The Petite Reine

from the Alpes Mancelles to the Saosnois

Discover the Nord Sarthe region

If you’re looking for a loop that will allow you to discover the Alpes Mancelles and the north of the department, the “Petite Reine” is there!

In fact the “Petite Reine” offers the possibility of a 130 km loop starting from Beaumont-sur-Sarthe, passing through Vivoin, René, Mamers, Alençon and returning west via Saint-Léonard-des-Bois and Fresnay-sur-Sarthe.

To discover it, follow the Vélobuissonnière itinerary to the west and from Alençon follow the “Sarthe à vélo” signs.

Through picturesque villages,

Cycling getaway

between the Alpes Mancelles and the Perseigne Forest

Saddle up in the medieval town of Beaumont-sur-Sarthe and head for Chérancé. This is the start of a 17-kilometer greenway offering a safe route through the heart of nature. When you arrive in Mamers, take time to discover the town’s rich heritage. Follow the narrow roads to the heart of the Perseigne state forest, the highest point in the Sarthe with its belvedere.

Continue on to Alençon, a city renowned for the delicate art of Alençon lace, a UNESCO world heritage site. Follow the narrow streets into the heart of the Normandy bocage.

You’ll then follow the quiet roads of the Alpes Mancelles. Classified as a natural site for their picturesque character, they are characterized by a rugged relief, and the cliffs overlooking the Sarthe here are not unlike mountain landscapes! If some of the slopes give you a hard time, why not stop off at one of the region’s Petites Cités de Caractère® (Small Towns of Character®) before rounding off your trip: Saint-Léonard-des-Bois and Fresnay-sur-Sarthe!