Mayenne 

where to go - what to see - what to do

If you are after unspoilt countryside, rich cultural heritage or outdoor adventure, Mayenne is the place to be.

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.

This was also the opinion of William the Conqueror who tried in vain to besiege the medieval fortress at Sainte Suzanne from 1083-1087.

Rolling green fields dotted with languidly grazing cattle stretch for as far as the eye can see; knots of woodland string across the gently undulating countryside and farmers drive along the very straight, very practical roads, going about their business. 

Mayenne is a working rural idyll where farming is the principal industry and going to market is the way of life for the locals, and great fun for the tourist.

With acres of unspoilt verdure, it is little surprise that this is home to dairy specialist Président ( of butter and cheese fame) and Babybel, or that some say there are more cattle than people.

The department of Mayenne falls within the jurisdiction of the Pays-de-la-Loire region. However, bordering as it does both Normandy and Brittany, culture, tradition and countryside share and spill between all three regions to produce a department with an identity all of its own.

Mayenne (pronounced my-enne) is more or less an upended rectangle in shape and the river of the same name, centrally dissects the department from north to south. Zig-zagging your way top to bottom will take you seamlessly from Breton crêpes and Norman cider to Loire valley châteaux and wine country.

Over the years, the importance of the Mayenne river has diminished. 

Nowadays, tourists use it to fish, swim, kayak or simply take a leisurely boat trip.

The one constant is the rolling green countryside, inhabited by mild-mannered cattle, which is waiting to be explored in peace and tranquillity away from hordes of holidaymakers on the coast.