FRANCE – Fougères (En)

Fougères was a significant enclave in the struggle for the borders of Brittany and its characteristic medieval castle founded in 1020 has retained its cachet of yesteryear. The old town, the oldest district of the village, has charming medieval half-timbered houses.

Where to stay

We stayed in the motorhome parking area in the village (48.355202, -1.21113 lat, long) free until March 1st after that is 6 euros per day. There are facilities for loading and unloading grey and black water and rubbish bins. It is 5 minutes from the castle and the centre. You have to get there early, as it fills up quickly as there are only about 20 spaces. I really recommend it as the village is beautiful and the castle is impressive!

What to see

The feudal castle dates from the 12th to the 15th century and was a defensive complex of the Duchy of Brittany from 1000 to 1500. Flanked with 13 towers over an area of two hectares, its fortifications, once surrounded by water, have been completely restored and are worth a visit. We followed the coastal path and enjoyed beautiful views of the walls and the village gardens.

Then we went to the old town with its square surrounded by bars and medieval houses.

We finished our tour at the Saint-Sulpice church, from the 15th and 18th centuries. It is also worth mentioning that the village has the oldest bell tower in Brittany, built-in 1397. We were unable to see the whole village due to lack of time, but we plan to return in spring or summer.

Our next destination in France is Rochefort on the banks of the Charente, which owes its fame to the military Arsenal, where 550 ships were built in two and a half centuries, which you can see in the next post!