The bags are packed, the kids are already getting restless, and there’s just one question left to decide: where should you go for your next family vacation?
Good news—you don’t have to cross any borders to experience a complete change of scenery. From one of our campsites in France, you can go from the fine sandy beaches of the Mediterranean to the trails of Brittany, from the rivers of the Ardèche to the peaks of the Pyrenees in just a few hours’ drive. Each destination has its own atmosphere, adventures, and memories.
So, would you prefer biking along the ocean, your first canoe trip, or exploring a full-scale castle? Check out our 10 ideas for family vacations in France to find the one that’s just right for your family.
Where should you go on a family vacation in France?
For a family vacation in France, choose a destination that suits your children’s ages and your interests. Brittany for hiking, Vendée for biking, Ardèche for canoeing, or the Loire Valley for castles: France offers a vast playground for families.
Here are 10 ideal destinations for a family trip to France:
- Brittany for hiking along the coast.
- The Vendée for cycling along the Vélodyssée.
- The Ardèche for a canoeing adventure.
- The Verdon to sail on its turquoise waters.
- A campground near the Mediterranean to enjoy the sandy beaches.
- The Pyrenees for hiking in the mountains.
- The Loire Valley to explore its castles.
- The Dordogne for a trip back in time.
- Charente-Maritime to alternate between biking and the ocean.
- The Gironde for its lakes, forests, and beaches.
1. Brittany: Play Explorer by the Ocean
Hiking the GR34 with Kids
A kilometer on foot wears out your shoes… but with the Breton landscapes before you, you’ll quickly forget all about them. The legendary GR34 trails runs along the coast for more than 2,000 kilometers and offers hiking trails suitable for little legs. Near the Pointe de Penmarc’h in Finistère, the trail winds its way along the Atlantic coast. Waves crash against the rocks, gorse bushes add splashes of color to the landscape, and the Eckmühl Lighthouse appears in the distance. Every turn leads to a new discovery.
In Beg-Meil, near Concarneau, the atmosphere changes yet again as you leave our campsites in Brittany : small coves, pine trees, and beaches regularly tempt you to step off the trail and dip your toes in the water.
Our vacationers’ favorite part: finishing the walk with a still-warm crêpe in Concarneau. After a few kilometers, no one argues about the extra salted butter caramel.
Turn a Hike into an Adventure
When you're out with the kids, forget about racking up kilometers. Instead, set a goal for the walk: spot three birds, find the prettiest seashell, or reach a cove for a picnic.
Take the time to stop and look around. A successful family hike is rarely measured by the number of kilometers covered, but rather by the number of “Look!”s you hear along the way.
2. The Vendée: Explore the Atlantic by Bike
Cycling with the Family on the Vélodyssée
Want to swap your hiking boots for two wheels? While camping in the Vendée , hop on your bikes along the Vélodyssée and let the sea breeze carry you along.
Between La Barre-de-Monts and Fromentine, you’ll pedal through pine forests before reaching the marshes and the ocean. The most determined riders can continue the adventure toward Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie or Les Sables-d’Olonne. No need to rack up the kilometers. Stop to watch the boats, have lunch overlooking the ocean, or simply park your bikes when a beach catches your eye.
Tailor the walk to little legs
For a successful outing, first and foremost, choose your route based on your children’s ages and fitness levels. A short loop with pleasant breaks along the way is often more memorable than an ambitious route that ends with everyone in a bad mood.
With young children, stick to safe paths and plan a motivating destination: a beach, ice cream, or a picnic. On vacation, the finish line might very well be an ice cream shop.
3. The Ardèche: Experience Your First Canoeing Adventure
Traveling down the gorge along the river
A few strokes of the paddle, an “accidental” splash, and the adventure begins. From our campground in the Ardèche, canoeing quickly turns a simple day out into a family memory.
From the water, the cliffs take on a whole new dimension. You paddle along, looking for the next spot to swim, and pull over to a small beach to take your picnic out of the waterproof bag.
Depending on the children’s ages and how comfortable they are in the water, choose a family-friendly route and check with professionals about access and navigation conditions.
Explore the medieval villages of the Ardèche
Once you’ve put away your paddles, continue exploring on foot. Balazuc, Vogüé, and Labeaume reveal cobblestone streets, stone houses, and narrow passageways.
These medieval villages let you sneak in a bit of history between adventures without forcing the kids to go on a long tour. Just turn the stroll into a game: who can find the oldest door or the most secret passageway?
4. The Verdon: Paddling on Turquoise Waters
Boating on Lake Sainte-Croix
It's hard to resist this color. On Lake Sainte-Croix, the turquoise water contrasts with the cliffs and Provençal vegetation.
Canoe, pedal boat, or stand-up paddleboard: choose your watercraft and go at your own pace. The lake’s generally calmer waters let you discover the joys of water sports in a spectacular setting.
Our tip: Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing. Once you’re on the water, it’s easy to forget that the sun is still beating down.
Explore the Lower Verdon Gorges
Looking for a more untamed atmosphere? The Basses Gorges reveal another side of the Verdon. As you float along the river, the landscape narrows, and the sound of paddles gradually replaces the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer vacation, alternate between paddling, swimming, and hiking. That way, you can enjoy the Verdon without feeling the need to pack every minute with activity.
5. The Mediterranean: Rediscover the Joy of Days at the Beach
Lay your towel on the fine sand
What to do when the sun is shining and the whole family is asking for a swim? Head to the Mediterranean and our seaside campgrounds.
In Saint-Cyprien, Argelès-sur-Mer, or Le Grau-du-Roi, the wide beaches of fine sand become your playground for a few hours. Sandcastles, swimming, beach rackets, and a contest for the prettiest seashell: the itinerary practically plans itself.
The air smells of salt and sunscreen, your hair dries in the sun, and your snack always ends up with a little sand in it. No doubt about it—you’re on vacation.
Alternate between swimming and fun activities
To keep your days from feeling the same, mix things up. Go swimming in the morning, visit the local market at noon, enjoy a water activity in the afternoon, or take a stroll along the harbor when the heat subsides.
And leave a few time slots open. An impromptu game in the water or a nap in the shade are also among the favorite fun activities on vacation.
6. The Pyrenees: Enjoying the Views with the Family
Choose family-friendly trails
In the mountains, you don’t have to aim for a summit to experience adventure. The Pyrenees are full of trails where waterfalls, streams, forests, and panoramic views naturally spark children’s curiosity.
Choose family-friendly hiking trails with a reasonable elevation gain and several points of interest. That way, the journey becomes just as important as the destination. Crossing a footbridge, spotting a marmot in the distance, or dipping your feet in a stream is sometimes all it takes to get those little legs moving again.
Seeing the Mountain in a New Light
Look up. Birds of prey, marmots, and chamois can turn a hike into a real-life game of hide-and-seek.
Bring binoculars and let the kids be your guides. Searching for a track or spotting a mountain peak engages them more than just covering kilometer after kilometer.
Did you know? A hike often goes more smoothly with kids when it has a clear goal: a lake, waterfall, mountain hut, or lookout point—each one becomes a small victory.
7. The Loire Valley: A Journey Through Time
Visiting Castles with the Kids
What if history became an adventure? In the Loire Valley, historic sites take on the feel of life-size sets.
From our campgrounds near the Loire Valley castles, Chambord, Chenonceau, and Azay-le-Rideau will easily spark your imagination. Mysterious staircases, vast gardens, and royal chambers fuel tales of knights, princesses, and secret passages.
To captivate the kids, opt for tours that include activity booklets, family-friendly trails, or interactive activities. The goal isn’t to see everything, but to make them want to explore.
Discovering Heritage While Having Fun
Between visits to two castles, take a break from the usual pace. Hop on your bikes, set up a picnic along the banks of the Loire, or set out to explore a village.
Part of the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but its heritage isn’t limited to what lies behind the doors of its monuments. It’s also experienced along the river, through the landscapes, and in the people you meet.
8. The Dordogne: Take a Trip Back in Time with the Family
Explore caves, castles, and medieval villages
From our campgrounds in the Dordogne Valley, several eras coexist within just a few kilometers. In the morning, you’ll dive into prehistory; in the afternoon, you’ll climb the narrow streets of a hilltop village.
Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, and Castelnaud offer the perfect setting to spark children’s curiosity. Here, too, there’s no need to turn your vacation into a history lesson—just let the places tell their own stories.
Cruising Down the Dordogne River
For a change of perspective, take a trip down the river. From a canoe, the castles rise above the cliffs while the villages come into view among the trees.
Plan a few breaks for swimming and a picnic. It’s this blend of history, nature, and simple pleasures that makes the Dordogne one of the best destinations for curious families.
9. Charente-Maritime: From Biking to the Ocean
Exploring the Islands with the Family
From our campground on Île d’Oléron, your bike will quickly become your best companion. The bike paths let you explore villages, beaches, marshes, and ports one after another without feeling like you’re following a set itinerary.
Park your bikes in front of a market, pick up some food for an impromptu picnic, then head back toward the ocean. Here, detours are part of the journey.
Alternate between the beach, biking, and exploring
The appeal of Charente-Maritime lies in this diversity. A morning spent cycling can easily end with your feet in the water.
This freedom is especially appealing to families: everyone can enjoy themselves at their own pace, without having to make long trips. For children, the destination quickly becomes a huge open-air playground.
10. Gironde: Rediscover the Freedom of the Great Outdoors
From the ocean to the pine forest
Close your eyes for a few seconds: the scent of pine trees, the sound of the ocean in the distance, and bicycles leaning against a tree. A campground on the Arcachon Basin immediately makes you want to slow down.
With bike paths, long beaches, and forests, outdoor activities flow naturally from one to the next. You can go for a bike ride in the morning, have a picnic under the pine trees, and head to the ocean when you feel like taking a dip.
Enjoying the Lakes with the Little Ones
For families with young children, the lakes of the Gironde offer an appealing alternative to the Atlantic waves. Swimming, paddleboarding, walking, or simply enjoying a snack by the water—everyone can set their own pace.
That’s also what family vacations are all about: being able to change plans because no one feels like keeping track of the time.
How to Choose a Family Vacation in France?
Choose a destination based on what you're looking for
The best family destination isn't necessarily the one that offers the most activities. It's the one that fits your family's pace and interests.
|
Your family dreams of… |
Top Destinations |
Top Experience |
|
Ocean and Hiking |
Brittany |
GR34 |
|
Cycling and Beach |
Vendée |
Vélodyssée |
|
Adventure |
Ardèche |
Canoeing |
|
Water Sports |
Verdon |
Lake Sainte-Croix |
|
Sun and Swimming |
Mediterranean |
Beaches |
|
Mountains |
Pyrenees |
Hiking |
|
History |
Loire Valley |
Castles |
|
Heritage and Nature |
Dordogne |
Villages and Canoeing |
|
Islands and Biking |
Charente-Maritime |
Bike Rides |
|
Open Spaces |
Landes |
Forest, Lake, and Ocean |
Consider your children’s actual pace
Before choosing your destination, also consider what will truly make your days easier: travel time, the children’s ages, proximity to activities, a water park, dining options, or kids’ clubs.
Family-friendly campsites let everyone plan their own schedule. The kids take part in age-appropriate activities while you enjoy a moment of peace and quiet. Then the whole family can get together at the pool, over ice cream, or for an evening out.
The real luxury? Not having to choose between their vacation and yours.
How can you make the most of your family vacation?
Let everyone choose an activity
At the start of the trip, give the whole family a chance to speak. Everyone chooses an activity they’d like to do: the beach, canoeing, visiting a castle, hiking, or an afternoon at the pool.
Write down the ideas on small pieces of paper and pick one when you’re running out of ideas for the itinerary. The kids get to be part of the decision-making, and everyone has something to look forward to during the trip.
Set aside time for nothing in particular
Planning is handy. But leaving room for the unexpected is often even better.
A small road taken on a whim, a swim that lasts two hours longer than planned, a village discovered along the way, or an evening spent stargazing… The best memories aren’t always on the to-do list.
Our tip: set aside at least half a day with no plans. That way, you give your vacation a chance to surprise you.
Family Vacations in France: Above all, choose the ones that suit you best
The sea, the mountains, the countryside, or a river? In France, you can experience a completely different setting without necessarily traveling to the other side of the world. But don’t try to see everything. The best family vacations aren’t measured by the number of kilometers traveled or the activities checked off a list.
A first canoe trip, a fit of laughter on a water slide, an ice cream after a hike, or a sandcastle the kids are still talking about on the way home—it’s often these little moments that become the greatest memories.
FAQ - Family Vacations in France
For a family vacation in France, there are several destinations that let you combine sightseeing, activities, and relaxation. The choice depends mainly on what each person wants:
- Brittany for its beaches, coves, and hikes along the GR34 trail;
- The Ardèche for canoe trips and medieval villages;
- The Vendée for bike rides along the Vélodyssée;
- The Pyrenees for hiking, waterfalls, and mountain scenery;
- The Loire Valley to explore the castles of Chambord, Chenonceau, or Azay-le-Rideau.
Brittany, the Vendée, Charente-Maritime, and the Mediterranean coast are particularly well-suited for family vacations by the sea. In Brittany, alternate between beaches and walks along the coastal trails. In the Vendée and on the Île d’Oléron, bike paths take you to the beaches and villages. To enjoy wide, fine-sand beaches, head to Mediterranean resorts such as Saint-Cyprien, Argelès-sur-Mer, or Le Grau-du-Roi.
If you have young children, the Gironde and Charente-Maritime are two great destinations for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. Around the Arcachon Basin, the lakes of the Gironde offer opportunities for swimming in waters that are generally calmer than those of the ocean, depending on conditions and supervised areas. On Île d’Oléron, bike paths make it easy to take short rides between beaches, ports, and villages. Choose accommodations close to the activities to minimize travel time.
Between the sea, the mountains, and the countryside, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy activities with the kids:
- Canoeing: paddle down a suitable stretch of the Ardèche Gorges or explore the Dordogne from the river;
- Biking: ride the Vélodyssée in the Vendée or the bike paths on Île d’Oléron;
- Hiking: explore the coastal trails of Brittany or the family-friendly trails in the Pyrenees;
- Water sports: try stand-up paddleboarding or pedal boating on Lake Sainte-Croix in the Verdon;
- Cultural tours: Discover the châteaux of the Loire Valley or the medieval villages of the Dordogne.
To choose your destination, start by identifying the activities your children enjoy and the pace you’d like your trip to have. Here are a few factors that can help you decide:
- The children’s ages: prioritize activities that are accessible to younger children and routes suited to their stamina.
- Travel time: Choose a destination that minimizes long trips, especially for a short stay.
- Proximity to activities: beaches, bike paths, tourist attractions, or natural areas.
- Campground amenities: swimming pool, playground, kids’ clubs, and dining options, depending on the campground.
- The season: Take into account temperatures, crowd levels, and the operating hours of activities.
About the Author
Gwénaëlle
Brand Content Manager at Sunêlia • Destination Explorer
Passionate about travel and always eager to discover new places, Gwénaëlle explores Sunêlia’s destinations to find the experiences that make every stay unique. From must-visit spots and getaways to family activities and local treasures, she shares her tips and inspiration to help you plan a vacation full of discoveries and memories.