Located north of Le Mans, the Alpes Mancelles promise a mountain setting in the heart of the Normandy-Maine Regional Nature Park. Discover its remarkable landscapes between steep scree and green valleys.
A green setting at the gates of Le Mans
With its steep relief with plunging scree and its river which meanders through small valleys, the Alpes Mancelles offer a privileged setting for recharging your batteries. This natural region of the Sarthe which overflows on the Orne and the Mayenne presents a green landscape with the paces of mid-mountain.
From small woods to forests, from narrow gorges encumbered with rocks to hills covered with a carpet of heather, the Alpes Mancelles surprise the visitor. The Natura 2000 classified site is home to protected flora and fauna that can be seen on the hiking trails.
The Normandy-Maine Regional Nature Park, which includes the Alpes Mancelles, is a candidate for the UNESCO Global Geopark label. The geological formation of the scree is one of the strengths of the application.
The Normandy-Maine Regional Nature Park, which includes the Alpes Mancelles, is a candidate for the UNESCO Global Geopark label. The geological formation of the scree is one of the strengths of the application.
A life-size adventure space
Hiking, canoeing, climbing, tree climbing… the Alpes Mancelles offer a fabulous playground for lovers of nature and adventure sports!
Discover the Alpes Mancelles on foot, by bike or by mountain bike
In the heart of the Mancelles Alps, Saint-Léonard-des-Bois is the starting point for many hikes accessible to good walkers. From here, you can reach the highest points of the two steep hills that surround it: the Haut Fourché (217 m) and the Narbonne (203 m). These natural belvederes offer an exceptional view of the village and the Sarthe river.
Many cycling or mountain biking circuits allow you to discover the region crossed by the Vélobuissonnière® . Let yourself be tempted by a weekend of sporty cycling in the heart of the Alpes Mancelles organized by Dionysos Bike . Take to the hills effortlessly with electric mountain bikes from Chase The Line.
Canoeing down the Sarthe
The Alpes Mancelles are renowned for their canoe-kayak routes which will delight lovers of small wild rivers. The descent from “Saint-Léo” to Fresnay-sur-Sarthe has great sensations in store!
The Domaine du Gasseau, a leisure site for the whole family
With its climbing wall, children’s games and treetop trails, the Domaine du Gasseau is an ideal leisure site for family activities. The leisure center also offers horseback riding and visits to the vegetable garden.
The Petites Cités de Caractère of the Mancelles Alps
Do not miss the villages labeled Petites Cités de Caractère nestled along the Sarthe river. From Fresnay-sur-Sarthe to Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei in Orne via Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, heritage lovers will be delighted!
Fresnay-sur-Sarthe, ancient fortified city
Set on a rocky outcrop, this medieval city was renowned in the 19th century for its textile industry. The weavers’ quarter on the banks of the Sarthe is now a delight for walkers. The narrow streets, the remains of the old castle and its Roussard stone church make Fresnay-sur-Sarthe one of the most beautiful villages in Sarthe, voted 2nd favorite village of the French in 2021.
Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, between mountains and rivers
A central village in the Mancelles Alps, Saint-Léonard owes its name to a hermit who founded a monastery there in the 6th century. The village known for its Domaine de Gasseau leisure center also has many unusual accommodations: bubble, perched dome and other wooden cabins with Les Insolites de JSK.
Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, village of artists
The village of Saint-Céneri in Orne was frequented in the 19th century by painters who came to draw their inspiration from the landscapes of the Alpes Mancelles. Don’t miss a visit to the Moizy sisters’ inn, a vacation spot for Impressionist painters. Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Céneri is worth a visit.
