🌲 An ideal destination for exploring the Sarthe and the Alpes Mancelles The holiday cottage is an excellent base from which to explore the most beautiful sites in the north of the Sarthe. Nearby, discover: - 🏰 Le Mans (15 km), famous for its Cité Plantagenêt, its Gallo-Roman ramparts – among the best-preserved in Europe – its cathedral and its historic centre with its half-timbered houses. - 🏎️ The Le Mans 24 Hours Circuit (25 km), a must-see for motor racing enthusiasts, as well as its museum and the many events held throughout the year. - 🌊 Sillé-Plage (20 minutes) with its leisure centre: swimming, a well-equipped beach, pedalos, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and a national forest. - 🥾 The Alpes Mancelles, a true natural gem renowned for: its hiking trails, the GR®36, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking, and panoramic views over the Sarthe valleys. - 🌉 Thrill-seekers can also enjoy: bungee jumping, tree-top adventure courses and canoeing. - 🐴 Equestrian centre just 3 km away. 🌿 Cultural activities near the gîte Explore Vieux Mans, a picturesque medieval quarter with its half-timbered houses and charming cobbled streets. Visit Saint-Julien Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic and Romanesque architecture overlooking the town. Discover the Royal Abbey of Épau, founded by Queen Bérengère, a peaceful place blending history and contemporary art. Immerse yourself in the world of motor racing at the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum, with its impressive collection of legendary cars. Explore the exhibitions at the Musée de Tessé, dedicated to fine art and Egyptian antiquities. Enjoy a concert or a show at the Cité de la Musique in Le Mans, a cultural centre bustling with activity all year round. 🚴‍♀️ Sports and nature activities nearby Go for a hike or a cycle ride along the River Sarthe, on trails set in lush green surroundings. Take a stroll through the majestic Bercé Forest, famous for its centuries-old oaks and signposted trails. Try canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding on the River Huisne – a lovely way to discover the region’s natural landscapes. Give tree-top adventure a go or enjoy walks in the Arche de la Nature nature park in Le Mans. Play golf in Sargé-lès-Le-Mans, on a course suitable for beginners and experienced golfers alike. Experience the adrenaline rush of a driving course on the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit. 👨‍👩‍👧 For families with children Treat your family to a magical day out at La Flèche Zoo, with its animal shows and wide variety of species. Have fun at Papéa Parc, a family-friendly amusement park with rides, water attractions and shows. Hop aboard the Sarthe tourist train for a retro-style journey through the countryside.

🚗 By car From Paris (~2 hours 15 minutes) Take the A11 motorway towards Le Mans. Take exit 8: Le Mans Nord – ZI Nord – La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin. Follow the D338 then the D232 towards La Chapelle-Saint-Fray. The gîte is situated a few kilometres north-west of Le Mans. From Poitiers (~2h15) Take the A10 to Tours, then the A28 towards Le Mans. Take the exit for Ballon – La Bazoge, then continue on the D338 and the D300 to La Chapelle-Saint-Fray. 🚆 By train From Paris (Gare Montparnasse) Take a direct TGV to Le Mans (around 55 minutes). At Le Mans station, take a taxi, a hire car, or occasionally a regional bus to La Chapelle-Saint-Fray (20–25-minute journey). From Poitiers Take a TER or TGV train to Le Mans (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, often with a change at Tours). Then follow the same route as from Paris: taxi, hire car or bus to the gîte.