Attractions and Places To See around Exmes - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around Exmes, a commune in Normandy, France, offers a rich historical landscape with ancient origins and strategic fortifications. The town itself showcases layers of occupation, from Bronze Age traces to Roman and medieval remnants. Its elevated position provides a historical vantage point and serves as a convenient base for exploring the diverse cultural and natural attractions of the surrounding Orne department. Visitors can discover numerous castles, historical sites, and natural areas within a short distance.
Best attractions and places to see around Exmes
- The most popular attractions is Donjon de Chambois, a castle that is a 12th-century Romanesque building. It is one of the best preserved examples of an Anglo-Norman dungeon in France.
- Another must-see spot is The Haras du Pin, a historical site. This is the oldest of France's national horse training centers, established by Louis XIV, and is known as the "Versailles of the Horse."
- Visitors also love Château de Gacé, a castle rebuilt in the 14th century. This site now houses municipal services and a small museum dedicated to Marie Duplessis.
- Exmes is known for its historical sites, castles, and equestrian centers. The area offers a variety of attractions, from ancient fortifications to grand châteaux and national stud farms.
- The attractions around Exmes are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 photos and 21 upvotes shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Château de Gacé
Highlight • Castle
The large towers were built in the 15th century. The north facade was built in the 16th century. The following century saw work on the southwest facade. During the French Revolution, the inhabitants began to destroy the eastern facade, which was rebuilt in the 19th century in brick.
The castle houses the municipal services of the town as well as a small museum dedicated to the Lady of the Camellias, Marie Duplessis.
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Montormel Memorial
Highlight • Monument
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The Haras du Pin
Highlight • Historical Site
It is the oldest of the French national stud farms.
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Donjon de Chambois
Highlight • Castle
Visible from the outside. Free
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Vajradhara-Ling Stupa
Highlight • Religious Site
The Dashang Kagyu Vajradhara Ling congregation is focused on prayer and practice. It is organized around a Temple, a stupa, two prayer wheels and a spiritual retreat center. The great prayer wheel of Vajradhara-Ling contains 100,000 printed sheets of mantras dedicated to Dorje Sempa (Vajrasattva), the Buddha of purification. The small prayer wheel is operated by a water mill and is constantly rotating.
vajradharaling.org
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Tips from the Community
Opposite, a bakery with very good products for picnics or snacks.
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A pretty and large domain where the horse is king.
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A beautiful old building, which is also the town hall.
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A place of memory but also a very beautiful point of view on the surroundings.
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12th century Romanesque building, one of the best preserved in France. Similar to the Anglo-Norman dungeon family. Visible from the outside. Free
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Commemorating the last battle of Normandy
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Little shops around provide a nice coffee and pastry break
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore within Exmes itself?
Exmes is rich in history, with archaeological traces dating back to the Bronze Age. You can explore the vestiges of the medieval Château d'Exmes, which was largely ruined but its remains are classified as historical monuments. Additionally, a powerful ancient rampart known as the "Cavaliers d'Exmes," measuring 200 meters long and nearly 5 meters high, is still visible, showcasing the town's strategic past.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Exmes?
Yes, several attractions around Exmes are suitable for families. The Haras du Pin, known as the "Versailles of the Horse," offers a grand estate and equestrian activities. The Donjon de Chambois, a well-preserved 12th-century Romanesque building, and the Château de Gacé, which houses municipal services and a small museum, are also popular choices for families.
What are some notable castles or châteaux to visit in the Exmes area?
Beyond the ruins of Exmes' own castle, you can visit the 12th-century Romanesque Donjon de Chambois, one of the best-preserved Anglo-Norman dungeons in France. The Château de Gacé, rebuilt in the 14th century, is another interesting site. Further afield, Villebadin Castle offers classic architecture and a peaceful park, while The English Tower, part of the house of Aunou, presents a unique historical structure.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Exmes?
The area around Exmes offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and running. For mountain biking, you can explore routes like the "Donjon de Chambois – Camp Celtique de Bierre loop" or the "Étang des Grandes Bruyères loop." Road cyclists might enjoy the "Château de Medavy – The English Tower loop" or the "Château de Gacé loop." Runners have options such as the "Exmes loop" or longer trails like "The Haras du Pin – Donjon de Chambois loop." You can find more details on these routes in the MTB Trails around Exmes, Road Cycling Routes around Exmes, and Running Trails around Exmes guides.
Are there any natural areas or forests to explore near Exmes?
Yes, the Forêt d'Écouves, located approximately 25 km from Exmes, offers natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. This forest is home to the Signal d'Écouves, a notable natural feature, providing a great escape for nature lovers and hikers.
What are some popular day trips from Exmes?
Exmes serves as an excellent base for exploring wider Normandy. Popular day trip destinations include Haras du Pin (3 km), Argentan (15 km) with its markets and historical sites, and Sées (17 km) known for its cathedral. Further afield, you can visit Falaise (31 km) for its castle, Alençon (37 km) for historical interest, or even the iconic Mont Saint-Michel and the historic D-Day Landing Beaches for a longer excursion.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Exmes?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical context and the architectural beauty of the region's sites. For instance, the Haras du Pin is admired as a magnificent architectural and landscaped ensemble where the horse is king. The Donjon de Chambois is noted for being one of the best-preserved 12th-century Romanesque buildings. Many also enjoy the peaceful settings, such as the large park surrounding Villebadin Castle.
What is the best time of year to visit Exmes and its surrounding attractions?
The best time to visit Exmes and the Normandy region is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant for exploring historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities. Summer (July and August) is also popular, though it can be busier with tourists.
Are there any equestrian-themed attractions near Exmes?
Absolutely. The most prominent equestrian attraction is The Haras du Pin, located just 3 km west-south-west of Exmes. It is the oldest of France's national horse training centers, established by Louis XIV, and is often referred to as the "Versailles of the Horse." It's a must-visit for anyone interested in horses and grand estates.
What are the historical origins of Exmes?
Exmes boasts ancient origins, with archaeological traces dating back to the Bronze Age. Its name, derived from the Celtic "Uxoma" meaning "very high place," highlights its strategic importance. The Romans fortified the site, and it later became home to a medieval castle, showcasing layers of occupation and strategic development throughout history.
Can I find any unique viewpoints around Exmes?
Exmes itself, being a hilltop town with its name meaning "very high place," offers historical vantage points. While specific named viewpoints are not highlighted, the elevated position of the town and its ancient ramparts provide scenic views of the surrounding Norman countryside, especially from the areas where the Roman and medieval fortifications once stood.
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