This charming town nestled within the Normandie-Maine Natural Regional Park is built around a picturesque lake and on the site of a legendary spring. This gives Bagnoles de l’Orne a nostalgic feel; one that harks back to the Belle Époque around the turn of the 20th century. As well as the thermal spa, the aristocracy was once lured by the casino and horse racing events – both of which can still be enjoyed today.

The story surrounding ‘Le Grande Source’, the hot spring which gives the town its thermal waters, tells of an ageing steed that ran into the woods only to reappear younger. It then led its master to the same watering hole, where he was also rejuvenated. Whilst the newly renovated b'o Thermal Spa can’t promise the fountain of youth, it does offer treatments for rheumatism, varicose veins and other ailments – some of which are even subsidised by the Ministry of Health.

Other attractions in this pretty little area include the Church of Sacré Coeur and a cider farm. There are also great cycling, hiking and Nordic walking activities available in the surrounding forests.