La Mayenne

A journey back in time through Mayenne's historic heritage

Mayenne, rich in evidence of its history from the Middle Ages to the present day, is home to castles, churches, mills and washhouses reflecting the struggles, beliefs and traditions of its residents. Explore this remarkable heritage, a source of pride for the people of Mayenne.

Castles and fortresses: sentinels of history

With over 200 castles and fortresses, the Mayenne region offers a strategic panorama of France's historic conflicts. Discover the château de Sainte-Suzanne, impenetrable to William the Conqueror, the château de Laval, home of the Laval family, the medieval museum within the château de Mayenne, and the château de Montesson, which welcomed General de Gaulle in 1944. These historic sites, which are open to the public, liven up local cultural life all year round.

From Romanesque to Gothic: Mayenne's architectural gems

The department is also distinguished by its precious religious heritage, a testament to the architectural diversity and spiritual fervor of earlier eras. Admire Romanesque masterpieces such as the church of Notre-Dame in Ambrières-les-Vallées, the church of Saint-Victeur in Bazougers and the prieuré des Bonshommes in Ballots, as well as Gothic gems such as the basilica of Notre-Dame d'Avesnières in Laval, the church of Saint-Martin in Château-Gontier and the cathedral of the Sainte-Trinité in Laval. These buildings are adorned with exceptional stained-glass windows, sculptures, paintings and furniture.

Rural heritage: mills, washhouses and other legacies of the farming world

Mayenne, a rural region, has carefully preserved its agricultural and craft heritage. Watermills, windmills, washhouses, bread ovens and farms are all living reminders of agricultural and craft traditions. Restored and promoted by local associations, these heritage sites host tours and educational events, recalling the rural life of yesteryear.

Must-see towns and sites in Mayenne

La Mayenne is a rural département in northwest France, located in the Pays de la Loire region. Known for its rolling landscapes, peaceful rivers and rich medieval heritage, Mayenne appeals to travelers in search of authenticity. This discreet territory offers a variety of charming towns and tourist attractions worth a detour.

Laval: the cultural and heritage heart of Mayenne

Laval is the prefecture of the department and a city of’art and history. The river Mayenne, A picturesque backdrop to the half-timbered houses and ancient alleyways of the town center. Visit Laval Castle, built in the 11th century, today houses the Musée d'Art Naïf et d'Arts Singuliers, unique in France.

The city is also renowned for its technopole Laval Virtual, a world leader in virtual and augmented realities, Each year, it attracts more than 18,000 trade visitors. Laval appeals to both heritage enthusiasts and those curious about futuristic technologies.

Mayenne: a medieval town with preserved charm

Located in the north of the department, the town of Mayenne has a historical center remarkable. Sound Carolingian castle, is one of the oldest in Europe. It houses an archaeology museum and offers splendid views over the river.

Mayenne is also the ideal starting point for discovering the Mayenne Valley by bike on the greenway the Vélo Francette, which crosses the department from north to south. This city combines history, nature and gentle way of life.

Sainte-Suzanne: perched medieval pearl

Ranked among the France's most beautiful villages, Sainte-Suzanne is a jewel perched on a rocky spur. This fortified village dominates the Erve valley, offering exceptional views over the surrounding countryside. Le Château de Sainte-Suzanne is a major historical site, associated with the town's heroic resistance to William the Conqueror in the 11th century.

Visit architecture and heritage interpretation center installed in the Renaissance logis, provides an insight into the evolution of the area and its monuments. With its cobbled streets, ancient houses and bucolic landscapes, Sainte-Suzanne embodies the medieval soul of the Mayenne region.

Jublains: a forgotten Gallo-Roman capital

Visit Jublains archaeological site is a historical treasure trove, bearing witness to the Gallo-Roman presence in the region. Ancient city of the Diablintes, Jublains has preserved some exceptional remains: thermal baths, temple, fortress, theater... The archaeological museum puts these monuments into context with objects recovered during excavations.

The site attracts some 25,000 visitors every year and is a major tourist attraction. a major educational venue to understand the ancient history of Mayenne.

Lassay-les-Châteaux: village and fortress in the heart of the bocage

Lassay-les-Châteaux, at the northeastern end of the department, is another characterful village. He is famous for his medieval castle surrounded by moats, round towers and ramparts. A visit to the castle, which is still inhabited, immerses visitors in the daily life of a feudal estate.

The village also offers a trail around the three castles (Lassay, Bois Thibault and Bois Frou), as well as a medieval garden and a open-air art trail.

Natural sites and tourist activities

In addition to its towns, the Mayenne region is also attractive for its unspoilt nature. Le refuge de l'Arche, Château-Gontier-sur-Mayenne is home to over 1,500 rescued animals in a vast animal and educational park. Visit Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park, at the gateway to the département, offers hiking, mountain biking and wildlife observation.

Fans of bicycle touring can use the Mayenne greenway, This 85 km-long track runs alongside rivers and villages. It links Laval to Ambrières-les-Vallées.

Mayenne verte: a haven of nature and relaxation

The département of Mayenne is a veritable mosaic of landscapes, offering the ideal setting for relaxation and exploration. Walking, cycling, horse-riding and boating enthusiasts will be delighted by the Mayenne valley, stretching for over 200 km. You can also discover remarkable gardens, combining botany and landscape design, and indulge in outdoor and water sports activities that respect the environment and local heritage.

The Mayenne Valley: hiking and outdoor activities

The Mayenne valley is the perfect place for hiking enthusiasts, with its many signposted paths following the river through forests, hedged farmland and villages. Explore the department in complete safety via the "voies vertes", former railroad lines converted into cycling and walking trails.

And for those who prefer outdoor activities, why not try accrobranche, golf, climbing, paragliding or hot-air ballooning, and admire the breathtaking scenery from above.

Remarkable gardens: between botany and landscape art

Certified by the French Ministry of Culture, Mayenne's remarkable gardens are famous for their historical, aesthetic or botanical value. Visit the garden at La Pellerine, with its 3,000 varieties of plants, the garden at Château de Craon, a perfect example of a French garden, the romantic garden at Château de Clivoy, or the contemporary garden at La Massonnière. These gardens offer guided tours and floral events.

Water sports and outdoor activities: for green and responsible tourism

Committed to green and responsible tourism, the Mayenne department invites you to enjoy water-based activities on the Mayenne river, such as canoeing, fishing, swimming and sailing. Electric boats, pedalos and rowing boats are available for hire for complete immersion in the tranquillity of nature. Animal lovers can also enjoy donkey, pony or horse rides, and visit educational farms for direct contact with the animals.

La Mayenne gourmande: an invitation to discover local flavours

The Mayenne department shines with a remarkable culinary identity, rooted in the excellence of its local produce and the expertise of its local producers. Discover Mayenne's gastronomic delights by exploring local markets, visiting farms and producers, or savoring the region's specialties in restaurants or direct from the locals.

Local markets: a culinary journey to the heart of Mayenne

At the heart of local markets, experience unique moments of conviviality and exchange with producers and artisans. Discover their fresh, seasonal produce: fruit, vegetables, meats, cheeses, bread, honey, jams, cider, wine, as well as flowers and plants. Don't miss out on typical Mayenne specialties such as boudin blanc de Laval, pâté de lapin, galette de sarrasin, préfou, pommeau and apple pie. Markets are held in towns and villages all week long.

Visits to farms and producers: discovering Mayenne know-how

Committed to short circuits and respect for the environment, the département promotes local and organic production. Visit farms and producers who will welcome you to share their passion and know-how. Discover life on the farm, from crops to workshops, and buy products directly on site. Educational workshops, events and demonstrations will enrich your experience. Explore, for example, the Escargot du Maine farm, the Pré farm, the Haie du Val farm, or the Champ Fleury farm.

Local produce tasting: an authentic experience

Mayenne invites you to enjoy an authentic taste experience in a convivial setting. The region's restaurants feature traditional or creative cuisine, with menus prepared using local produce. Table d'hôtes offer the pleasure of tasting traditional or regional recipes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. You can also take part in culinary events such as the Salon Gourmand de Mayenne, which attracts over 100 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors every year.

Conclusion

Mayenne is a department full of surprisesPerfect for lovers of heritage, nature, gastronomy and leisure. Discover sites steeped in history, lush landscapes, local specialties and a wide range of activities that will turn your stay into an unforgettable experience. Don't delay, plan your visit to Mayenne now to explore its charms and unravel its mysteries.

You won't regret it!

FAQ

What are the main towns in Mayenne?

The main towns in Mayenne are Laval, Château-Gontier-sur-Mayenne and Mayenne. These towns represent the department's most populous centers, and also serve as the chief towns for the three Mayenne arrondissements.

Is Mayenne part of Brittany?

No, Mayenne is not part of Brittany. It is a department within the Pays de la Loire region, formed in 1790 from Bas-Maine, which was historically part of the Duchy of Brittany. The town of Mayenne itself was part of the Marche de Bretagne, a buffer zone between Brittany and Normandy.

Where is the Mayenne department located?

Located in north-western France, the Mayenne département lies between the Pays de la Loire, Brittany and Normandy regions. It is surrounded by the departments of Manche, Orne, Sarthe, Maine-et-Loire and Ille-et-Vilaine.

What is Mayenne known for?

Mayenne is distinguished for its rich heritage, combining history, culture and nature. Its landmark is the medieval château of Laval, a city of art and history where the painter Henri Rousseau was born. The Mayenne is also famous for its eponymous river, which flows through diverse landscapes and invites a variety of activities such as fishing, boating and hiking.