5 nature walks around Tuffé Val de la Chéronne

Between the woods of the Goupillère estate and the paths that run along the Huisne valley, the nature of the Perche Sarthois reserves beautiful surprises for those who take the time to venture there. Preserved bocage, oak and beech forests, ponds, flowery meadows – the territory of Tuffé Val de la Chéronne offers a range of landscapes for all walkers.

Here are five routes that we particularly like, all accessible from La Sellerie de la Goupillère, on foot, by bike or by mountain bike. Varied durations and levels, from family walks to half-day hikes.

1. The woods of the Domaine de la Goupillère (2 hours, easy)

The Goupillère estate covers nearly 250 hectares, including a large part of woods and copses that guests can freely explore. The main trail circles the woods in two leisurely hours, passing clearings, ponds and the ruins of an old mill. In spring, daffodils and wood anemones carpet the forest floor. In autumn, it is a mushroom picker's paradise: porcini mushrooms, chanterelles and chanterelles grow under the century-old oaks.

2. The Huisne path (3 hours, easy)

From the town of Tuffé Val de la Chéronne, a marked path descends towards the Huisne valley and follows the river for several kilometers. We cross wet meadows where cows and horses graze, small stone bridges, and water mills, some of which are still in operation. The fauna is remarkable: gray herons, kingfishers, and at dusk, the beavers which have recolonized the valley in recent years. Completely flat route, ideal for families with children.

3. The circuit of the perched villages (4h, moderate)

This 12 km circuit connects the perched hamlets of Perche Sarthois: Saint-Hilaire-le-Lierru, Prévelles, Champrond. We walk along century-old hedgerows, past working farms, stone wash houses and wayside crosses. The altitude difference is moderate - a few short climbs in the characteristic hills of Perche. In Prévelles, an artisanal bakery offers exceptional sourdough bread in the morning (closed on Mondays).

4. The Vibraye forest (half day, easy)

20 km from La Goupillère, the Vibraye forest is one of the largest national forests in Sarthe. Dozens of kilometers of forest trails crisscross this preserved natural area, ideal for hiking, mountain biking and wildlife observation. Wild boars, deer and fallow deer are numerous there, particularly at dawn and dusk. Treetop trails and a designated picnic area complete the offering for families.

5. La Ferté-Bernard by bike (3 hours, easy)

By bike from La Goupillère, La Ferté-Bernard is accessible in 45 minutes via the small country roads of Perche Sarthois (around 15 km, little elevation gain). The route runs along the Same valley and crosses preserved bocages before entering the city of art and history. Stroll through the medieval center, stop at the Saturday market or have lunch in a local Sarthois restaurant, before heading back on the quiet road. Bicycles are available on request at the estate.