Alençon, prefecture of the Orne department, is a city that combines medieval charm and modernity. Renowned for its rich lace-making past, Alençon has been a major center for this art since the 18th century. Today, this tradition lives on through artisan workshops, a dedicated museum and the famous Alençon stitch, listed as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage site. In addition to its lacemaking heritage, Alençon is also a spiritual center, preserving the memory of the Martin family, the parents of Saint Theresa, canonized in 2015. Well connected to the western metropolises by an efficient motorway network, Alençon is well worth a visit. So, what's there to do and see in Alençon? Discover our top 13 must-sees.
1. Visit the Alençon Lace Museum
Located in the former Jesuit College, the Musée de la dentelle d'Alençon reveals the history and technique of Alençon lace stitch. Using educational tools, the scenography showcases 25,000 works, including a 19th-century bridal veil made entirely using the Alençon stitch lace technique, which is inscribed on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The museum also features a fine arts section and an astonishing collection of Cambodian objects. A must-see museum in the Normandy region!
2. Notre-Dame d'Alençon basilica: a must-see in Alençon
The Basilica of Notre-Dame d'Alençon , with its Gothic architecture, boasts one of the finest flamboyant Gothic portals in Normandy. It is a veritable lace of stone, adorned with statues illustrating the theme of the Transfiguration. Construction began in 1354. Its 14th-century, 20-metre-high nave, organ and chapels surmounted by magnificent 16th-century stained glass windows - including the upper ones depicting episodes in the life of Mary - make it one of the most beautiful buildings in the department, despite the 18th-century rebuilt bell tower. A fine Gothic edifice not to be missed in downtown Aleçon.
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3. The Hôtel de Guise, one of Alençon's most sumptuous monuments
Listed as a Monument Historique since 1903, the Hôtel de Guise is one of Alençon's most sumptuous monuments. Built around 1630 in pure Louis XIII style, the building' s fine facades are a blend of stone and brick. Owned by Élisabeth d'Orléans, widow of the Duc de Guise, it was acquired by the town before becoming home to the first Prefect of Orne in the early 19th century. Today, only the grounds are open to visitors. Please note: opposite the Hôtel de Guise is the chapel and birthplace of Sainte-Thérèse.
4. The chapel and birthplace of Sainte-Thérèse de Lisieux
Opposite the Orne prefecture, discover the Sainte-Thérèse de Lisieux chapel, home to the relics of the Saint, beatified in 1925. The walls are adorned with marble plaques in recognition of her benefactions, and her birth chamber is open to visitors. Next door, in the heart of the home of the couple Louis and Zélie Martin, is a museum run by the congregation of the Petites Soeurs de Carmélites Messagères de l'Esprit Saint. Even if you're not a believer, this is a wonderful and interesting visit, even with children. What's more, the welcome is exceptional.
5. A walk in the Écouves forest
The Écouves forest is one of the largest forest massifs in Normandy. It stretches as far north as Alençon, with its oak and beech trees. On foot, by bike or on horseback, the forest's almost 500 kilometers of trails and 126 kilometers of waterways will satisfy your desire for nature. For example, at the "Carrefour du Rendez-Vous", one of the many intersections in the Écouves forest, two walking loops await you: one of 2.1 km (45 minutes) and the other of 2.5 km (1 hour). These discovery trails, focusing on the management of a state-owned forest, are dotted with information desks. A breath of fresh air guaranteed!
Read the article: Want to take advantage of the region's beautiful landscapes? Discover our Top 15 of Normandy's most beautiful beaches and our article L'Orne, nature and heritage.
6. Visit the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
Located in the Montsort district, this discreet monument (12 x 6 meters) was built in 1699 in honor of the Virgin Mary. Built of rubble stone, the chapel has a slate roof topped by a lantern. After an initial restoration, the site was blessed a second time under the name of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette. Owned by the town since 1905 and listed on the supplementary inventory of historic monuments since 1975, the chapel underwent further restoration work in 1998-1999, revealing a painting on wood depicting angels.
7. Visit Alençon Town Hall
On Place Foch, the classically styled Hôtel de Ville occupies a building erected in 1783 on the site of part of the Dukes' château. Reminiscent of the Petit Trianon, the building is composed of three arched edifices. The central part is topped by a campanile dating from the same period. The building has recently been restored, with an identically refurbished council chamber and a grand staircase featuring a magnificent wrought-iron banister.
Good to know alençon Town Hall can be visited every year during the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days).
8. Play a treasure hunt to discover the town in an original way
Alençon Tourist Office offers a treasure hunt to discover the town in an original way. Starting at Place de la Magdeleine, the trail guides you through the town's various parks and squares. You'll discover the town's traditions, the origins of its monuments and the people who have left their mark on its history. The questions and answers can be downloaded from the Tourist Office website. A paper brochure is also available from the Tourist Office. You can also follow the "Discover the town" trail.
9. Take time to admire the Château des Ducs d'Alençon
Although access to the interior is not yet possible, the Château des Ducs d'Alençon is well worth a visit. Of this former 11th-century fortified castle, built by the Lords of Bellême and later extended by Henry I Beauclerc, the entrance pavilion, two high crenellated towers, a crowned tower and sections of the dwelling walls remain. The rest was dismantled, in part by King Henry IV. The landscaping of the Simone Veil park in the château's courtyard offers a magnificent view of the fortress from the foot of the towers or from the garden.
10. The Orne Departmental Council Garden
Covering an area of almost 8,000 m², the Conseil départemental garden features a wide variety of tree and flower species, maintained in a natural way, without watering or the use of phytosanitary products. Hidden in the vegetation, a wooden hut is a delight for children.
11. Visit the Commercial Court
Another of Alençon's administrative institutions, the Tribunal de Commerce occupies a remarkable building. This granite construction dates back to the 15th century. The clerk's office, porch, salle des pas perdus, grande salle and square tower are listed on the supplementary inventory of historic monuments.
Did you know? Honoré de Balzac, who briefly stayed in Alençon, is said to have drawn inspiration from this building for one of his novels.
Where to stay in Alençon
Alençon, located in the Orne department of Normandy, offers several accommodation options for visitors. Here are a few suggestions:
- Petit Futé's favorite: Hôtel des Ducs. Located opposite the train station, this hotel is also less than a ten-minute walk from the town center and can be booked right here. Thebreakfast is copious, and the welcome extremely kind. Definitely one of the best value for money in the prefectural city, and a favorite of the Petit Futé team!
- The cheapest : Hôtel Le Hussard. A friendly address book here. The welcome is warm and helpful, and the breakfast is copious for this price range. As an added bonus, the rooms are soundproofed. It's a perfect address for those on a tight budget and those wishing to stay in the city center.
- Hotel Ibis Alençon the Ibis Alençon: A great place to stay in town, which you can book right here. Plus: the hotel is located on a square where parking is easy (paid parking). The reception is pleasant and the rooms have recently been renovated with the new "Sweet bed by Ibis" bedding and a full bathroom. Bonus: a bar-brasserie awaits you at the hotel!
What to do in Alençon in the evening?
Alençon, a town in the Orne département of Normandy, offers a number of options for a pleasant evening out. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Alençon has a variety of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy local dishes and drinks. You can find establishments offering a variety of cuisines, from traditional French gastronomy to more international options.
- The city also boasts several theaters where you can enjoy plays, concerts, dance performances and other cultural events.
- An evening stroll through Alençon's historic center can be very pleasant, especially if the weather permits. You can admire the architecture and monuments illuminated.
An event not to be missed: Fancy a festival in the countryside? Art Sonic à Briouze in theOrne region of France is the place to be in July. One of France's leading rap festivals, this family-friendly event features top-notch artists. Not to be missed, it offers a unique combination of rap and other musical genres in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
What to do in Alençon with children?
Alençon offers a number of child-friendly activities for a fun day out with the family. Here are just a few suggestions:
- Parc des Promenades: This park is a great place to stroll, picnic and let the kids play in the playgrounds. It also offers beautiful scenery and green spaces.
- Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle: This museum offers interesting exhibitions on art and lace, a specialty of Alençon. There are often activities and workshops for children. Some workshops offer demonstrations and activities for children, allowing them to discover this traditional craft.
- Cycling: Rent a bike and explore Alençon's surroundings. There are several family-friendly cycle paths.
What to visit around Alençon?
The area around Alençon offers a variety of attractions and sites to visit, to suit different interests. Here are a few suggestions for day trips:
- Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park parc Naturel Régional Normandie-Maine: This natural park offers magnificent landscapes, hiking trails, picturesque villages and rich biodiversity. It's a great place for nature lovers.
- Château de Carrouges: Located about 30 minutes from Alençon, this medieval château is one of the best preserved in the region. It offers guided tours and activities for children.
- Forêt d'Écouves: This vast forest is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and family picnics. It also offers magnificent views over the region.
- Village of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei: Listed as one of France's most beautiful villages, Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei is a charming medieval village on the banks of the Sarthe River. It is renowned for its stone houses, churches and picturesque countryside.
- Château de Sées: Located around 20 minutes from Alençon, this château boasts fine architecture and well-kept gardens. It also offers guided tours and exhibitions.
- Parc Animalier d'Écouves: This animal park is a great place for families with children. You can see a variety of animals and enjoy the surrounding nature.
