Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Georges-Du-Bois - Top 15
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Georges-Du-Bois, located in the Sarthe department of the Pays de la Loire region, include a mix of historical sites and natural areas. The commune features a 14th-century church and historically important fountains. Nearby, visitors can explore significant abbeys, castles, and protected natural zones, offering diverse points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Georges-Du-Bois
- The most popular attractions is Moulinsart Island, a leisure area in a natural setting. It offers…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
L'Épau Abbey
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Le Mans
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Arche de la Nature
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Moulinsart Island
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Allonnes Cross-Country Mountain Biking Area
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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 historical and cultural sites can I explore around Saint-Georges-Du-Bois?
The region offers a rich history. You can visit the 14th-century Église de Saint-Georges within the commune, known for its 17th-century statues. A significant historical site is L'Épau Abbey, a Royal Abbey founded in 1229, showcasing fine Cistercian architecture. Additionally, the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Georges-du-Bois, located in Saint-Martin-des-Bois, features a 12th-century Romanesque church and a restored 13th-century chapter house. For more information on the Abbey of Saint-Georges-du-Bois, you can visit Wikipedia.
Are there any natural parks or green spaces to visit?
Yes, nature lovers will enjoy Arche de la Nature, a vast natural park spanning 450 hectares on the outskirts of Le Mans, featuring trails, rivers, and lakes. There's also a protected ZNIEFF Natural Area nearby, characterized by marshy woods and unique flora like the *Cardamine amara*. For a more cultivated green space, the Botanical Garden in Le Mans offers beautiful flower gardens, artificial grottos, and waterways.
What are some family-friendly attractions in the area?
Families have several options. Moulinsart Island is a leisure area with a picnic spot, bar-restaurant, and playgrounds for children, often hosting various entertainment in summer. Arche de la Nature is also great for families, offering extensive trails and natural exploration. For animal lovers, the Parc Zoologique de Doué-la-Fontaine is about 35 km away and makes for an exciting day trip.
Where can I find outdoor activities like hiking or cycling?
The region around Saint-Georges-Du-Bois is excellent for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Lac de la Gèmerie — loop from Allonnes' or the 'View of the Château de la Forêt loop from Allonnes', both moderate trails. Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes such as the 'Route loop from Saint-Georges-du-Bois' or the 'La Suze-sur-Sarthe – Moulin Sart Island loop'. For gravel biking, there are options like the 'L'Épau Abbey loop from Le Mans Gare Sud'. You can find more details and routes on the hiking guide, road cycling guide, and gravel biking guide for the area.
Are there any castles or châteaux to visit nearby?
While Saint-Georges-Du-Bois itself doesn't have a major château, several impressive ones are within a reasonable driving distance. You can visit the grand Château d'Angers, approximately 25 km away, or the Château de Saumur, about 29 km distant, which offers stunning views across the Loire River. The traditional town of Bauge, 10 km away, also features a castle.
What is Le Mans known for, and how far is it?
Le Mans is a historic city, approximately 25 km from Saint-Georges-Du-Bois. It's known for its rich history, dating back to Celtic and Roman times, and its location at the confluence of the Sarthe and Huisne rivers. Beyond its famous motor racing circuit, the city offers a beautiful old town, a cathedral, and other interesting sites, including the Botanical Garden.
What are some unique natural features in the region?
Beyond the Arche de la Nature, the area includes the Île Saint-Aubin, a natural site located about 24 km away, offering a tranquil escape. The ZNIEFF Natural Area, with its marshy woods, provides a glimpse into protected local ecosystems.
Are there any picturesque towns or villages worth visiting?
Yes, the small, traditional town of Bauge, about 10 km away, is worth a visit for its charm and castle. Further afield, Aubigne-sur-Layon, approximately 36 km distant, is a picturesque village that is particularly vibrant in late spring and summer.
What are the opening hours and prices for L'Épau Abbey?
L'Épau Abbey is a significant historical site. Individual adult tickets are €5.50, reduced tickets are €4.00 (for job seekers, students, etc.), and children aged 10-17 pay €3.00. Entry is free for children under 10 and accompanying persons. For current opening hours, it's best to check their official website directly.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saint-Georges-Du-Bois?
Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings, from the historical depth of sites like L'Épau Abbey with its impressive Cistercian architecture, to the expansive natural beauty of Arche de la Nature. The family-friendly amenities at places like Moulinsart Island are also highly rated, providing leisure and entertainment in a natural setting. The blend of cultural heritage and outdoor opportunities is a key draw.
Are there any other significant abbeys in the vicinity besides L'Épau Abbey?
Yes, in addition to L'Épau Abbey, you can also visit the Abbey of Saint-Georges-du-Bois, a Benedictine monastery in Saint-Martin-des-Bois, featuring a 12th-century Romanesque church. Further afield, the historically significant Fontevraud Abbey is about 41 km away.
What kind of activities can I do at Moulinsart Island?
Moulinsart Island is designed for leisure and recreation. You can enjoy a picnic, dine at the bar-restaurant, or let children play in the dedicated playgrounds. It also features cultural spaces and a vegetable garden, with various entertainment often available during the summer months.
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