Best attractions and places to see around La Chapelle-Anthenaise include a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. This commune in the Mayenne department of France features ancient fortified manors and churches, reflecting its rich heritage. The area is traversed by streams and offers panoramic views from Le Montaigu, which also includes hiking trails. It is also located near the Mayenne River, providing additional natural and historical points of interest.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around La Chapelle-Anthenaise.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The cathedral (i.e., a bishop's church) in Laval was not dedicated to one of the many people we venerate as saints, but rather, the ONE God in THREE Persons – God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God's Holy Spirit – was chosen as its patron saint. Father Reinhard Körner writes about the mystery of the Holy Trinity: + "Among the great prayer-givers in the history of Christianity... I found prayer texts in which each of the divine Three was explicitly addressed – in the same prayer. When I tried to recite the texts, I could sense that these people had not only individually envisioned God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit – they were addressing a divine community. And it seemed to me that they could only do this in their written prayers because they also did so otherwise, quietly in their hearts."
0
0
This church was not dedicated to one of the many people who died as martyrs (witnesses to their faith) for their Christian beliefs, or whom we venerate as blessed or saints because of their exemplary lives. Rather, this parish has chosen God himself – in the "Holy Trinity" – as its patron saint. According to Christian doctrine, we believe in ONE God, who exists in THREE persons – God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. The following description can be found on the EKD (Evangelical Church in Germany) website: + “The word attempts to express the seemingly impossible, namely that God is simultaneously three and one. To understand this, it helps to consider how people have experienced God throughout history: as a Creator who loves his world and humanity like a father loves his children. As a God who himself became human in Jesus Christ, his Son, and shared human life. And finally, as a God who is still present and alive among people in the Holy Spirit.”
0
0
superb greenway along the Mayenne
0
0
The Catholic Church - Saints Cyr and Julitte d'Argentré dates from Roman times and is dedicated to Saint Cyr and Saint Julitte, two martyrs of the early Christian church. You can admire the fresco in the vault above the main altar, which features geometric patterns from the 12th century. You can also admire the marble altarpieces from the 17th and 18th centuries, the clock from 1875, the paintings and stained glass windows from the 20th century. The church is open to visitors during Heritage Days which take place every year in September.
2
0
This cathedral deploys a certain pedagogy to express and give life to the dogma of the Trinity.
0
0
Cyr and Julitte are figures of saints who have marked Christianity for more than a millennium. Cyr is a 5-year-old child, very mature for his age, who lived in Tarsus, near Antioch (in present-day Turkey), in the 3rd century AD, when the Roman Empire massacred Christians en masse. . During one of those horrific trials where Christians were sentenced to death, Cyr snuck into court running and shouting "I'm a Christian too!". When the judge caught him, he smashed his head against a wall. His mother, Juliette, was also martyred. The horror of their treatment and the heroic hope they demonstrated made them popular as far away as Gaul, especially around Versailles and Nevers. 42 villages bear the name of "Saint-Cyr". see https://nominis.cef.fr/contenus/saint/1329/Saints-Cyr-et-Julitte.html
0
0
The cathedral is worth a visit.
2
0
La Chapelle-Anthenaise is rich in history. You can visit the ancient fortified manor of Château d'Anthenaise, which was rebuilt in the 17th century, or the Château de Gresse, known for its murals. Other notable historical buildings include the Église Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel and the Chapelle Saint-Aubin. Don't miss the historical Croix Hosannière dit Croix Bouassé.
Yes, Le Montaigu is a prominent natural site offering panoramic views from its 290-meter summit. It features hiking trails, including a section of the Mont-Saint-Michel path, and an interpretive circuit. The commune is also traversed by the Barbé and La Fresne streams, adding to its natural landscape.
The area around La Chapelle-Anthenaise offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the Gravel path along the River Mayenne, which is part of the Vélo Francette and ideal for a safe family outing. For more extensive cycling, you can explore routes like the "Mirwault Lock – Locks loop from Louverné" or "La Chapelle-Anthenaise loop from Louverné." Find more cycling routes on the Cycling around La Chapelle-Anthenaise guide.
Many attractions cater to families. The Gravel path along the River Mayenne is perfect for family bike rides due to its flat, car-free nature. The nearby town of Laval offers a historic center, a castle, and museums that can be engaging for all ages. Additionally, the cultural events and theatre performances often held at "Les Embellies" recreation hall, celebrating the town's connection to Eugène Ionesco, can be a unique family experience.
La Chapelle-Anthenaise has a strong cultural connection to renowned playwright Eugène Ionesco, who spent part of his youth here. The local primary school is named after him, and the town frequently hosts theatre and cultural events at the "Les Embellies" recreation hall, embracing this heritage.
Beyond the scenic Gravel path along the River Mayenne, the region offers various cycling options. For gravel biking, you can find routes like the "Bonne Lock – Port-Rhingeard Lock loop from Laval." More challenging cycling tours include the "Mirwault Lock – Locks loop from Louverné." Explore more options on the Cycling around La Chapelle-Anthenaise guide and the Gravel biking around La Chapelle-Anthenaise guide.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity. You can find routes such as the "La Chapelle-Anthenaise loop from Louverné" or longer options like the "Plan d'eau du Port – La Mayenne loop from Louverné." These trails offer diverse distances and difficulties for runners. For a comprehensive list, check the Running Trails around La Chapelle-Anthenaise guide.
Beyond La Chapelle-Anthenaise, you can visit the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, a significant religious building with unique pedagogy. Another interesting site is the Catholic Church - Saints Cyr and Julitte of Argentré, dating from Roman times and featuring 12th-century frescoes and 17th-18th century marble altarpieces. The Belle-Poule Lock also offers a glimpse into the region's industrial and river history.
The Mayenne department generally enjoys pleasant weather from spring to early autumn, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Spring (April-May) offers blooming landscapes, while summer (June-August) is perfect for longer days and warmer temperatures. Early autumn (September-October) provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, especially for hiking and cycling along the river.
Just 9 km away, the larger town of Laval is a must-see, with its castle, historic center, and the Mayenne River. You can also explore charming 'Petite Cités de Caractère' (Small Cities of Character) such as Parné sur Roc, Chailland, and Sainte-Suzanne, the latter being recognized as a 'Most Beautiful Village' in France. Other nearby points of interest include the Roman ruins in Jublains and the Abbey of Notre Dame in Evron.
The Gravel path along the River Mayenne is described as well-packed and flat, making it suitable for a wider range of visitors, including those with mobility considerations or families with strollers. It offers a smooth surface and scenic views without significant inclines.
While specific rules for every attraction vary, many outdoor trails and natural areas in France, including those around La Chapelle-Anthenaise, are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. It's always advisable to check local signage or specific attraction websites for their pet policies before visiting. The Gravel path along the River Mayenne is a good option for walks with dogs.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: