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.
You'll love
Hike in the Vibraye forest, in the footsteps of the blacksmiths.
Travel aboard a Decauville train at the Semur-en-Vallon Museotrain.
Discover mechanical musical instruments in a 1930s café.
Take a stroll through Saint-Calais, a small town full of character, and sample artisanal ice creams.
Visit the Château de Courtanvaux, birthplace of d'Artagnan's ancestors.
Day 1 : In the footsteps of Sarthe's blacksmiths and rail pioneers
Morning: Hiking in the Vibraye forest
Put on your walking shoes and set off to discover the trails of the Vibraye forest. Along the 15 km Père By trail, you'll follow in the footsteps of blacksmiths on their way to the ancient forges of the Braye and Champrond rivers. Be enchanted by the shimmering colors and intoxicating scents of the forest as the seasons change.
Afternoon: Time travel at the Muséotrain de Semur-en-Vallon and the Mechanical Music Museum
From May to September, let yourself be transported back to the Roaring Twenties by boarding the Decauville train for an unusual visit to the Semur-en-Vallon Museotrain. Discover the captivating history of the railroads and the life of Paul Decauville, a pioneer of the railways, in a friendly, fun atmosphere.
To extend your journey back in time, enter the fascinating world of mechanical musical instruments at Dollon's Mechanical Music Museum, which evokes the atmosphere of a 1930s café. Marvel at the diversity and richness of the collections, listen to and watch fascinating musical machines from all eras in action, and immerse yourself in a spellbinding musical atmosphere, where every note tells a story.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Gîte du Château de la Gavolerie
Drop off your suitcases at this eco-friendly gîte, nestled in the heart of a green setting, where calm and serenity await you after an emotionally-charged day. Let yourself be enveloped by the peacefulness of the setting and enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation, in harmony with the surrounding nature.
Day 2 : Discovery of Saint-Calais, ice cream tasting and visits to farms in Montaillé and Ecorpain
Morning: Visit the small town of Saint-Calais
Stroll through the picturesque little streets of Saint-Calais, and let yourself be enchanted by mythical sites such as the Halles aux Grains, the Quai de l'Anille, the Church of Notre-Dame, and the house of Cardinal Dubois. Take time to admire the preserved architecture of this charming town, and dive into history by exploring the library's ancient collection (by appointment). A walk where every stone tells a story, and every turn invites you to discover the hidden treasures of Saint-Calais.
Afternoon: Ice cream tasting and farm visits
Continue your journey by savoring artisanal ice creams at Ferme de l'Auberdière in Montaillé, where cows' milk is transformed into icy delights with flavors ranging from salted butter caramel to wild strawberry and farm honey.
Next, head to Ecorpain to discover the Deux Sabots farm, an enchanting place where you can meet the farm animals and taste local produce. Let yourself be seduced by the authenticity of this place, and chat with the enthusiasts who will share their love of nature and animals with you. An experience rich in flavors and emotions, where every moment brings you a little closer to the simplicity and beauty of rural life.
Round off your afternoon in style by exploring the Tuffeau Arboretum in Saint-Gervais-de-Vic. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of botany in a fun and interactive way, and marvel at the diversity of trees and plants that inhabit this unique site. From April to October, every visit is an invitation to discover and marvel at nature's most beautiful secrets.
Activity ideas
Day 3 : Immerse yourself in the world of d'Artagnan and discover the terroir
Morning: Guided tour of Château de Courtanvaux
Discover the majestic Château de Courtanvaux, birthplace of d'Artagnan's illustrious ancestors. Stroll through the rooms of this historic edifice, and let yourself be transported by the fascinating stories of this emblematic site in the Perche region of Sarthe. Admire the sumptuous tapestries, period furniture and objets d'art that bear witness to the pomp and elegance of yesteryear. A visit where every nook and cranny whispers the secrets of the past, inviting you to take a trip back in time.
Afternoon: Discover the gardens and grounds of Château de Courtanvaux
Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens and grounds of the château, where nature flourishes in complete freedom. Whether you're a keen hiker, mountain biker, geocacher or fisherman, you'll find what you're looking for in this enchanting setting.
Evening: Discovery and tasting at the Pelletier cider mill in La Chapelle-Huon
End your stay in style with a visit to the Pelletier cider house, where you'll discover the secrets of cider and apple brandy production. Let yourself be seduced by the subtle aromas of these local beverages, and leave with a few bottles as a souvenir of your escapade between history and terroir. A gourmet experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return.
