The best walks and hikes around Yvré-L'Évêque
4.5
(59)
489
hikers
37
hikes
Hiking around Yvré-L'Évêque offers diverse landscapes, including extensive forests, riverside paths, and open countryside. The region is characterized by a blend of natural features such as the Arche de la Nature, the Huisne Valley, and numerous wooded areas. Trails often traverse rural paths and provide views of historical landmarks. The terrain generally features gentle gradients, making it accessible for various hiking experiences.
Best hiking trails around Yvré-L'Évêque
- The most popular hiking route is Winding Forest Path – 14 loop from…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.9
(14)
46
hikers
12.7km
03:22
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
20
hikers
10.3km
02:38
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3.7
(3)
31
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(4)
65
hikers
6.80km
01:45
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
6
hikers
8.88km
02:22
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Arche de la Nature is a vast natural space located near Le Mans. Among its various places of interest, we find the Maison de la prairie, composed of a vegetable garden and a farm.
0
0
Itinerary 100% paths.
0
0
Easy level. To do with children (horses and games on the route)
0
0
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.
0
0
VISITS Free individual visits Individual guided tours Average duration of the individual visit: 1:30h Groups welcome from 10 people Free group visits Guided group tours Guided group tours on request Educational group visits Average duration of the group visit: 1:30h Point of interest visible without visit Languages available Spoken: French, English Panels: French, English Audio: English, French ACTIVITIES Specific thematic animation Workshop for adults Children's workshop Conferences Temporary exhibitions Sound and light
0
0
PRICES Individual price adult: €5.50 Individual price reduced: €4.00 Job seeker, student, RSA, person in disability situation, Cezam card, CE Individual price child: €3.00 10-17 years old Free: €0.00 Under 10 years old and accompanying person
0
0
L'Arche de la Nature is a vast natural park of 450 hectares located on the outskirts of Le Mans. Trails, rivers, lakes and forests to discover during your run.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Yvré-L'Évêque?
Yvré-L'Évêque offers a good selection of hiking routes, with over 35 trails available. These range from easy strolls to more moderate excursions, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Yvré-L'Évêque?
The terrain around Yvré-L'Évêque is quite varied, featuring extensive forests, pleasant riverside paths along the Huisne Valley, and open countryside with charming rural paths. You'll encounter gentle gradients, making most trails accessible. Notable areas include the vast Arche de la Nature park, which offers diverse environments from woodlands to lakeside paths.
Are there easy hiking options for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Yvré-L'Évêque is very welcoming for beginners and casual walkers. Out of the 37 available routes, 23 are classified as easy. These trails typically feature gentle gradients and well-maintained paths, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Yvré-L'Évêque?
The hiking trails in Yvré-L'Évêque are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful forest walks, the varied scenery, and the well-marked paths that make exploring the region enjoyable.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the hiking trails?
Yes, several trails offer glimpses of historical and natural landmarks. You might encounter the ancient Roman Bridge (Pont de Pierre) spanning the Huisne, or catch sight of the beautiful Château de Vaux. The L'Épau Abbey, a classified Historic Monument, is also a significant nearby attraction that can be incorporated into some routes, such as the L'Épau Abbey – Arche de la Nature loop from Changé.
Can I find trails that go through forests or natural parks?
Absolutely. A significant portion of the hiking in Yvré-L'Évêque takes you through lush forested areas and natural parks. The Arche de la Nature is a prime example, offering numerous trails through woodlands and along rivers. Routes like the Bois de l'Épau Forest Walk loop from Les Sablons provide peaceful forest experiences.
Are there any riverside walks in the area?
Yes, the Huisne Valley provides lovely opportunities for riverside walks. The 'Circuit vert' trail, for instance, allows you to discover the Huisne valley, offering picturesque views and a chance to see former wheat mills. These paths are generally flat and offer a tranquil experience.
Are there circular hiking routes available?
Many of the trails in Yvré-L'Évêque are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Winding Forest Path – 14 loop from Sarthe and the Bois de l'Épau Forest Walk – Arche de la Nature loop from Abbaye Royale de l'Épau.
Are the trails in Yvré-L'Évêque suitable for families with children?
Yes, Yvré-L'Évêque is an excellent destination for family-friendly hikes. The diverse landscapes, particularly within the Arche de la Nature, offer engaging environments for children. Many trails feature gentle gradients and are relatively short, making them suitable for younger hikers. The natural park itself has facilities that cater to families.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Yvré-L'Évêque?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many hiking trails in Yvré-L'Évêque, especially in natural areas like the Arche de la Nature. However, it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, particularly in protected areas, near wildlife, or when encountering other hikers and livestock. Please respect local signage regarding dog access.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Yvré-L'Évêque?
Yvré-L'Évêque offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer is also suitable, especially for shaded forest walks. Winters are generally mild, allowing for hiking, though some paths might be muddy after rain.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Yvré-L'Évêque?
Parking is generally available at key access points for popular hiking areas, such as the Arche de la Nature and near the L'Épau Abbey. For specific trailheads, it's recommended to check the route details on komoot, as many tours include information on starting points and nearby parking facilities.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the hiking trails?
While the trails themselves often traverse natural and rural areas, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the village of Yvré-L'Évêque itself and in nearby towns like Le Mans. The Arche de la Nature also has visitor facilities where refreshments might be available. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through or end near these amenities if you wish to stop for a meal or drink.
Most popular routes around Yvré-L'Évêque
Most popular attractions around Yvré-L'Évêque
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
