Nogent-le-Rotrou Travel Guide

Discover the rich history, natural beauty, food, and cultural traditions of Nogent-le-Rotrou, Centre-Val de Loire, France, through this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from the best things to do to where to stay and what to buy as souvenirs.


Introduction to Nogent-le-Rotrou

Located in Centre-Val de Loire, France, Nogent-le-Rotrou is a town blessed with fascinating historical sites, natural wonders, and scenic beauty. The town sits on the edge of the Perche Natural Regional Park, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to explore the stunning French countryside. Nestled by the Huisne river, Nogent-le-Rotrou has a rich heritage, dating back to the Middle Ages, which visitors can discover through a wealth of tourist attractions and events.

List of Places to Visit in Nogent-le-Rotrou

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Some of the top culturally significant attractions to visit in Nogent-le-Rotrou include:

  • Château Saint-Jean: This castle is perched on a hill overlooking the town and is one of the most important historical sites in the region.
  • Maison du Perche Museum: Discover the local history and culture of the Perche region through a range of exhibits and displays.
  • Saint-Laurent Church: Built in the 11th century, this magnificent Romanesque church has been beautifully preserved and serves as a reminder of the town’s rich religious history.

Natural Attractions of Nogent-le-Rotrou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Outdoor enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice in Nogent-le-Rotrou, thanks to the following natural attractions:

  • Perche Natural Regional Park: A sprawling protected area with charming villages, dense forests, rolling hills, and hiking and biking trails.
  • Huisne River: A picturesque river perfect for kayaking or canoeing.
  • Montlandon forest: A serene forest perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nogent-le-Rotrou

Nogent-le-Rotrou is an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with a vast network of trails and routes available for visitors to explore. These options include:

  • Greenway: This converted railway line stretches from La Loupe to Condé-sur-Huisne, offering an easy and picturesque 33 km trail for walkers and bikers.
  • Grand Tour: A more challenging 105 km-long trail that takes visitors on a journey through stunning landscapes that include forests, villages and scenic riverbanks.

Best Things to Do in Nogent-le-Rotrou: Activities and Tours

Nogent-le-Rotrou offers an array of exciting activities that cater to all interests, including:

  • Hot air balloon rides over the town and surrounding areas, providing a breathtaking view of the region’s natural beauty from above.
  • Horseback riding through the Perche forests, along the Huisne River, and beautiful French countryside where you can explore the local flora and fauna.
  • Cheese-tasting tours to sample some of the exceptional cheese produced in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nogent-le-Rotrou

For visitors on a week-long trip to Nogent-le-Rotrou, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Nogent-le-Rotrou, settle in, and take a walk around the town’s historical sites and architecture. Day 2: Visit Château Saint-Jean, Huisne River, and enjoy a hot air balloon ride. Day 3: Discover the Maison du Perche Museum and indulge in a cheese-tasting tour. Day 4: Hike/bike along the trails of the Perche Natural Regional Park and pack a picnic for a relaxed outdoor lunch. Day 5: Explore the stunning Saint-Laurent Church. Day 6: Go horseback riding through the Perche forests. Day 7: Say goodbye to Nogent-le-Rotrou and head out to nearby destinations.

Food and Drink Scene of Nogent-le-Rotrou

Must-Try Dishes

Food lovers are sure to have their taste buds tantalized with the following must-try dishes:

  • Percheron Omelette: A delectable dish that features bacon, cream, and mushrooms.
  • Tourte: A savory pie filled with beef, pork, and vegetables.
  • Stewed apples with gingerbread: A traditional dessert that’s perfect for satisfying any sweet cravings.

Local Beverages

Nogent-le-Rotrou is known for its excellent cider production, and visitors should not miss the chance to sample local ciders like the Le Hérisson and Le Pétillant.

Where to Stay in Nogent-le-Rotrou: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

For visitors looking for a comfortable stay in the town, these options are worth considering:

  • Hôtel le Sully: A 3-star hotel that features modern amenities, excellent dining options, and friendly service.
  • Chambres d’Itelites de la Mare: A charming guest house in a secluded location with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.

What to Buy in Nogent-le-Rotrou: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Nogent-le-Rotrou offers visitors an opportunity to take home some local souvenirs such as:

  • Handmade gloves: The town has a rich history of glove-making, and visitors can purchase high-quality, locally made gloves as a souvenir.
  • Percheron Apple Juice: Locally grown cider apples are used to make delicious apple juice that visitors can take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Nogent-le-Rotrou

French culture is quite distinct, and experiencing it while in Nogent-le-Rotrou is both exciting and insightful. Some of the cultural aspects unique to the region include:

  • The custums of Perche: Learn of the customs and traditions of Perche during a visit to the Maison du Perche Museum.
  • Fêtes de la Saint-Jean: A significant cultural event that has taken place in Nogent-le-Rotrou since the Middle Ages. It is held on midsummer’s night and features music, dancing, and fireworks.

Best Time to Visit Nogent-le-Rotrou

The best time to visit Nogent-le-Rotrou is between March and November, when the weather is pleasant and visitors can engage in outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nogent-le-Rotrou

Do:

  • Participate in local cultural events and learn about the French way of life.
  • Try the traditional French cuisine and local produce.

Don’t:

  • Refuse a glass of cider, a local favorite.
  • Disrespect the local cultural traditions and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nogent-le-Rotrou

Nogent-le-Rotrou is a relatively safe town, and visitors are advised to exercise standard safety precautions.

Health in Nogent-le-Rotrou

Visitors should ensure they have appropriate health insurance coverage as healthcare in France can be relatively expensive.

Getting to Nogent-le-Rotrou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nogent-le-Rotrou

The nearest airport to Nogent-le-Rotrou is the Paris Orly Airport, which is about 100 km away.

Bus Stations Near Nogent-le-Rotrou

The town is well connected by bus to other parts of the country, with daily services provided by major operators.

Other Options

Alternatively, visitors can arrive in Nogent-le-Rotrou by train or car.

How to Get Around in Nogent-le-Rotrou

Visitors can easily get around the town on foot, or they can hire a car, bike, or scooter to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Nogent-le-Rotrou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nogent-le-Rotrou serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, which include:

  • Chartres: A delightful town famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral.
  • Mortagne-au-Perche: A charming town that has preserved much of its medieval character and offers an excellent dining scene.
  • Le Mans: A town famous for its automobile racing history and picturesque old town.

Conclusion

Nogent-le-Rotrou is a charming and picturesque town that offers a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and an excellent food and drink scene. Visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this hidden gem of France.

Place de la République Place de la République Château Saint-Jean. Château Saint-Jean.