All sailors on the deck !

Standing on the water on a paddleboard

Fun and accessible, paddle boarding combines the pleasure of gliding and discovery. You can start on your knees while you find your balance on the board. Once you’re comfortable, you can stand proudly on the water. One careless second and splash, you’re in the water, to the laughter of your friends. Whether you go for a gentle stroll or a frantic run, it’s up to you.

For paddleboarding, head for the leisure centres, kayak clubs or hire sites on the banks of rivers or ponds.

Practical information: This activity is available for children aged 6 and over, provided they know how to swim. Lifejackets are compulsory and can be borrowed on site. Individual or shared paddle depending on the base.

A kayak paddle down the Mayenne

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, canoeing and kayaking is the ideal way to get to grips with water sports. On the calm waters of lakes and rivers, you’ll discover new sensations. For the more sporty, you can take a half-day or full-day trip.

From the flight of a heron to the swarm of dragonflies and the dive of a kingfisher, this is a bucolic outing that offers a whole new view of the wild banks of the Mayenne.

If you need equipment, head for the leisure centres and parks or kayak clubs.

Practical information: This activity is available for children who can swim. Lifejackets are compulsory and can be borrowed on site. Single or double kayak depending on the establishment. Bookings required.

A gentle escape on an electric boat

River ports of call in Laval and Entrammes

Bring your sailing dreams to life at the river stop in Laval or Entrammes. As captain of an electric boat, you can sail to your heart’s content with your crew of little sailors. You don’t need a boating licence, and the boats are very easy and safe to handle. Passing through the locks is often epic.

There’s no risk of seasickness, as the waters of La Mayenne are calm. You can even pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the way.

To prolong the pleasure, spend the night rocked by the waves, aboard a houseboat. Ideal for 6 freshwater sailors. On the programme: sailing during the day, and sweet dreams on the pontoon at night. The great escape is yours.

Practical information: All minors must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations required. Open from April to September.

Waddling on the river Mayenne

at Canotika, Château-Gontier

In Château-Gontier, you’ll fall under the spell of the dandy, a small single-seater electric boat. With a cruising speed of 6 km/h, it’s easy to drive and you don’t even need a driving licence. It is steered using a steering wheel and a joystick to move forwards or backwards. There’s no risk of capsizing, because this little boat in retro colours is very stable. Cast off!

Practical information: Lifejackets must be worn and can be borrowed on site. By reservation. 

Guinguettes and restaurants

Lunch at the water’s edge

Water sports can be very tiring. Whether you’re feeling peckish or really hungry, head to the guinguettes for a tasty treat (almost) with your feet in the water. The setting is ideal for enjoying a little more, in the shade of the canopies. Whether you want to take a siesta in the comfort of a chilienne, play wooden games or chat, it’s up to you.

In summer, most of the guinguettes also offer a varied programme of concerts and entertainment.

So, are you more into vanilla scoops or chocolate waffles?

Practical information: the programme of events, services on offer and opening times vary from one guinguette to another, so don’t hesitate to ask beforehand.