In the heart of the Perche Regional Natural Park, Moutiers-au-Perche is ideally situated between the Landing Beaches of the north, and the Loire Valley’s imposing châteaux. This is very much ‘off the beaten track’ France, well-suited to outdoorsy folk and active families. With a small number of lovely accommodation options on offer in the area, our pick of the best places to stay in Moutiers au Perche highlights a charming boutique base for a very special trip.

An hour’s drive from Chartres, this lovely small community has an appealingly relaxed, low-key feel, with well-preserved historic buildings tucked amidst tranquil woodland, green fields and orchards replete with birdlife. The Perche region was once synonymous with the noble Percheron horse, exported all over the globe prior to the First World War. Now, horse breeding is a cottage industry, but the Perche Regional Natural Park has been preserved as an area of striking beauty — and a wonderful place to go horse riding, cycling, birdwatching or hiking.

Back in the village, don’t miss admiring the Church of Notre-Dame du Mont-Harou, popping into antique shops aplenty and sampling excellent local produce. Tranquil and welcoming, the best places to stay in Moutiers-au-Perche offer the ideal chance to explore rural France as a family or couple.