Opt for a license-free river cruise on a river boat from Daon and discover the charms of this French commune on a romantic trip along the river. Daon, which is located in the department of the same name and bisected by the Mayenne river, has a rich cultural heritage. It attracts history enthusiasts, but also travelers in search of peace and quiet.
An impressive cultural heritage
The municipality of Daon is particularly remarkable for its magnificent green natural surroundings and the presence of its impressive and romantic buildings. When you explore this pretty little town, you will quickly fall under the spell of the castles of Morteau and l'Escoublère. You will continue with an interesting visit to the estates of Bellevue, Lutz, Beaumont, Bréon, Touche-Belin and many others.
After this tour of the châteaux, it is impossible not to visit the other architectural monuments that embellish the city. The church of Saint-Germain and the Petit Marigné mansion are among the must-sees. Of course, all these estates, endowed with a certain elegance, have picturesque gardens where it is pleasant to stroll.
A charming river cruise
In addition to exploring the châteaux, your stay in Daon will be enhanced by a pleasant trip on the Mayenne river. This way, you will have time not only to appreciate the sumptuous landscapes, but also to enjoy the gentle atmosphere. Relax peacefully at the side of the boat while savoring local specialties.
Explore the neighboring hamlets such as Château-Gontier, Craon with its fabulous castle, Angers, Solesmes, Saulges, then Laval and Sainte-Suzanne. If you like walking or horse riding, the many paths leading to majestic castles and lush forests are just waiting for you! Daon also has a leisure center where you can have fun with your family. Friendly activities such as petanque, pedalos and even canoeing are sure to delight young and old alike.
France river navigation Daon to North: 7 Days
Daon is a French commune, located in the department of Mayenne and the Pays de la Loire region, with a population of 486 inhabitants1 (the Daonnais). Close to Mélin, Coudray and on the border with the department of Maine-et-Loire, the commune is located in southern Mayenne.
Practical information
- Starting point: Daon
- Arrival point: Daon
- Total km: 100 km
- Total Hours: 20 h 56 min
- Total Locks: 34 Locks
Summary of your itinerary
Daon >>> Ménil (6 km / 1 hr 00 min / 1 lock)
Ménil is a French commune, located in the department of Mayenne and the Pays de la Loire region, with a population of 965 inhabitants1 (the Ménilois). Located in southern Mayenne, 45 km from Angers, the village is close to Daon and Saint-Fort. The Mayenne river crosses and runs along the eastern part of its territory. Mélin had a population of 1,570 in 1861.
Ménil >>> Chateau Gontier (8 km / 1 hr 45 min / 3 locks)
Château-Gontier, a town in Haut-Anjou, through which the Mayenne river flows, is a sub-prefecture of the Mayenne department, located in Angevin Mayenne, 30 km south of Laval, the prefecture of the department, and 40 km north of Angers. The Château-Gontier conurbation includes the market towns of Bazouges, Azé and Saint-Fort. The whole area has a population of around 16,000. Château-Gontier has the largest veal market in Europe (Parc Saint-Fiacre).
Chateau Gontier >>> Saint Sulpice (Neuville) (7.5 km / 1 hr 26 min / 2 locks)
Small harbor and Restaurant Dans Le Moulin.
Saint Sulpice (Neuville) >>> La Valette (4.2 km / 1 hr 01 min / 2 Locks)
Petit Port
La valette >>> Origné (7.3 km / 1 hr 24 min / 2 Locks)
Petit Port From the village of Origné
Origné >>> Entrammes (7 km / 1 hr 22 min / 2 Locks)
The Entrammes river stop is a favorite port of call for pleasure boaters on the Mayenne. Located 200 meters from the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Port-du-Salut and 10 kilometers from Laval, it is a welcome place for pleasure boating but also for hikers and walkers: for a moment's pause and to sample local products, or to set off for the surrounding tourist attractions.
Entrammes >>> Laval (10 km / 2 hrs 30 mins / 5 Locks)
Laval is a French city located in the department of Mayenne and the Pays de la Loire region. It is part of Maine, a former French province. The capital of the department, Laval is located between three major regions: Normandy, Brittany and Anjou. In 1993, it was awarded the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (Town of Art and History) label in recognition of its rich heritage.
Laval >>> Daon (50 km / 10 hrs 28 mins / 17 locks)
Daon is a French commune, located in the department of Mayenne and the Pays de la Loire region, with a population of 486 inhabitants1 (the Daonnais). Close to Mélin, Coudray and on the border with the department of Maine-et-Loire, the commune is located in southern Mayenne.
Good to know
| Number of boats available | 1 190 |
|---|---|
| Average price per week | $2,436 |
| Minimum weekly price | $794 |
| Maximum price per week | $4,662 |