The Mont des Avaloirs
On the eastern edge of the Massif Armoricain and at the crossroads of 3 départements, Sarthe, Orne and Mayenne, the Alpes Mancelles are a landscape of unspoilt, rolling, wooded hills with plenty of outdoor activities for all the family. Here you can go up in the world and enjoy the fresh air !
The Mont des Avaloirs and Alpes Mancelles at the heart of the Normandie-Maine Regional Park
At 416m the Mont des Avaloirs is the highest point of western France. The 108 steps to the top of its viewing tower lead to a magnificent 360°view. From the platform, 18m above the ground, you can see up to 100km in every direction and admire the wonderful scenery of the Parc Naturel Régional Normandie-Maine, the Forêt de Multonne and the Alpes Mancelles. Maybe a hen harrier will glide past on its way to hunt for voles !
Mont des Avaloirs – a great place for walkers
A footpath starts near the viewing tower car park and leads to « La Pierre au Loup » (a 30 minute walk), where the River Mayenne rises. The area is wonderful for walking, with over 50 different signposted circuits to discover the natural, historic and cultural heritage. From valleys with wooded slopes to rivers running through orchards, these walks along little paths used by local in bygone days are ideal for family walks or hikes with friends.
Very close to Mont des Avaloirs lies Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, one of the « Loveliest Villages in France », where the harmonious landscape and quality of light inspired many artists like Jean-Baptiste Corot and Gustave Courbet. Stop off at Saint Anne de Chamfrémont, an idyllic place on the edge of a wood centred round a chapel and a regular venue for events such as fairs, walks and car boot sales. You may even meet a member of the Confrérie des Fins Goustiers du Haut-Maine et Pail (who promote the area and its products) who will recount the legend of the nearby Source du Bélier !
Discover Mayenne with Gites de France Mayenne : Vallée de la Mayenne, Mayenne - a haven for fishermen.
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