Places of Interest in Western Loire
- Le Mans

Certainly it is world-famous for the legendary 24 hour car race that it stages every year, but you may be surprised to know that Le Mans also has close connections with early air travel. Pioneer aviator Wilbur Wright came here in 1908 to set a then world record flight distance of 90 miles. A 40 foot high memorial to him and his brother Orville stands in the city's Place des Jacobins.

A Car Enthusiast's Heaven!

There's plenty here to interest car loving tourists even when the celebrated 24 hour event is not taking place. In fact numerous other events and races take place on the track, and when it is not in use for these, it reverts back to being a public road. So you can enjoy your own drive along this historic stretch of tarmac absolutely free of charge. There's also a magnificent car museum that features everything from an 1885 prototype steam driven dog cart, to a wide variety of legendary names such as Bugatti, Hispano-Suiza, Ferrari, Porches and Rolls-Royce. Twelve actual 24 hour race winners are on display.

Things to do

While here, you should not miss out on visiting the city's old quarter located on a hill overlooking the Sarthe River. Here, amongst the labyrinth of narrow, winding streets you'll see many fine examples of medieval and Renaissance houses. The Cathedral of St Julien should also figure on your itinerary, if only to appreciate its soaring Gothic columns, fabulous stained glass windows and ornately carved Romanesque doorway.