La Chapelle-Aux-Choux is defined by its location on the Loir and a history of construction ranging from a probably medieval church to buildings dating from the 19th century. Most of the commune lies on the left bank of the Loir, and a large part of its area is on the valley floor. The village’s character is also shaped by the Circuit des trois provinces and a slipway for boats. If you are considering La Chapelle-Aux-Choux as a place to stay, you can plan your trip around specific interests: architecture, a walking and hiking trail, or boating.

Church and Building History

The Church of Sainte-Geneviève has an elongated plan, with a single nave and a vaulted choir. A single-nave building has no side aisles; the vaulted choir forms the far end of the church interior. The church probably dates from the 12th century and appears to have been extended in the late 15th or early 16th century. Its layout and construction phases offer different insights: one describes how the space is arranged, while the others show how the building changed over time. This means the church cannot be reduced to a single period if you are interested in cultural history.

Châteaux and Historic Traces

The Château du Perray stands on the northern slope of the hill on the left bank of the Loir. The building and park history of the Château de La Châtaigneraie takes center stage: the architect Dessauze, who came from Anjou, began building it in 1880 in the park of Vauduchou. The château is privately owned and fully restored. Its redesigned landscaped park includes a monumental staircase as well as new gardens adorned with statues and vases. The two buildings therefore differ considerably: the Château du Perray is defined by its hillside location on the riverbank, while La Châtaigneraie is distinguished by its construction date, architect, and park design.

Only ruins of neoclassical buildings, erected at the beginning of the 19th century, remain at Vau du Chou. Neoclassical refers to a style inspired by classical models. The ruins therefore point to a different period from the Church of Sainte-Geneviève, which probably dates from the 12th century. Anyone interested in architecture will find both different styles and construction phases separated by considerable stretches of time.

Walking and Hiking Trail

The Circuit des trois provinces is a signposted PR walking and hiking trail in La Chapelle-Aux-Choux. There is a parking area at the starting point, opposite the Church of Sainte-Geneviève. The trail passes the Chapelle Saint-Pierre in La Chapelle-Aux-Choux and continues into the forests of La Perraudière. This provides clear points of reference: the starting point, a church along the route, and a wooded area. Check local trail conditions before setting out.

Travel Interests and Finding a Hotel

La Chapelle-Aux-Choux also has a slipway for boats. This adds a boating option alongside the buildings and walking trail. The Circuit des trois provinces is designated as a PR trail, while the slipway offers a separate option for planning a boating trip. Tailor your search and daily plans to whichever activity matters most to you.

Discover more destinations: Mamers, Semur-en-Vallon, Brûlon, Saint-Ouen-en-Belin, Gesnes-Le-Gandelin, Lhomme, Saint-Jean-du-Bois, Pirmil

For the main travel overview: Sarthe.