The nearby town of Mayenne

Mayenne is a quiet country town of rolling hills and slate roofs. It lies at the centre of an agricultural region and is well-known for its local culinary produce. It is situated in Western Loire just over the border from Normandy.
There are many excellent restaurants in the town including 'Le Beau Rivage' on the banks of the river Mayenne that flows through its centre. Mayenne has a wide range of shops and supermarkets, swimming pools, weekly market, hospital etc. Boat trips and fishing are also available from the quay. Mayenne is the nearest town to the gite and about 10 km distant - easy cycling distance for those fit ones amongst you. This photo was taken from near the viaduct passing over Mayenne (The original was built in steel by Eiffel of tower fame but was replaced by a less attractive modern road bridge - but it does still offer spectacular views over the town)

Some of the ancient buildings in Mayenne are:

• Notre Dame - a church of truly grand style and flying buttresses dating from the 12th century.
• St Martin's Church - An 11th century church built in rust coloured granite
• Mayenne Chateau - A 9th to11th century castle that is being renovated - with ramparts and underground passages.
• The Palais de la Barre Ducale - The Palace of Justice with its old campanile and sun dials.

Free guided walking tours of the town start at the Tourist Information Office at 2:30 pm during July and August - in French, but with an English translation brochure if you wish.