Holidays in Mayenne, Loire Valley, France

By Phil Hanlon
The rural department of Mayenne is located within the Loire Valley region in the west of France. With few large towns, most visitors will spend their time exploring the beautiful natural scenery and historic villages in the area. This is an ideal location for those who like their countryside unspoilt and without lots of crowds. That's not to say there isn't plenty for tourists to enjoy; prehistoric caves, Roman ruins and historic castles are all within easy reach.
Saint Suzanne
The medieval town of Saint Suzanne occupies a dominant position on a 70-metre cliff overlooking the Erve River. William the Conqueror once tried, and failed, to take the fortress with a siege after his more successful visit to England. You can still visit the remains of the original keep and some of the town walls are still standing too. Near to Saint Suzanne is the Erves Dolmen, a prehistoric burial chamber built using large stones which would then have been covered by earth. This example is now open to visitors and has been dated from 4,700 BC. You can only reach the dolmen on foot, though there is a small car park nearby and the site is well sign-posted from Saint Suzanne.