Valcanville: Holiday Apartments and Holiday Homes

Valcanville combines remarkable church history with a circular trail through the Val de Saire countryside. From the original Église Notre-Dame et Saint-Firmin, the imposing bell tower and its stone gabled roof from the 14th and 15th centuries have been preserved. Frescoes from the 15th century were uncovered and restored during restoration work in an adjoining chapel.

When planning a trip to Valcanville, you may wish to focus on renting a holiday apartment.

Culture

The church itself was completely demolished in 1827, apart from the bell tower, and rebuilt on a larger scale: it is 10 metres wide and 55 metres long. In the Église Notre-Dame et Saint-Firmin, Saint Firmin is invoked against epilepsy, nervous disorders and insomnia. His altar in the Église Notre-Dame was created around 1852 or 1855 and is attributed to Etienne-Jean-Philippe Aubin from Valcanville.

The history of the village is also reflected in notable buildings outside the church. The Manoir du Marais is a private manor house dating from the 16th century that was remodelled during various periods. The Commanderie de Valcanville was founded in the 12th century and successively belonged to the Templars, the Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem and the Order of Malta.

History

A horse market was held at Clos Saint-Firmin near the church on Saint Firmin’s Day, 25 September. In 1949, it still brought together as many as 241 horses and 61 cattle. A guided tour was also offered for the private Commanderie de Valcanville, providing information about the history and buildings dating from the 12th to the 18th century.

On the Trail

The easy Le domaine de Walkan circular trail leads on foot through Valcanville over 7.1 kilometres; the route is said to take around two hours. The trail’s footpaths offer idyllic views across the Val de Saire countryside. There is a car park near the starting point. Le domaine de Walkan also passes the Commanderie, which is among the village’s historic remains.

Other places: Saint-Pois, Saint-Pierre-Langers, Avranches, Beslon, Ancteville, Tamerville, Canisy, Auderville.

Back to the higher-level travel overview: Manche.