The Erve Valley is one of the Natura 2000 sites. A protected and listed area, the valley is home to a rich flora and fauna unique to the north of the Loire. It's the perfect place for all nature lovers who want to escape for a day.
The Erve Valley, a Natura 2000 site
The Erve Valley, located in Coëvrons, in Mayenne, is an exceptional natural area, recognized by the label Natura 2000.
It takes its name from the small river that runs through it: the Erve. From Vimarcé to Sablé, the Erve winds through the valley, revealing several prehistoric cavesThese caves are located mainly in the communes of Thorigné-en-Charnie, Saint-Pierre-sur-Erve et Saulges.
As you stroll along the Erve Valley , you will be amazed by the variety of its preserved landscapes.
This will be the perfect opportunity to try out one of its 50 hiking routes!
Indeed, did you know that the Coëvrons in Mayenne had more than 500 km of hiking trails?
The formation of the Saulges Caves site
La Saulges Caves Valley is made up of limestone cliffs in which caves have gradually formed.
You'll see a 345-million-year-old limestone formation, one of the oldest in France. 310 million years ago, the rocks were lifted, causing a folding process called the Hercynian. You can still see it today thanks to the unique inclination of the rock layers.
As they tilted, the limestone layers cracked, and erosion caused by the weather created caves. This erosion called "karstic", is at the origin of the formation of the caves.
Prehistoric caves in Mayenne!
Today, around twenty caves are known, some of which were used as shelters by Neanderthals and later by Homo sapiens. Among them, the Grotte Margot stands out as one of the only decorated caves in the northern Pays de la Loire region, containing precious prehistoric engravings and drawings.
For an immersive experience in the time of prehistoric men, venture to the Museum of Prehistory , where you will learn more about their daily lives and lifestyles.
Next, head to the Rochefort Cave or the Margot Cave for a captivating guided tour ! The Goat Cave , on the other hand, can be visited freely.
Sporting events in the heart of the Valley!
If you're looking for a fun family activity during your stay in the Coëvrons region of Mayenne, why not venture into the heart of the Erve Valley? You can not only enjoy the natural surroundings but also participate in sporting activities that will delight both young and old. It's the perfect opportunity to combine discovery and enjoyment in this enchanting setting.
Throughout the year, you can try out many activities . You will have the opportunity to try rock climbing and caving.
And for the more athletic, numerous marked hiking trails will allow you to explore the valley of caves, or discover it in a different way thanks to our trail running routes!
Visit the Museum of Prehistory and the Saulges Caves
Come and discover the prehistoric caves of Saulges, through a guided tour, including a stop at the Museum of Prehistory!
