Walking along the labyrinth of narrow, cobbled alleyways in the old part of Le Mans was like taking a step back in time, writes Lisa O’Brien.

The Middle-Ages looking area is renowned for having many of the best restaurants in the city, and the magnificent 11th Century Cathedral of Saint-Julien is situated on its doorstep.

This area of Sarthe, in western France, is probably best known for the world famous 24-hour race, which sees thousands of motor fanatics flock to the city every summer.

The track, situated in the southern part of Le Mans, has been used for the endurance event since 1923 and many of the roads are open to the public to explore throughout other months of the year.

The museum next door also explains the history of the race and displays many of the past winning cars.

Lying within the new part of the city is a restaurant which may as well be an extension of the museum.

It has car bonnets bursting out of the walls and shelves lined with signed memorabilia.

The Le Mans Legend Cafe – which is said to be visited by drivers taking part in the race each year – is a colourful, family-friendly restaurant serving pub-style comfort food.

Some of the best food and wine I found was out of the city, tucked away in Luche-Pringe, heading towards the Loire Valley.

L’Auberge du Port des Roches, which is off the beaten track and looks more like a large house decorated with colourful flower pots, serves small portions of exquisite food.

It is best to drive in order to truly experience all the little delightful towns and villages in the region.

It was easy enough to hop across the Channel on the Eurostar, and take the TGV train into Le Mans, so we opted to hire a car from ADA Le Mans, a short walk from the train station.

Back to nature with a stroll in the Sarthe area

The region is scattered with castles, abbeys and museums, while it is easy to relax and take in the sights of its picturesque gardens, forests and rivers.

The award-winning Petit-Bordeaux garden in Saint-Biez-en-Belin guides you around its beautiful streams, plants and flowers with a series of small numbered arrows embedded in the ground.

The pond and the cottage in the midst of the garden look like they belong on a postcard.

About a 40-minute drive south west of there is La Fleche, which is worth visiting for the zoo housing animals like polar bears, tigers and wolves.

Rich in history, Sarthe also boasts the minimalistic Epau Abbey, founded by the widow of Richard the Lion Heart, Berengere de Navarre, in 1229.

It is set in peaceful surroundings and is now more popularly used for concerts.

The Chateau du Lude, in Le Lude, also dates back to the 10th Century and has impressive features like a grand ballroom, large library and pretty gardens.

During our time in Sarthe, we stayed at La Demeure de Laclais bed and breakfast, just next to the cathedral in Le Mans.

The owners offered a warm welcome and the suites had their own charm, with the delight of freshly made croissants and homemade jam for breakfast.

Sarthe is definitely the place to come for a bit of rest and relaxation, or that romantic getaway.

• London to Le Mans returns are offered from £99 per person.
• To travel to the area with Rail Europe, call 0844 848 4070 or visit www.raileurope.co.uk