Longny-au-Perche: Water, Routes and Heritage

In Longny-au-Perche, riverside scenery, architectural history and routes with very different characteristics come together as travel interests. When planning, it is helpful to distinguish between the various options according to their specific features: a duration is given for one walk, while a cycling route is classified as difficult. There is also a municipal swimming pool and a farm offering visits and products for sale.

Water and the townscape

The Jambée flows through Longny-au-Perche; a high waterfall can be seen on Rue du Château. The river also turns the wheel of the former castle mill. Water and the history of milling are therefore among the different aspects of the townscape. If you are interested in the interplay of landscape and technology, the waterwheel is a specific point of interest.

Buildings and history

The Église Saint-Martin was built in the 15th century and is classified as a historic monument. Its tower was built in the 16th century. Notable features include a sundial with a meridian indicator and a carved equestrian figure of Saint Martin. The dates distinguish two periods: the church building dates from the 15th century, and its tower from the 16th century. This makes it possible to understand the building’s history alongside the details of its fittings.

The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Pitié was built in the 16th century for the Confrérie de Charité. It is also classified as a historic monument and marks the high point of Percheron Renaissance architecture. Its cultural and historical significance is therefore linked both to its association with the Confrérie de Charité and to its architectural importance in the Renaissance of the Perche.

Another building tells its own story: the Villa Jumeau, also known as Château Jumeau. It was built in 1866 by Pierre-François Jumeau (1811–1895). His family made dolls with porcelain heads. The villa’s grounds are laid out as a public garden and include an ice house. The building’s construction date, the family history and features of the grounds all come together at this site.

Walking, cycling and scenic drives

The “La Brisardière” walking route starts at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, is 3.5 kilometres long and takes one hour. It offers a very beautiful view of the village and its surroundings. The “Les environs de Longny” cycling loop also starts at Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, is 45.2 kilometres long and is classified as difficult. The information allows for a specific comparison: for the walk, both the duration and the view are given in addition to the distance; for the cycling route, the greater distance and difficulty level are important points to consider when planning. Check the latest route information and conditions before setting out, as route conditions or ratings may change.

The “Châteaux et étangs” scenic drive is 82 kilometres long and starts in Longny-au-Perche. Check the latest printed route guide before planning. This drive differs from the “La Brisardière” walking route and the “Les environs de Longny” cycling route not only in length, but also in its specific route name.

Swimming and local products

The covered Piscine municipale Jean-Marc de Chastenet has a heated 20 m × 9 m pool and a 20 m² paddling pool for young children. The information distinguishes the larger pool from the paddling pool and gives you specific measurements for planning a visit. As municipal facilities can change, confirm the current facilities before your visit.

At Les chèvres de la Hutte in La Hutte, Longny-au-Perche, you can watch the milking at 5 p.m. Confirm the visiting arrangements and seasonal opening in advance. The farm makes artisanal organic raw-milk goat’s cheese, including Crottins, logs and Faisselles, and sells it directly from the farm. Ask about product availability before your visit.

Getting there by bus

Longny-au-Perche can be reached on Car Nomad Normandie bus route 422. Check the latest timetable before travelling, as bus routes can change.

Discover more destinations: Le Renouard, Gandelain, La Perrière, Fel, Macé, Le Sap, Le Grais, Carrouges.

For the broader travel overview: Orne.