Discover the Natural Beauty of The Mayenne

Mayenne is a region where nature takes centre stage. From peaceful riverbanks and rolling green hills to colourful gardens and wildflower meadows, the countryside here invites you to slow down and breathe it all in. Stroll through historic parks, picnic beside tranquil lakes, or wander along shaded woodland paths where the only sound is birdsong.

Whether you’re admiring the perfectly kept gardens of a château, exploring a fragrant rose garden in full bloom, or hiking through open fields with panoramic views, Mayenne offers a timeless escape into nature — a place to reconnect with the land, the seasons, and yourself.

Beautiful Gardens to Visit

Mayenne and its surrounding countryside are a gardener’s dream: peaceful formal beds, wildflower meadows, intimate garden rooms and wide parklands that change with the seasons. Below are some of the most delightful gardens within a short drive of your stay — perfect for a morning stroll, a family picnic, or finding inspiration for your own garden.

Les Jardins des Renaudies

Website: www.jardinsdesrenaudies.fr

Les Jardins des Renaudies are ideal for a gentle wander. Expect a mix of structured beds and relaxed, romantic planting; quiet corners for reading; and seasonal colour that makes every visit different. Great for a morning visit before continuing your day in town.

Jardin de la Pellerine

A charming garden that rewards slow exploration. Follow winding paths beneath shaded trees, discover intimate planting “rooms”, and pause by tranquil water features or benches placed to frame a view. This garden is well suited to families and anyone who loves a peaceful green escape.

Parc et Jardin de Clivoy

Clivoy’s park and gardens offer a balance of open lawns and planted borders — perfect for picnics, photography, or letting children run safely while adults enjoy the planting and landscape. It’s a lovely spot for a relaxed afternoon and pairs well with visits to nearby villages.

Parc Floral de Haute-Bretagne

A larger floral park known for its seasonal displays and well-designed themed areas. Whether you’re visiting in spring for bulbs and blossom or in summer for herbaceous borders and scent, the Parc Floral is a colourful, uplifting destination for gardeners and nature-lovers alike.

Visitor tips

• Check opening times before you go — many gardens are seasonal or have different summer/winter hours.

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and water in summer.

• Picnic friendly: most of these gardens are perfect for a picnic — pack a blanket and local treats.

• Dogs: policies vary; keep dogs on a lead and check before visiting.

• Photography: casual photography is usually fine — perfect for memory-making or social posts.

The Natural World Around Us — Explore Mayenne’s Wild Side

Beyond its charming villages and gardens, the Mayenne region offers breathtaking natural spaces — from cascading waterfalls and ancient forests to peaceful lakes and wildlife-rich wetlands. These destinations are perfect for walking, birdwatching, photography, or simply slowing down to enjoy the beauty of nature.

La Grande & Petite Cascades – Mortain

Hidden in the town of Mortain, these impressive waterfalls are a natural wonder in the heart of the countryside. The larger cascade is a dramatic 25-metre drop, while the smaller one offers a peaceful, shaded setting — both easily accessible and perfect for a short scenic walk.

Source of the Couesnon

The starting point of the Couesnon River, which eventually flows into the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, this site offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere surrounded by greenery. It’s a quiet spot for nature lovers and a great place to begin a gentle riverside stroll.

Forest of Fougères

A vast and ancient woodland with well-marked walking and cycling trails. This forest is home to diverse wildlife, seasonal flowers, and shady picnic areas — a wonderful place to explore on a warm summer day or for autumn leaf-peeping.

Fosse Arthour

Steeped in legend and surrounded by dramatic rock formations, Fosse Arthour is a striking gorge said to be linked to the tales of King Arthur. Popular with walkers, climbers, and nature lovers, it offers scenic hiking trails, panoramic views, and a sense of mystery that makes it a must-see. 

Pond of Châtillon-en-Vendelais

A tranquil lake surrounded by walking paths and picnic spots. It’s a favourite for birdwatchers, with opportunities to spot herons, ducks, and other waterfowl, especially in the early morning.

Pond of Haute-Vilaine

This large reservoir combines water sports with nature walks. You can enjoy sailing, fishing, or simply wandering along its scenic banks. It’s family-friendly and has areas for picnics and relaxing.

Pond of Paintourteau

A quiet, lesser-known spot where you can truly unwind. The gentle waters, reeds, and surrounding meadows make it ideal for a slow-paced day of nature watching.

Pond of the Valière

Located in a rural setting, this pond is a peaceful haven for wildlife and a great stop for those exploring the surrounding countryside by car or bike.

Pond of Cantache

A large body of water surrounded by walking trails and bird hides. This is one of the best locations in the area for spotting migratory and resident bird species throughout the year.

Nature-Lover Tips

• Binoculars & camera: a must for birdwatching and capturing scenic views.
  
  

• Respect wildlife: keep to marked trails and avoid disturbing nesting areas.
  
  

• Pack snacks & water: facilities are limited at some sites, so come prepared.
  
  

• Seasonal magic: spring and autumn bring spectacular colours, while early mornings often offer misty, atmospheric views.

WALKS

Gorron, located in the Mayenne region, offers several scenic walks that allow you to explore the charming countryside and natural beauty of the area. Here are some recommended walks:

1. The Bois d’Hermet Trail

• Distance: Approx. 6 km

• Difficulty: Easy

• Description: This loop trail takes you through peaceful woodlands and fields. It's ideal for a relaxed stroll, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy nature.

2. La Varenne River Walk

• Distance: 4-5 km

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Description: Following the River Varenne, this trail offers riverside views, pastoral landscapes, and chances to see local birds and other wildlife. Great for families.

3. Gorron Heritage Walk

• Distance: Approx. 4 km

• Difficulty: Easy

• Description: This walk takes you through the historical parts of Gorron, past old mills, churches, and traditional Mayenne architecture. It’s a leisurely way to experience the town’s heritage and culture.

4. La Forêt de Fougères

• Distance: Varies (multiple routes)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Description: About 25 km from Gorron, the Forest of Fougères offers longer hiking options. Several marked trails wind through ancient woodlands, with diverse flora and fauna. A beautiful day trip from Gorron.

5. Voie Verte (Greenway)

• Distance: Varies

• Difficulty: Easy

• Description: Converted from old railway lines, this is a long, flat path perfect for walking or cycling. Stretching through Mayenne, it provides panoramic views of the countryside, making it a tranquil escape.

6. Circuit des Chapelles

• Distance: Approx. 10 km

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Description: This circuit takes you through local chapels and small rural villages around Gorron. It’s a longer walk but offers a deep dive into the history and culture of the region.

All these trails offer a mix of history, nature, and local culture, making them ideal for discovering the beauty of Mayenne around Gorron. Make sure to bring a map or GPS if venturing out on longer trails.

Saint-Fraimbault in the Orne department is known for its picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal location for nature walks. Here are some suggested walks around the area:

1. Le Circuit des Jardins et de la Nature

• Distance: Approx. 5 km

• Difficulty: Easy

• Description: This walking trail takes you through the "Village Fleuri" (Flowered Village) of Saint-Fraimbault, known for its beautiful gardens and floral displays. The walk offers views of the local gardens, ponds, and small rivers, making it a relaxing and scenic route.

2. The Varenne River Walk

• Distance: 8 km (round trip)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Description: Follow the River Varenne as it winds through the countryside around Saint-Fraimbault. The path takes you past meadows, woodlands, and farmlands, with opportunities for bird watching and picnics along the riverbank.

3. The Lac de Saint-Fraimbault Trail

• Distance: 2.5 km

• Difficulty: Easy

• Description: This easy walk around the lake in Saint-Fraimbault is perfect for families. The trail is well-maintained and offers peaceful views of the lake, along with recreational spots for fishing, boating, or just relaxing by the water.

4. Circuit de La Forêt d'Andaine

• Distance: Various routes (5 km to 15 km)

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Description: About 15 km from Saint-Fraimbault, this walk takes you through the ancient Forêt d'Andaine, a dense forest with well-marked trails. Ideal for nature lovers, the forest is home to wildlife and offers several paths ranging from short walks to longer hikes through the woodlands.

5. The Chapels Circuit

• Distance: Approx. 10 km

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Description: This circuit passes by several small chapels and hamlets around Saint-Fraimbault, offering insight into the local history and architecture. It’s a more rural route that gives walkers a taste of the traditional life in Normandy’s countryside.

6. Voie Verte Domfront to Mont-Saint-Michel

• Distance: Varies (can be up to 90 km)

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Description: A little farther from Saint-Fraimbault, you can access the Voie Verte (Greenway) that connects Domfront to Mont-Saint-Michel. This converted railway line offers a flat and scenic walk suitable for walking or cycling, with views of the rolling countryside of Normandy and nearby Mayenne.

These walks offer diverse experiences, from peaceful garden strolls to longer hikes through forests and along rivers. The region’s natural beauty makes it a wonderful place to explore on foot.