive castle.

Fosse Arthur - Stunning riverside walk, through the woods, along a peaceful lane, with great views over the Domfrontaise countryside.

Bagnoles de l’Orne - Belle Epoque spa town

Parc Naturel Regional de Normandy Maine - Covers nearly 600 acres and spans 4 departments: the Orne, Manche, Sarthe and Mayenne. It encompasses farmlands, moors, rivers and forests with numerous walks and cycle ways.

Region

Normandy beaches, Le Mont St Michel, Bayeux, Fougeres, Caen, Mayenne. Leisure pool and bowling available at Flers.

Links to Websites

Veloscenic cycle route:

http://www.veloscenic.com/the-cycle-route

Flers aquatic centre:

http://www.normandie-tourisme.fr/loi/capflo/flers/fiche-LOINOR061FS00060-1.html

Flers bowling:

http://bowlingflers.fr/

Normandy tourist site:

http://en.normandie-tourisme.fr/normandy-tourism-1-2.html