A hideaway for two
The little barn at l’Écrin de Saint Léo is an intimate retreat hidden in the wild landscape of the Alpes Mancelles, part of the UNESCO Normandie-Maine geopark, just two hours from Paris and cross-channel ferries, and less than an hour from Le Mans.
Once a humble hay barn, we’ve reimagined it, with help from a local architect and skilled artisans, into a warm and secluded hideaway for two. The word écrin means jewellery box, a place that protects something precious – which is exactly what we want this space to offer: peace, comfort, and immersion in nature. Here, you can slow down, breathe, and reconnect. Explore the landscape from your doorstep, find calm and focus for creative work, or simply curl up by the fire and watch the stars.
Escape to the wild
You won’t find pristine lawns or tightly clipped hedges at l’Écrin de Saint Léo. We're deliberately creating a space where nature can thrive - adding to hedgerows, planting trees and encouraging biodiversity on land that was once cultivated.
The landscape here feels alive: butterflies and bees flutter and buzz, kestrels and buzzards circle the skies. We frequently catch sight of deer and hares.
If your idea of an escape includes a big sky, stillness and immersion in nature – without compromising on comfort – a few nights in our little barn hideaway might just be for you.
Comfort in every season
The little barn is designed to feel welcoming and comfortable all year round – as much a cosy retreat after long walks as a cool, airy space to relax on warm days. Inside, you’ll find characterful nooks and original features alongside a fully equipped kitchen, an elegant modern bathroom, and new window openings that frame wide, ever-changing landscape views.
Outside, a south-facing terrace looks out over the Sarthe river valley at Saint Léonard des Bois – the heart of the Alpes Mancelles and the view we fell in love with. It’s perfect for a morning coffee or stargazing after dark.
Adventure, food and culture at your own pace
From your little barn hideaway, you'll have easy access to the surrounding woodland with its hiking, trail running and all-terrain biking routes, along with rock climbing and horse riding. The river Sarthe, just down the hill, is perfect for kayaking or just cooling off on a warm day.
Although we’re very secluded at l’Écrin de Saint Léo, the beautiful village of Saint Léonard des Bois is just a few minutes’ drive away – or a 20-minute walk down through the woods. There, you’ll find several restaurants and bars, a 12th century church and other heritage architecture, and, depending on the season, local fairs and events.