Discover Brionne: history, lake and Risle

Brionne offers several distinct themes to help you plan your trip: the town’s history, a leisure area beside a 22-hectare lake, and activities on the Risle. If you’re looking for hotels in Brionne, you can plan your stay around culture, outdoor activities or a visit to the market.

History and architecture

Twenty-two panels at various locations and sites around the town tell the story of Brionne and its historical and religious heritage. The Donjon de Brionne adds to this historical focus: it was most likely built at the end of the 11th century. The donjon is accessible and visible year-round, as it stands on the GR224 hiking trail.

The Église Saint-Martin in Brionne dates back to 1030. Its original square bell tower features Romanesque and Gothic elements. On the flint and dressed-stone façade, different architectural styles follow one another: the ground floor is Romanesque, the upper floor Gothic, and the entrance portal dates from the 18th century. The building thus brings together several distinct architectural periods.

The Domaine de Lorraine was built in the early 18th century. The estate includes a brick-and-stone manor house and outbuildings. The Maison du Tourisme is housed in a former cider press, while the outbuildings also accommodate a music school. The estate thus combines its historic buildings with present-day uses.

Brionne Carrefour d'Histoire organises tours of Brionne’s historical heritage. The association also shares accounts of local history through exhibitions and conferences. For a walking route, the Circuit du Donjon is another named walking loop in Brionne.

Leisure by the lake and on the Risle

Brionne’s leisure area is beside a 22-hectare lake. Facilities include mini-golf, tennis, volleyball, boules, archery, fishing, a multi-sport city stadium and a pump track. Activities on the water include canoe trips on the Risle, kayaking, fun boats and pedal boats. There are different kinds of leisure activities to choose from, ranging from sports and games to things to do on the water.

The “Randonnée Canoë-Kayak sur la Risle” activity, described for the 2026 season, requires a reservation and starts at the lake. It includes a descent on the water and a return trip by minibus, and takes place without supervision. Check the latest operating information before making plans.

The Canoë Kayak Club de Brionne offers a different format: in addition to canoe hire, it provides guided half-day and full-day trips on the Risle between Brionne and Montfort-sur-Risle, which require reservations. Unlike the unsupervised activity, these trips are guided; the two duration options help you decide how much time to set aside for your outing. Booking and operating conditions may change, so it’s a good idea to check before planning.

Market and nature nearby

Regional products are sold at Brionne’s market, which takes place twice a week: on Thursdays and, especially, Sundays. If you’re planning a market visit as part of your trip, check the exact schedule before you travel.

The Moulin d’Aclou wetland lies nearby, on the banks of the Risle. It comprises wet meadows, several river channels and alluvial woodland, providing suitable habitat for numerous protected plant and animal species. This nearby wetland adds a natural setting of its own to the leisure activities by the lake.

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