In Bousse, you can plan your visit around clearly distinct themes: Saint-Aubin combines an element dated to the medieval period with later furnishings and an extensive renovation in the 19th century; the washhouse has dated records for its approval, acceptance and restoration. An equestrian activity complements these historical themes. If you are looking for accommodation in Bousse, you can first decide whether your main interest is religious heritage, local history or an activity with horses.
Saint-Aubin Church: building history and furnishings
The oldest part of Saint-Aubin Church dates from the 12th century. The church underwent extensive renovation in the 19th century. These are two different periods: the first date refers to the oldest part, while the second refers to the later renovation of the building. This distinction helps avoid reducing the long building history to a single date.
The furnishings include statues, a low relief, and a high altar with an altarpiece dating from between the 15th and 18th centuries. The low relief “Adoration of the Magi” dates from the 17th century and is listed as protected movable cultural heritage. The church contains statues of a holy bishop, Saint James and Saint Christopher; they come from the Château de la Baumerie. The range of dates for the furnishings, the precise dating of the relief and the provenance of individual figures offer different ways to explore Saint-Aubin.
Washhouse: construction and restoration
The chronology of the washhouse helps distinguish the decision to build it, its acceptance and its later restoration. Construction was approved in 1864; final acceptance was signed on 25 July 1867. The washhouse was planned by the Roule-Bœuf stream. It was restored in 1985 after winning first prize in the “Sauvons nos lavoirs” campaign. The approval, signed final acceptance and restoration mark different stages, not a single construction date.
More activities in Bousse
For 2026, the l’Escapade – Écurie Charlotte Rostin riding centre in Bousse offers trail rides and a pony club. This is a separate leisure option alongside the church and building history. If horse-related activities influence your choice of destination, you can take the centre into account when planning your itinerary.
At one edition of “Bousse en Fête,” children in attendance could take part in the traditional “casse-pot.” The exact programme may vary from one edition to another. If you are planning around this event, check the programme for the specific edition in advance so you do not assume it will be repeated.
When choosing a theme, it is helpful to make a clear distinction: Saint-Aubin and the washhouse offer questions of historic buildings and furnishings, while the “casse-pot” is part of a festival programme that can change. This lets you choose between a cultural and historical interest and an event whose availability depends on the particular edition.
Discover more destinations: Chemiré-en-Charnie, Tresson, Conflans-Sur-Anille, Saint-Calez-En-Saosnois, Chantenay-Villedieu, Saint-Pavace, La Milesse, Fontenay-Sur-Vègre.
For the wider travel overview: Sarthe.
