Arnage offers a choice of different experiences: culture at the L’Éolienne events centre, history at Saint-Gilles Church, and activities on the water. There are also routes for different ways of getting around, and markets with a regional focus. You can plan your stay around the experiences that matter to you, taking into account event dates, seasonal offerings and your own interests.
Water and trails, each on its own scale
The 15-hectare lake of La Gèmerie is used year-round for sailing, swimming, diving and fishing. The designated bathing area is separate: it is supervised during the two summer months and is accessible to people with disabilities. If you’re planning to swim, check the seasonal information in advance.
From La Gèmerie, an 11.5-kilometre walking and mountain biking trail leads to the forests of Chaoué in Allonnes. The Boulevard Nature offers a different scale: 52 kilometres are open to the public. The route is accessible to pedestrians, wheelchair users, cyclists, roller skaters and horse riders. As open sections and access rules may be updated, check the latest information before planning your route.
As part of the Boulevard Nature, Arnage has created a safe connection between the town centre and the neighbourhood around Route des Loges. The La Gèmerie site is also served by SETRAM bus route 21, with a stop at Gèmerie. Check the latest timetable and route before travelling.
Culture and history in Arnage
L’Éolienne brings together a range of events and cultural offerings. The event hall has 500 seats or standing room for 1,200; the café-theatre has 100 seats. There is also the approximately 230-square-metre Avenue exhibition space and a bar. Capacities and internal layouts may change. The centre can be reached by public transport, car and train.
The event hall is accessible to people with reduced mobility and has an induction loop for hearing aid users. If you’re attending a particular performance, confirm accessibility in advance. L’Éolienne also hosts the BD Mania comic book festival every two years; dates vary, so check the current programme.
Saint-Gilles Church dates back to the 12th century. Romanesque openings, putlog holes and herringbone masonry offer clues to its construction history. The church also contains a funerary inscription for Jacques Monceaux, a royal notary who died on 2 February 1644. The Simone de Beauvoir municipal media library offers free use of its open-access documents; registration is required to borrow items.
Markets and recurring events
Held every April, the Fête du Printemps includes a spring market at the harbour. Regional craftspeople and producers showcase local products there; participants and offerings may vary. The Carnaval de la Sorcière is also held annually and includes a public parade with local carnival groups. Check the specific dates and programme details for both events before your trip.
For Place des AFN, the 2025 municipal guide lists a Saturday morning market with local producers and stalls from various shops. Check the current market day and what’s on offer before visiting. The La Gautrie pond is another option for fishing and walking.
Choose accommodation to suit your trip
Water excursions on the Sarthe towards La Suze-sur-Sarthe or Le Mans also depart from Sea’U Experience Location’s base in Arnage. Routes and operating times may change, so check them before making plans.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Rémy-De-Sillé, Mamers, Chantenay-Villedieu, Le Lude, Montfort-Le-Gesnois, Assé-Le-Boisne, Saint-Christophe-Du-Jambet, Monhoudou.
For the broader travel overview: Sarthe.
