Water activities, gardens and cultural attractions offer different ways to enjoy your stay in La Ferté-Macé. At the Base de Loisirs, outdoor activities and nature go hand in hand: the lake covers 28 ha, and three protected islands provide refuge for numerous species and contribute to biodiversity. A purpose-built footpath runs around the lake, making it suitable for walks and warm-up exercises.
Leisure by the water and routes through the surrounding area
The Base de Loisirs offers horse-riding activities, Swin Golf, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, Rosalies rides and a skatepark. Some activities may be seasonal. If you prefer to explore on foot, you’ll find the described circular path by the water; for a longer trip by bike or on foot, the voie verte “La Vélo’Bocage” passes through La Ferté-Macé. It connects Briouze and Bagnoles de l’Orne Normandie over 22 km along a converted former railway line and is intended for pedestrians and cyclists. Check route conditions before setting off.
The area’s landscape setting is also part of its character: La Ferté-Macé is part of the Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park and UNESCO Global Geopark. The paths and lake offer different experiences: the voie verte focuses on connecting the two towns along the former railway line, while the footpath at the Base de Loisirs runs around the lake.
Gardens and green spaces
The public Parc Barré Saint features a children’s play area, a kiosk and a garden surrounded by roses. Jardin Bleuenn offers a different perspective on plant diversity: more than 500 varieties of plants and shrubs grow there in an area of barely 1,000 m². The garden opens to the public by appointment and offers opportunities to explore, share and learn. Arrange your visit before setting off.
Museums, churches and a local walking tour
Founded in 1901, the Musée Municipal is located in the Hôtel de Ville. Its collection of paintings and sculptures is displayed in the corridors and various rooms. Visits are free on request during town hall opening hours; arrange your visit in advance. The Musée du Jouet, designated a “Musée de France,” is housed in the former public baths. Its collection includes antique games and toys dating from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century.
The Notre-Dame Church can be visited without a guide throughout the year. Adjacent to it is an 11th-century Romanesque church protected as a historic monument. Only the choir remains; this area can be visited as part of a guided tour with commentary. The Circuit Marcel Pierre offers another cultural walk with a clear start and finish: it begins at the town hall and ends in Parc Barré Saint in front of the Mémorial de la Paix. Works by the local artist and panels with QR codes are placed along the route.
Market, regional products and getting there
A weekly market takes place in the town centre every Thursday morning. Local producers and regional craftspeople offer fresh, seasonal, high-quality products; the selection varies by vendor and season. Check the market day again before your trip. A local culinary speciality is Tripes à la mode fertoise, served on a hazelwood skewer and known nationwide.
La Ferté-Macé can be reached by rail via the Paris–Granville line, with connections via the stations at Briouze and Argentan followed by a bus service. Check train and bus connections before travelling. When planning your stay, you can choose between leisure by the water, garden visits and cultural attractions without treating these different places and activities as a single route.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Saint-Fraimbault, Trun, Argentan, Saint-Aubin-De-Bonneval, Nocé, Dancé, Saint-Aubin-Des-Grois, Marcei
Back to the main travel overview: Orne.
