Grez-Neuville to Sablé-sur-Sarthe, 10 nights

In Laval, travel through a thousand years of history by visiting the Old Castle (home to the Museum of Naïve and Singular Art), the Château-Neuf, the Basilica of Avesnières, half-timbered houses, private mansions, and ancient ramparts. Depending on your interests, you can also explore the Lactopôle,the world’s largest dairy and cheese museum,attend a horse race at the Bellevue Hippodrome, or visit the Saint Julien washboat, one of the last remaining laundry boats in Europe.

From the river stop in Entrammes, it’s just a 200-meter walk to the Abbey of Port Salut. Don’t miss the exceptionally preserved Gallo-Roman Baths, brought to life with sound and light.

A thousand-year-old city rich in heritage: visit the Ursuline Convent, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, and the Genêteil Chapel turned art space. Don't miss the Refuge de l’Arche animal park, an equestrian center, and the renowned veal market on Thursday mornings.

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.

From the Daon river stop, enjoy a relaxing day with kayak and pedal boat rentals and swimming areas. Along the Mayenne, between La Jaille-Yvon and Daon, don't miss the striking view of Château de Port Joulain.

Named a “Village of Charm,” Chenillé‑Changé is a perfect crossroad. From your cruise on the Mayenne, you’ll see the still-operational fortified Moulin Bouin watermill. Once on land, climb to the Chapel of the Virgin for sweeping views, or bring the family to Domaine des Rues, a former farm raising Rouge des Prés cattle and Bleu du Maine sheep,local regional icons.

In Montreuil-sur-Maine, a surprising replica of the Lourdes grotto was carved into slate in 1899.

Stop at the riverside dock in Pruillé and head to Château du Plessis-Macé (6 km away), built in black schist stone in the 13th century. The contrast between its 15th-century seigneurial residence and the remains of its medieval fortress is striking.

With its Montriou and Sautré châteaux, Sautré Mill, and Saint-Martin Church, Feneu has a rich historical heritage. Walkers can enjoy a stop at Port Albert to follow local hiking trails, followed by a relaxing break at the Guinguette du Port Albert.