Today I want to share my guide to things to do in Alencon, France with you. The capital of the Orne department in Normandy, this place is known for everything from its UNESCO lace-making traditions to its pretty streets and squares. Alencon is worth visiting for a lot more than just those things, though. This advertising feature in partnership with Normandy Tourism will show you the highlights.
Things to Do in Alencon
I’m here in Alencon on a press trip, and my 2-day itinerary is packed with everything from restaurants to concerts and cycling tours.
I’ve traveled by train from London, and I’m looking forward to discovering all there is to see and do here.
1. Hotels in Alencon
Upon arrival in Alencon my group heads to the first of our two hotels: Hotel des Ducs. Located near the train station, it’s a convenient place to rest our heads for the evening.
The following day we check into the Chateau de Saint-Paterne, a beautiful historic property that’s somewhere between a luxury bed and breakfast and a charming boutique hotel. The interiors are lavish and the grounds expansive. It’s a real treat to stay here.
2. Musee des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle
The first activity on our Alencon itinerary is a trip to the Musee des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle. This museum is dedicated to the history and production of local Alencon lace, which is an important part of the city’s heritage.
We tour the museum with a guide, taking in everything from historic lace to paintings featuring the material. We even get to see a lace-making demonstration. It gives us an appreciation for how much work goes into it.
3. Cooking Class
After the museum we head to a cooking class at L’atelier Gourmand. We’re here to learn how to cook a local lunch.
We don aprons and get to work on everything from fish to potatoes and apples. Our instructor guides us through it, and we sit down to enjoy the meal at the end.
We didn’t do it perfectly; we all have to microwave our plates since the fish is undercooked. It’s a good learning experience, though, and a unique way to gain insights into the local culinary culture.
4. Saint-Ceneri-le-Gerei
No trip to Alencon would be complete without a visit to Saint-Ceneri-le-Gerei, and we arrive eager to explore. This place has been designated one of the most beautiful villages in France, and its position among Les Alpes Mancelles hills means it will be.
We take a walking tour of the village with local guide Dominique Eudier and see everything from churches and chapels to historic inns with connections to 19th-century French artists.
5. Cycling Tour
Afterwards we hop on e-bikes and cycle through the countryside to the studio of local artist Amelie Romet. Bikes are available to rent from the village parking lot for part of the year, and it’s a good way to see the local countryside.
6. Alencon
The next day we discover more of the best things to do in Alencon on a walking tour of the city center.
We take in everything from the historic basilica to the local market, corn exchange, and 14th-century castle. It’s a great way to learn about the city and see the highlights.
7. Desfrieches Cider Factory
In the afternoon we head out to the Desfrieches Cider Factory in Sainte-Marguerite-de-Carrouges. There we get a tour of the orchards and cider-making facilities from the owner.
We’re here during harvest season, and it’s amazing to see all the apples, not to mention taste cider, Pommeau, and Calvados at the source.
8. Concert
In the evening we head to a gig at La Luciole. This performing arts venue hosts free after-work concerts in Alencon. We see a band from Caen perform an hour-long set before we head off to dinner in town.
9. Restaurants
Speaking of which, we eat at a lot of restaurants during our trip to Alencon. From casual dinners at Chez Fano to fine-dining experiences at Restaurant La Suite and the Chateau de Saint-Paterne, we experience a range of the city’s offerings.
We also enjoy prix-fixe lunches at local restaurants like Le Bistro, which has an authentic French atmosphere and traditional cuisine.
Best Things to Do in Alencon
I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to things to do in Alencon and that it’s inspired you to visit this part of Normandy. Happy travels!
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