In the area
Algemeen
Looking for a good restaurant? Or to wander through a neighbourly market? Under the "General" category, you can find general topics to make your holiday as pleasant as possible.
Special days that are celebrated throughout France are also listed here.
Stumble across a great restaurant worth mentioning? Or market place for that matter? Please let us know so future guests can also benefit from your recommendations.
Sights
There is more than enough to see around your holiday home. Beautiful tourist areas or more cultural spots. Certain regions are known for a certain product or type of wine.
Is seeing a cave on your bucket list? Or an area that is renowned for its nature? Castles and fortresses can often be found close by. Definitely worth a visit.
Grab a terrace, visit the boutiques and experience French life.
Sportive
It's simply wonderful to take it easy during your holiday, surrounded by all the beauty the area has to offer. But, now and then, it's also nice to spend an active day. Try things you normally wouldn't have time for.
Take on the challenge of an adventure park or cycle/mountain bike and discover the surroundings from a different angle. Go hiking together through beautiful nature or spend some time on the green in one of the many golf course France has in store.
Water sports are always popular as well. Swimming, sailing, canoeing, it's all possible!
Animation
Head out together or with the whole family. Explore the area, visit picturesque villages. Looking for places to visit and fun things to do?
In this overview you'll find examples for an adventurous and exciting day out. Examples include a trip to an amusement park or zoo. But also boat trips, swimming pools or an excursion in a hot air balloon!
Did you do something nice in the area, but it's not on the list? Send us your suggestions and we'll put it on there.
General information about the region
The Poitou-Charentes lies on the Atlantic Ocean, home to famous areas such as La Rochelle. Aquitaine is located south of the Poitou-Charentes. The Dordogne, which is part of the Aquitaine, borders directly on the Poitou-Charentes. To the north lies the Pays de la Loire, to the northeast the Centre, and to the east of the Poitou-Charentes lies the Limosoin. The capital of the region is Poitiers.
General information about the region
The Lot department, in the southwest of France, borders the Corrèze to the north, the Cantal to the northeast, the Aveyron to the southeast, Tarn-et-Garonne to the south, the Dordogne to the northwest and finally Lot-et-Garonne to the southwest.
General information about the region
The Lot department, in the southwest of France, borders the Corrèze to the north, the Cantal to the northeast, the Aveyron to the southeast, Tarn-et-Garonne to the south, the Dordogne to the northwest and finally Lot-et-Garonne to the southwest.
General information about the region
One of the most famous tourist regions in France is an area with the official name "Provence Alpes Cote d'Azur," also known as PACA. This region stretches from the Camargue coastline to Menton, all east of the line Orange, Avignon, Arles. It reaches all the way to Briançon in the north.
General information about the region
One of the largest departments in France is the Dordogne. The department shares its name with the river that flows through it, which stems in the Auvergne from the rivers Dorde and Dogne. The touristic region of Dordogne is regarded more broadly than just the departmental borders.
Overview of events
Experience the Poitou-Charentes all year round! Feast in the Poitou-Charentes, these are the old crafts in the village square, the ball under the lanterns, the concert at a historic monument or in the open air. That is theater, dance, rock, jazz, but also typical markets and folklore.
Overview of events
Experience the Dordogne all year round! Feast in the Dordogne, these are the old crafts in the village square, the ball under the lanterns, the concert at a historic monument or in the open air. That is theater, dance, rock, jazz, but also typical markets and folklore.
Overview of events and festivals
Experience the Var all year round! Feast in the Var, these are the old crafts on the village square, the ball under the lanterns, the concert at a historic monument or in the open air. That is theater, dance, rock, jazz, but also typical Provençal markets and folklore.
Overview of events and festivals
Experience the Dordogne all year round! Feast in the Dordogne, these are the old crafts in the village square, the ball under the lanterns, the concert at a historic monument or in the open air. That is theater, dance, rock, jazz, but also typical markets and folklore.
Restaurants
We have selected some restaurants for you, based on our guests' reviews. If you happen to have a pleasant experience at another restaurant, please let us know.
Restaurants
We have selected some restaurants for you, based on our guests' reviews. If you happen to have a pleasant experience at another restaurant, please let us know.
Restaurants
We have selected some restaurants for you, based on our guests' reviews. If you happen to have a pleasant experience at another restaurant, please let us know.
Restaurants
We have selected some restaurants for you, based on our guests' reviews. If you happen to have a pleasant experience at another restaurant, please let us know.
Restaurants
We have selected some restaurants for you, based on our guests' reviews. If you happen to have a pleasant experience at another restaurant, please let us know.
Restaurants
We have selected some restaurants for you, based on our guests' reviews. If you happen to have a pleasant experience at another restaurant, please let us know.
Markets in the area
You can find anything and everything at a French market. It is mainly the local products that are in the spotlight: vegetables, fruit and all kinds of produce. However, there is no shortage of meat, fish, and poultry.
Markets in the area
You can find anything and everything at a French market. It is mainly the local products that are in the spotlight: vegetables, fruit and all kinds of produce. However, there is no shortage of meat, fish, and poultry.
Markets in the area
You can find anything and everything at a French market. It is mainly the local products that are in the spotlight: vegetables, fruit and all kinds of produce. However, there is no shortage of meat, fish, and poultry.
Markets in the area
You can find anything and everything at a French market. It is mainly the local products that are in the spotlight: vegetables, fruit and all kinds of produce. However, there is no shortage of meat, fish, and poultry.
Markets in the area
You can find anything and everything at a French market. It is mainly the local products that are in the spotlight: vegetables, fruit and all kinds of produce. However, there is no shortage of meat, fish, and poultry.
Markets in the area
You can find anything and everything at a French market. It is mainly the local products that are in the spotlight: vegetables, fruit and all kinds of produce. However, there is no shortage of meat, fish, and poultry.
International Menigoute Bird Festival
Every year, during the last week of October, a large international bird show is held in Menigoute.
Fête de la Musique
The Fête de la Musique is a typical French feast. It's an annual music festival on June 21. Mostly amateur musicians will play on streets, squares and other public areas.
Domme - Dordogne
Near Sarlat, in the Dordogne area, the fortress town of Domme is situated. It is an old town with a walled fortress, on top of a mountain along the river Dordogne with a castle and a beautiful church.
Caves in Padirac, Lacave and Lascaux
Two major geological attractions in France are located in the vicinity of your holiday home. Both Gouffre de Padirac and the Lascaux caves are spectacular!
Rocamadour
Without a doubt, Rocamadour is one of the main tourist attractions near your holiday home. Rocamadour attracts many visitors every year, and is the most visited attraction in France, after the Mont Saint-Michel.
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
France has a list of "Les plus beaux villages de France". In the region of Dordogne / Lot are proportionally most of these places. The number 1 on the list: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie even located a relatively short distance from your vacation home. The region is therefore very touristy.
Sarlat - Dordogne
When you visit the Dordogne region, Sarlat is a must-see. This is the uncontested pearl of Perigord and is definitely worth a visit. History of Sarlat
La Roque-Gageac
La Roque-Gageac is on the banks of the Dordogne and is built into a steep rock wall. The village is one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.
Monaco
The Principality of Monaco is situated on the Mediterranean sea and only shares land borders with France. After the Vatican, it is the smallest country in the world.
Andorra
Andorra is a tiny principality in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. It is only 468 km² and consists mainly of mountains.
Collonges La Rouge
Collonges la Rouge is one of ‘Les plus Beaux Villages de France’. It was the mayor of this village who decided to create a foundation to award the most beautiful villages of France.
Poitiers
This city - located in the Poitou-Charentes area - has a beautiful centre with gorgeous churches, picturesque streets and cosy terraces. But that’s not all, the city has a unique history as well.
Autoire
The village of Autoire is one of the ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ and is located in an area that is popular with British and Dutch holidaymakers, near the Lot.
Larressingle – Carcassonne in miniature
Those who have ever visited the famous Cité of Carcassonne, will be reminded of this when they visit Larressingle. The walls of this small fortress are still standing.
Coulon
The village of Coulon is located in the Marais Poitevin and is often called the capital of La Venise Verte, the Green Venice.
Cassis, Provençal pearl at the Mediterranean
The characteristic coastal town Cassis is located just outside Marseille, in the heart of the Parc National des Calanques. A unique environment and an ideal place to spend your holidays in this region with family or friends.
La Rochelle and Ile de Ré - Atlantic coast
A day with your family towards the Atlantic coast is worthwhile. Go to La Rochelle and the island of Ile de Re with their many tourist activities and sights. Ideal destinations for enjoying the sea, sun and beach.
The most beautiful calanques at Cassis
The waters of the Cote d'Azur simply doesn't get bluer than in these creeks! And high white cliffs offer impressive sea views. Les Calanques is the name of the rock formations that come straight out of the sea.
Mirepoix
Mirepoix is located between Carcassonne and Foix, in the heart of the Cathar region. It is one of the most famous bastide towns in the south of France; especially because of its half-timbered houses and galleries.
Tourist Towns Poitou-Charentes
There are nice villages and towns where you can shop, where there are places of interest, where you can enjoy one of the many terraces, where there are festivals.
Monflanquin
Monflanquin is one of the most beautiful villages in France. The charm of Monflanquin, the beauty of the landscape, the typical French lifestyle and the cultural heritage of the area makes Monflanquin a special place.
Les Jardins du manoir d'Eyrignac
The gardens of Eyrignac in Salignac are at the heart of the Perigord near Sarlat. These beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding an old manor are real French gardens, with a nice layout and sleek, geometric shapes.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
The village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is the epitome of Southern French charm. It is clearly Provençal: lavender scent that meets you everywhere, picturesque squares and alleys, terraces under plane trees and houses covered with terracotta roof tiles.
Turenne, the last free state of the kingdom
When you drive to the south of France, from Brive in the direction of Toulouse, you will pass a special part of France. Get off the highway for a bit and visit Turenne, a place with a very rich history.
Tourtour - characteristic village between the olive trees
The name Tourtour is derived from the old word 'tör', which means mountain or mountain top. Because of its strategic location, Tourtour became an important town in the twelfth century.
St. Paul-de-Vence
Saint Paul de Vence is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and famous villages of the Provence. It is next to the village of Vence, and both are well worth a visit.
Grasse
Grasse is seen as the world capital of perfume. The local perfume industry plays an important role in the history of this city.
Conques
Conques is a beautiful town located in the department of Aveyron, in the Midi-Pyrénées region. This town has preserved its medieval character and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Figeac
Figeac is the second largest municipality in the department of Lot. It is well known as a relatively large number of the ancient buildings have been preserved, and the city has many old monuments.
Cahors
The city of Cahors, capital ("préfecture") of the Lot, is the most important city in the department, with over 20,000 inhabitants. It is the historical capital of the Quercy region.
Cathars
The Cathars - who called themselves Christians or Bons Hommes -, formed a movement in the 12th and 13th century in the South of France that pursued a ‘pure’ religion.
Carennac
Carennac is a small village with less than 500 inhabitants. It is splendid, high above the right bank of the Dordogne on the edge of the Haut-Quercy.
St. Lizier - St. Girons
Saint Lizier is on the banks of the River Salat, south of Toulouse and approximately 40 kilometres west of Foix. This beautiful village has two cathedrals and a bishop's palace.
Castellane - Provence
Castellane is a small, pleasant town in the Alpes du Haute Provence. It is centrally located along the Route Napoléon (N85), at an altitude of just over 700 meters above sea level.
Eze - medieval tourist village
Eze, a gem surrounded by rocks on the Mediterranean coast, is one of the most beautiful villages of the Côte d'Azur. It is located between Nice and Monaco, high above the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
Pujols
The beautiful landscape of the Agenais region has plenty of places which you would normally drive past. One of these is the fortified village of Pujols le Haut, above Villeneuve-sur-Lot.
Mas d’Azil
The Parc Naturel Régional des Pyrénées Ariégeoises is located to the south of Toulouse. A world famous cave is located in this park: the Mas d'Azil cave.
Toulouse
Toulouse is the fourth largest city of France and is certainly worth visiting during your holiday. With its characteristic pink granite buildings (giving it the nickname 'La Ville Rose'), Toulouse has a unique atmosphere.
Carcassonne
Carcassonne is located nearby your villa. It is the capital of the Aude (Languedoc-Roussillon) department and annually attracts millions of tourists.
Winecastles Cahors
Driving through the area gives you a view of the alternating beautifully landscaped vineyards. You'll come across many beautiful views. Vineyards or wine châteaux lie between the vineyards.
Chateau Bonaguil
The Château de Bonaguil is a beautiful castle on the border of Quercy and the Perigord. It is located within the borders of the municipality of St. Front-sur-Lémance but is owned by the neighbouring municipality of Fumel in the Lot-et-Garonne department.
Massif de la St. Baume
In the 'Provence Verte', there is an impressive limestone massif that rises from the landscape as a 14 km long and 1,100 metres high wall. It's also one of the most important pilgrimage destinations.
Pyrenees
The narrow mountain range on the French-Spanish border offers everything mountains should offer: magnificent nature, narrow crevices, panoramic views, authentic little villages, snowy mountain tops, and silent lakes.
Silver Mines
From the seventh to the tenth century, Melle was a major silver producer and held an important position in the region. Under the town, some twenty kilometers of the network of passageways from the former silver mines are now accessible.
Cognac
Cognac... who hasn’t heard of it? Visit the Cognac region with its vineyards, idyllic towns with roman churches, cozy terraces and adorable markets. It’s an area that captivates every France enthusiast.
Castles and Citadels
The Dordogne is characterized by a large number of castles. Castles and fortresses have been well preserved due to the climate, the building materials and because there was little economic innovation.
Puy du Fou - Vendée
From your cottage in Les Forges you can drive a little further but definitely worthwhile: Puy du Fou, a historical theme park in Les Epesses in the Vendée with beautiful shows.
Futuroscope - Poitiers
Futuroscope, one of the most popular French theme parks, is about 30 minutes drive from your holiday home. This park is very nice, for both children and adults.
Sheep- and recreational park - Vasles
Near the park Domaine les Forges is the recreational park “Mouton Village”, in the charming village Vasles. Situated in the beautiful French landscape, far away from the hustle and bustle, the park encompasses 6 hectares.
Marais Poitevin
West of your holiday home lies a vast nature reserve: Marais Poitevin. It is a green oasis of peace. This marshland area, created through drainage, has an extensive street plan of canals.
Monkey park and other parks
More than 250 animals (including some 30 different types of primates) live in complete freedom in this naturally pristine 15-hectare environment. It is Europe’s largest terrain for chimpanzees and is home to the largest group of gorillas in France.
Planete des Crocodiles
Want to try something completely different during vacation? Visit "Planete des Crocodiles" Reptile Park.
Outdoor Entertainment
Enjoy a day trip with your family and visit an amusement or adventure park. Your children will love it, and, there is plenty for you to do!
Marineland - Antibes
Marineland Antibes, on the Cote d'Azur, is the largest marine park in Europe. In an area of 25 ha, you can find over 4000 marine animals.
Lookyland Niort and Poitiers
Take a trip to one of the indoor playgrounds in either Niort or Poitiers (for children of 0-12 years old) and you’re guaranteed a great day. Your children will love the slides, climbing towers, ball pits and electric go-karts.
Boat trip on the Lot
Step aboard one of the tour boats in the region. Take a boat trip with or without a guide, possibly including a wine tasting on board, all kinds of snacks or even a delicious lunch.
Boattrip to St.Tropez
If you're on holiday near St. Tropez, then you should absolutely visit. Even if it's just to sample the atmosphere and see with your own eyes what you've always heard about.
What to do in the Camargue?
Seeing cowboys, flamingos and rice fields in a single holiday? It's possible, and you do not even have to leave Europe! You can find all this in the south of France, in the Grande Camargue.
Wine routes Bergerac and Cahors
The nearby regions Bergerac and Cahors are known for their wines. To give you an impression, both regions offer wine routes that lead from one participating vineyard to another.
Hot air balloons - Rocamadour
The hot air balloon festival in Rocamadour is an annual event that takes place in the last weekend of September.
Amusement parks
During vacation, young and old alike always enjoy a visit to an amusement park. There are a number of different types of amusement parks and activities located in the vicinity of your holiday home.
Theme Parks
Looking for a fun day out with young children, older children, or without the kids? It's all possible within a reasonable distance from your holiday home.
Birds of Prey Rocamadour
If you go to Rocamadour for a day, visit the birds of prey show in this place.
“Le Truffadou” Steam Train Martel
The steam train Martel, also called train of the Haut-Quercy is highly recommended. The open wagons are pushed or pulled by restored steam locomotives.
Monkey park Forêt des singes - Rocamadour
Go to monkey park "Foret des singes" at Rocamadour. A great outing for you and your children. A park with 130 macaque monkeys, living in freedom in a forest of 24ha.
Cite de l'Espace - Toulouse
The Cite de l'Espace in Toulouse is a large theme park, focused on space and any related topics. It gives both young and old a playful insight into achievements in the scientific field.
Nailloux Outlet Village
Nailloux Outlet Village (also referred to as Fashion Village) is an outlet centre just south of Toulouse.
Children’s Playground
In Carcassonne, Agen and Toulouse (a short distance from your holiday home) there is a terrific indoor playground for young children up to 12 years. This would be a great place to spend an afternoon with your family.
Coast Mediterranean Sea
Along the coast of the Provence Côte d'Azur in southern France you can find a clear blue sea and beautiful, kilometre-long (white) Beaches (Plages) with fine sand, pebble beaches, wild bays and islands.
Mini Golf Fantasia
In the region of your holiday home is the largest miniature golf or miniature golf in Europe. It has an area of 4700 m2. The course is designed according to the principles of a real golf course.
Canoe and kayak during the holidays
There are many opportunities for canoeing in the region. The river Lot or Dordogne, but also the other rivers, are beautiful and definitely worth a visit from this side.
Jeu de boules - Pétanque
In France, especially in southern France, it is for many an important national sport: petanque. On his French: pétanque. There is a real boule culture. In southern France there is no public holiday without extensive pétanque tournaments.
Golf des Forges
Near the park is a 27-hole golf course, a challenge for beginners as well as experienced golfers. The course was designed by the Swede Bjorn Eriksson, has three lanes of each nine holes.
Water parks
At several places along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea are aquaparks. One of the most beautiful is still aqualand in St. Cyprien. You can not give your children more pleasure than to spend a day here.
Adventure Parks Provence
Parc Aventure is a park with a plotted route between trees at different heights. Young and old can pass the tracks. Of course with the necessary protection, such as a helmet and on a line.
Sports activities in Provence
In the wider region around Castellane are many opportunities for sports activities. The landscape is very suitable for this. For both beginners and advanced users.
Canoe Ariège and Aude
Today, canoeing or rafting on the Ariège River is a popular sport. Discover this beautiful region from the water and go places where you normally wouldn’t be able to go.
Recreational lakes Deux-Sèvres
The immediate area surrounding your holiday home in Domaine les Forges is amidst a variety of recreational lakes where you can relax. Most of the lakes are suitable for swimming, surfing, sailing, or other water sports.
Golf Courses Ariege
Do you enjoy playing golf and would you like to try out new golf courses? There are several courses in the Ariège Toulouse regions.
Canoe and Kayak
There are many opportunities for canoeing in the Dordogne region. The river Dordogne, the Lot, but also the other rivers, is beautiful and worthy to be viewed from all sides.
Lac de Castillon
The Lac de Castillon is the first reservoir of the Verdon River and is located in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon.
Golf de Provence
Domaine de Taulane, the wonderfully quiet 18-hole golf course, is located around the castle "Chateau de Taulane" and 7 lakes. It was the first Gary Player course in France. The course is very varied and a joy to play.
Golf courses Provence
In many parts of France, but especially in the south, golf is a popular sport. In the Provence, but also more towards the Ardeche and the Cote d'Azur, there are beautiful golf courses.
Walking in the Pyrenees
The Pyrenees are a beautiful mountain range that can be explored in multiple ways.
Golfcourses
There are several golf courses in the vicinity of your holiday home. France is an ideal destination for a golfing holiday. You are assured of a favorable climate here.
Waterpark Quercyland
In Souillac, on the banks of the Dordogne river, the aquaparc Quercyland. This is a large swimming pool with 5 swimming pools, 2 large water slides and a water slide with 6 lanes.
Mediterranean Sea, Cap d'Agde, Canet and Collioure
From your holiday home you will of course go once to the Mediterranean Sea. Along the coast with its wide sandy beaches are cozy villages with inviting terraces.
Lac du Tolerme
Would you like to take a day trip? The Lac du Tolerme recreational lake with its beautiful sandy beaches, changing rooms, and toilets is located about 20 kilometers from your holiday home.
Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon in the Provence is the most famous gorge in Europe. And according to many hikers, it is the most beautiful walking area in France, with remarkably clear green-blue water.
The valleys of the Lot and Dordogne by bike
Some of the most beautiful cities in the country are along the banks of the Lot and the Dordogne rivers in the south of France.
Oradour-sur-Glane
The village of Oradour-sur-Glane lies to the north-west of Limoges. The village reminds us of the terrible events of World War II.
