Inside: The Best Destinations for Luxury Family Holidays in France. Guest post.
France is one of the few countries offering everything families seek in a luxury holiday – from the history and culture of Nice to the picturesque beaches of Saint-Tropez. There are also the scenic wine regions of Bordeaux and Provence and the picturesque island of Corsica.
Below, check out our guide on the best destinations for luxury family holidays in France.
- Nice
Nice is one of the most picturesque cities in France, famous for its stunning Mediterranean beaches, charming Old Town, and centuries-old promenade. Families on a luxury holiday in Nice can indulge in many fun activities and discover many beautiful places. The city’s mild climate makes it conducive for exploring the great outdoors. You can stroll with your kids along the lovely seafront or have fun days at the beautiful gardens and parks.
One of the best places for families with kids in Nice is Park Castel des Deux Rois, a hillside park with beautifully manicured lawns and a playground where kids can get active. It’s on the east of Nice, perched on the slopes of Mont-Boron, overlooking the magnificent views of the city and the port. Kids of all ages can play on the spacious lawns shaded by trees while the parents relax at the picnic tables.
Nice is also famous for its stunning coastline and is home to one of the best Eurocamps in France, with beautiful beaches, and a perfect place to relax and bond with your little ones. Some beaches are near the city’s most luxurious family-friendly resorts, such as Ruhl Beach, just behind the Meridien Hotel. It is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Nice and has a child-friendly pool.
- Corsica
When planning a luxury family holiday to France, accommodation should be a top priority. Thankfully, you will find many luxurious villas in the South of France that cater to families. Many of these villas are in Corsica, a gorgeous island offering fun adventures for the whole family. It’s one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean and lies in the southeast region of France. As an island, most of Corsica’s family attractions are around the coast, from relaxing at magnificent beaches to scenic walks in pretty coastal villages.
But there’s more to Corsica than its beautiful beaches. If your kids love wildlife, take them to the Cupulatta Turtles Village, a conservation centre and Europe’s leading tortoise research facility. Your little ones will surely enjoy seeing cute tortoises in their natural habitat and learning more about these fascinating creatures.
Families can enjoy treasure hunting in Corsica at the Calvi Citadel. Here, you and your kids will have fun uncovering hidden secrets in the historic citadel. You can also join a historical tour that offers valuable insights into this ancient site.
For families with older kids, take them on a scuba diving adventure in St Florent. On your diving excursion, you will discover the fascinating underwater world, including vibrant coral reeds and different species of marine life. St Florent lies on the southernmost point of Corsica, and many hotels can arrange a diving excursion for you.
- Bordeaux
Bordeaux may be more famous for its white wines, but it offers plenty of fun adventures for families, including those with little kids. Surrounded by magnificent countryside, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters, Bordeaux makes for a fantastic destination all year round, although it shines even more beautiful in summer.
You will mostly spend your summer holidays in Bordeaux in the great outdoors, enjoying fun adventures. Take your kids on short scenic hikes, go horseback riding, visit nature parks, and more. Your curious kids will also enjoy a heritage tour of Bordeaux and discover its charming streets lined by imposing buildings, including the magnificent Place de la Bourse and Bordeaux Cathedral.
For a more relaxing way of soaking up the charm of Bordeaux, take a day cruise along the scenic river of Garonne. Listen to the onboard commentary and admire the superb views of Bordeaux’s historical monuments. You can choose an hour cruise or a day-long excursion with lunch. Some cruises include fun activities for kids, such as kayaking and paddleboarding on the river.
- Provence
One of the best things to do with your kids in France is to partake in a luxury river cruise on the Rhone River which will take you to Provence, a picturesque region in the heart of the French Riviera and is home to some of the most beautiful coastal towns and cities in the South of France. A family cruise in Provence is perfect for all ages. It’s a relaxing way to discover the charm of the South of France while enjoying fun adventures.
You can expect an action-packed family holiday in Provence as it boasts numerous sites and attractions to explore with your kids. For instance, in Marseille, the region’s capital city, you’ll find some of France’s most notable historic buildings, such as the water-themed Longchamp Palace and the remarkable Notre Dame de la Garde Basilica.
The Old Port of Marseille is great for scenic walks and observing locals. Head to the bustling Quai des Belges fish market, gaze at the different boats and yachts and take a break at one of the waterfront cafes.
- Saint-Tropez
St Tropez is a vibrant town on the French Riviera and an ideal place to visit on your luxury family holiday in France. Here, your days will be filled with fun adventures, from enjoying thrilling water sports along the coast to discovering fantastic museums.
For fun days at the beach, head to Bouillabaisse Beach, a tranquil beach where you can relax away from the busy crowds. The water offers gentle shallows, safe enough for your little ones to swim and play. Families with active kids will find plenty of water sports to enjoy in St Tropez, from diving to sailing, snorkelling, and more. Take them to one of the local beaches, where there are sports facilities offering rentals for different water sports.
When sightseeing in St Tropez, check out the Butterfly Museum, which exhibits thousands of butterfly species and the Gendarmerie and Cinema Museum, which showcases the history of French cinema.