La Basse Cour: B&B near Alencon, Normandy

Mushrooms in the Perseigne Forest, Normandy

While staying at La Basse Cour B&B in any season but winter, if you take a walk in the forest you will inevitably come across fungi and mushrooms in your path. Beware! There are many edible types but don't be tempted to try them unless you are sure you can identify them. Here are our favourite edibles and a couple of common poisonous ones. Be aware that the boletus and amanitus families in particular contain many other types that can lead to stomach upsets and worse.