Another day when the whole area was blanketed in fog
Took a gamble and drove 80kms to the highest point in the region.
Lo and behold, at the summit we emerged into beautiful sunshine and blue skies.
It was great to look down on the milky pools of mist in the valleys below.

There has been an observation platform at this spot since 1914. The original wooden
structure was destroyed in WW2, but replaced in 1954. Due to the encroachment of
forrestation it was eventually overwhelmed, and replaced in 1994.
The current structure was closed to the public the day following our visit, for several
months of refurbishment - re-opening in May 2018.  Just got there in time!

It was an interesting video but I found in several areas, the panning seemed to be too fast so it was not possible to look at the scenery. I also think you could have reduced the amount of time spent on the structure to make the video just a bit shorter and easier viewing.

Nice video Jenee 2 is right, next time try to follow this tips ;)

Jenee 2 Posted at 2018-1-17 21:39
It was an interesting video but I found in several areas, the panning seemed to be too fast so it was not possible to look at the scenery. I also think you could have reduced the amount of time spent on the structure to make the video just a bit shorter and easier viewing.

All valid points, thanks. I plead over-enthusiasm after 3 weeks grounded due to bad weather

Nice area to film.
I know about this over enthusiasm.
Learning all the time.

Subscribed to your channel.

I have one channel that I would love to get 1000 subscribers (because of the new Youtube rules)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvJGfq16FGXekfaqQ2DhoWQ
(there will be drone video's here when I re purchase my Mavic)
If you want, please subscribe too.

Montfrooij Posted at 2018-1-18 00:33
Nice area to film.
I know about this over enthusiasm.
Learning all the time.

Dank U wel Montfrooij.
On a clear day the Mont Saint Michel monastery on the Channel coast can be seen from here, around 100Kms distant.  Not that day though - too much fog

Blériot53 Posted at 2018-1-18 03:11
Dank U wel Montfrooij.
On a clear day the Mont Saint Michel monastery on the Channel coast can be seen from here, around 100Kms distant.  Not that day though - too much fog

You're welcome!

I thought the time spent on the on the observation platform was OK, it's a remarkably simple yet interesting structure. I enjoyed it and to be honest the scenery is fairly monotonous and restricted.

I will be in your part of the world in a few months when we visit my wife parents and later in summer when we spend a couple of weeks with them in St Cast.

Good effort!

PeteHB Posted at 2018-1-18 04:41
I thought the time spent on the on the observation platform was OK, it's a remarkably simple yet interesting structure. I enjoyed it and to be honest the scenery is fairly monotonous and restricted.

Yes, finding interesting material in the Mayenne is not easy.  Much of it is monotonous fields, and the more photogenic areas are littered with no-fly restrictions.
The Belvedere is about to undergo several months of refurbishment.
At my last visit about ten years ago, I remember illustrative panels on the walls, which have presumably succumbed to the ravages of the weather, or vandalism. There's even some graffiti.
The surrounding countryside is mostly forest - not overly interesting to film.
And at this time of the year even more bleak when devoid of leaves.

ALABAMA Posted at 2018-1-18 04:55
Good effort!

Thanks AL. An opportunity seized. And lucky with the weather!

Bracco Posted at 2018-1-17 23:04
Nice video  Jenee 2 is right, next time try to follow this tips ;)

Grazie Bracco.  Climbing the 108 steps to see the view was an effort

Id like to go there, might make a detour on route to my brother-in-laws place near Angoulême later this year. just subscribed to your channel, If you get 5 mins have a look at mine    

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuM1emnLLP6kjjVePijNFSw   

Dale 68 Posted at 2018-1-19 01:15
Id like to go there, might make a detour on route to my brother-in-laws place near Angoulême later this year. just subscribed to your channel, If you get 5 mins have a look at mine     

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuM1emnLLP6kjjVePijNFSw

Thanks for the link and subscription, Dale. I've reciprocated

Note that the Viewing platform at Mont des Avaloirs is now closed to visitors until the 1st May 2018
Cleaning and refurbishment will be undergone during the closed season.
Feel free to PM me before you pass this way.

Looks like you had some fun with a decent break in the weather! Interesting platform. Thanks for sharing.

johnsr Posted at 2018-1-19 08:29
Looks like you had some fun with a decent break in the weather! Interesting platform. Thanks for sharing.

Yes thanks, John.  Exhausted two batteries that day.  I've been trying to discover who the architect of the structure was, but can find no reference.
It's more functional than aesthetically pleasing, but it does give a splendid view.
I hope the remedial works restore it to it's former glory. At one time it had informative pictorial panels inset into the walls, and photovoltaic  panels to provide lighting. But they have suffered the ravages of time, or vandalism.  I'll re-visit in summer to see the difference.

Dirty Bird Posted at 2018-1-19 22:32
I enjoyed the video & the time spent on the details of the structure.  Beats trees for sure!  People have such short attention spans these days...sigh.

Thanks DB.  Yes I edited my footage down from 40 minutes' worth to 4.5 minutes.  You can only enjoy trees up to a point