그레앙부에르 최고의 워킹 & 하이킹 경로

These old windmills are the best proof that people were clever enough to harness the power of the wind a number of centuries ago - long before the discovery of electricity and the inventions that followed. So what is celebrated today as modern (so-called green or renewable) energy is essentially "old hat" in a new guise.

The Cistercian Abbey of Bellebranche is a former Cistercian monastery founded in 1152 by the lords of Sablé. The abbey is located in the town of Saint-Brice, surrounded by woods and ponds. You can discover the remains of medieval buildings, such as the cloister, dormitory and church, and admire the classic 18th century facade of the abbey. The abbey also hosts cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year. The abbey is open to visitors from April to October, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except Mondays. The entrance fee is 5 euros for adults and 3 euros for children.

The Bellebranche National Forest is a remnant of a larger forest which was cleared for the needs of the Navy. It extends over 140 hectares and is surrounded by a beautiful bocage. It also borders the Curécy pond, where you can observe migratory birds from a small observatory. The forest has an educational trail that explains its history and biodiversity. You can access the forest from the villages of Bouère or Saint-Brice, where you can also visit the remains of an old Cistercian abbey. The Bellebranche National Forest is a privileged place to enjoy nature and discover the local heritage.

The Étang de Curécy is a beautiful pond which was once part of a series of seven ponds belonging to the Bellebranche Abbey. The monks practiced fish farming there. Today, these ponds serve as a refuge for migratory birds. A small observatory located on the shore and accessible to all allows you to appreciate the view of the water and the surrounding vegetation. The Curécy Pond is part of a larger natural area which includes the Bellebranche forest and its bocage, where rare plants and animals can be found.

It is an atypical mill built on a cellar. Built in the 12th century, it is today the last of this type existing in the department of Mayenne.