Le Domaine des Vaulx

This scenic setting is one where you should delve into the Pays de la Loire, Normandy and Brittany surroundings as much as poss, such as at the region's designated Towns of Art and History including Laval 15 minutes' drive away as well as Jublains and Evron within 40 minutes. Another Town of Art and History about 40 minutes away is Mayenne, home of the Château de Mayenne medieval fortress and its accompanying museum. There's also Fougeres 35 minutes' drive away, with its 12th-century castle said to be the biggest in Europe, and the Place aux Arbres garden with spectacular views of the castle and the medieval Old Town below. A tiptop day out for all ages is to the canyon and caves of Saulges, about 35 minutes' drive from the site. This prehistoric site has around 20 caves unearthed so far, two of which (Margot and Rochefort) are open to the public for those keen to examine its prehistoric remains. After that, descend the canyon via the footpath to reach the comely village of Saulges and its two handsome old churches, or tackle some of the canyon's rock climbing routes: there are 150 or so around the surrounding cliffs.