Usually golfers will want to steer clear of the water however our base team at Sablé-Sur-Sarthe have found a reason they might think otherwise – a combination of fine golf and a relaxing boating holiday in Anjou. Our weekend itinerary below has something for the golfer and non-golfer alike.
No previous boating experience or a licence is needed to enjoy this short break. Our suggested itinerary can easily be covered in a full 48 hours – collecting the boat at 5pm on a Friday and returning it at 4pm on the Sunday.
Arrive at the Nicols Sablé-sur-Sarthe to collect your boat for 4pm:
Boarding your canal boat:
The helpful Nicols base team will introduce you to your canal boat – how everything works and the equipment onboard.
No previous experience or licence is needed however they will still take you out on the water to show you how to handle the boat, including navigating the first lock in Sablé sur Sarthe. From here you’re free to continue on your cruise – after about 45 minutes on the waterways you’ll arrive at the Sablé Solesmes Golf Course. The golf course is located right at the waters edge and it’s possible to moor up here for the evening. Why not enjoy your evening meal at the golf course restaurant ‘The Kingfisher’, sat on the beautiful terrace with views over the course.
After dinner you can either spend the night moored on the golf course pontoon or alternatively, after a 15 minute cruise, you can spend the night moored at the peaceful village of Pincé (no facilities/shops).
In the morning it’s all about the golf !
The Sablé Solesmes Golf Course is a true gem and one of the most beautiful golf courses in western France. With a total of 27 holes you have the choice of the three ‘Waterfall’, ‘Forest’ and ‘River’ nine hole courses.
Why play this course?
It’s possible to get on the course pretty much as you step off your canal boat! The 13th hole is located directly alongside the river and mooring pontoon. You don’t even need to sign in at the clubhouse – we can do that for you in advance. Golfers should be aware though – this hole provides a tricky start and is known as the ‘Bermuda Triangle’ for golf balls!
After completing your round there is still plenty of time to explore the beauty and history of the Sarthe valley.
A 45 minute return cruise will take you back to Sablé, where if you were on the course early then you should still make the Saturday market (until 1pm).
A must see is the remarkable Solesmes Abbey – famous for it’s precious alter pieces and Gregorian chants.
Panoramic views of the area can be enjoyed from the abbey with the best place to enjoy them being from a climb to the top of the Chapel Notre Dame which is located on the main street of Port de Juigné.
This charming little village is perched overlooking the Sarthe valley. Take a walk around to appreciate the restoration and conservation work that’s kept it looking so quaint.
On arriving at Avoise admire the magnificently restored Manoir de la Perrine de Cry (private - not open to visitors) which overlooks the Sarthe river.
Built around its bell tower this small town has plenty of character and is set right on the banks of the Sarthe.
Why not moor at this lovely floral village and enjoy dinner and the evening on board your canal boat.
Cruising from Parcé you’ll enjoy the view of the imposing Pescheseul Castle (private - not open to visitors) before heading towards the village of Dureil (approx 1 hours cruising). It is a small village but definitely worth a stop if only to discover the culinary secrets of l'Auberge des Acacias.
Your trip ends as you complete the final stretch of your boating holiday back to the Nicols base at Sablé sur Sarthe – making sure the boat is returned for 6pm.
NB : This weekend boating holiday itinerary of golfing in Anjou is merely a suggestion*. You are the captain of your canal boat so have the flexibility to go where you want when you want!
*suggested route only. Nicols Boating Holidays cannot be help responsible for navigation restrictions or events that may lead to a change in your canal boat hire.
