A breath of fresh air in the Alpes mancelles for a weekend

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Imagine yourself, for a long weekend, in the heart of lush, rolling countryside, where mountains merge harmoniously with wildly meandering rivers and mysterious forests embrace majestic cliffs. Welcome to the Alpes Mancelles, the unspoilt jewel of the Sarthe region, where you're invited to enjoy an enchanting escape and absolute relaxation. Here, time stands still, offering you a moment of pure serenity, where every breath of wind whispers ancient secrets.

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Discover the Petite Cité de Caractère of Saint-Léonard-des-Bois and its exceptional panoramas

Canoeing on the Sarthe, between woods and cliffs

Discover Fresnay-sur-Sarthe, one of France's most beautiful villages

Hike the Canyon des Toyères and admire its breathtaking views

Day 1 : Along the Sarthe and the mountains

Morning: A walk between mountains and rivers

Start your stay by discovering the Petite Cité de Caractère of Saint-Léonard-des-Bois. Perched on a rocky outcrop, this village invites you to stroll through its picturesque streets and admire its old granite houses. Don't miss the panoramic view from the Croix-Couverte belvedere, with its breathtaking panorama of the Sarthe gorges and surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: Canoeing on the Sarthe River

Continue your day with a canoe trip along the Sarthe, between woods and cliffs. At the foot of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, let yourself be lulled by the current and observe the flora and fauna that flourish on the banks. The lucky ones may even spot otters or beavers, adding a touch of magic to this aquatic adventure!

Evening: Cosy relaxation

After a day rich in discoveries and emotions, treat yourself to a well-deserved break in one of the cozy refuges of the Alpes mancelles. Let yourself be seduced by the charm of Chambres d'hôtes Les Ruettes or Maison d'hôtes Le Clos de Paris in Fresnay-sur-Sarthe. For a unique experience, opt for Le Dôme Perché - Les Insolites de JSK in Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, where you can recharge your batteries in harmony with the surrounding nature. These havens of peace promise moments of relaxation and serenity, perfect for wrapping up your getaway in style.

Day 2 : Discovering Sarthe's heritage and nature

Morning: Medieval stroll in Fresnay-sur-Sarthe

Discover one of France's most beautiful villages: Fresnay-sur-Sarthe. Overlooked by its castle, this medieval town is packed with narrow streets and a rich heritage. Stroll through the cobbled alleyways and admire the half-timbered houses, craftsmen's stalls and flower gardens that add a touch of poetry to this timeless walk, where every corner reveals a new treasure to be admired.

Afternoon: Cycling in the Alpes Mancelles

Choose your adventure: take a section of the Vélobuissonnière, or embark on a 30 km mountain bike loop to explore the enchanting landscapes of the Alpes Mancelles. Between mysterious forests, peaceful bocages and babbling rivers, you'll find trails to suit all levels. Every pedal stroke offers exceptional views of the surrounding countryside, where nature reveals itself in all its splendor.

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Accommodation ideas

Day 3 : Hiking and thrills

Morning: The Canyon des Toyères, an exceptional natural site

Put on your hiking boots and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the Canyon des Toyères. This exceptional natural site offers breathtaking panoramas of the Sarthe gorges and surrounding cliffs, veritable masterpieces of nature. Take the "Le passeur de Montaigu" trail, which guides you through enchanting woods and steep paths, for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature, where every step is an ode to wild beauty.

Afternoon: Climbing and via ferrata

For adventurous souls, the Canyon des Toyères offers thrilling climbing and via ferrata activities. Under the supervision of seasoned professionals, you can learn or perfect your climbing techniques, while enjoying thrilling sensations in complete safety. Let yourself be carried away by adrenalin and discover breathtaking panoramas from the heights, where every climb becomes a conquest of nature.

Suggestions for extending your stay

  • Visit the Musée archéologique départemental de Jublains, for a journey back in time to discover the region's Gallo-Roman history.
  • Horseback riding in the Alpes Mancelles, for a unique experience in harmony with nature
  • Discover local culinary specialties, such as rillettes du Mans or the famous Sablé-sur-Sarthe shortbread.
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Other ideas for new trips

Duo weekend in Oudon, a gentle getaway on the banks of the Loire
Duo weekend in Oudon, a gentle getaway on the banks of the Loire

Escape for an enchanted interlude in a green setting, where time seems suspended. The Loire, sometimes languorous, sometimes mischievous, reveals its charming banks and invites you to discover a little jewel nestled in its meander: Oudon. Let yourself be seduced by this Loire-Atlantique destination, where heritage and nature combine harmoniously to offer you a rejuvenating stay, punctuated by a refreshing canoeing adventure.

Excursion to the upper Erdre valley, a family nature break
Excursion to the upper Erdre valley, a family nature break

Do you feel the call of the great outdoors? Let yourself be tempted by an escape to the upper Erdre valley in Loire-Atlantique, where nature opens its arms wide. In this haven of peace, every season reveals its treasures, but it's in spring and autumn that the valley unfolds its full splendor. Get ready for precious moments with your family, in the heart of an unspoilt green setting.

Blain and its surroundings, between canal, forest and heritage
Blain and its surroundings, between canal, forest and heritage

Let yourself be seduced by Blain, a small town in the north of the Loire-Atlantique region, on the edge of the Gâvre forest. Here, the Nantes-Brest canal winds through the town like a silver ribbon, while the national forest spreads its emerald-green mantle. The ponds sparkle like hidden jewels.

An energetic weekend in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins
An energetic weekend in Saint-Brevin-les-Pins

Welcome to Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, a paradise for water sports and family outings! This weekend, you're in for some unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Whether you're into sand yachting, surfing or cycling, the seaside resort has everything you need for a weekend full of energy and sharing.

A surprising journey along the Loire estuary, where art meets nature
A surprising journey along the Loire estuary, where art meets nature

From Nantes to Saint-Nazaire, let yourself be seduced by the charms of the Loire estuary, where river and ocean blend in a spellbinding symphony. This unique landscape, shaped by nature and the industrial and maritime history of the Loire-Atlantique region, provides an ideal playground for contemporary artists, who have scattered their works here, creating an open-air art trail.

Heading for Pornic, a family getaway to the rhythm of the tides
Heading for Pornic, a family getaway to the rhythm of the tides

Pornic, the pearl of the Côte de Jade, invites you to a family outdoor adventure. Where land meets sea, sea spray mingles with the scent of pine, and sailboats dance on the waves. At dawn, the gargoyles of Saint-Gilles church seem to guide you towards the treasures of this natural, seaside, gourmet and sporting destination.

Discover the Guérande peninsula with the whole family, with strolls along the waterfront and visits to Saint-Nazaire sites.
Discover the Guérande peninsula with the whole family, with strolls along the waterfront and visits to Saint-Nazaire sites.

Swept along by the Atlantic winds, the Guérande peninsula opens its doors to you for an invigorating family holiday. Here, salt from the earth meets sea spray, and the salt marshes take on a silvery sheen under the spring or autumn sun. Between the medieval ramparts of Guérande, the lively port of La Turballe and the fine sandy beaches, let yourself be carried away by the rhythm of this land of character, where wonder awaits you at every turn.

River cruise in the Sarthe Valley: discover the treasures of Sarthe!
River cruise in the Sarthe Valley: discover the treasures of Sarthe!

Imagine a weekend with family or friends, gliding peacefully along the river, surrounded by lush green landscapes and villages of timeless charm. This is the enchanting experience we invite you to enjoy on a river cruise along the Sarthe, in the heart of the Sarthe Valley. Aboard your boat, you'll enjoy an escapade in perfect harmony with nature, while enjoying the cozy comfort of your floating accommodation. Every moment will be an invitation to relax and marvel, with the murmur of water and birdsong providing the soundtrack to your journey.

A breath of fresh air in the Alpes mancelles for a weekend
A breath of fresh air in the Alpes mancelles for a weekend

Imagine yourself, for a long weekend, in the heart of lush, rolling countryside, where mountains merge harmoniously with wildly meandering rivers and mysterious forests embrace majestic cliffs. Welcome to the Alpes Mancelles, the unspoilt jewel of the Sarthe region, where you're invited to enjoy an enchanting escape and absolute relaxation. Here, time stands still, offering you a moment of pure serenity, where every breath of wind whispers ancient secrets.

A natural and sporting getaway in the Perche region of Sarthe, a breath of fresh air to share!
A natural and sporting getaway in the Perche region of Sarthe, a breath of fresh air to share!

As a family or as a couple, plunge into the heart of lush, unspoilt nature, where colors and fragrances blend to create a unique experience. The Perche Sarthois, a veritable jewel case of greenery, opens its doors to you for a three-day, two-night stay, punctuated by sporting activities and unusual discoveries.

An unusual itinerary through history and local produce in the Perche Sarthois region
An unusual itinerary through history and local produce in the Perche Sarthois region

Imagine yourself in the heart of the Perche region of Sarthe, walking in the footsteps of the blacksmiths, on your way to a majestic château, where history is told through the stones and ancient trees. Let yourself be lulled by the gentle melodies of mechanical instruments and savor the delights of a generous terroir. Whether you're a small group or a duo, let yourself be tempted by this unusual itinerary, where each stage holds its own surprises and wonders.

Sillé-le-Guillaume, nature's escape in Pays de la Loire
Sillé-le-Guillaume, nature's escape in Pays de la Loire

In the heart of the Sarthe region, let yourself be enchanted by Sillé-le-Guillaume and its surroundings, a green setting where nature reigns supreme. Majestic forests, sparkling lakes and rolling hills blend harmoniously to create an idyllic picture. This two-day, one-night stay is an invitation to serenity, ideal for small groups and duos in search of rejuvenation. Immerse yourself in a world where sports and leisure activities merge with natural beauty, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the place.