Laval’s quays or the towpath?
The Mayenne offers two complementary ways to explore the surroundings of Laval: a stroll along the town’s quays, or a longer outing on the towpath. The first works well between two visits; the second means deciding on the distance and return journey before setting off.
For a first stay, we suggest starting modestly. A short walk lets you see whether you feel like going further. The aim is not to cover as many kilometres as possible, but to choose an outing that suits the time available and everyone’s pace.
Plan a walk
An out-and-back route is often the easiest to organise: choose how long to walk out, then retrace your steps. The landscape looks different on the way back, and you avoid relying on transport to return to your starting point.
Before leaving the quays for a longer outing, consult a route from the tourist office. Check the route conditions, weather and any restrictions. Take water and wear clothes suited to the actual length of the walk. A distance that looks short on a map may take longer when you include breaks.
Discover the valley by bicycle
For bicycle hire, Laval’s Halte fluviale is at 100 rue du Vieux Saint-Louis, near the Square de Boston. Laval Tourist Office lists various bicycles and accessories there, along with access to the towpath used by La Vélo Francette. Check availability and opening periods before planning your outing.
If you hire a bicycle, check collection and return times, equipment availability and the hire company’s terms. With children, choose a route you have been able to review in advance. For a group outing, choose the distance to suit whoever wants the shortest ride: everyone will enjoy the trip more.
- Choose your turning point before setting off.
- Allow extra time before the bicycle must be returned.
- Share the path with other walkers.
- Do not assume that the house provides bicycle hire.
A riverside outing during your stay in Laval
A walk beside the water can complement a visit to the Vieux Château or fill a day on its own. For a first visit, we suggest leaving time for Laval’s streets rather than combining a long route with several visits in one day.
Back at Chez Patou, enjoy the sitting room or garden before returning to your room. For two travellers, Au fil du temps and L’Écrin offer two different atmospheres. Art Linéaire and Les César accommodate up to four people, according to the sleeping arrangements shown on each page.