A hillside hideaway for two
The little barn at L’Écrin de Saint Léo is a quietly luxurious hideaway for two, nestled in the stunning natural landscape of the Alpes Mancelles, in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Normandie-Maine Geopark.
It’s a place designed for slowing down, with space, comfort, and nature all around you. A place of perfect calm, far from the rush, yet just a couple of hours from Paris and the cross-Channel ferries.
If your idea of an escape includes big skies, stillness, and immersion in nature — without compromising on comfort — a few nights in our little barn hideaway might just be for you.
Year-round comfort
Once a humble hay barn, we’ve reimagined it with the help of a local architect and skilled artisans into a light, cosy, and spacious retreat that’s comfortable whatever the weather.
Inside, you’ll find characterful nooks, original features, and a wood burner, alongside a fully equipped kitchen, an elegant and spacious bedroom and bathroom, and new window openings that frame wide, ever-changing views of the landscape.
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 that made us fall in love with this place. Perfect for watching the sun set or star gazing after dark.
Explore the great outdoors
You’ll be staying right in the heart of the Alpes Mancelles, with direct access to woodland trails for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking, as well as rock climbing and horse riding. The Sarthe River, just down the hill, is ideal for kayaking or cooling off on a warm day.
The village of Saint Léonard des Bois is just a few minutes’ drive away, or a 20-minute walk down through the woods. Here you’ll find several restaurants and bars, a 12th-century church and other heritage architecture, and, depending on the season, local fairs and events.
What guests are saying
"We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful little cottage. It’s set in a peaceful, idyllic location and feels like a little paradise.
The house is perfect and has been thoughtfully designed with so much care and attention to every detail. Everything is beautifully done, making it feel warm, comfortable, and special.
Our hosts were incredibly kind and welcoming. They greeted us with fresh bread, homemade jam, and a bottle of wine, which was such a thoughtful touch. They were always happy to help, while also giving us complete privacy."
Andy and Berta, July 2026
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