The best road cycling routes around Saint-Denis-D'Orques

The church dates from the early 12th century. It is a church enclosed within its cemetery. It retains the typical features of small rural churches of the 12th century. It has preserved its apse, its gable-roofed bell tower, its small Romanesque windows, its arcades with a barrel-vaulted transept, and the exposed timbers of its nave. In addition to 14th-century wall paintings, discovered by chance in 1888 by workers whitewashing the interior of the sanctuary, the building houses an 18th-century tuffeau altarpiece, a 15th-century baptismal font, and a 16th-century terracotta statue of the Virgin. The church is part of the parish of Saint-Pierre-du-Maine. The church has been listed as a historic monument since May 8, 1958. The altarpiece, the baptismal font, and the Virgin and Child are listed as historical objects.

Location - 48.156041, -0.001526 http://www.thegreenwichmeridian.org/tgm/location.php?i_latitude=48.156041

Far from the high Alpine passes, here is a small climb in the Sarthe countryside. On the program, 1.8 kilometers at an average of 4.5% coming from Montreuil-le-Chétif, or 2.1 kilometers at an average of 5.2% from Pezé-le-Robert.

If you are looking for a hike combining nature, history and art, you can visit the Caves of Saulges and the prehistory museum. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the caves and shelters that were occupied by humans around 25,000 years ago, during the Paleolithic period. Some caves are decorated with rock art, such as paintings, carvings and graffiti. You can also visit the Prehistory Museum, which features archaeological collections and interactive exhibits related to prehistoric life in Mayenne. The site is located in the Erve valley, which is a protected natural area with rich biodiversity. The hiking trails allow you to admire the landscapes of the valley and the limestone cliffs. The site is open from April to November. You can check opening hours and prices on the website. Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes, a flashlight and a camera to immortalize your experience.

The Gô mill is a water mill which dates from the 15th or 16th century. It is located on the Erve, between the old Moulin aux Moines and the Moulin du Pont, in the town of Saint-Pierre-sur-Erve. You can admire the architecture and mechanism of the mill, which was renovated with the help of volunteers and won an award for its restoration in 2018. The mill is also surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, with green hills, forests and streams. You can follow the hiking trails along the river or explore the surrounding villages and castles. Le Moulin de Gô is a place where you can enjoy culture and nature in a peaceful setting.

This small castle is built on a rocky promontory which dominates the main access roads to Alençon, Le Mans and Angers.

The Château de Fresnay-sur-Sarthe ensured the defense of the city in the Middle Ages. Although its construction dates back to the 10th century, it was modified and enlarged several times during the Middle Ages. From the 18th century, it fell into disrepair due to lack of maintenance. After being purchased by the municipality, the castle now houses the public garden. The two-towered châtelet recalls the physiognomy of the place in the 18th century.

I really want to see this castle!