Laval, a city to live and share
Between cobbled streets and half-timbered facades, Laval gradually reveals itself to those who know how to slow down. Here, the journey takes on another dimension - that of meeting, sharing and rediscovering time. The city of Mayenne is not something you see at first glance; it's something you get to know over the course of an hour, inviting you to push open the door of a workshop, chat with a passionate craftsman or linger on the terrace of a café. Welcome to the Slowlydays world, where you don't just visit, but exchange ideas, learn and marvel at the people who shape the soul of the region.
You'll love
Create with your own hands by passionate craftsmen
Enjoy oysters at the market like the people of Laval
Sleep in a tree house or by the river
Discover nature in Laval by bike or along wooded paths
Day 1 : at the heart of history and authentic know-how
Morning: time travel in old Laval
Start your day with a visit to the Tourist Office to pick up a guide to exploring the historic center (2.5 euros). There are no constraints, no timetables: just you, your curiosity and the passage of time. With your notebook in hand, let yourself be carried from the Vieux-Château to the medieval alleyways, where half-timbered houses whisper secrets of bygone days to help you complete your rally.
By the time you've completed the various answers in your notebook, it's already midday. On Tuesday and Saturday mornings, slip between the colorful stalls of the Laval market. Settle in at La Cave du Château, which turns into an oyster bar every Saturday morning. A local classic that immerses you in Laval's art de vivre.
Afternoon: between leather and wicker, discover exceptional craftsmanship
In the afternoon, set off for Nicolas Guérin's workshop in La Brûlatte, 15 kilometers west of Laval. In his world of leather and tools, this leather craftsman invites you to experience more than just a visit. Under his expert fingers, the material comes to life. Bracelet, card holder or belt: choose your creation and let yourself be guided in the ancestral gestures of leatherworking.
Or visit LaCabanaJude's basketry workshop in Montflours, 15 km north of Laval. Here, in a warm and soothing atmosphere, you can try your hand at weaving techniques. Branches intertwine under your fingers to give birth to your own creation. More than an object, it's a skill you'll be taking home with you.
Evening: the art of sharing a drink
In the evening, get back to the hustle and bustle of the city center. Push open the door of Quil'Ubu for a natural wine tasting in a relaxed atmosphere where regular game nights create spontaneous bonds. Or prefer L'Antre Potes, this downtown wine and tapas bar where the art of sharing is savored over generous bites and lingering conversations.
When it's time to pack your bags, Laval offers authentic accommodation. The Tiny House Rivières Bulles & Bicyclettes in Saint-Jean-de-Mayenne welcomes you to the banks of the Mayenne for a quiet night's sleep, perfect for reconnecting with nature. The 26 m² Cabane du Bon Chemin is set in a flower-filled garden, with a private spa. Le Ravito awaits you at the foot of the Avesnières basilica, for a night in a comfortable apartment. The Centre International de Séjour offers low-cost associative accommodation, with single rooms or dormitories and a bivouac area for cyclotourists, while La Chaussée d'Olivet unveils its characterful rooms 15 km from Laval, with the option of a meal tray signed by the chef of the village restaurant Le Salvert.
Day 2 : Laval's creative soul
Morning: diving into naive art, a local cultural heritage
This morning's visit to MANAS, the temple of Naïve and Singular Arts nestled in the Château de Laval, is a unique experience. This museum showcases artists who are often far removed from traditional distribution channels.
Here, the soul of Douanier Rousseau resonates, a local child whose three paintings illuminate the rooms. This precursor of naive art, first mocked then adulated, finds his rightful place here in a setting that celebrates spontaneous creativity. Works by Séraphine de Senlis, Croatian creations by the Hlebine School: each room reveals a world where imagination pushes the boundaries.
Then head to the nearby Halles gourmandes to enjoy the world cuisine stands. The spirit is convivial, the produce seasonal, and the conversation often generous.
Afternoon: local shopping and a sweet break
Afternoons are best spent indulging. Take a gourmet break at La Maison, a tearoom housed in an old Laval home, or at Dealer de Cookies, an associative space in the heart of Vieux-Laval that promotes social integration while delighting your taste buds.
Then stroll over to La Fabrik d'ici, a showcase for local crafts, where some twenty Mayenne creators display their treasures: textile creations, jewelry, misappropriated objects. Continue on to the Boutique de Laval Tourisme, showcasing local talent: local gastronomy, natural cosmetics, regional books and authentic souvenirs.
For the evening, check outEspace Mayenne's program. The program alternates shows, concerts and sports competitions.
Day 3 : nature and well-being, the green escape
Morning: cycling along the Vélo Francette
Rendezvous at Les Petits Guidons, a bike rental shop located along the river in Saint-Jean-sur-Mayenne. Classic, cargo or electric-assist bikes: choose your mount and set off on an adventure along the Vélo Francette cycle route, on the banks of the Mayenne.
Afternoon: between local flowers and preserved forest
Laval has so many surprises in store for you, and so many secrets to reveal on this last afternoon.
Wednesdays and Fridays from 4pm to 7pm, take a detour to the Terre de Couleurs flower farm in Louverné. Cut, edible or dried flowers: in this paradise of color and fragrance, flowers are local and in season, organically grown.
Or keep an eye on the program at the Centre d'Initiation à la Nature, nestled in the sensitive natural area of Bois de l'Huisserie in Laval. It offers activities and events to help you (re)discover local flora and fauna.