Alençon's surrounding countryside is full of worthwhile excursions. Sées, 20km north, has a magnificent Gothic cathedral — one of the finest in Normandy — and a quiet, slightly melancholy character that makes for a good hour or two of wandering. The Château de Carrouges, 25km northwest, is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Normandy, with a moat and brick-and-stone towers dating from the 14th century. It is managed by the national monuments authority and is open to visitors year-round.
The Alpes Mancelles — a slightly optimistic name for the rolling hills to the south, straddling the Orne and Sarthe departments — are excellent for cycling and walking, with the gorge of the Sarthe river at Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei particularly scenic. The village is listed as one of the most beautiful in France.