Attractions and Places To See around La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin - Top 11
Best attractions and places to see around La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin include a blend of local historical sites and access to the broader cultural and natural attractions of the Sarthe department. This commune is situated approximately 4 km from Le Mans, a city known for its historical significance and location at the confluence of the Sarthe and Huisne rivers. The region offers diverse points of interest, from ancient abbeys to extensive natural parks.
Best attractions and places to see around La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin
…Last updated: May 9, 2026
L'Épau Abbey
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Le Mans
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Arche de la Nature
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Aire et plage du Vieux Moulin
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Botanical garden
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The flower gardens in the Jardin des Plantes are located in the northeastern part. On Sundays, music and dancing take place around the pavilion on certain dates.
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Founded in 1229 by Bérengère de Navarre, widow of Richard the Lionheart, it constitutes one of the most beautiful Cistercian jewels in France. It was acquired by the Department of Sarthe in 1959. The Royal Abbey of Épau constitutes one of the finest examples of Cistercian architecture in France. In 1229, Bérengère de Navarre, widow of Richard the Lionheart, decided to found this abbey at the gates of Le Mans, where she was buried a year later. During the Revolution, the abbey, almost deserted by monks since the 18th century, was sold as national property to an industrialist. Then transformed into an agricultural operation, the abbey experienced many vicissitudes before its purchase by the Department of Sarthe in 1959. A vast restoration program, still in progress, is giving it a second wind, making the abbey one of the most important places cultural heritage of Sarthe. The abbey also hosts the sessions of the departmental assembly of which it has been the seat since the 1970s. Since July 1, 2016, its management has been entrusted to the Sarthe Cultural Center whose mission is to offer it a new dimension, in order to strengthen its cultural role in the region. Recently, the research of Father Michel Niaussat, a Cistercian monk writer, has shed light on the royal character of the building. L'Épau Abbey then became Royal Abbey of l'Épau in March 2017. Alongside this cultural and tourist growth, another flagship project which will guide the development of the abbey in the coming years: the transformation of the park into permacultural garden. It must then be remembered that times of prayer and work were equivalent in the Cistercian rule. This agricultural dimension is at the heart of the departmental project, the ultimate objective of which is to restore as faithfully as possible the original principles of the place. The abbey, which has preserved almost all of its buildings, is located at the gates of Le Mans. It is inserted in a 13 ha enclosed park delimited by a surrounding wall.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin?
The most prominent natural attraction is Arche de la Nature, a vast 450-hectare park on the outskirts of Le Mans, featuring trails, rivers, and lakes. The wider region also offers several remarkable gardens, such as Jardin du château de Vilaines and Jardins du Mirail, as well as parks in Le Mans like Parc Victor-Hugo and Jardin des Plantes.
Are there historical or cultural sites to visit in the area?
Yes, you can visit L'Épau Abbey, a Cistercian abbey founded in 1229, known for its impressive architecture. The nearby city of Le Mans also boasts the Cathédrale Saint Julien and the historic Cité Plantagenêt, with its well-preserved Roman city wall and medieval architecture.
What family-friendly activities are available around La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin?
For families, Arche de la Nature offers extensive space for exploration with trails, rivers, and lakes. Additionally, Papéa Parc, an amusement park near Le Mans, is the largest in the Pays de la Loire region, featuring over 30 attractions, a circus show, and a summer water park.
What outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling, can I do near these attractions?
The area around La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including the 'Joli chemin de terre – Saint-Aubin Chapel loop'. For cycling, options range from easy rides like the 'Old Town of Le Mans – Aire et plage du Vieux Moulin loop' to more challenging routes. Mountain biking trails are also available, such as the 'View of the Sarthe River – Logistra France Mural loop'. You can explore more routes on the dedicated guides for hiking, cycling, and MTB trails.
Are there any notable gardens or green spaces besides Arche de la Nature?
Yes, in addition to Arche de la Nature, the city of Le Mans features several parks and gardens, including Parc Victor-Hugo and the Botanical garden, known for its diverse trees, artificial grottos, and waterways. Further afield, you can discover remarkable gardens like Jardin du château de Vilaines and Jardins du Mirail.
What is Le Mans like, and what can I see there?
Le Mans is a historic city approximately 4 km from La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin. It's known for its ancient origins, having been a Celtic foundation conquered by the Romans. Key attractions include the impressive Cathédrale Saint Julien, the medieval Cité Plantagenêt with its Roman wall, and the Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, dedicated to the famous car race.
Where can I find a pleasant spot for a picnic or relaxation by the water?
You can visit Aire et plage du Vieux Moulin, a charming spot near a working mill. It offers picnic tables and grassy areas where you can relax by the Sarthe river, enjoying the cool shade of the trees. It's a popular destination during summer.
What are the best times of year for outdoor activities in the region?
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for water-related activities and enjoying green spaces like Arche de la Nature, though it can be warmer. Winter can be suitable for brisk walks, but some facilities or routes might have reduced accessibility.
Are there any picturesque villages worth visiting nearby?
Yes, the wider Sarthe region is home to several picturesque villages. Notably, Sainte-Suzanne and Saint-Ceneri-le-Gerei are recognized as 'Most Beautiful Villages of France,' offering charming landscapes and historical architecture, typically within a 40-50 km drive from La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin.
What kind of local markets can I find in the vicinity?
Several local markets are held in nearby towns, providing a glimpse into local life and offering fresh produce. Le Mans hosts a daily market (except Mondays), and other towns like Allonnes, Arnage, and Beaumont-sur-Sarthe have markets on specific days of the week.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around La Chapelle-Saint-Aubin?
Visitors appreciate the blend of local historical sites and easy access to the broader cultural and natural attractions of Le Mans and the Sarthe department. Highlights like Arche de la Nature are loved for their extensive trails and natural beauty, while L'Épau Abbey is admired for its historical significance and architectural beauty. The city of Le Mans is valued for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
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