If you are after unspoilt countryside, rich cultural heritage
or outdoor adventure, the region (or Department) of Mayenne
is the holiday location for you. From the prehistoric caves
at Saulges to the Roman remains at Jublains, the Renaissance
castles of Bourgon and Mezangers there is a treasure trove
of secrets to be discovered. Champeon and the surrounding
area is ideal for cycling and walking, with plenty of quiet
lanes and footpaths for whiling away sunny afternoons. It
is a haven for wildlife, with birds of prey, reptiles and
red squirrels all regularly seen.
Just 15 minutes drive away from La Trottiere is the historic
town of Mayenne (photo below left) with
fantastic architecture and beautiful river views. Over the
years, the importance of the Mayenne River has diminished.
Nowadays, tourists use it to fish, swim and kayak or simply
for a leisurely boat trip. Mayenne has all the normal facilities
such as supermarkets, shops, cafes and plenty of restaurants,
including traditional French cuisine, Italian and Chinese.
In the nearby town of Evron the abbey church
Notre Dame de L'Epine has Roman and Gothic architecture
and one of the best facades for miles around. In the historical
town of Sainte Suzanne, the Musee de L'Auditoire
served as a court of justice in the 17th and 18th Century
- now it houses a museum that depicts the lifestyle and
events of that era.
At Saulges the caves and canyon are well
worth visiting with its ancient legend of a witch protecting
the treasure. Jublains is the most prominent
Roman site in the west of France, and the top of the theatre
has panoramic views over the Evron plains. Laval
is the department capital, the old town is delightful with
an imposing feudal castle that looks out over the Mayenne
River, and is ideal for a pre-lunch amble.
Just over the border into Normandy is the lovely spa town
of Bagnoles de l'Orne (photo below right)
set around a lake with thermal baths where you can take
health treatments or just taste the water. There is a lakeside
casino, leisure facilities and golf course plus a good choice
of restaurants and shops.
