Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire combines local history with exploring the landscape along the Vire. In the village centre stands a church dating from the mid-15th century; cross the bridge from there to reach the towpath by the river. This gives you the choice of getting to know the area through a landmark building or by exploring its paths, viewpoints and riverside landscape.
A church dating from the mid-15th century
The church of Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire was built in the Flamboyant Gothic style. On 3 March 1931, it was added to the register of historic monuments. Its construction period, architectural style and listing each provide a different point of reference for understanding the building: the construction period indicates when it was built, the style identifies its architectural character, and the date records its later addition to the register. If you are interested in historic architectural styles, this is a specific reason to make the cultural side of your stay a focus.
The towpath and the Vire
From the village centre, the towpath along the Vire is accessible via the bridge. You can use the path on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback. More than 60 kilometres of the towpath along the Vire are open to the public. This gives you different ways to travel when planning your outing, from a walk to a longer route. The 29-kilometre La Rando des Haras Nationaux route also leads to the towpath. It includes a rest area in Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire before continuing on to Condé-sur-Vire. The local access via the bridge and the regional route give you two different starting points when deciding on your distance.
Fishing is another activity on the Vire: the river is a second-category fishing water, and line fishing is permitted there year-round. Check the local rules before fishing. Benches and tables are also available on the banks for resting and picnicking. If these facilities are important to your break plans, it is worth checking briefly before your visit.
Bocage countryside and views
Along the D86, there are striking views over the Vire valley. Small local roads offer another perspective, running from Les Trois Pucelles through Les Monts and La Boissaie to La Hure de Loup: this series of places offers a chance to discover the bocage landscape. From La Hure de Loup, the view extends to the Normandy hills. The views of the river valley and towards the hills offer contrasting landscapes—useful if you would like to focus your stay more on the Vire or on the surrounding bocage countryside.
The Chapelle Saint-Jean de Brébeuf in La Boissaie
In La Boissaie, near the boundary between Condé-sur-Vire and Sainte-Suzanne-sur-Vire, you can visit the Chapelle Saint-Jean de Brébeuf at the birthplace of Jean de Brébeuf. The chapel was built in 1993 beside the ruins of his birthplace. A visit therefore combines a specific building with the history of the place. La Boissaie is also part of the series of small local roads mentioned above; the chapel adds a distinct cultural point of interest alongside exploring the landscape.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Patrice-De-Claids, Saint-Jean-Le-Thomas, Vergoncey, Le Grand Celland, Les Veys, Querqueville, Gourfaleur, Carantilly.
For the main travel guide: Manche.
