Saint-Philbert-sur-Risle can be explored through two main themes: heritage and trails through the landscape. You can devote your stay to the churches, the priory and the history of the mill, or experience springs, sunken lanes and panoramic views on a hike. The sites and trails each offer a different focus – from medieval traces to a 19th-century technical innovation.
Hiking among springs, bocage and woodland
The Chemin du Nid du Chien is a blue-marked circular trail covering 7.2 kilometres; the stated walking time is about two hours. This gives you an approximate guide for planning your time. Along the way, the trail passes several channelled springs and a former washhouse. It also crosses a Dour at a ford. Trail conditions may change, so check them before setting out.
The Chemin du Rossignol has a different character: it passes through a hilly bocage and woodland landscape, with frequent panoramic views and magnificent pollarded willows along the banks of the sunken lanes. Attractions along the route include the medieval towers of the Baronnie. When choosing a hike, you can therefore focus either on the estimated duration of the Nid du Chien or on the scenery and attractions along the Rossignol.
The Ravin des Fontaines is another striking landscape feature. It lies in a beech forest and was carved out by a Dour. This intermittent watercourse carries water during periods of heavy rain. In the Ravin des Fontaines, the Dour shapes the ravine, while the Chemin du Nid du Chien crosses a Dour at a ford.
Churches, the priory and the history of the mill
The enclosure at the Prieuré de Saint-Philbert is very well preserved. It includes 17th-century walls, as well as an 18th-century dovecote and a hydraulic system. The parish church of Saint-Ouen was built in the 13th century. Its south transept was rebuilt in the 16th century. This building history traces the church from its medieval origins to a later alteration to a specifically identified part of the building.
The church of Saint-Philbert-sur-Risle is a former collegiate church. Inside, you can admire a 15th-century fresco that is protected as a historic monument. Both the church building and an individual work of art are therefore part of the local heritage. The medieval towers of the Baronnie add to these historical discoveries as attractions along the Chemin du Rossignol.
A technological aspect of the area's history can be seen at Pont Joly. There, the mill first generated electricity in late 1885, using a Gramme machine that supplied 110 volts of direct current. The specific date and technical detail make this chapter in the history of the mill a different perspective from the architectural history of the churches and the priory.
Horse riding and practical information
The Poney-Club du Moulin offers horse riding for beginners and advanced riders. Its facilities include two riding arenas, a large indoor riding hall and a mini cross-country course. For young children, there is also a separate indoor riding hall and a small 10 Ă— 15-metre riding arena. If horse riding is one of your interests, this information can help with your planning. Programmes and facilities may change; check what is currently available before visiting.
There are parking spaces for light vehicles close to the priory and the Baronnie. As local regulations may change, check the parking arrangements before travelling. Plan a visit to the priory or the Baronnie and a hike as separate activities.
Discover more destinations: Montaure, Giverny, Tourville-La-Campagne, Beaumesnil, Gasny, Appeville-Annebault, Vesly, Port-Mort
For the wider travel guide: Eure.
