Old town and Petite Cité de Caractère
Although La Ferté-Bernard and Montmirail are the two towns with the most emblematic heritage, the villages on this route, on the borders of Maine and Perche Gouët, all boast a rich history and well-preserved architecture.
Along the back roads, discover La Ferté-Bernard. A medieval and Renaissance town with timber-framed houses, courtyards and passageways, La Ferté-Bernard boasts a rich and remarkably well-preserved heritage. The majestic Notre-Dame des Marais church, the Saint-Julien town gate and the old covered market are just a few examples.
Arriving in Cherreau, take time to admire the Church of Saint-Symphorien, the remains of the Benedictine abbey of La Pelice and the Saint-Symphorien fountain-washhouse.
In Cormes, the Church of Saint-Denis and the private Château de Panné will be on your route.
Along the way, take in the Church of Saint-Martin in Courgenard, the Church of the Assumption in Théligny and the Church of Saint-Ulphace.
In Saint-Ulphace, you can also see the private Château de Gémasse.
Arriving at Gréez-sur-Roc, a village that has been the subject of archaeological excavations since 2003, come and discover the Neolithic dweller that was discovered and gave rise to the "Jean Jousse" exhibition. You can also see the church of Saint-Almire and the former chapel of Notre-Dame. Don't hesitate to stroll around the lower village.
Your route will then take you to Montmirail, a small town full of character. The village is well deserving of this name, as it has retained its medieval structure linked to its development within the castle's bailey. This 15th-century medieval castle, listed as a Historic Monument, is built on one of the highest points in the Sarthe.
Continue your tour with a visit to the Saint-Jean-Baptise church in Saint-Jean-des-Echelles and the church in Lamnay, before continuing on to Cherré and discovering the church of Saint-Pierre, the Haut-Buisson wood and its castle.
- Follow signs n°13 (red)
- Possible alternatives between Courgenard and Saint-Jean-des-Échelles and between Théligny and Gréez-sur-Roc (follow the unnumbered signs)
- Loop connected to circuits 12 and 14
The complete guide "Le Perche Sarthois à vélo" is available for €3 from tourist offices and bookshops in Sarthe.
