Combining cultural discoveries, nature escapades and gastronomic breaks, the Pays de la Loire region is ideal for families. Here's our advice on how to make the most of a short but intense stay.
Le Mans' wealth of heritage
Le Mans was awarded the Ville d'art et d'histoire (City of Art and History) label by the Ministry of Culture in 2002. It's hardly surprising when you take the time to wander the narrow, cobbled streets of the historic quarter, admiring its listed buildings, medieval facades and Saint-Julien cathedral. A breathtaking building, a jewel of the Gothic and Romanesque eras, with a vault of a thousand lights and colours.
After this plunge into history, the day ends with an aperitif on the water! Children will be delighted to play freshwater sailor on a sand boat. In the past, this boat used to collect sand from the Loire to build towns, but now the tug "La rêveuse de Saint-Nicolas" has been converted to offer tourists a river trip.
Finally, all summer long, Le Mans lights up with La Nuit des Chimères. As night falls, free projections sublimate the city's historic monuments, such as the Roman wall. It's a breathtaking spectacle that will leave a lasting impression on young and old alike!
The Alpes Mancelles for a breath of fresh air
Nature lovers will love stopping off in the verdant Alpes Mancelles. As well as its picturesque villages, this unspoilt setting offers a wealth of kid-friendly activities: supervised orienteering courses, hikes, treasure hunts, mountain bike circuits, canoeing down the Sarthe with Préférence-Plen Air, a visit to an educational farm where alpacas (miniature llamas that look like cuddly toys) are reared. Each activity is an invitation to enjoy a moment of relaxation and discovery with your family. The change of scenery is complete when, at nightfall, the children lie down in a top-of-the-range lodge tent, lulled by the sounds of nature.
The enchanted crossing in Mayenne
Make way for château life! Mayenne has no fewer than 279 manor houses, including five châteaux-forts! If you hire a bike, you can cycle from one to the other on the Vélo Francette: 85km of cycle paths criss-crossing the département. These include the Château de Sainte-Suzanne, nestling in the heart of a medieval town perched on a rock. But châteaux are also ideal places for a timeless break. At Château-Gontier, book a room and slip into the shoes of a castle owner! Finally, don't leave La Mayenne without visiting the Robert Tatin museum. Set in the heart of the Mayenne bocage at Cossé-le-Vivien, this palace of colossal sculptures combines art and nature.
A city break in Nantes
It's impossible to leave the region without stopping off in Nantes, a city so popular with families! And with good reason. Everything has been designed to make life easier for them, starting with le Voyage à Nantes, with its fun route through the city. How does it work? A 12km green line on the ground to guide visitors to the city's cultural landmarks, major monuments, works of art and unique features. Each summer, the route is enriched by temporary contemporary installations.
Children's (and adults'!) favourites remain Les Machines de l'île, where the elephant, a colossus of wood and iron, is the star attraction. Just next door is the striking Carrousel des Mondes marins, a metal aquarium filled with strange sea creatures.
Keeping with the family theme, we're off to recharge our batteries at Chez maman, just a stone's throw from the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, another must-see. In a vintage atmosphere, they cook traditional family dishes that are sure to please!
Find out more : - Preparing your stay in Pays de la Loire - Also worth reading: 48 hours in troglo mode around Saumur and There's always a good reason to come to Nantes
By Gang of Mothers
Photographer and videographer Sylvie (aka Gang Of Mothers) is a lover of beautiful images and kid-friendly destinations. Through her family escapades, she likes to show that you can combine everyday life and escapism by marvelling at the simple things in life. Take a look at her blog and discover their adventures. [https://www.instagram.com/gangofmothers/](https://www.instagram.com/gangofmothers/)
