Sablé-sur-Sarthe, round trip, 10 nights

Halfway between Sablé-sur-Sarthe and Pincé-sur-Sarthe, you can access the Sablé-Solesmes Golf Course directly from the river by mooring your rental boat. During a stop in Pincé-sur-Sarthe, you have two great options for an outing: explore the medieval garden of the Manoir des Souches (8 km away), or go for a hike in the forest of Pincé-sur-Sarthe.

Boule de fort is a traditional Loire-region bowling game played… in slippers! Learn more at the local factory or watch a game at the Boule de Fort Club.

Stroll through the picturesque streets and visit the 12th-century church, then head to the Bois de la Jeunerie for a nature walk on an educational trail highlighting local wildlife and flora.

Here's your stop in the realm of King René: Angers' 13th‑century château, one of France's grandest fortresses, home to the famed "Apocalypse Tapestry." Also visit the cathedral, Terra Botanica (Europe's first plant-themed park), numerous museums and parks. Conveniently, you can moor your boat right opposite the château.

Moor your boat to visit both the magnificent Château de Dobert (15th–18th century) and the Perrine de Cry manor. Just 4 km away, explore Asnières-sur-Vègre, a charming medieval village known for its mosaic-style garden.

Faience museum, Cité de la Faïencerie: Malicorne is renowned for its ceramic tradition and artisans. The three riverside mills attest to the town’s more recent industrial past. The Château de Malicorne, still inhabited year-round, opens to visitors in summer.

Dock your houseboat at the harbor master’s pontoon: on the island’s green amphitheater, you’ll find a wildlife and flora observatory, a fishing dock, picnic tables, and more. To explore the surroundings, head to the “Maison de la Rando” (5 km away).

From the river stop, cycle out to discover remarkable churches and chapels across the area (20 km loop). Or explore the “Three Cantons” hiking trail. Architecture lovers should visit Château de Vaulogé (1.5 km away), dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries.

Fillé-sur-Sarthe offers something for everyone: contemporary art exhibits at the MoulinSart Island center, traditional milling demonstrations at Cyprien Mill, a fishing route (not accessible by boaters) on the Beunèche stream, and a 6 km hike along the “Canal Loop.”