Bagnoles de L'Orne

Discover the only thermal spa town in the whole of northwest France. Bagnoles-de-l’Orne is a delightful hideaway in a forest glade. The spa town has recently branded itself the Grand Domaine de Bagnoles, reflecting the elegance of its setting.This thermal resort became particularly popular in the Belle Epoque. It retains something of the feel of the turn from the 19th to the 20th century, so prettily set around its lake. Some grand period buildings still occupy prime positions, including the casino, which has pride of place beside the water, and the palatial Résidence du Lac, standing out in patterned brick. This lush image of the greenscape of the area was created by Paul Colin (1892-1985) recognized as one of France’s greatest poster artists. Made famous in 1925 by his poster for the Revue Nègre, which helped to launch the career of Josephine Baker (who became his mistress), he worked for over forty years in the theatre, creating not only posters but also numerous sets and costumes