Ooh La La: Why The South Of France Is Très Bon For Families

San Tropez; Montpellier; Cannes – aren’t they for the rich and famous. Yes, the powerful and the wealthy frequent these places throughout the year.

Some even live there permanently because it’s too good to miss. Still, ordinary folk are allowed to visit, kids in tow. Indeed, the south of France isn’t a place which advertises it, but the area is a fantastic family hotspot.

Forget about the film festivals and the glamorous parties because they aren’t in your wheelhouse. Behind the glitz, however, this region has a feel that is perfect for mum, dad and the kids. Here are the reasons why.

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Beaches

There isn’t a holiday without a beach. The kids love the sea and the sand, plus it keeps them quiet all day long! Of course, the south of France is renowned for its golden coastline which looks out onto the Mediterranean Sea.

Menton in Provence is popular for holiday-goers as it’s a beautiful place without the usual uppity nature of the other resorts. Cavalaire-Sur-Mer is the same, which is in San Tropez, while Collioure is a working-class spot on the Spanish border.

Probably the favourite among the locals is Gruissan. As a rule, you know it’s good if the locals like to spend lazy days there!

Adventure Activities

Try and keep the kids by the ocean all day long and you’ll pay for it later. Before long, they get bored and need to release energy, which is why a beach day is only good once or twice a week.

The rest of the time, you need something exciting to get the blood pumping and adventure activities are the way forward. Don’t worry because they aren’t dangerous; just a little sketchy!

Rafting, canyoning and waterfall-hopping are all available the Loup river which runs through Grasse. A tip: try canyoning.

Forts And Castles

France’s history has left parts of the country with derelict castles and forts that are fairytale-like. For parents, they are educational and interesting and a reminder of the past.

To children, they are spectacular monuments which tap into their sense of imagination. In short, castles and forts are fun for all the family, which is a good thing because there are hundreds.

The Château d’If in Marseilles is particularly beautiful if you are in the neighbourhood and has sentimental value too. It’s the setting for the legendary book “The Count of Monte Cristo”.

Regarding your accommodation, Elegant Address has a range of villas and apartments with a choice of amenities. If hotels are your thing, there are lots of them also.

Chocolate

True, the Swiss and the Belgians are the kings of the brown stuff, but the French also take it seriously. Anyone in the vicinity of Aix should check out the Puyricard factory, but remember that tours are for people aged ten and over.

Another incredible culinary delight is the Confiseries Florian. To be honest, the kids won’t care as long as they get to try a bit!

So, is the south of France somewhere you would consider for a family getaway?

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Happy Travels