Ceton: History, Nature and Activities

Discover Ceton through a range of interests: architectural history, a nature trail, fishing and organised leisure activities each offer something different. When planning your visit, it helps to consider historic sites, outdoor activities and scheduled events separately. Whether you are more interested in architecture or want to spend time outdoors, the activities differ considerably in theme and format.

Architectural history across several centuries

The Château de Beauvais is a fortified house in the Perche, built towards the end of the 16th century on the site of a medieval castle. The castle is first mentioned as early as the 12th century. Today, only the two round towers in the southeast remain of the château: the left-hand tower contains a dovecote, while the right-hand one serves as a chapel. The surviving enclosure and the two towers have been partially listed as Monuments historiques since 26 June 1992.

The listing for the Manoir du Mont-Gâteau is also limited to specific parts of the building. It covers the residence and the barn’s façades and roofs. The Église Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens brings together further building phases: the nave dates from the 15th century, and the former monastic chapel from the 13th century. In 1808, it was opened up to the nave. The church also has a keep and bells dating from the 11th century.

Nature trail and fishing at the Étang

The Sentier nature de Ceton is a six-kilometre discovery trail through the surrounding countryside. Along the way, it introduces visitors to local wildlife, flora and landscapes. The first section is accessible to pushchairs and wheelchair users; this information applies to that section of the trail. You can download a walking map of Ceton free of charge or pick one up at the town hall. It is best to check availability in advance.

Fishing is possible at the Étang de Ceton from sunrise to sunset. Fishing methods available there include pole fishing, carp fishing, predator fishing and crayfish fishing. A footpath runs around the pond, providing another way to spend time outdoors. Fishing regulations and ticket arrangements may change, so check the current conditions in advance.

If you prefer to hike in a group, consider Randonnées Cetonnaises: the association organises a walk on the third weekend of every month. As the monthly schedule may change, check the current date before making plans.

Leisure activities and excursions

The H²O swimming pool at Ceton’s leisure complex offers aqua aerobics, swimming lessons and sessions for babies. The programme may vary by season. The leisure complex also has free outdoor games and sports and exercise activities.

Ecurie de la Petite Colline offers private riding lessons at the riding arena in Les Rieux, Ceton. Availability with the provider may change. Perche E-motion is located in the hamlet of Les Galottières. From there, you can set off on your own along marked circular routes guided by GPS; guided excursions are also available. These trips take you through the countryside on all-terrain electric scooters. Routes and availability may change, so it is worth checking before making plans.

The guided APERO TROTT and GOUTER TROTT rides combine an outing with refreshments: these include Perche cider with AOP designation or apple juice, along with an aperitif platter or a sweet snack. Dates and items included in these seasonal offers may vary.

Dance evenings featuring regional traditions

C’est Ton Bal Trad holds workshop dance evenings at the Foyer Rural in Ceton on the first Thursday of every month. You can learn and dance Perche, Breton, French and other regional dances. The repertoire includes circle and partner dances, bourrées, waltzes, Scottish dances and mazurkas. The opportunity to join in sets these evenings apart from events where the audience simply watches. Dates and venue may change; check the latest details in advance.

Discover more destinations: Dame-Marie, Fel, La Lande-de-Goult, Juvigny-Sous-Andaine, Le Renouard, Saint-Léonard-des-Parcs, Saint-Ouen-de-Sécherouvre, Argentan

For the broader travel overview: Orne.