Visit Sarthe

Visit Sarthe is a department located in the Pays de la Loire region of France, renowned for its rich historical heritage, varied landscapes and delicious gastronomy. This region offers a multitude of discoveries for lovers of culture, nature and good food.​

Must-see tourist sites in Sarthe

The Sarthe region is packed with tourist attractions that bear witness to its rich past and cultural diversity. Here are some of the places not to be missed during your visit.

Le Mans and the Plantagenet City

Le Mans, the prefecture of the department, is famous for its Plantagenet townA historic district of cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. This preserved area offers a journey through time, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Visit Saint-Julien cathedralA blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, this architectural gem dominates the town.

The 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit

World-famous 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit hosts a prestigious endurance car race every year. Enthusiasts can visit the 24 Hours Museumwhich retraces the history of this competition through an impressive collection of racing vehicles. ​

La Flèche Zoo

Founded in 1946, the La Flèche Zoo is one of the five largest zoological parks in France. It is home to over 1,500 animals of 150 different species, and offers educational activities for the whole family. ​

The Alpes Mancelles

Located in the north-west of the department, the Alpes Mancelles offer rolling landscapes ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. The picturesque villages of Saint-Léonard-des-Bois and Fresnay-sur-Sarthe are charming stopovers for nature and authenticity lovers. ​

Le Château du Lude

Visit Château du Lude is one of the last great Loire castles still inhabited. It reflects six centuries of history and architecture, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Its formal gardens and landscaped grounds make it a popular place for strolling. ​

Landscapes and towns of the Sarthe

The Sarthe offers a mosaic of landscapes and towns with strong character, reflecting the richness of its territory.​

Varied landscapes

The department is crossed by the river Sarthewhich winds its way through agricultural plains, dense forests and gentle hills. State-owned forests, such as Bercé and Sillé-le-Guillaumeare havens of peace for hikers and nature lovers. ​

Towns and villages of character

In addition to Le Mans, Sarthe boasts a number of towns and villages with remarkable heritage. La Flèchewith its Prytanée National Militaireis a city of art and history. Sablé-sur-Sarthe with its castle and relaxing riverside setting. Visit Petites Cités de Caractère as Asnières-sur-Vègre or Malicorne-sur-Sarthe offer authentic charm with their picturesque lanes and local crafts.

The Sarthe region and surrounding departments

Sarthe is surrounded by departments with strong identities, offering enriching cultural and natural diversity.​

Pays de la Loire

The Sarthe region is part of the Pays de la Loirealongside the Mayennefrom Maine-et-Loirethe Loire-Atlantique and Vendée. This region is renowned for its castles, vineyards and Atlantic coastline. ​

Departments bordering Sarthe

To the north, the Mayenne offers bocage landscapes and historic towns such as Laval. To the east, theOrne and theEure-et-Loir reveal cereal plains and deep forests. To the south, the Maine-et-Loire with its vineyards and Loire castles. To the west, theIlle-et-Vilaine and the Mayenne offer a blend of Breton and Angevin landscapes. ​

Gastronomy and specialities of Sarthe

Visit Sarthe is a department rich in gastronomic traditions, where local cuisine is distinguished by its authentic and generous flavors. Here are just a few culinary specialties emblematic of the Sarthe region.

1. Rillettes du Mans

Visit rillettes du Mans are undoubtedly the most famous specialty of the Sarthe region. This delicatessen preparation is obtained by slowly cooking pork in its own fat, giving it a melt-in-the-mouth texture and inimitable taste. They are served on fresh bread, with gherkins and sometimes a glass of red wine.

2. La marmite sarthoise

Visit marmite sarthoise is a typical Sarthe dish and a true symbol of the region. This stew combines several meats (chicken, rabbit, pork and veal) simmered with vegetables in a sauce of Coteaux du Loir white wine and fresh cream. A comforting and tasty dish.

3. Loué chicken

Visit poulet de Loué is a high-quality, free-range poultry with a Label Rouge label. Its tender, flavorful flesh is appreciated by chefs and food-lovers alike. It is often cooked roasted with herbs, in casseroles or fricassees.

4. Le Mans white pudding

Less well-known than rillettes boudin blanc du Mans is another Sarthe specialty. It's made with white meat (pork or poultry), milk and spices. It can be grilled, pan-fried or served as a starter with a mushroom or apple sauce.

5. Tripe à la mode de La Ferté-Bernard

This speciality from the Sarthe region consists of a dish of beef tripe simmered for a long time with onions, carrots and cider. It's a rustic dish that appeals to lovers of traditional cuisine.

6. Sablé from Sablé-sur-Sarthe

Visit shortbread is a pure butter cookie from the town of Sablé-sur-Sarthe. It is renowned for its crunchy texture and delicate taste. A perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea, it is now available in several variations with ingredients such as chocolate, vanilla or almonds.

7. Tart apples

Visit pommes tapées are an ancient specialty of the Sarthe region, where apples are dehydrated in a wood-fired oven before being flattened with a wooden mallet. They keep for a long time, and are often rehydrated in wine or cider before being eaten.

8. Jasnières and Coteaux-du-Loir

When it comes to beverages, the Sarthe is also known for its Coteaux du Loir wines and the jasnièresA dry, fruity white wine that goes well with fish, white meats and local cheeses.

9. Sarthe cider

The Sarthe region, with its orchard-friendly climate, produces a artisanal cider of the highest quality. Refreshing and slightly sparkling, it is the perfect accompaniment to traditional Sarthe dishes and desserts.

10. Le pommé

Visit apple is a sweet speciality typical of the Sarthe region, made from apples that have been stewed and slowly cooked with sugar and spices. This thick, fragrant paste can be enjoyed as a jam or as an accompaniment to meats and cheeses.

Conclusion

Visit Sarthe cuisine is a delicious blend of local produce, traditions and gourmet delights. Whether you're a fan of charcuterie, slow-cooked dishes or sweet treats, the Sarthe will satisfy every taste bud with its authentic and generous specialties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Sarthe department

What is the capital of the Sarthe department?

The capital of the Sarthe is Le Mansa town known for its medieval heritage, the Plantagenet townand its famous 24 Hours of Le Mans.

What are the must-see tourist attractions in Sarthe?

The Sarthe region is full of remarkable sites such as :

• Visit Plantagenet town Le Mans, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.
• Visit 24 Hours of Le Mans circuit and its museum dedicated to the history of the automobile.
• Visit La Flèche Zooone of France's finest zoos.
• Visit Alpes Mancellesideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
• Visit Château du Ludeone of the last great Loire Valley châteaux still inhabited.

What are the typical Sarthe dishes?

Sarthe's gastronomy is rich and tasty. Local specialities include :

• Visit rillettes du Mansa charcuterie not to be missed.
• Visit marmite sarthoisea meat stew simmered in white wine.
• Visit poulet de Louéa poultry renowned for its quality.
• Visit sablé from Sablé-sur-Sarthea crunchy, delicious pure butter cookie.
• Visit jasnièresa dry white wine produced in the region.

What's the climate like in Sarthe?

Sarthe benefits from a temperate oceanic climatewith mild summers and relatively mild winters. Precipitation is well distributed throughout the year, although spring and autumn are sometimes wetter.

What are the best things to do with the whole family in Sarthe?

The Sarthe offers a wide range of family-friendly activities:

• Visit the La Flèche Zoo to discover over 1,500 animals.
• Explore the 24 Hours of Le Mans Museum for car enthusiasts.
• Hiking in the Alpes Mancelles and enjoy the picnic areas.
• Discover the Sarthe castlessuch as Le Lude or Montmirail.
• Canoeing or cruising on the river river Sarthe.

How to get to Sarthe

The Sarthe is easily accessible:

• By train The TGV line brings Le Mans to just 55 minutes from Paris.
• By car : Several freeways serve the Sarthe region, including theA11 from Paris and theA28 between Rouen and Tours.
• By plane The nearest airport is Nantes or Paris-Orly.

Which départements border the Sarthe?

The Sarthe is surrounded by several départements:

• La Mayenne (to the northwest)
• L'Orne and Eure-et-Loir (to the northeast)
• Maine-et-Loire (to the southwest)
• Indre-et-Loire (to the southeast)

When is the best time to visit the Sarthe?

The best time to visit the Sarthe depends on the activities you want to do:

• Spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for outdoor activities, festivals and hiking.
• June is the ideal month to attend 24 Hours of Le Mans.
• Autumn (October-November) is the perfect time to take a stroll through the brightly-colored forests of Sarthe.

Why visit the Sarthe?

The Sarthe is an ideal destination for those who love nature, heritage and gastronomy. With its varied landscapes, historic sites, picturesque villages and tasty cuisine, it offers a true immersion in the authenticity of the region. Maine.