Castles on the Mayenne

Montreuil-sur-Maine the “Little Lourdes” of Anjou. A Marian shrine, picturesque bridge, and a peaceful path along the Sarthe.

This "Village of Charm" is a lovely stop along the Mayenne River. See the historic Bouin watermill and enjoy the panoramic view from the hillside. Visit the Domaine des Rues, a working farm with iconic regional breeds like Rouge des Prés cattle and Bleu du Maine sheep.

At Daon’s leisure center, enjoy kayak and pedal boat rentals or a swim. While sailing from La Jaille-Yvon to Daon, admire the impressive Château de Port Joulain.

Nestled in the Natura 2000-designated Thau Valley, Ménil is a charming riverside stop with a ferry, arranged beach and swimming area,ideal for a leisurely break.

A thousand-year-old city with well-preserved heritage: the Ursuline Convent (17th century, now a theater), Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church with its lit crypt, and the Genêteil Chapel, now an art venue. Stroll through the “Jardin du Bout du Monde” overlooking the Mayenne or visit with the family the Refuge de l’Arche animal park and the local equestrian center. Don’t miss the Thursday morning calf market.

From your river stop at Entrammes, walk just 200 m to reach Port Salut Abbey on the banks of the Mayenne River, visible from your boat. History lovers will also want to visit the well-preserved Gallo-Roman thermal baths, highlighted by a captivating sound and light show.

In Laval, journey through a thousand years of history by exploring the Old Castle (and its museum of naïve and singular art), the Château-Neuf, the Basilica of Avesnières, half-timbered houses, private mansions, and old ramparts. Depending on your interests, you might also explore the Lactopôle,the world’s largest dairy and cheese museum,attend a race at the Bellevue racetrack, or visit the Saint Julien washhouse boat, one of the last of its kind in Europe.

In Montgiroux, the well-maintained towpath along the Mayenne reveals some delightful surprises: the Château de Montgiroux (also visible from your license-free boat) and the elegant Morand Manor nearby.

Cruising down the river, you’ll glimpse the Château de Mayenne, the Basilica of Our Lady of Miracles, and the Calvairiennes Chapel, now a venue for contemporary art exhibitions.