The Vélo Francette runs along the towpath through Montreuil-sur-Maine; the village’s cultural attractions also include a replica of the Lourdes Grotto and the Manoir de la Chouanière. The bocage landscape and paths along the water add to this historic setting. You can plan your stay around cycling and walking routes or places of interest.

Bocage, river and long-distance route

The bocage landscape defines Montreuil-sur-Maine. The Mayenne crosses the eastern part of the municipal area, while the Oudon forms its western boundary. The developed towpath provides walking and cycling links between the north and south. On a clear day, it also offers panoramic views of the Mayenne.

The Vélo Francette runs through Montreuil-sur-Maine along this towpath. The long-distance route goes from Ouistreham in the Calvados department to La Rochelle in the Charente-Maritime department. If you are planning a longer cycling trip, you can include the village as a stop along the route.

A 9.5-kilometre route follows the river along the towpath towards the Haras du Lion d’Angers and Parc de l’Isle Briand. The return to the village follows a developed footpath alongside the departmental road.

The municipality has also created several footpaths and greenways on its streets and in its residential areas. Cyclists and walkers can use a rest area with covered picnic tables, a water point and toilets. Check the facilities on site before relying on them.

Grotto, church and manor

A mill is one of Montreuil-sur-Maine’s tourist attractions. Other sights include a replica of the Lourdes Grotto, also known as the “Petit Lourdes Angevin”. You can also visit Saint-Pierre Church.

The façades and roofs of the Manoir de la Chouanière have been listed as French historic monuments since 24 October 1973. The estate includes a garden enclosed by dry-stone walls, with six regularly arranged beds. Fruit trees, including apple, pear and quince trees, grow there. The manor also includes a chapel built in 1716.

Other dates help trace the history of the village: the first written record of Montreuil-sur-Maine dates from the late 12th century. In the Middle Ages, the municipality’s lands were under the authority of the Abbaye du Ronceray d’Angers. These details place the local cultural sites within a longer history without linking them to a single period.

Lock and getting there

From April to September, visitors can see the lock in operation as leisure boats pass through. If you plan your visit around this, check the operating conditions on site.

Montreuil-sur-Maine is easily accessible via the D775 and N162. When planning your trip, you can combine the drive with a stay near the riverside paths, the circular route or the cultural sites.

Discover more destinations: Linières-Bouton, Les Rairies, Champtocé-Sur-Loire, La Chapelle-Sur-Oudon, Turquant, Grez-Neuville, Saint-André-De-La-Marche, Méon.

View the regional travel guide: Maine-Et-Loire.