Attractions and Places To See around Moncé-En-Belin - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Moncé-En-Belin include a blend of historical sites, natural features, and cultural landmarks within the Sarthe department of France. The area offers opportunities to explore medieval structures, significant memorials, and natural parks. Visitors can discover a variety of landscapes, from forests and rivers to historical buildings, providing diverse points of interest. Moncé-En-Belin serves as a base for exploring both local heritage and the wider serene landscape of the region.
Best attractions and places to…
Last updated: July 8, 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 sites can I explore around Moncé-En-Belin?
The region offers several significant historical sites. You can visit the Motte Féodale de Vaux, a medieval motte-and-bailey castle site dating back to the 9th-11th centuries. The Allied Monument commemorates Allied airmen from WWII. Also, explore the 15th-century Église Notre-Dame de l'Assomption and the impressive L'Épau Abbey, a Cistercian architectural marvel founded in 1229.
Are there any natural parks or outdoor areas to visit near Moncé-En-Belin?
Yes, a prominent natural attraction is Arche de la Nature, a vast 450-hectare park on the outskirts of Le Mans, featuring trails, rivers, and lakes. You can also explore the Circuit des buttes - Laigné-Saint-Gervais, a nature trail through pine forests and heathland, ideal for birdwatching. Local forests like Bois de Moncé and Bois Robert Manceau offer tranquil settings for picnics.
What activities are available for families with children?
Families can enjoy Arche de la Nature with its extensive trails and natural exploration opportunities. Moulinsart Island provides a leisure area with playgrounds, picnic spots, and entertainment during summer. For a unique experience, 'Cheval en Bélinois' offers horseback and pony rides suitable for various skill levels. L'Épau Abbey is also noted as family-friendly.
Where can I find medieval history in the area?
For a glimpse into medieval times, visit the Motte Féodale de Vaux, a significant site of a 9th-11th century motte-and-bailey castle. The Gué sur le Lunerotte is a rare medieval ford that marks a historical boundary and shows ruts from ancient carts. Additionally, L'Épau Abbey, founded in 1229, is a remarkable example of Cistercian medieval architecture.
What are the options for cycling around Moncé-En-Belin?
Moncé-En-Belin offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for touring bicycles, such as the 'Gemmerie Lake loop from Moncé-en-Belin' (26.5 km, easy) or the 'Bike loop from Moncé-en-Belin' (11.3 km, easy). For gravel biking enthusiasts, there are options like the 'Old Town of Le Mans – View of the Sarthe River loop from Spay' (27.4 km, easy). Explore more routes on the Cycling around Moncé-En-Belin and Gravel biking around Moncé-En-Belin guide pages.
Are there running trails near Moncé-En-Belin?
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find routes like the 'Running loop from Mulsanne' (7.6 km, moderate) or the 'Running loop from Spay' (4.7 km, easy). For a longer challenge, consider the 'Running loop from Moncé-en-Belin' (15.7 km, difficult). More details on these and other routes can be found on the Running Trails around Moncé-En-Belin guide page.
What cultural landmarks can I visit in the region?
Beyond historical sites, you can explore the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Pitié et la Lanterne des Morts, located in the town's cemetery and built in 1828 on ancient Merovingian tombs. The Historical Lavoirs, particularly the Lavoir de Ponthibault, offer a glimpse into past daily life. The Monument aux Morts commemorates soldiers who died for France, providing a poignant cultural reflection.
What is Le Mans, and why is it mentioned as an attraction?
Le Mans is a city with a rich history, originally a Celtic foundation conquered by the Romans. It lies at the confluence of the Sarthe and Huisne rivers. While Moncé-En-Belin offers its own unique charm, Le Mans is a larger nearby settlement that provides additional historical context and urban attractions, making it a significant point of interest in the wider region.
Are there any botanical gardens or parks with diverse flora?
Yes, the Botanical garden in Le Mans is a beautiful park featuring a variety of trees, artificial grottos, and waterways. Its flower gardens are particularly vibrant, and on certain Sundays, music and dancing events take place around the pavilion.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Moncé-En-Belin?
The komoot community highly appreciates the diverse offerings around Moncé-En-Belin, with over 120 upvotes and 19 photos shared. Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical sites, such as the Cistercian architecture of L'Épau Abbey, and the extensive natural exploration opportunities at Arche de la Nature. The region's serene landscapes and rich heritage are consistently highlighted.
Can I find places for picnics or relaxation in nature?
Absolutely. The local forests near Moncé-En-Belin, including Bois de Moncé and Bois Robert Manceau, provide ideal tranquil settings for picnics. Additionally, nearby lakes, such as the Lac de Mansigné, offer opportunities to combine picnics with swimming, making them perfect spots for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.
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