Why visit the Jardin de la Perrine?
The Jardin de la Perrine is a public garden in Laval combining walking paths, planting and views over the town. Its location makes it a lovely place to slow down between exploring the historic centre and walking along the Mayenne.
We recommend treating it as somewhere to take your time. An hour can be a useful guide for your plans, rather than an official visiting time: some travellers come for a short break, while others prefer to study the plants and stay longer.
Look for views across the town
The rose garden is one of the garden’s notable features. From its northern end, the keep of the Vieux Château appears in the landscape. It is a chance to see again a landmark you may already have spotted from the quays, and to understand how Laval is arranged around its river.
The walk also takes in the lime-tree avenue and the orangery, now used for exhibitions. The City of Laval asks visitors to walk within the garden. If you arrive by bicycle from the quays, plan to continue on foot.
Remembering Le Douanier Rousseau
The garden is home to the grave of Henri Rousseau, the Laval-born painter known as Le Douanier Rousseau. His presence links the walk with the town’s artistic history. It can be the starting point for discovering more of Laval’s heritage.
On a short stay, there is no need to fit in too many cultural stops. The garden can be enough for a first pause, followed by a castle visit or a walk around town the next day. With children, make it an observation outing: choose a colour, look at the shapes of trees or spot a detail in the landscape.
How can you fit the garden into your stay?
Our suggestion: start with breakfast at Chez Patou, then head into the centre according to the time you have. If the garden is your priority, leave the rest open. If you combine it with a booked visit, allow enough time so you do not have to cut your walk short.
Check the City of Laval’s page for current opening hours. For particular access or mobility needs, check the route with the municipal service before travelling. The entrance you choose and conditions on the day matter more than a theoretical walking time.
- Combine the garden with just one other main visit.
- Plan a relaxing stop regardless of whether the roses are in bloom.
- Check municipal opening hours before setting off.