Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois. Saint-Maur-Des-Bois is a commune located in the Manche department of Normandy, France, characterized by its tranquil rural setting. While the immediate area offers a peaceful countryside experience, the surrounding region provides access to various notable attractions. These include historical sites, natural features, and charming towns, making it a destination for exploring both cultural heritage and outdoor landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois
- The most popular attractions is Lac du Gast, a lake that serves as a drinking water reserve covering 66 hectares. It is appreciated for its natural setting and as a habitat for waterfowl.
- Another must-see spot is Motte Castrale and Étang du Vieux Château, a historical site. This motte castle, dating back to the 11th century, is situated in the heart of the Forêt de Saint-Sever and overlooks a pond.
- Visitors also love Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie, a settlement featuring a belvedere from its church and the Chapel of Nouettes. This town is also home to a granite park-museum, tracing the history of the region's "Bleu de Vire" granite.
- Saint-Maur-Des-Bois is known for its historical sites, natural features, and charming towns. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to scenic lakes and cultural museums.
- The attractions around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois are appreciated by the komoot community, with 10 upvotes and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie
Highlight • Settlement
But the emblematic place of the village is most certainly the park-museum of granite. In the first half of the 20th century, a hundred quarries were exploited on the municipal territory. No wonder Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie was chosen to host this museum which traces the history of the region's granite, Bleu de Vire.
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The roadside cross
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Villedieu-les-Poêles-Rouffigny Town Center
Highlight • Settlement
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Motte Castrale and Étang du Vieux Château
Highlight • Historical Site
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Lac du Gast
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Each of these crosses, which the hiker encounters, clearly visible in the fields or—as here—in the shade of the trees, is a symbol of remembrance of the crucifixion, but also of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. "With us on earth, there is His memory, but in the Kingdom of Heaven is His presence: This presence is the joy of those who have already attained salvation. The memory is our consolation, as we are still wanderers, journeying toward our homeland." (Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, founder of the order and Doctor of the Church)
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pleasant hike
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A magnificent, symmetrically laid out town hall. When we visited, it was decorated with flags to mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation. Touchingly, it was also decorated with the West German flag on this occasion. Living neighborliness in 21st century Europe.
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Finally, vacation! The whole family is finally setting off for Brittany. After 700 km, we need a break. The motorway service station is completely overcrowded, so we just drive off. By chance, we end up in Villedieu-les-Poêles-Rouffigny, a small, historic town in Normandy. The large town square is closed off; the 80th anniversary of the liberation is being celebrated. And amazingly, the black, red and gold German flag is hanging on the town hall. We sit down in a cafe on the town square and drink a Coke. Next to us, the golden statue of the Republic with a Phrygian cap gleams from a high column erected in 1889 to mark the 100th anniversary of the revolution. Opposite, the Gothic tower of the church towers over the old stone houses; gargoyles, which fortunately have nothing to do today, look down from high roofs, including a dog-like one with funny floppy ears. Next to it is a boulangerie, which is chosen to replenish the provisions and to check the usability of the school French. The result is a taste experience: wonderfully crispy baguette, wonderful, finely wrapped croissants and a dark bread with a strong, crunchy crust, in which nuts and raisins are baked. The latter definitely justifies a detour to this wonderful bakery. Another quick look into the church: an early Gothic-looking room with small windows, round columns and a heavy vault. We are delighted to see and meet an exceptionally cheerful Saint Anthony with a happy baby Jesus in his arms. Another short stroll through the beautiful, flower-adorned streets, then we continue our journey, rested.
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Beautiful cemetery with a beautiful church
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Super nice place
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There is a beautifully designed cemetery around the village church.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Saint-Maur-des-Bois?
You can visit Lac du Gast, a significant drinking water reserve covering 66 hectares, known for its natural setting and as a habitat for waterfowl. The Motte Castrale and Étang du Vieux Château, located within the Forêt de Saint-Sever, offers a historical site overlooking a pond, perfect for a pleasant hike. The Forêt de Saint-Sever itself provides numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring, including ancient Roman roads marked by The roadside cross.
Are there historical sites to visit around Saint-Maur-des-Bois?
Yes, the region is rich in history. The Motte Castrale and Étang du Vieux Château in the Forêt de Saint-Sever dates back to the 11th century. Approximately 13.6 km away, the Abbey of Hambye offers insights into monastic life. Further afield, but a major regional landmark, is Mont Saint-Michel and its impressive Abbey, about 33.3 km from Saint-Maur-des-Bois.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Saint-Maur-des-Bois?
The area around Saint-Maur-des-Bois is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Saint Anthony – Schlupp Gargoyle loop from Villedieu-les-Poêles' or 'The Hermitage – The roadside cross loop from Fontenermont'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois guide. There are also running trails and road cycling routes available, with guides like Running Trails around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois and Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Maur-Des-Bois offering detailed routes.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the vicinity?
Families can enjoy several attractions. Lac du Gast is a peaceful spot for nature observation. The Zoo de Champrepus, about 12.4 km away, offers a wildlife experience. The Abbey of Hambye provides special children's visits, and the Villedieu Intercom Aquatic Center is a great option for recreational swimming.
What cultural experiences can I find in nearby towns?
In Villedieu-les-Poêles, approximately 5.3 km away, you can visit Cornille Havard - Fondeur de Cloches, a bell foundry showcasing traditional craftsmanship. This town, also a 'Village d'étape', hosts a market on Tuesdays and offers guided tours detailing its history as a copper city. Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie features a granite park-museum that traces the history of the region's 'Bleu de Vire' granite.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Saint-Maur-des-Bois?
Visitors appreciate the tranquil and natural settings. For instance, the Lac du Gast is loved for its 'passage in osmosis with nature, trees, rock'. The Motte Castrale and Étang du Vieux Château is described as a 'super nice place' for a 'pleasant hike'. The belvedere at Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie offers superb panoramas over the Mortainais valley.
Where can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas?
For scenic views, head to Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie, where the church offers a beautiful belvedere with an orientation table to enjoy a superb panorama. The Motte Castrale and Étang du Vieux Château also provides a viewpoint overlooking the historic pond within the forest.
What is the best time of year to visit Saint-Maur-des-Bois and its surrounding attractions?
Given the focus on outdoor activities and exploring natural and historical sites, the spring, summer, and early autumn months (roughly April to October) are generally the most pleasant. During these periods, the weather is typically mild, making it ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the tranquil rural setting and cultural events in nearby towns.
Are there any unique local crafts or products to discover?
Yes, in Villedieu-les-Poêles, you can explore the traditional craft of bell founding at Cornille Havard - Fondeur de Cloches. Additionally, Saint-Michel-de-Montjoie is home to a granite park-museum that highlights the history and use of the region's distinctive 'Bleu de Vire' granite.
What is the significance of Villedieu-les-Poêles?
Villedieu-les-Poêles, located about 5 km from Saint-Maur-des-Bois, is a historically significant town known as a 'Village d'étape' and a former prosperous commandery and copper city. It is famous for its traditional bell foundry and offers cultural events and guided tours detailing its rich history. The town center, including the Villedieu-les-Poêles-Rouffigny Town Center, features beautiful architecture and a lively market.
Can I find accommodation options close to Saint-Maur-des-Bois?
Yes, for visitors looking for accommodation, Camping Les Chevaliers de Malte is located just 4.7 km from Saint-Maur-des-Bois in Villedieu-les-Poêles, offering a convenient option for your stay.
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