Top 5 river activities on the Mayenne and the Vélo Francette
The Mayenne Valley is a true paradise for nature lovers. Between its bucolic landscapes and typical villages, it is crossed by the famous Vélo Francette cycle route.
It's the perfect destination for a bike ride or to try some river activities.
Here is our selection of five must-see experiences for discovering the Mayenne from the water.
What could be better than discovering the Mayenne from the water? You can rent a boat without a license for a short trip with friends or family.
Follow the river's tranquil course and dock near picturesque villages like Château-Gontier or Chenillé-Changé.
Take the opportunity to taste some local delicacies and observe the wildlife.
From Mayenne to Angers, the Vélo Francette offers a safe route along 106 km of the Mayenne towpath. The section along the Mayenne River offers a unique panorama thanks to its flower-bedecked locks and old mills.
This route is perfect if you want to combine relaxation, swimming, and a picnic.
If you're looking for exercise and adventure, canoeing or kayaking is the perfect activity.
Several water sports centers, such as those in Laval and Mayenne, offer routes suitable for families and athletes.
Once on the water, you can get up close to herons and kingfishers and admire the unspoiled landscapes.
The Mayenne has more than 40 locks, each with its own character. They are often staffed by a passionate lock keeper.
Some even house small open-air cafés where you can enjoy a drink by the river.
If you love fishing, the Mayenne is an ideal playground.
The diversity of species attracts enthusiasts year-round, including pike, zander, and carp.
Located in downtown Laval, the Best Western Hôtel de Paris welcomes you close to the train station, the theater, and numerous restaurants.
Our 50 modern, air-conditioned rooms offer all the comforts of a 3-star hotel.
Wake up and enjoy a breakfast served buffet-style or express, according to your preferences, every morning from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
The hotel is also certified "Accueil Vélo" (Cycling Friendly) and offers numerous services for cyclists, such as secure bicycle storage, bike maintenance kits, and bike rentals.
Book your stay in Mayenne now.
It's the perfect destination for a bike ride or to try some river activities.
Here is our selection of five must-see experiences for discovering the Mayenne from the water.
1. Navigate the river by boat
What could be better than discovering the Mayenne from the water? You can rent a boat without a license for a short trip with friends or family.
Follow the river's tranquil course and dock near picturesque villages like Château-Gontier or Chenillé-Changé.
Take the opportunity to taste some local delicacies and observe the wildlife.
2. Cycle the Vélo Francette along the river
From Mayenne to Angers, the Vélo Francette offers a safe route along 106 km of the Mayenne towpath. The section along the Mayenne River offers a unique panorama thanks to its flower-bedecked locks and old mills.
This route is perfect if you want to combine relaxation, swimming, and a picnic.
3. Try canoeing or kayaking
If you're looking for exercise and adventure, canoeing or kayaking is the perfect activity.
Several water sports centers, such as those in Laval and Mayenne, offer routes suitable for families and athletes.
Once on the water, you can get up close to herons and kingfishers and admire the unspoiled landscapes.
4. Discover the locks and their stories
The Mayenne has more than 40 locks, each with its own character. They are often staffed by a passionate lock keeper.
Some even house small open-air cafés where you can enjoy a drink by the river.
5. Fishing in an exceptional natural setting
If you love fishing, the Mayenne is an ideal playground.
The diversity of species attracts enthusiasts year-round, including pike, zander, and carp.
Stay at the Best Western Hôtel de Paris in Laval
Located in downtown Laval, the Best Western Hôtel de Paris welcomes you close to the train station, the theater, and numerous restaurants.
Our 50 modern, air-conditioned rooms offer all the comforts of a 3-star hotel.
Wake up and enjoy a breakfast served buffet-style or express, according to your preferences, every morning from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
The hotel is also certified "Accueil Vélo" (Cycling Friendly) and offers numerous services for cyclists, such as secure bicycle storage, bike maintenance kits, and bike rentals.
Book your stay in Mayenne now.
