Start in front of the Vieux Château
For your first visit to Laval, we suggest starting at the Vieux Château. Standing above the Mayenne, this landmark immediately connects the town with its river. It is an easy starting point for finding your bearings before exploring the streets of the centre.
The tourist office offers several ways to discover the castle, including its keep and chapel. Visits depend on the programme: choose your time slot before planning the rest of the day. If you prefer to stay outdoors, make this first stop an opportunity to enjoy Laval’s skyline.
Take your time in the streets of the centre
After the castle, leave some time without a tightly packed schedule. The pleasure of exploring on foot is being able to stop at a façade, return to a little square or linger over lunch. A series of timed visits often leaves fewer memories than a route with room to pause.
Our advice: choose just one indoor visit for the day, depending on the available time slots. This leaves time to explore the streets around the castle and decide where to have lunch. Book a table if you have a particular place in mind, especially at weekends or during an event.
Pause in the Jardin de la Perrine
The Jardin de la Perrine offers a different view of Laval, with its planting and views across the town. The rose garden and Henri Rousseau’s grave add a cultural dimension to the walk. It fits easily into a day spent in the centre.
We suggest setting aside time to pause here rather than simply crossing the garden between appointments. To plan this stop, read our article about the garden and check the municipal opening hours. Flowers and light change with the seasons: your route need not be the same every time.
Finish on the banks of the Mayenne
Heading down to the quays is a relaxing way to end your visit. After the streets and monuments, seeing the town from the river offers another perspective on the day. There is no need to plan a long hike to enjoy this final moment.
Before setting off, simply decide where to turn back. With children, allow extra time for breaks and the return journey. Back at Chez Patou, the sitting room and garden let you continue your stay at your own pace.
- Check castle visits before planning your day.
- Wear shoes suitable for walking around town.
- Keep an indoor option in mind in case of rain.
- On your first day at the house, plan to arrive from 6 pm.