Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire: Towpath, Countryside and Church

Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire brings together the towpath along the Vire, views across the river valley, bocage countryside and historic landmarks. If you would like to combine nature and culture on one trip, you can choose between paths by the water, countryside views along the roads and the village church. If you are looking for a hotel in Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire, you can weigh these highlights against one another when planning your trip.

Paths along the Vire and the towpath

From the village centre, the towpath along the Vire is accessible via the bridge. You can use it on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback. More than 60 kilometres of the towpath are open to the public. This gives you an idea of the length of river route available, while the La Rando des Haras Nationaux route describes a separate, specifically measured trail.

This route is 29 kilometres long, leads to the towpath along the Vire and includes a rest area in Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire. It then continues to Condé-sur-Vire. The two distances therefore refer to different route options: more than 60 kilometres of publicly accessible towpath and the 29-kilometre route with a rest area. This distinction can help you choose between the river route and this named trail when planning.

Fishing is also one of the activities available along the Vire. The river is a second-category fishing water, where line fishing is possible year-round. Check the local rules before fishing. Benches and tables are available along the banks for resting and picnicking. As these facilities may change, it is advisable to check their condition before your visit.

Views across the valley and bocage countryside

The D86 offers remarkable views of the Vire Valley. Another scenic route follows small local roads from Les Trois Pucelles through Les Monts and La Boissaie to La Hure de Loup, where you can discover the bocage countryside. From La Hure de Loup, the view stretches as far as the Norman hills. There are therefore several different landscapes to take in: the Vire Valley along the D86 and the bocage countryside, with the view from La Hure de Loup.

Church and historic landmarks

The church of Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire dates from the mid-15th century and was built in the Flamboyant Gothic style. On 3 March 1931, it was added to the register of historic monuments. The construction date and the listing refer to two different stages: the mid-15th-century date concerns the church’s construction, while the 1931 listing refers to its later protection as a historic monument.

Another historic landmark is in La Boissaie, on the boundary between Condé-sur-Vire and Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire. There, you can visit the Chapelle Saint-Jean de Brébeuf at the birthplace of Jean de Brébeuf. The chapel was built in 1993 beside the ruins of his birth home.

The Centre national d’études et de sensibilisation à la pollution plastique is another local landmark. As part of the Fête de la Science, beginning on 4 October 2024, more than a hundred students visited the premises in Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire and learned about measures to combat plastic pollution. If you are considering a visit, check in advance which visitor services are currently available.

Discover more destinations: Le Luot, Sainte-Croix-Hague, Villedieu-Les-Poêles, Audouville-La-Hubert, Camprond, Saint-Martin-d'Aubigny, Montaigu-Les-Bois, Virey.

See the main travel overview: Manche.