Safran went in search of new horizons. We were attracted by the Mayenne and its tempting towpath. Here was a cycling route perfect for those, big and small, who enjoy peddling on the flat in perfect safety!
An unspoilt band of greenery stretches 85 kilometres along the banks of the Mayenne river. It's a veritable Nature Park with frequent explanatory panels which reveal the secrets of the Mayenne, between land and water, all along the way.
Encountering the local built heritage is a strong point of the trip. in addition to the locks, mills and fords of the river itself, the towpath runs through three pretty towns decked in flowers and rich in must-see heritage sites - Mayenne, Laval and Château-Gontier. The Mayenne is quite simply delightful.
Reception late afternoon.
Things to see :
The banks of the Mayenne river.
Dinner and night in lovely 3 star hotel in verdant scenery and with its own pool.
D2
Around Château-Gontier
18 km with total uphill 200 m (level 2/5). Duration about 2hrs.
A brief getaway into the countryside of the Mayenne. Agreeably rolling countryside well-suited to cyclists. You go through two picturesque villages along the way and past a few notable chateaux which are open to visitors in the season.
Dinner and night at the hotel.
D3
From Château-Gontier to Laval
38,2 km with total uphill 100 m (level 2/5). Duration around 3hrs.
Today you will ride to the tranquil pleasures of the Mayenne riverside, all calm waters, dreamy romantic dwellings and equine parks... And there are a number of more worldly but equally enjoyable places to stop and eat along the way.
At the end of the day, enjoy an incursion through the 'Ville d'Art et d'Histoire' of Laval.
Evening meal and night in pretty manor guesthouse in a 3 acre garden.
D4
Around Laval
25 km with total uphill 100 m (level 1/5). Duration about 2hrs30.
Nice circular ride along little country roads around Laval, peaceful and varied, and with touches of past and present. The route goes along a former railway, a cycle path, a towpath and a few stretches of country lane.
You could see, at the gates of Laval, the Trappist nuns of La Coudre lived their strict and worshipful lives.
Dinner and night at the guesthouse.
D5
From Laval to Moulay
33.6 km with total uphill 50 m (level 2/5). Duration around 2hrs45.
The entire ride today is along the towpath.
The way is punctuated by the passage of frequent locks.
Dinner and night in charming 3 star hotel with its own pool.
D6
Around Moulay
17 km with total uphill 300 m (level 2/5). Duration about 2hrs00.
This is your last day in the Mayenne area affords you the pleasure of rolling along the towpath of the eponymous river.
The town of Mayenne, graced by an imposing early mediaeval castle and museum with exceptional exhibits, a basilica and picturesque old streets, is well worth a visit.
Dinner and night at the hotel.
D7
Departure
Departure after breakfast.
Transfer back to Château-Gontier by taxi.
*Rates based on a room shared with two adults. Single-parent families, please contact us.
What's included?
Half board
3 star hotels and 3 "épis" guest house
Baggage transfer
Detailed roadbook and maps
Update GPS tracks.
Logistical and technical support
Transfer back from Moulay to Château-Gontier
Optional
Bike rental from :
Bike rental for adult or junior (from 1m45) : 130 €
MTB for child (under 1m45) : 75 €
Trailer bike or bike cart for child : 75 €
Child seat : 10 €
Electric power bike for adult or junior (from 1m45) : 185 €
What's not included?
Beverage and extra
Return transfer from Home to the first accomodation
Facultative cancellation and repatriation insurance
Characteristics of circuits
Circuit going from place to place, suitable for all the family.
The route is along the towpath and small country roads
Country bikes are recommended.
Organisation
These outings are much more about relaxed exploration than athletic performance. We transport your luggage between lodgings, and your roadbook will guide you from beginning to end. We also provide logistical and technical support .
On longer holidays you change accommodation every other day, which gives you the chance to better explore your surroundings or simply take your time and relax...
Accommodation is in either 2 or 3 "épis" guest houses chosen for their atmosphere, warm welcome and environmental and architectural setting. The holidays are half-board, and picnics are extra. You may like to order these at reservation.
N.B : the accommodation described above is given as an indication and may vary according to availability at the moment your reservation is finalized.
Access
By car
Highway A81 - 30 km or A11 - 50 km
By air
Rennes Airport or Nantes Airport + train to Laval or Angers TGV station + railway station of Château-Gontier
By train
Laval or Angers TGV station + railway station of Château-Gontier
Comments
Global note
4.7
Magnifique séjour dans une région paisible, reposante, arborée, fleurie et super accueillante. Découvertes insolites et organisation parfaite.
Des paysages très variés, un itinéraire reposant en pleine nature et beaucoup de curiosités à découvrir.
Nous avons passé un excellent séjour en Mayenne en famille, sans nous soucier de la logistique. Merci aux équipes de Safrantours.
Safran went in search of new horizons..and we were attracted by the Mayenne and its towpath. Here was a cycling itinerary perfectly suited to those who enjoy peddling safely along on practically flat terrain, adults and childeren alike!
An unspoilt…
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