Tufa stone in picturesque valleys
Head south for a stroll through the rolling hills of the Loir valley, where you'll discover the small towns of Saint-Calais and Bessé-sur-Braye and the unspoilt villages of Vancé, Cogners and Sainte-Cérotte.
Follow the Anille and Tusson rivers along this route and discover the small, characterful town of Saint-Calais. Take time to admire the church and covered market and stroll along the banks of the Anille. The JOUBERT butcher's shop, a LEBONPICNIC partner, will be delighted to provide you with picnic baskets of local produce, which you will have reserved in advance.
Nature lovers, the Arboretum de Tuffeau in Saint-Gervais-de-Vic welcomes you to discover its 200 species of trees and shrubs from every continent.
For a refreshing break, Les Vergers de Fanny in La Chapelle-Huon offers a range of local apple products.
Then head to Bessé-sur-Braye via the ford near the Moulin Guillaume. Then admire the Château de Courtanvaux, a neo-Gothic landmark built in the 15th century and restored in the 19th century. Discover its 68 hectares of parkland and its bell tower. Take in the local craftsmanship as you pass the Nouette brickworks.
Along the way, take in the church of Saint-Julien de Lavenay, the church of Saint-Blaise de la Chapelle-Gaugain and the church of Saint-Martin de Vancé. While you're in Vancé, take a look at the wash-house and its tufa stone cellars.
The 4-flower village of Cogners will then be on your route. Admire the 11th-century church of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul and the feudal castle, a fine example of the transition from the Renaissance to the Henri IV and Louis XIII styles.
The Church and Château du Vau, the 16th-century home of Sainte-Cérotte, will also be along for the ride.
- Follow signs n°7 (dark blue)
- Possible variant between Cogners and Bessé-sur-Braye: follow the unnumbered cycle signs.
- This loop is connected to circuits 8 and 10.
The complete guide "Le Perche Sarthois à vélo" is available for €3 from tourist offices and bookshops in the Sarthe region.
