Nouvelle Aquitaine is France's largest region, stretching from the Atlantic coast and Pyrenees mountains in the south to the Loire Valley in the north. It encompasses world-renowned wine regions like Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion, the surf capital of Biarritz, prehistoric wonders at Lascaux, and the dramatic Dune du Pilat. With diverse landscapes, rich gastronomy, and centuries of history, Nouvelle Aquitaine offers an unrivaled travel experience in southwestern France.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Arcachon Bay Boat Trip
A gentle boat trip across the Arcachon Bay visiting the oyster beds, the Île aux Oiseaux bird sanctuary, and getting views of the Dune du Pilat from the water. Easy and enjoyable for all ages.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Sandboarding on Dune du Pilat
Climb Europe's tallest sand dune and slide back down on boards or simply roll in the sand—one of the most exciting outdoor activities in the region, completely free. The views from the top are extraordinary.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Futuroscope Theme Park
One of France's most innovative theme parks near Poitiers with 4D cinemas, virtual reality rides, robot shows, and the spectacular free evening laser and water spectacle. A guaranteed hit with children of all ages.
Duration: Full day
Zoo de La Palmyre
One of France's most respected zoos in a beautiful forested setting near Royan, with 1,600 animals including gorillas, polar bears, tigers, and rare birds. The natural forest setting makes for a pleasant walk between encounters.
Duration: Full day
Kayaking the Dordogne River
Paddling the Dordogne between cliff-top castles—Beynac, La Roque-Gageac, and Castelnaud—is one of the most memorable family activities in southwestern France. Several rental companies operate from La Roque-Gageac.
Duration: 2-5 hours
Lascaux IV Prehistoric Art Center
The world's finest prehistoric cave art experience with digital and physical replicas of the 17,000-year-old Lascaux paintings, interactive exhibits, and child-friendly guides to prehistoric life.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Surf Lesson, Biarritz
Biarritz is Europe's surf capital and learning to catch a wave is a must-do for older children and teenagers. Licensed surf schools on the Côte des Basques and Anglet beaches cater specifically to young beginners.
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
La Rhune Rack Railway
A wonderful vintage wooden rack railway climbs to the 905m summit of La Rhune, the sacred Basque mountain, with views over the Atlantic, Spanish Pyrenees, and Basque countryside. Wild pottoks ponies roam the summit.
Duration: 2.5 hours return
Château de Castelnaud Medieval Warfare
A superbly child-friendly medieval castle with a real trebuchet, ballista, and crossbow on display (with live demonstrations in summer). The museum of medieval warfare is one of the best in France for children.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Cycling Île de Ré
The flat Atlantic island of Île de Ré is paradise for family cycling—110km of bike paths through salt marshes, vineyards, and oyster villages. Bikes fit all ages, and the island's gentle terrain makes it easy for young children.
Duration: Half to full day
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Camping Les Dunes, Biscarrosse
Large beachside campsite with bungalows and pitches in the Landes forest near Atlantic surf beaches
Family features: Kids' pool, playground, evening entertainment, surf schools nearby, restaurant
Résidence Odalys Les Pins, Arcachon
Self-catering apartments in the pine forest near the Arcachon Bay beaches—ideal for flexible family meals and schedules
Family features: Self-catering kitchen, pool, parking, close to beach, laundry
Hôtel Mercure Bordeaux Centre
Comfortable central Bordeaux hotel with family rooms and easy tram access to main attractions
Family features: Family rooms, cots available, breakfast included options, tram access
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Most French restaurants welcome children; high chairs (chaises hautes) are usually available on request
Children's menus (menu enfant) typically €7-12 in casual restaurants
Sarlat's Saturday market is child-friendly—let kids choose their own snacks from market stalls
The Marché des Capucins in Bordeaux is an excellent informal family lunch spot
Crêperies are universally popular with children—buckwheat galettes and sweet crêpes please all ages
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Pre-book Lascaux IV tickets online to guarantee entry—groups without tickets are often turned away
French beaches have lifeguards only during July and August (mid-June to mid-September at some beaches)—always check the flag system
The Bordeaux City Pass includes family discounts at participating attractions
Gîtes (self-catering houses) in rural Dordogne offer excellent value and flexibility for families with young children
Insect repellent is essential in summer in the Landes pine forest and Dordogne