FOOD AND DRINK Thanks to the high rate of agricultural
production in Mayenne, this area has some of the freshest produce in the country and a wide range of organic fruit and vegetables. You’re sure to hear about their cheese, too, particularly Port-Salut, which dates back to the 1700s
and was first made by the monks of Port du Salut Abbey. You may also recognise the local brands of Président, Chaussée aux Moines and Bons Mayennais. For a regional speciality, try the local version of a pasty, La Tourte Mayennaise, a large, round shortcrust pastry, packed with layers of beef, potatoes, cheese, carrots and shallots. As for drinks, it’s no surprise that cider is popular, but you’ll also notice various drinks featuring sureau, which is elderflower. You can even take a tour of the Maison du Sureau in Soulgé-sur-Ouette.
riverside walks, as well as a wide range of properties. A budget of €90,000 could buy a well-presented detached two-bedroom bungalow, a four-bedroom home in need of cosmetic work, a two-bedroom apartment, or a detached stone house to renovate with 4,000m2
of land. Speaking of renovation,
the department has a great portfolio of properties to choose from if you’re prepared to take on some building work. Take your pick of smaller townhouses starting at less than €30,000, or look for stone- built longères and farmhouses complete with outbuildings and several hectares from €60,000. You can certainly find renovation projects at all prices throughout the region. Finally, if you want to build
your own property, a building plot is another option. If you have a €50,000 budget, you'll be able to choose from a good selection of 600m2
plots or terrains with services nearby,
and in some areas, this same amount could get you a more generous 1,500m2
plot. Do be wary when you see a
property advertised as viager because these come with a sitting tenant. It could be an option for you, but do your research first as you may prefer to buy a property ready to use as you wish.
EMPLOYMENT AND THE ECONOMY While 21% of the population is aged 65 or over, it’s still a relatively young region, with 25% of residents aged under 20. People living in Mayenne have a median disposable income of €22,230, which is right in the middle of the range in France. Around 30% of the working
population are in manual trades, 5% in agriculture, 10% in higher managerial and professional roles, 24% in middle management and 25% are employees. Unemployment stands at 6.1%, well below the national average of 7.3%. 4
Mayenne's beautiful countryside
KEEPING IT LOCAL In 2015, Mayenne’s council made a commitment that all school canteens in the area would serve dishes that are made from 100% French produce, with 50% from Mayenne itself. In addition, 100% of the meat served in school canteens is sourced in Mayenne. This is an area that is rightly proud of its agriculture and local produce.
WHY I MOVED HERE
Mandy Barker moved from East Sussex to France in 2009, initially to Loire-Atlantique before relocating to Mayenne. “When I first came to France, I moved to Châteaubriant. I love the rural areas of France, but as I get older, there is something to be said for being closer to amenities and in a place with easier access to doctors and hospitals. Mayenne is perfect for that. It has a strong rural vibe with a lovely neighbourhood feel, but you’re only
ever a short journey away from bigger hospitals, main shops, restaurants, schools and everything you would want from city life. For me, the mix is perfect. “One of the other great things is that we don’t suffer from
huge tourist invasions, the kind that makes life unbearable during the summer months. It’s also a great base from which to go off and explore some of the outstandingly beautiful places that France has to offer. “I’ve found the French people to be welcoming and patient.
Without a doubt, it pays to try to speak some of the language, enjoy their food and definitely enjoy their wine. But I’ll never get used to having my cheese and dessert courses switched around, no matter how long I live here for!”
Medieval fortified town Ste-Suzanne was protected by a wall and tower 26 FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: March/April 2025
© SHUTTERSTOCK
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