Basilica at Montligeon

Basilica at Montligeon Belleme Bataille, where artisan chocolate-maker Christophe Henninger creates seasonal chocolates for every occasion. In La Perrière, browse for local produce, antiques, and dried flowers at Monteloup, a stylish boutique with three chambre d’hôte bedrooms upstairs run by antique dealer Jérôme and expert florist Gil. Largest town in the Perche is Nogent-le-Rotrou, just over the regional border in the department of Eure-et-Loir. Classified amongst Michelin’s 100 Plus Beaux Détours de France, this historic community of fewer than 10,000 people stands in the Huisne valley, dominated by Saint-Jean Castle which was once home to – you guessed it – the Counts of Perche. Stroll through the reconstructed medieval and Renaissance gardens around the castle and Bellême’s Belle Epoque public gardens, just two of many floral plots that welcome visitors throughout the Perche. Head east from Nogent to visit Thiron- Gardais, home to Thiron Abbey. Founded in the 12th century, the buildings were largely destroyed after the Revolution but the abbey itself still acts as the parish church and access to the thematic gardens is free. Or head west, back towards Bellême to visit the Ecomusée du Perche within the ancient walls of the 11th century priory of Sainte-Gauburge at Saint- Cyr-la-Rosière. Whichever way you turn, the Perche is a delight for anyone who wants to step down a gear and relax amongst tranquil countryside and atmospheric villages. A breath of fresh air whichever way you look at it! Useful websites: normandie-tourisme.fr parc-naturel-perche.fr/en ornetourisme.com hotel-tribunal.fr 34 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 35