Monhoudou: Discover Heritage and Walking Trails

Monhoudou brings together the architectural and furnishing history of the Église Saint-Hélier, walking trails and waterways. This gives you two distinct points of interest when choosing a destination: historic architecture and objects on the one hand, and walks on the other. If you are looking for a hotel in Monhoudou, these themes can help you plan your trip.

The Église Saint-Hélier and its furnishings

The Église Saint-Hélier has a Latin-cross floor plan. The term describes the layout of the church; the bell tower has a saddleback roof, characteristic of religious buildings in the Saosnois. The church probably dates back to the 11th century. Its defining historical period was in the 15th and 16th centuries, before it underwent extensive alterations in the 18th century. Its history thus encompasses a probable early origin, a later defining period and extensive alterations.

The furnishings include several polychrome terracotta statues from the 17th century. These include a statue of Saint Roch and a depiction of the Education of the Virgin in the nave. In the sacristy stands a four-door cabinet dated 1737; it has been listed as a protected movable cultural object since 1990. The church also houses a 17th-century altarpiece from the former Perseigne Abbey. An 18th-century parish chest has three separate locks. The carved wooden tabernacle bears the date 1672 and the signature “Thomas Poupri d’Alençon”.

Walking trails and landscape

The two named circular trails differ clearly in length. The Circuit de Haut et Clair is 1.4 kilometres long and is the shorter option. The Circuit de l’Enfer et du Pont Romain covers 7.4 kilometres and offers views across the surrounding area. You can compare the trail lengths; the panoramic views are on the longer route.

A red circular trail in Monhoudou follows the paths de l’Enfer, de la Renardière, du Tertre, de Haut-et-Clair and du Pont Romain. The Moire and Gravée waterways cross Monhoudou and provide another connection to the landscape. The footpaths are signposted from the information board by the church square. Check the signs on site when planning your walk.

Courbomer: Château and medieval history

The Château de Courbomer in Monhoudou acquired its present appearance following extensive renovation work from 1858 to 1860. Another historical point of interest is the medieval fortified manor of Courbomer. It was located near the Fossés-Robert, an area of border rivalry between the County of Maine and the Duchy of Normandy. These local sites relate to different periods: the château’s 19th-century renovation and the medieval political context of the manor.

Discover more destinations: Le Tronchet, Bazouges-sur-le-Loir, Le Mans, Saint-Jean-De-La-Motte, Courgains, Avessé, Aigné, Arnage

See the broader travel guide: Sarthe.