Le Mans is also in the west of France, at the heart of a triangle formed by Normandy to the north west, Paris to the north east, and the Loire Valley to the south. It's in the département of La Sarthe. The city has about 150 000 inhabitants, and  while you're there, you'll be given a high quality of  French hospitality.

The city is best known for 'Les 24 heures', the 24 hour motor race that takes place every year. You can visit the circuit and the motor racing museum nearby. Its magnificient gothic cathedral, and the old town are also well worth a visit. You can either have the services of a qualified local guide, or just wander round in your own time.

The surrounding area has plenty to offer : Saumur, with its Renaissance Castle, the Ackermann wine cellars and the 'Cadre Noir' is a popular choice with groups, as are the Futuroscope in Poitiers, and the Mémorial in Caen.
 

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