The Region
» The local area
» Normandy and beyond
The local area
The peaceful hamlet of Saint Gilles des Marais is situated in the Parc Naturel Régional de Normandie, a lush and unspoilt, traditionally farmed area of rolling orchards, woods and pasture land rich in wildlife and amazing wild flowers (notably many orchid species) in spring and summer. A perfect place for walking or cycling (bikes are available for guests) down secluded paths and bridleways or quiet leafy lanes.
For a holiday full of days out, you will find yourself perfectly situated here at La Binetiere or La Grange for reaching all of Normandy. For those hoping just to relax and escape the rush of modern life, this area is a paradise for animal lovers and is considered one of the most peaceful areas, so is perfect for lounging in the garden or by the lake with a glass of wine and a good book.
The hamlet is 2 kilometres from the picturesque old medieval town of Domfront. With a population of approximately 4,800 it was built in the 11th century and still retains many buildings and streets in the medieval part of the town. It has all the facilities needed, including supermarkets, small shops, bars, restaurants, crêperies, banks, pharmacy and hospitals (with 24 hour A&E).
Normandy and beyond
Probably one of the better known of the French Provinces and certainly one of the most popular. Its varied and contrasting landscape offers an interesting and exciting holiday for people of all ages and it has been attracting tourists and travellers for centuries. If its sun, sea and sand you are looking for, less than an hours drive from La Binetiere and La Grange are the popular seaside resorts of Jullovile les Pins and Granville, with beautiful beaches. Also within easy reach are lakes for boating, fishing and swimming, a children’s amusement park at Saint Hilaire , Mont Saint Michel and Falaise Castle the birth place of William the Conqueror and numerous Châteaux to visit. Within two hours travelling you have Bayeux, the Châteaux of the Loire Valley, Le Mans and for the more adventurous Monet’s garden at Giverny. Further afield Paris, EuroDisney and Futuroscope are well worth a daytrip. It is the ideal base for discovering the delights of Normandy and its important role in past wars can be found in almost every town you choose to visit.
Brochures are available at the houses.
