Cherreau: Church, Abbey and Trails

When planning your trip to Cherreau, specific aspects of architectural history and trails take center stage. The Église Saint-Symphorien is characterized by its structure and dating; the Benedictine Abbey of Notre-Dame-de-la-Pelice has documented construction phases spanning several centuries. These are complemented by Route No. 10, “Autour du Saint-Symphorien,” and the Sentier des Lièvres.

The Église Saint-Symphorien: Structure and Dating

The Église Saint-Symphorien consists of a nave supported by a roof truss, an adjoining choir, and a boarded vault. The nave is the main space running lengthwise; the choir adjoins it. “Supported by a roof truss” describes how the nave is supported, while “boarded” further characterizes the vault. This makes it possible to consider the spatial layout and architectural features separately.

The church dates from the late 15th or early 16th century; its chapels date from the 1530s to the 1540s. These date ranges should be kept separate: the church is assigned an approximate date spanning a period, while the chapels have their own date range in the 16th century.

The Abbey and Its Construction Phases

The chronology of the Benedictine Abbey of Notre-Dame-de-la-Pelice is considerably more extensive. Its construction phases may include the 11th century, the last quarter of the 12th century, the second half of the 16th century, the first quarter of the 17th century, the third quarter of the 17th century, the last quarter of the 18th century, the transition from the 18th to the 19th century, and the 19th century. The uncertainty marker applies only to the possible dating to the 11th century; the other date ranges refer to separate construction phases. Chronologically, the list spans the Middle Ages, the early modern period, and the 19th century, thus covering periods from several historical eras.

Routes: Timing and Trail Features

Route No. 10, “Autour du Saint-Symphorien,” starts in Cherré-Au; its average walking time is one hour. This route therefore provides both a specific starting point and a time estimate to help you plan.

In Cherreau, the Sentier des Lièvres is designated as a yellow-marked circular hike on natural terrain and is also designated for mountain biking. Check current trail and access conditions before your visit. An entry updated on June 23, 2014, recorded public access to the Sentier des Lièvres on foot and by road.

The points to consider when choosing a route differ: for Route No. 10, the starting point and average walking time are relevant; for the Sentier, the circular route, trail markings, natural terrain, and mountain-biking designation are the main features. Route No. 10 provides a time estimate of an average one-hour walk to help you choose; for the Sentier, its circular route indicates the type of trail.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Jean-De-La-Motte, Lavernat, Oizé, Congé-Sur-Orne, Arçonnay, Chenu, Allonnes, Brûlon

For the broader travel overview: Sarthe.