Isigny-Le-Buat combines a hilly landscape shaped by hedgerows and streams with protected architectural heritage and a history of mills. The history of former artificial lakes is also part of the story of the deep, wooded Sélune Valley. When planning your stay, you can choose different focuses: landscapes, historic buildings, or trails that bring together hiking and temporary art.
A landscape of hills and valleys
Green hills, hedgerows and valleys crossed by streams shape the landscape. The central Sélune Valley is deep and wooded; former artificial lakes were located there. Since the dam was removed, this valley landscape has continued to change. One specific point of reference is the former Vezins Lake near the RD 85 and the bridge at Les Biards in Isigny-Le-Buat. Current water conditions may differ from those of the former lake landscape. While the hills and hedgerows describe the landscape in general, the road and bridge locate the former lake in a specific area.
Buildings and the history of mills
At the Logis de Montgothier, the façades and roofs of the main building and two outbuildings, as well as the interior staircase with its wooden railing, have been listed as a Monument historique by decree dated 6 June 1977. The Logis is privately owned. At the Église des Biards, the listing applies to the bell tower; it dates from a decree of 7 March 1975. The listings focus on different features: at the Logis, several exterior surfaces and an interior feature are specified, while at the church, it is the tower.
Another historical trace is the Moulin du Roc in Montgothier. It is documented as a grain mill from the 17th century and is now part of the “Sentier des moulins” hiking trail. Here, the history of mills meets a specific trail.
Trails and seasonal art
The Circuit du Moulin de la Roche is a marked, five-kilometre trail between streams, wet meadows and built heritage. Its stated length gives you a specific route framework for planning your day; check current trail conditions before setting out. At the Moulin du Roc and on the Circuit, it is worth distinguishing between the names: the mill is part of the Sentier des moulins, while the Circuit du Moulin de la Roche is the five-kilometre trail described here. Also check the current waymarking on the Sentier des moulins before setting out.
Art et Sentiers combines a hiking trail with temporary artworks and takes place every summer. The participating municipalities vary from year to year. If you would like to include this seasonal event in your travel plans, check the participating municipalities and dates for that year's edition.
Planning your stay
La Mazure is a group and leisure centre in a wooded setting on the edge of the former Vezins Lake. The Sélune Valley has been changing since the dam was removed, and current water conditions may differ from those of the former lake landscape. If you are considering La Mazure, check the accommodation and site information before booking. This allows you to consider the landscape, marked trails and historic buildings as different focuses for your stay.
Discover more destinations: Hebecrevon, Cuves, Virey, Saint-Quentin-Sur-Le-Homme, Les Veys, Biville, Contrières, Saint-Lô-D'ourville
For the broader travel overview: Manche.
