Jupilles offers different ways to discover the forest and local heritage: Carnuta explores the world of forests in a fun, interactive way, while the Forêt domaniale de Bercé invites you to explore its forest avenues. There is also the history of clog-making and the parish church of Saint-Pierre, with its different periods of construction. You can choose the focus of your stay according to the topics that interest you most.
Explore the Forêt domaniale de Bercé
Jupilles is an ideal starting point for discovering the Forêt domaniale de Bercé. The many forest avenues that cross the massif invite you to explore on foot, by mountain bike or on horseback. These options offer different ways to explore, from a walk to a mountain-bike ride or a horseback outing. Seasonal restrictions may apply; take this possibility into account when planning your visit.
Carnuta: Forest World and Timber Architecture
Carnuta is a fun, interactive place to discover the world of forests. The architecture is another defining feature: the building is made entirely of wood. This brings together an engaging introduction to the forest and distinctive architecture in one place. Carnuta also offers forest outings with an ONF staff member. If you are interested in joining one, check the specific dates in advance.
Clog-making history at the Saboterie de Jupilles
The Saboterie de Jupilles is open to visitors by appointment. It presents the history of clog-making in Jupilles and the tools used during the last century. The making of clogs is also demonstrated on various machines. History, tools and production come together: you can learn about the craft and watch a demonstration of how clogs are made. The “SABOT DE JUPILLES” became well known at the end of the Second Empire, giving clog-making a specific historical connection to Jupilles.
For visits with children, the demonstration can be supplemented by a workshop decorating silhouettes of small wooden clogs. Children can take the silhouettes home with them. Ask when making your appointment whether the workshop is available.
Construction phases and stained glass at the parish church of Saint-Pierre
The parish church of Saint-Pierre de Jupilles offers a different perspective on the town’s heritage. Its main periods of construction were in the 11th century, the 16th century and the second half of the 18th century. Two choir windows also retain remnants of Renaissance stained glass. The widely separated construction periods provide an overview of the building’s history; the stained-glass remnants are a specific detail to look for in the choir. The church thus showcases both the development of the building and surviving elements of its windows.
When choosing a focus, the difference between forest activities, a craft demonstration and architectural history makes the decision straightforward: the avenues offer several ways to explore, the Saboterie demonstrates clog-making by appointment, and the church features different construction periods and Renaissance glass. You can weigh up which of these aspects of Jupilles you would like to discover in more depth.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Calez-En-Saosnois, Villaines-sous-Malicorne, Saint-Calais, Fontenay-Sur-Vègre, Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe, Chemiré-en-Charnie, Vaas, Le Tronchet.
For the broader travel overview: Sarthe.
