Holidays with children in Poitou-Charentes: 20 tips for your family holiday

Holidays with children in Poitou-Charentes mean enjoying beaches, nature, zoos and amusement parks. Discover the 20 best family outings and get inspired for a stay in a holiday home in France or holiday park in this versatile region of France.

Forges 9S Vigeliere vakantiehuis villa Frankrijk golf resort bluegreen aveneau poitou charentes zwem

A holiday with children in Poitou-Charentes is all about space, relaxation and variety. You will find charming seaside resorts, historic cities, green nature reserves and countless activities for young and old.

One day you build sandcastles by the sea, the next you take a boat trip through the Green Venice of France or experience spectacular attractions at Futuroscope. Active families will also find plenty to do. You can go canoeing, cycling, hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, or visit one of the many zoos and water parks.

It is precisely the combination of peace, space and varied excursions that makes the Poitou-Charentes one of the most child-friendly regions for a holiday in France.

From a comfortable holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes or a child-friendly FranceComfort holiday park  you will discover a different side of this versatile destination every day.

In this comprehensive overview, you can find out which activities are popular with families, which places are suitable for children and which trips should not be missed during a holiday in the Poitou-Charentes.

Why families like to go to Poitou-Charentes

The Poitou-Charentes is a region where families still truly have space. You will not find mass tourism here, and the distances between the various sights are relatively short. Within an hour's drive, you can switch from a day at the beach to a historic city, a zoo, or a nature reserve.

Many families choose the region because of:

  • the wide beaches on the Atlantic coast;
  • the pleasant climate;
  • the quiet atmosphere;
  • the many family activities;
  • the good accessibility by car;
  • the combination of nature and culture.

The region is also very varied. You can combine a visit to the historic city of La Rochelle with a day at the beach, a boat trip through the Marais Poitevin or a trip to the cozy city of Cognac.

Those seeking more inspiration for the region will find many more tips for excursions and sights on the holiday in Poitou-Charentes page.

On the official tourist website of Nouvelle-Aquitaine Tourisme you will find even more information about the region, events and family activities.

Why families with children often choose a holiday park in the Poitou-Charentes

Many families choose a holiday park in this region because of the combination of swimming pool, play facilities and a central location. Children quickly make new friends, while parents enjoy peace and relaxation. Holiday park Domaine les Forges is a good example of this.

Our parks in Poitou-Charentes    Our homes in Poitou-Charentes

Staying in a holiday home or holiday park in Poitou-Charentes

More and more families are choosing a holiday home in France or a holiday park in France as a base for their holiday. The combination of space, comfort, freedom and a child-friendly environment makes the Poitou-Charentes an ideal destination for an unforgettable family holiday. Many families consciously choose a holiday villa with a swimming pool in the Poitou-Charentes. Whilst your children swim or play in the garden, you can enjoy the peace and quiet on the terrace. Especially during hot summer days, a private pool is a great advantage and you can easily alternate beach days with relaxing days at your holiday villa.

Why do families choose a holiday home in Poitou-Charentes?

Many families choose a holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes because this region offers everything for a relaxing family holiday. You will enjoy plenty of space, a private terrace and the freedom to organize your holiday at your own pace. While the children play in the garden or take another dip in the pool, you can quietly enjoy a book or a long summer evening on the terrace.

Furthermore, a holiday villa near the Atlantic coast is ideal for families with children of different ages. Thanks to the multiple bedrooms, everyone has sufficient privacy, and you do not have to adapt to the fixed schedules of a hotel. You can have breakfast whenever you want, cook your own meals, or enjoy a nice dinner in one of the region's many villages and seaside resorts.

Why is a holiday park in Poitou-Charentes ideal for families?

A holiday park in the Poitou-Charentes is also an excellent choice for families. Many holiday parks have a swimming pool, play facilities and sports facilities, ensuring children never get bored. Moreover, children often quickly make new friends at a holiday park, while parents enjoy the peace and relaxed atmosphere.

Another major advantage of a holiday home in France is its central location. From your accommodation you can easily drive to beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, the Marais Poitevin, La Rochelle, Futuroscope or one of the lively markets in the region. This way you can alternate active trips with quiet days at the park.

Why do families choose a villa with a pool in Poitou-Charentes?

A villa with swimming pool in the Poitou-Charentes offers families all the space they need to enjoy their holiday without any worries. Your children can play safely in the garden or swim whenever they want, while you relax on the terrace or enjoy a delicious barbecue. You don't have to take into account crowds like you would have to at a shared swimming pool and you can determine your own holiday rhythm.

A holiday villa in the Poitou-Charentes often has several bedrooms and bathrooms, so that larger families or several generations can also stay together. If you choose a holiday home with a pool or a luxury holiday home in France, you can combine trips in the area with relaxing days at the pool. It is precisely this combination of freedom, privacy and comfort that makes a villa with a swimming pool so popular with families.

.

 

Why Poitou-Charentes is quieter than other popular holiday regions

The Poitou-Charentes is an ideal destination for families who love space, nature and a relaxed atmosphere. Compared to other popular holiday regions in France, it is often quieter here, so you can enjoy the beaches, nature and the many sights more. To the south of Poitou-Charentes lies the Dordogne, a beautiful region but slightly more touristy.

Quieter than the Vendée

Many families hesitate between the Vendée and the Poitou-Charentes. Both regions are located on the Atlantic coast and offer beautiful beaches and fun activities. Yet more and more families are choosing the Poitou-Charentes because of the quieter beaches, the friendly atmosphere and the many nature reserves. Also, the roads are often less busy and it is easier to discover authentic French villages and small towns. Families with young children, in particular, appreciate this extra tranquillity.

Less crowded than the South of France

Poitou-Charentes offers many of the same advantages as Southern France, such as a sunny climate, charming villages, and beautiful beaches, but is generally much less crowded in the summer. Traffic jams are shorter, popular attractions are more accessible, and there is often more space on terraces and beaches. It is precisely this slower pace and relaxed atmosphere that make the region appealing to families who want to enjoy a varied holiday without the hustle and bustle of the Côte d'Azur or Provence.

Activities for different ages

Age

Fun activities

Most popular choice

0 – 4 years

Beach days, playgrounds, zoos and recreational lakes

Beach and recreational lake

4 – 8 years

La Rochelle aquarium, boat trips, Futuroscope and small water parks

Aquarium and zoo

8 – 12 years

Canoeing, cycling, climbing forests and watersports

Canoeing and Futuroscope

12+ years

Surfing, adventure parks, long bike rides and active outings

Water sports and climbing parks



Top 5 activities for families

  1. Futuroscope near Poitiers
  2. Aquascope near Poitiers
  3. Zoo de La Palmyre
  4. Marais Poitevin
  5. Île de Ré

These five outings have been among the most popular activities among families holidaying in Poitou-Charentes for years.

  

20 tips for a child-friendly holiday in Poitou-Charentes

1. Visit La Rochelle

La Rochelle is one of the most beautiful cities on the Atlantic coast. The old harbour, the historic towers and the cosy terraces create a relaxed atmosphere. There is plenty to see for children. Large sailboats sail into the harbor, street musicians provide a lively atmosphere and ice cream parlors can be found everywhere. The city is also largely car-free, so you can walk along the harbor with young children. Visiting the aquarium or taking a boat trip is also popular. Afterwards, you can shop in the old streets and enjoy an ice cream on a terrace.

In the summer, it is wise to arrive early in the day. Parking is easier ,then, and the temperatures are still pleasant. For the old port and the center, half a day is sufficient. If you also want to visit the aquarium or take a boat trip, feel free to plan a full day for your visit.

Tip from the FranceComfort editors: Visit La Rochelle early in the morning and plan beach days on the Atlantic coast outside the weekend. It is considerably quieter then.

2. Discover the beaches of Île de Ré

Île de Ré is one of the most popular destinations on the Atlantic coast. The island is known for its wide sandy beaches, beautiful cycle paths and white villages with lively markets.

Popular beaches are:

  • Plage de la Conche;
  • Plage des Gollandières;
  • Plage du Gros Jonc.

Most beautiful beaches for young children

For families with small children, the beaches at Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré and La Couarde-sur-Mer are especially  popular because of the calm water and good facilities.

Many families spend a full day on the island, combining the beach, cycling, and a visit to one of the charming villages.

3. A day at Futuroscope

Futuroscope is one of the most famous amusement parks in France. The park does not focus on roller coasters, but on spectacular experiences, virtual reality, 4D films, and impressive shows.

Children fly through space, experience underwater adventures or travel through time. Many families are surprised by the variety and end up even planning two days for a visit.

What age is ideal for Futuroscope?

Age

Suitable attractions

3 – 6 years

Play areas and children's attractions

6 – 10 years

Many 4D attractions

10 – 14 years

Almost all attractions

14+

Spectacular simulations and shows

Practical tips for Futuroscope

  • arrive before the park opens;
  • buy tickets online in advance;
  • set aside at least one full day;
  • visit the evening show;
  • Take plenty of water with you on hot days.

On the official website of Futuroscope you will find current opening hours, admission prices and information about the various attractions.

4. Spend an unforgettable day at Puy du Fou

For many families, a visit to Puy du Fou is one of the absolute highlights of their holiday. This special theme park is not known for roller coasters, but for spectacular shows featuring knights, Vikings, gladiators and impressive special effects. You travel, as it were, through the history of France and experience one spectacular performance after another. Children in particular will be amazed by the large arenas, the horses, the birds of prey and the lifelike decors. Feel free to set aside a full day for a visit and stay until the evening show if possible, as it completes the experience. From holiday park L'Aveneau this theme park is less than a 1.5 hour drive.

5. Cycling on Île de Ré

Île de Ré is ideal for cyclists. There are more than 100 kilometers of cycle paths and many routes are completely car-free. This makes the island very suitable for families. Along the way you will cycle past salt fields, forests, beaches, small ports and charming villages. More inspiration for beautiful cycling routes can be found on the page about cycling in the Poitou-Charentes.

6. Discover Île d'Oléron

After Île de Ré, Île d'Oléron is the largest island on the French west coast. The island feels a bit quieter and has a more natural look. You will find vast beaches, forests, cycle paths, small fishing ports and colourful houses.
The Chassiron lighthouse is one of the most famous sights on the island.

7. Take a boat trip to Fort Boyard

Almost everyone knows Fort Boyard from television. Boat trips to the famous fort depart from various harbors.
During the tour, you will learn more about the history of the fortress and enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic coast. For children, it is often one of the highlights of the holiday.

8. Canoeing on the Charente

For many families, a holiday in France is not complete without a day on the water. The Charente River is one of the quietest rivers in western France and is therefore ideal for families with children.
During a canoe trip, you paddle past green banks, small villages, old bridges, and peaceful nature reserves. Along the way, you can stop regularly for a picnic or a swim.

For children, a trip on the water often feels like a great adventure. You discover the environment from a completely different perspective and are active at the same time. More information about routes and rental locations in the Poitou-Charentes can be found on the page about canoeing in France.

From what age is canoeing suitable?

Most rental companies recommend canoeing from about six years old, depending on the route and the swimming ability of your children. Leave early in the morning and bring plenty of water with you. Also think about sunscreen and wear a cap or hat. Put on water shoes for when you get out of the boat. Many families combine a morning of canoeing with a relaxing afternoon by the swimming pool of the holiday park.

O'Gliss Park 1SS Franktijk Vendee vakantie luxe villa poitou charentes forges zwembad.jpg

9. Water parks and aqua parks

For many children, a day at a water park is part of the summer holidays. There are several water parks in the region where families can have fun all day long. One of the most famous is Aquascope, a modern water park near Poitiers. The O'Gliss water park has spectacular slides, wave pools, children's areas, water play areas and quiet sunbathing areas. The Waterpark Les Antilles de Jonzac is largely covered.

Lac du Cébron is also popular with families who enjoy swimming, boating, or picnicking by the water. For an active day on or by the water, you can find even more inspiration on the page about water sports in the Poitou-Charentes.

10. Etang Vallier Recreational Lake

One of the nicest places for families in the Charente is the recreational lake of Etang Vallier The lake is situated in the heart of nature and offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and water fun.
There is a sandy beach where children can play safely, build sandcastles, or paddle. Additionally, you can swim, paddleboard, fish, play beach volleyball, rent pedal boats, and relax on the terrace. For many families, this is a wonderful place to spend a full day.
The lake is located right next to holiday park Etang Vallier, so you can easily walk to the beach from your holiday home. On hot days, the recreational lake is an excellent alternative to the Atlantic coast. The water warms up faster and the atmosphere is often calmer than at the sea. Many children love going back and forth between the beach and the water all day long.

11. The Aquarium of La Rochelle

The aquarium of La Rochelle is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and is one of the most popular attractions in the region. Children will be amazed by the huge tanks filled with sharks, rays, tropical fish, seahorses and jellyfish.
There is plenty of interaction for young children and older children find the large marine tanks impressive. Moreover, visiting the aquarium is the ideal activity for a rainy day.
Check the official website of Aquarium La Rochelle for up-to-date opening hours, tickets and special exhibitions.

12. Visit Zoo de La Palmyre

La Palmyre Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in France and attracts more than 700,000 visitors every year. The park is situated in a wooded area on the Atlantic coast and is home to more than 1,500 animals from all over the world.
Here, children can see giraffes, elephants, lions, gorillas, flamingos, penguins, zebrad, and more. The feeding presentations are particularly popular. Children often love watching the sea lions or giraffes being fed.

How much time do you need?

It is best to set aside a full day for the zoo. There is much to see and plenty of places to picnic or grab a bite to eat.
Those who want to discover even more animals will find many more fun outings on the page about zoos and aquariums in the Poitou-Charentes.

13. Discover the Marais Poitevin

The Marais Poitevin is one of the most beautiful natural sites in western France. Because of the many waterways, the area is also called the Green Venice of France.
The landscape in Coulon consists of narrow canals with reed beds and small bridges surrounded by green meadows and centuries-old trees. For families, this is a wonderful area to completely unwind. More beautiful areas can be found on the page about nature reserves in the Poitou-Charentes.

14. Beach Days on the Atlantic Coast

The Atlantic coast is one of the biggest attractions of the Poitou-Charentes. The beaches are wide, child-friendly and less crowded than many beaches on the Mediterranean Sea. The water is regularly checked by the government. Popular seaside resorts include Royan, Châtelaillon-Plage, Fouras and Saint-Georges-de-Didonne.
You can find more inspiration on the page about the seaside resorts on the Atlantic coast.

Why families love going to the Atlantic coast

The Atlantic coast is popular with families because of the wide sandy beaches, the abundance of space and the gently sloping beaches that are suitable for children. In addition, there are plenty of opportunities to play and exercise and the lively boulevards provide a relaxed holiday atmosphere. Many families head to the beach early and return to their air-conditioned holiday villa around lunchtime to avoid the hottest hours of the day.

Safe swimming on the Atlantic coast

The Atlantic coast is excellent for families. Many holidaymakers of villa park Bourg Est - Vigelière go there for a day during their holiday. However, it is important to be mindful of the sea. Tides and currents can be strong on some beaches. Therefore, preferably choose supervised beaches and pay attention to the flags at the lifeguard stations. A green flag means that swimming is safe, an orange flag requires extra caution, and a red flag means that swimming is prohibited. Never let children go into the sea alone and always stay near supervised swimming zones.

What do you take to the beach?

For a successful day at the beach, a parasol, sunscreen, plenty of drinking water, and some beach gear such as shovels, buckets, and games are actually indispensable. This way, the whole family can comfortably enjoy a day by the sea.

The 10 most beautiful beaches for families in Poitou-Charentes

The Atlantic coast of Poitou-Charentes has beautiful beaches. These are ten of the most popular beaches for families with children, thanks to the space, good facilities, and child-friendly atmosphere.

Beach Why suitable for families?
Plage de la Conche
(Île de Ré)

Wide sandy beach, plenty of space and gently sloping water

Plage des Gollandières

Good facilities, lifeguards and ideal for families

Châtelaillon-Plage Pleasant boulevard, shallow water and plenty of space to play
Grande Plage Royan

Large sandy beach with lots of activities and lifeguards in summer

St.Georges-de-Didonne Quiet atmosphere and suitable for young children
Plage de la Boirie

Sheltered location and colorful surroundings that appeal to children

Fouras-les-Bains

Calm and shallow water, ideal for small children

Plage de Gatseau

Beautiful nature, shade of pine trees and not too crowded

Plage de Ronce-les-Bains

Wide sandy beach with plenty of space to play

Plage de la Cèpe Calm waters and a safe environment for families with young children

 

15. Take a boat tour of the Marais Poitevin

For many families, a boat trip through the Marais Poitevin is one of the most beautiful outings of the holiday. You will sail in a relaxed atmosphere through beautiful nature. It is ideal during warm weather: you don't have to walk much and enjoy plenty of shade.

You glide silently through the narrow canals on a traditional flat-bottomed boat. Along the way, you will discover birds, fish, and sometimes even otters.
It is suitable for all ages. Allow around one to two hours for a boat trip. Many families combine a visit to Marais Poitevin with a visit to Niort, a charming city on the edge of the nature reserve.

16. Visit markets and summer festivals

A holiday in France isn’t complete without a visit to one of the markets in the Poitou-Charentes. You will find a lively weekly or evening market somewhere almost every day.
At the local markets, the air smells of freshly baked bread, grilled chicken, melons, and local cheeses. Children are often amazed by the stalls full of fruit, sweets, and regional products. Popular markets can be found in La Rochelle, Cognac, Niort, Royan, Saintes, and other small villages in the Charente.

Summer evening markets

In July and August, many village squares transform into lively summer festivals with music, long tables, and stalls. Many families simply eat at the market on such evenings. This creates a typical French holiday feeling.

17. Climbing Parks and Adventure Forests

For active children, various climbing parks and adventure forests are scattered throughout the region. Children move from tree to tree via rope bridges, climbing nets, and ziplines. There are routes for almost every age, allowing even younger children to participate.
A visit to an adventure park is a fun change of pace between beach days and cultural outings. Wear sporty clothing and sturdy shoes. In warm weather, sunscreen and plenty of fluids are important.
For families who like to be active, the region offers many more possibilities. Also check out the page about sports activities in Poitou-Charentes.

Bad weather tips for families

Although Poitou-Charentes is known for its sunny climate, a rainy day can occur. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives such as Futuroscope, Aquascope, the Aquarium of La Rochelle, museums, castles, and indoor play parks.
A visit to Poitiers is also a nice option. Many families deliberately save a visit to Futuroscope, Aquascope or the Aquarium of La Rochelle for a less beautiful day, so that they can make the most of the beach and nature on sunny days.

18. Cycling and walking in nature

Poitou-Charentes is a wonderful region for active families. There are hundreds of kilometers of cycling and walking routes that run through forests, wetlands, vineyards, nature parks, and along the Atlantic coast. On the page about hiking in the Poitou-Charentes you will find the most beautiful hiking trails and for cycling enthusiasts there is the extensive page about cycling in France. More and more families are renting e-bikes, making even longer distances manageable for children. Popular areas for walking and cycling include the Marais Poitevin, Île de Ré, Île d'Oléron, the forests of the Charente, and the nature reserves around Brossac. Many holidaymakers bring their dog along on a holiday in Poitou-Charentes. There are also special holiday homes where dogs are welcome at FranceComfort holiday parks. It is especially fun for children when the dog comes along on holiday.

19. Visit a castle or historic village

Scattered throughout the Poitou-Charentes are beautiful castles, fortified towns and historic villages. Children are particularly interested in the towers, stairs and old city walls.
Chauvigny is a beautiful village and a delightful destination for an afternoon stroll. Also, visit the birds of prey show in the castle ruins or go cycling with the children on the Velorail. The page about the tourist villages around Les Forges also offers plenty of inspiration for beautiful day trips.
Many families combine a visit to a historic village with a terrace or a visit to a market.

20. Visit Cognac

Cognac is much more than just the city of the famous drink. The historic center consists of charming streets, squares and beautiful buildings. There is plenty of opportunity to enjoy a drink on a terrace. You can enjoy a lovely walk or take a boat trip along the Charente River.
Cognac is surprisingly fun for families. Children enjoy the boats on the river, the market, and the cozy atmosphere in the old town. Many families combine a visit to Cognac with a visit to one of the most beautiful villages in the region, such as Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, which is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. The page about the most beautiful villages around Brossac also offers plenty of inspiration for a fun day trip.

Our parks in the region    Our homes in the region

How much does a week's holiday with children in Poitou-Charentes cost?

Average cost of a family vacation

Many families choose the Poitou-Charentes because the region is relatively affordable.

Part

Average price

Holiday home

€900 – €1,800 per week

Day at the zoo

€60 – €90 per family

Canoeing

€40 – €70 per family

Day at the beach

Free

Restaurant

€50 – €80 per family

Bike rental

€40 – €80 per day

By alternating free beach days with paid activities, a family holiday remains affordable.

Free or low-cost activities with children

A holiday in Poitou-Charentes doesn't have to be expensive. In fact, the region offers many fun activities that cost little or nothing. Alternate paid outings with free days at the beach, a visit to a lively market, or a walk through the French countryside.

Popular budget-friendly activities include:

  • a day at the beach;
  • a visit to a local market;
  • hiking in nature;
  • discovering old forts and historic villages;
  • playing in a playground;
  • enjoying a picnic by a lake or river;
  • watching boats in the port of La Rochelle.

With a good mix of free and paid activities, a holiday with children in Poitou-Charentes remains surprisingly affordable.

Natuurgebieden 4 Poitou-Charentes Ambazac vakantie Frankrijk.jpg

What can you do during hot days?

Activity

Why suitable

Beach days

Cooling and plenty of room to play

Boat trip

Pleasant sea breeze

Marais Poitevin

Lots of shade

Swimming pool

Ideal for families

Aquarium

Indoor and cool

Canoeing

Refreshing on the water

Evening markets

Charming and less warm

Many families plan active outings in the morning and spend the afternoon at the pool, the beach, or the recreational lake.

Best time to travel to Poitou-Charentes for a holiday with children

Many families choose July and August because of the school holidays, but May, June, and September are also wonderful months to go holiday to Poitou-Charentes. June and September are often the ideal months, especially for families with young children. It is less hot then, still relatively quiet, and often cheaper.

Climate per month

Month

Temperature

Suitable for

May

19°C

Hiking and cities

June

23°C

Families with young children

July

26°C

Beach and water activities

August

27°C

Summer holidays

September

24°C

Quiet late summer

Sample itinerary for a week's holiday with children in the Poitou-Charentes

Day 1: arrival and swimming pool
Day 2: La Rochelle and aquarium
Day 3: beach day on Île de Ré
Day 4: Futuroscope and Aquascope
Day 5: Marais Poitevin and boat trip
Day 6: La Palmyre zoo
Day 7: Etang Vallier Recreational lake and barbecue at the holiday park

Forges zwembad 2SK Frankrijk vakantiepark comfort luxe villa aveneau vieille vigne gezin.jpg

Practical information for families

The Poitou-Charentes is a child-friendly region with good facilities for families. In almost every larger town, you will find supermarkets, pharmacies, and medical facilities. Hospitals are also easily accessible. If you are traveling with a baby or young child, diapers, baby food, and other necessities are readily available in most supermarkets. Car rental companies often have child seats or car seats available for rent. Please note that many shops may be closed for a few hours during lunchtime and that supermarkets sometimes have limited opening hours on Sundays. Also read our tips to go on holiday without stress.

For current traffic information, roadworks, and busy traffic days, you can also consult the official traffic website of the French government, Bison Futé.

Traveling to Poitou-Charentes with children

By car to the West of France

Many families drive to France by car. The Poitou-Charentes is easily accessible from the Netherlands. Popular stopovers include the Paris area, the Loire region, Tours or Orléans.

You can find more information about busy days on the page about the Route du Soleil and the school holidays in Europe.

Toll roads and toll badge

During your journey, you will use French toll roads. With a toll badge, you can drive through the toll gates faster. Especially on busy days, this can save up to an hour of travel time. You can order these via FranceComfort. Read more about this on the following page: Toll roads, toll badge and Flux Libre in France.

Packing lists

Going on holiday with children often means that you take more stuff with you. To make sure you don't forget anything, we have created a handy packing list for you. Print out the list and cross off what you have packed in your suitcase.

Environmental sticker and environmental zones

When you travel through larger French cities, you may have to deal with environmental zones. Therefore, check in advance whether you have a Crit'Air environmental sticker and read more about the environmental zones in France.

Useful tips for on the go

On the page about laws and regulations in France and useful tips you can read everything about traffic rules, safety and practical information.

French holidays

During your trip, please also take into account Quatorze Juillet and other public holidays in France. Around these days, it can be extra busy on the roads and at popular attractions.

Groceries

Take a look at the overview of supermarkets in France and find the store that suits you best.

What our park managers find so special about the Poitou-Charentes

"The best thing about holidays here? That children always manage to find each other. We often see it happen on the very first day. Children meet at the pool, on the beach, or on the sports field, and a few hours later they are playing as if they have known each other for years.

The older youth also quickly gravitate towards each other. After a day full of trips, they meet up in the evening to chill together, play a game or take a walk around the park. New holiday friendships are formed regularly that last long after the summer.

In our opinion, it is precisely that relaxed atmosphere, the space, and the feeling that children can play freely here that make the Poitou-Charentes such a wonderful destination for families. It is therefore not unusual for guests to return to this special region year after year."

Also interesting for families

Many families also discover other French regions after a holiday in Poitou-Charentes. On the main page Holiday in France with children there is a lot of practical information. In addition, there are regional pages on this subject:

Dreaming of having your own holiday home in France

Many holidaymakers fall in love with French life during their stay. On the Buying a holiday home page  you can read why more and more people are choosing their own place under the French sun. In addition to many possibilities for personal use, you receive an attractive return. Furthermore, there are often tax benefits, such as savings in Box 3 for Dutch buyers. In all cases, everything is taken care of for you, and the management of your home is in the hands of professional managers. They are Dutch-speaking, which makes communication very easy.

Editorial

This article was written by the travel specialists at FranceComfort. It made use of information from tourist offices, tips from park managers, and experiences from guests who have visited the Poitou-Charentes themselves.

FAQ holidays with children Poitou-Charentes

What are the best activities to do with children in Poitou-Charentes?

Futuroscope, La Rochelle, Zoo de La Palmyre, the Marais Poitevin and the Atlantic beaches are among the most popular outings.

Is the Poitou-Charentes suitable for young children?

Yes. Thanks to the quiet beaches, short distances and many family activities, the region is very suitable for families.

How many days do you need for Futuroscope?

One full day is sufficient for Futuroscope. If you want to experience all the attractions at a leisurely pace and also watch the evening show, two days are ideal.

Is the Atlantic coast safe for children?

Yes, many beaches on the Atlantic coast are suitable for families. Preferably choose supervised beaches and take into account the tides and any currents.

How much does a day at Futuroscope cost?

Admission prices vary by season and age. Expect to pay around €40 to €60 per person on average, with online tickets often being cheaper.

Which place is the most fun for families?

It depends on your preferences. La Rochelle is ideal for a combination of city and sea, the Marais Poitevin for nature and tranquillity and Île de Ré for beach, cycling and charming villages.

What can you do in case of bad weather?

The La Rochelle Aquarium, Futuroscope, Aquascope, and various museums are excellent alternatives.

When is the best time to travel?

June and September are ideal because of the pleasant weather and relatively quiet atmosphere.

Which beaches are suitable for children?

Royan, Châtelaillon-Plage and the beaches of Île de Ré are among the most child-friendly beaches.

Enjoying your holiday with children in the Poitou-Charentes

A holiday with children in Poitou-Charentes is all about variety. One day you will visit a historic town, the next day you will be lying on the beach or going on a boat trip through the Green Venice of France.

Whether you choose a holiday home, a holiday park or a stay on the coast, the Poitou-Charentes offers everything for a relaxing and varied family holiday.

Check availability and book your next family holiday in South-West France.

Our parks in the region    Our homes in the region    Order an Environmental sticker    Order a Toll badge