What to see in France

The Mayenne, camping in a peaceful area

La rivière la Mayenne au pied de la ville de Laval
La rivière la Mayenne au pied de la ville de Laval

 

Created in 1790, the department of Mayenne took the name of its river. It is part of the Pays-de-la-Loire region. A peaceful territory, here people know how to take their time to enjoy, share and savour. A philosophy that applies equally to the discovery of its land, rich in heritage and history, as it does to its nature and landscapes. An ideology in harmony with that of camping, a mode of accommodation perfectly adapted to the exploration of this department.

Campsites in Mayenne

Much more fun than a hotel for children, camping is the ideal way to combine a holiday with the discovery of a place. Choose one of the 17 campsites in Mayenne to explore the castles, river walks, gastronomy and activities in the area at your own pace. Some campsites have a swimming pool to cool off in, but also activities such as kayaking or pedal boats on the Mayenne.

Cities not to be missed

Laval, the capital of the Mayenne region, is also the birthplace of Douanier Rousseau. It is therefore at the Manas, the Museum of Naïve Art and Singular Arts, that we can enjoy 3 paintings by the artist. You will find in this museum, a precursor of naive art in France, the works of original and non-conformist artists. In the same place, Laval is also its castle which stands on its rocky promontory. A symbol of the city, its circular keep offers a superb view of Laval.

Nicknamed the "Pearl of Maine", the village of Sainte Suzanne sits atop an isolated hill in the heart of Maine. It is the only Plus Beaux Villages de France in Mayenne. Stroll through the streets of this charming medieval town to discover its decorated facades and its history. Stroll along the ramparts to the castle keep. You won't regret climbing the Tertre Ganne hill, which offers an exceptional view of the medieval town.

Situated on the banks of the Mayenne river, Château Gontier sur Mayenne has an important heritage despite the disappearance of its castle. You will be surprised by its pretty half-timbered houses, through the paved streets. The Ursuline convent is a magnificently well-preserved building where exhibitions are organised in its superb restored chapel. Awarded the Villes et Villages Fleuris label, the town is known for its flowering public gardens.

 

Activities not to be missed

About 30 kilometres from Laval, the Arche animal shelter was created more than 40 years ago and takes in mistreated animals. With the help of the care provided and under the benevolent gaze of visitors, the animals are rebuilt here and regain their strength. The sanctuary is run by an association and takes care of around a thousand animals of 120 different species.

The Valley of the Caves of Saulges is an ideal activity during a stay in Mayenne during the summer season. The caves are cool and exceptional as they are the only ones decorated north of the Loire. One of them offers a vertical dive of 15 metres to end on an underground lake. The virtual reality offers you a total immersion. Then, the outside is very pleasant for a picnic on the banks of the Erve, or even a swim. Your children will love it!

The Vélo Francette is a 630-kilometre long cycle route between Calvados and La Rochelle. It offers a very pretty section on the banks of the Mayenne. An ideal way to share happy moments with your family and stay in touch with nature.

 

Campsites connected with this article

Campsites in Mayenne Campsites in Pays de la Loire
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