Attractions and Places To See around Courgains - Top 17
Attractions and places to see around Courgains include historical sites within the commune and numerous points of interest in the surrounding Pays-de-la-Loire region. Courgains, located in the Sarthe department of France, features historical landmarks such as the Porte et Chapelle Saint Mathurin and the archaeological site of La motte castrale de Guéramé. The area serves as a base for exploring natural landscapes like the Forêt de Perseigne and various religious monuments, châteaux, and gardens. This region offers a diverse range…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Saint Mathurin Gate and Chapel
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Catholic Church - St-Étienne de Neuchâtel ⛪✨🙏🏻
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René
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Vivoin
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Les Halles de René
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This magnificent church in Neuchâtel is dedicated to the patronage of "Saint-ETIENNE". He is one of the first seven deacons of the early Jerusalem community and, according to the biblical accounts in the "New Testament", the first martyr (witness by blood) of early Christianity. The church commemorates his death on the second day of Christmas, December 26th. As the Acts of the Apostles reports: When Stephen loudly proclaimed his vision of the open sky "But he, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God" (Chapter 7, Verse 55), the people were so outraged that they drove him out of the city and stoned him.
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Good for a little break
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Meeting points for walks to Perseigne
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"O Crux Ave, Spes Unica" is a Latin phrase which means: “Hail, O Cross [of Jesus Christ, you are our] only hope” Until the 1960s, this is how French families taught their children to greet Calvaries all along their fields, by making the sign of the cross.
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Etienne, named in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles, is one of the first 7 deacons of the nascent Church. Deacon, from the Greek "diakonos" is the title of glory of Jesus: "the Servant". Etienne, like Jesus, did not come to be served but to serve, and to give his life to mold a new world. Thus, Stephen inspired many churches to the ends of the earth to renew the way of thinking and seeing work and true authority.
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René's halls were built in 1535, thanks to Jacques Hamelin who obtained from Françoise d'Alençon the right to halls, fairs and markets in this town. They still center the life of the municipality. They were partially demolished in 1847 when the communication route that runs alongside them was created. They were rented until 1932. These halls narrowly escaped demolition. In 2000, the town of René restored them. Source: enpaysdelaloire.com
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Founded in the 11th century by the Benedictine monks of the abbey of Marmoutier in Touraine, the Saint-Hippolyte priory is a remarkable testimony to the religious architecture of Haut Maine, which reached its peak in the 13th century. It was saved from destruction by the local population, which mobilized in particular thanks to a collection of funds obtained in 1968 by the prize for “Masterpieces in Danger”. Source: https://www.sarthe.fr Self-guided tour of the exterior and gardens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Courgains?
In Courgains, you can explore the Saint Mathurin Gate and Chapel, a historical site featuring an ogival arch and an incised tombstone from the 14th or 15th century. Additionally, the archaeological site of La motte castrale de Guéramé, north of the village, reveals a medieval motte and bailey, suggesting Courgains' historical significance as a fortified location.
Are there any notable religious buildings around Courgains?
Yes, beyond the Saint Mathurin Gate and Chapel, you can visit the Catholic Church - St-Étienne de Neuchâtel ⛪✨🙏🏻, named after Saint Etienne. Further afield, the impressive Abbaye de l'Epau in Yvre-l'Eveque and the Cathédrale Saint Julien in Le Mans are significant religious sites worth exploring.
What natural features and outdoor areas are accessible near Courgains?
The region around Courgains offers several natural landscapes. The **Forêt de Perseigne**, about 13 km away, is known for its natural beauty. You can also find the Mont du Haut-Fourché and Forêt d'Écouves further out. For magnificent views, visit the Perseigne Viewpoint, the highest point in Sarthe at 340 meters, offering vistas of the Sartois and Oregon landscapes.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Courgains?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails around Courgains. Options range from easy routes like the 7 km 'Greenway departure loop from Marolles-les-Braults' to more challenging ones such as the 20 km 'Hiking loop from Ancinnes'. For more details on routes, visit the Hiking around Courgains guide.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the area?
For families, the Saint Mathurin Gate and Chapel is listed as family-friendly. Additionally, the nearby town of René, with its historic Les Halles de René, offers a charming atmosphere for a stroll. For amusement, Papea Parc in Yvre-l'Eveque is about 32 km away.
Where can I find charming towns or markets near Courgains?
Several charming towns and villages are within a short drive, offering their own attractions and weekly markets. These include Beaumont-sur-Sarthe (13 km), Fresnay-sur-Sarthe (19 km), Alencon (21 km), and La Ferte-Bernard (30 km). The town of René is also known for its old market, centered around Les Halles de René.
What cycling opportunities are there around Courgains?
The region offers diverse cycling routes. Road cyclists can enjoy routes like the 'Vallée d'Enfer – Perseigne Viewpoint loop from Mamers' (44 km, moderate difficulty). For gravel biking, options include the 'Perseigne Viewpoint – Vallée d'Enfer loop from Neufchâtel-en-Saosnois' (65 km, difficult). You can find more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Courgains and Gravel biking around Courgains guides.
Are there any châteaux or notable gardens to visit?
Yes, the **Donjon de Ballon** (12.7 km) is a historical building worth seeing. For garden enthusiasts, **Les Jardins de la Mansoniere** (26 km) is a lovely option, with other remarkable gardens like Jardin de la petite Rochelle and Jardins du Mirail accessible within a short drive.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Courgains?
Visitors appreciate the historical depth of sites like the Saint Mathurin Gate and Chapel and the charm of places like René, known for its old market halls. The natural beauty of the surrounding forests and the diverse range of cultural and historical sites in the broader Sarthe region are also highly valued by those exploring the area.
When is the best time of year to visit Courgains and its surrounding attractions?
The Pays-de-la-Loire region, including Courgains, is generally pleasant to visit from spring through early autumn (April to October). This period offers ideal weather for exploring historical sites, enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, and visiting gardens or local markets. Summer provides the warmest temperatures for outdoor adventures.
Are there any cafes or places to relax near the main attractions?
The town of René, home to Les Halles de René, is noted for having a village café where you can relax. Many of the charming nearby towns also offer local cafes and restaurants to enjoy during your visit.
Can I find any unique or less-known historical sites in the area?
Beyond the well-known sites, the Saint-Germain Church of Louvigny, of Romanesque origin, offers a glimpse into local history with its unique Napoleon III style cast iron baptismal font and restored elements classified as Historic Monuments. Its portal features an eight-pointed star and a cross, possibly summarizing the life of Christ.
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