Walking cruise
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Regis Verger

The Mayenne Valley

Walks, leisure activities and relaxation

A valley like no other, an invitation to explore

As the gateway to the Vélo Francette cycle route, the towpath is also an ideal way to discover the region’s treasures. With its open-air cafés, themed boat trips and a route perfect for relaxation, it is a place for recharging your batteries and sharing experiences, inviting everyone to reconnect with nature. This leafy path follows the river’s meandering course, offering walkers and cyclists a unique experience, where every turn of the pedals echoes to the soothing rhythm of the water.

Our cruises

on board the Vallis Guidonis

This winter, come and be enchanted by the ‘Croisières des Lumières’ aboard the Vallis Guidonis!

Set sail on the River Mayenne and discover Laval decked out in its finest illuminations. Whether on a leisurely cruise, a dinner cruise or a musical evening, enjoy a magical experience on the water, combining the enchantment of the lights, illuminated heritage and culinary delights.

In a warm and festive atmosphere, let yourself be swept away by the magic of winter and experience Laval in a whole new way, to the rhythm of the river.

Enjoy a special moment on a cruise. As you’re swept away by the magic of the Laval Lights, you’ll savour a festive menu whilst cruising along the River Mayenne. An unmissable experience of Laval’s illuminations!

Practical information

  • Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 25 November to 17 December
  • From 8 pm to 10 pm
  • Prices: €58 per adult – €30 per child under 12
  • Bookings open from mid-October

Menu

  • Signature punch* and savoury canapés
  • Gravlax
  • The unmissable duck Parmentier with its rich gravy
  • Cheese platter
  • Tiramisu with seasonal flavours
  • White wine, red wine* · Still water · Glass of sparkling wine* · Coffee

* Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health

Share a truly special moment with your loved ones. During this cruise through the heart of the Age of Enlightenment, the pianist’s music will complement the chef’s festive menu, delighting your senses. A unique and harmonious experience!

Practical information

  • Fridays and Saturdays, from 27 November to 19 December
  • From 8.00 pm to 10.30 pm
  • Prices: €73 per adult – €37 per child under 12
  • Bookings open from mid-October

Menu

  • A glass of Crémant* and 4 savoury canapés
  • Pressed semi-cured foie gras from our region with exotic fruits
  • Mayenne capon medallion with porcini mushrooms, creamy mashed potatoes, and chestnut-infused pumpkin purée
  • Crispy Mayenne Camembert with cider
    Mayenne-style pork cutlets with apples
  • White wine, red wine* · Still and sparkling water · Glass of Crémant* · Coffee

    * Alcohol abuse is dangerous to your health

    Sightseeing cruise. Discover the illuminations from a unique vantage point: the River Mayenne.
    Come aboard the Vallis Guidonis just before the lights come on, and enjoy the captain’s commentary as he introduces you to the town from the water…

    Practical information

    • Wednesday to Sunday, 25 November to 30 December (except 24 and 25 December)
    • From 4.45 pm to 6 pm
    • Flat rate of €12 per person. Free for children under 2 years old
    • Bookings open from mid-October

    Treat someone special with our cruise gift vouchers and give the gift of a getaway on the water.
    Available from the Laval Tourisme shop in late October

    * Alcohol abuse is dangerous to your health.
    Menus created by our partner chefs: La Cantine, Le Bouillon du Palatium and Le Petit Périgord.
    Children’s menu (under 12s) is the same as the adult menu, with portion sizes adapted for children.

    The River Stop

    Your starting point for unforgettable leisure activities!

    Situated right in the heart of Laval, in Square de Boston, just 5 minutes from the historic centre, the Halte Fluviale de Laval invites you to enjoy the pleasure of being close to nature and offers you a taste of the holidays.

    A welcome centre for walkers and river tourists, as well as a place to hire electric or motorised boats (no licence required), pedalos and bicycles (with or without child seats).

    • Open from April to August
    • Outside the Halte Fluviale’s opening hours, bike hire is still available for collection from the Laval Tourist Office, subject to availability and opening days

    Why not make the most of everything?

    Leisure activities for everyone, on land and on water, to explore, relax and have fun

    The towpath

    Completely restored over the years and maintained every year by the département, this old path once used to pull barges has now become a major hiking route in Mayenne.

    The 85km of green ribbon running alongside the river, with its many locks and guinguettes, is a great way to discover a natural heritage that is virtually unique in France.

    Hikers, walkers and other nature lovers can discover La Mayenne from all angles: history, heritage, fauna, flora, nature, locks.

    From Laval and the river stop, choose the bike that’s right for you (electric-assist, traditional, Gravel) and its equipment (children’s trailer, follower bike, panniers) and create your own adventure!