Étang de la Herse, Forest pond in Bellême Forest, Saint-Martin-du-Vieux-Bellême, France.
Étang de la Herse is a forest pond nestled within Bellême Forest, surrounded by mature trees that line its banks. The water body supports a variety of freshwater fish and waterfowl, creating a natural habitat in this woodland setting.
The pond was created in 1780 and sits near remains of Roman camps in the southern reaches of Bellême Forest. This location marks a crossroads where centuries of human settlement have shaped the forest landscape.
A fountain with Latin inscriptions, recognized for its medicinal properties since antiquity, stands near the pond.
Parking is available along Route D938 near the water's edge, making access straightforward for visitors. Picnic tables are positioned around the pond's perimeter, providing shaded spots to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
The name comes from a local legend of a farmer who was swallowed by a spring while harrowing fields in that spot. This tale has lived on in local memory and adds a mysterious layer to the pond's story.
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