10 Reasons to Visit Alençon in Southern Normandy

Just 2.5 hours from Paris, Alençon combines rich history, remarkable heritage and beautiful countryside, making the perfect base for a relaxing weekend break in southern Normandy year-round.

1. A rich heritage

Once the City of the Dukes and now designated a Remarkable Heritage Site, Alençon has an exceptional collection of historic monuments unique in Normandy. Highlights include Notre-Dame Basilica, the remains of the château, elegant townhouses, the hidden cobbled courtyards of the medieval Saint-Léonard quarter and the striking Halle au Blé with its iconic dome. Nearby villages including Saint-Denis-sur-Sarthon and La Roche-Mabile also preserve traces of this rich past.

2. Needle lace

Alençon is home to the extraordinary Point d’Alençon needle lace, inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Since the 17th century, the skills of the lace-makers have been handed down through oral teaching and practical demonstration. Between seven and 15 hours are needed to produce just 1 cm2 . Find out more at the Museum of Fine Arts and Lace, where demonstrations take place during summer, and browse lace-inspired gifts in the Tourist Offi ce shop.

3. A family of saints

Few places can claim three saints. Alençon is where Louis and Zélie Martin, the parents of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, lived and raised their family. Visit the house where Thérèse was born and discover the story of an ordinary family whose lives led to sainthood.

4. Visit a Plus Beau Village

Just 15 km from Alençon, Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, in the Alpes Mancelles, is one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France. Its Romanesque church, stone houses and secluded chapel inspired painters in the late 19th century. Visit the Auberge des Sœurs Moisy to see the famous Salle des Décapités, its walls covered with charcoal silhouettes left by the artists who gathered here, before exploring artists’ studios.

5. Unspoilt countryside

On the border of Normandy and Maine, the Alpes Mancelles have been shaped by the Sarthe Valley. Greenways and walking trails make it ideal for hiking, mountain biking and canoeing, with routes suitable for every ability.

6. Explore by bike

Discover remarkable scenery and heritage along La Vélobuissonnière and La Véloscénie cycle routes. Along the way you’ll pass charming market squares, historic towns and picturesque villages.

7. Écouves trail station

The Massif d’Écouves offers trail-running routes from 7km to 31km, starting from the Trail Station at Radon. Beginners and experienced runners alike can climb the Signal d’Écouves, Normandy’s highest point.

8. Bicycle museum

La Belle Échappée Bicycle Museum houses one of France’s fi nest collections of historic bicycles, cycling accessories and Tour de France posters, assembled over 20 years by a passionate collector.

9. Museum of fine arts and lace

Alongside its internationally renowned lace collection, the Museum of Fine Arts and Lace displays paintings and decorative arts, including works by the Saint-Céneri school, Eugène Boudin and Bernard Buffet, plus an important Cambodian collection. Until January 3,2027, it hosts a major exhibition devoted to Gustave Courbet, the largest ever staged in the Orne department.

10. Flavours of Normandy

Normandy is synonymous with outstanding local produce, and Alençon is no exception. From artisan chocolatiers and local breweries to traditional cider and perry, the region offers something for every palate. Don’t miss Alençon’s market, held every Thursday and Saturday morning beneath Notre-Dame Basilica, where you can sample regional specialities.