Picnics, Parks, and Exciting Adventures in the South of France

(Reading time: 8-9)

Adventure holidays in France have always held a special place in my heart, which is why Laure and I work so hard in the winter to make Country Kids the exceptional holiday resort our guests say it is. I think you’ll see why we’ve got an almost clean sweep of 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor from the moment you arrive.

Let me put you in the picture. Imagine a soft blanket under a shady tree, the sweet scent of lavender on the warm summer breeze, the sound of children’s laughter as they play in the safety of our 30 acres of car-free, gated grounds.

For families who desire more than a lazy day on the beach or hours on end lounging by the pool (hey, you can do this here too, if you wish), you’ll find something more exciting and wholesome at Country Kids. From perfectly packed picnics to paddle-friendly lakes and gentle forest trails, it’s all right here on your doorstep.

Do you want sun-drenched days that are filled with nature, freedom, and connection, with ample opportunity to unplug and disconnect from work? Do you also want to get quality time in your relationship while the kids are enjoying supervised fun with new friends? Then read on to discover some of my personal favourite outdoor trips, picnic spots, and everyday activities that make our little piece of paradise one of the perfect adventure holidays in France.

Children playing on a hammock in the forest.

Why Adventure Holidays in France Are Perfect for Families

There’s something about being in the big outdoors that works wonders for children and their grown-ups. We see it time and again – kids arrive a little shy, and more than a little restless. Within 24 hours, they’re playing with new friends, hiding on the tree house, splashing in the pool, and petting the animals in our working farm.

And while your children are squealing with delight on a forest walk, you’re enjoying a well-deserved cocktail by the adult-only pool, relaxed with the knowledge that our team are busy planning your week ahead. That’s just one of the advantages of an ‘Absolutely Everything Included’ vacation here – we personalise your week to your wishes, and take care of all the bookings for you.

Yep, adventure holidays in France give families the chance to reset and reconnect. Time outdoors helps boost confidence and imagination in children, and gives parents the space to breathe. You don’t just get a break from city life here – you benefit from a complete change of rhythm.

My Favourite Tips for a Perfect Family Picnic

Some of the best days in the countryside are the ones that include a picnic, aren’t they? Over the years, we’ve perfected the art of the French picnic experience with a few simple tricks.

Top of my list of picnic tips is to keep it simple. We always pack a family-size blanket, a cool box of delicious home-cooked goodies, sun hats, water bottles, and a stack of baby wipes.

Next up – the food. Kids especially love finger food, so I go for fresh bread, cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, fruit kebabs, and flaky croissants from the local bakery. There’s no fuss, no forks. Just plenty of delicious and fresh food to give the kids the energy they need to fuel their next mini adventure.

And after you’ve eaten? A good scavenger hunt in the heart of nature always goes down well. Give the kids a list of objects to find, things to see, and birdsong to listen for. Then let them go and explore.

Ahhh… it’s the little things (and little humans) that make adventure holidays in France so unique.

Where Do I Take My Family for the Best Picnic and Park Adventures?

We’re lucky to live where we do. All around us is some of France’s most stunning rural scenery. Around every corner is a new adventure, with incredible family-friendly parks and open spaces.

One of my favourites is Lac du Salagou, only a few kilometres from Country Kids. With red-rocky shores, calm water, and surrounded by forests and fields, it’s perfect for a family day out. The kids can paddle or play while you stretch out with a glass of something chilled, before you try your hand at paddle boarding or kayaking.

I can’t not mention the Parc Naturel Régional du Haut-Languedoc, again only a short drive away. For a spot of walking, wildlife watching, and the experience of complete tranquillity, this is the place to go. You’ll find shaded trails, picnic tables, and… peace.

Laure and I are always happy to share the hidden gems for a family adventure off the beaten track – hidden riverside walks and quiet forest corners where you can enjoy adventure holidays in France away from the madding crowd.

for the parents whats on the menu2

Country Kids – Adventures Your Kids Will Talk About for Years

Some of the most meaningful family moments during adventure holidays in France are created by experiencing the simple things in life. Like when you’re splashing through a shallow stream with your kids, racing through a forest, or watching the little ones using their imagination as they build intricate fairy houses from sticks, grass, and moss.

We’ve developed our estate to provide a safe space where your children can explore and discover freely. There’s a petting farm, treehouses, swings, playgrounds, a Kids’ Club, a heated swimming pool with a flume, and a range of activities that could keep them amused forever. Here, everything is an adventure, and life becomes a game.

You’ll find our little corner of paradise is the prefect microcosm of what makes adventure holidays in France so memorable – openair freedom with peace of mind that allows your children to express their imagination without limits.

A Few Outdoor Safety Tips from One Parent to Another

As parents ourselves, we understand that getting the most from outdoor fun needs a little planning. You’ll need to cover the basics – sunscreen, lots of water, snacks, and a day packed with activities to keep the kids happy. No need for you to worry about anything, though – remember, absolutely everything is included when you holiday at Country Kids.

I always encourage parents to let the kids take the lead on as much as they can. When you’re out and about, let them make the ‘big decisions’ – like which direction to take when there’s a fork in the forest path. Let their curiosity set the pace of your family adventure. Of course, it’s also smart to set boundaries.

Kids are full of energy, aren’t they? Which is great, and they’ll want to be on the go all the time. But it’s important to strike a balance between high-energy moments and downtime. So it’s great to take a slow stroll through the woods, or to relax for a few minutes in a shady nook.

And if you need time to relax but your kids still want to run around and be active? Well, that’s what our experienced staff are best at. When we say ‘absolutely everything is included,’ it includes time for you to relax and reconnect while your kids are doing what they do best – being kids.

Adventure holidays in France for families, with couple time included. Who would have thought it was possible?

Children playing with toy trucks in sandbox outdoors.

Country Kids – The Ideal Base for Adventure Holidays in France

When Laure and I took on Country Kids, it was with families like ours in mind. We wanted to create a holiday resort where multi-generational families, with discerning tastes, can enjoy the ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. A place where kids are free to roam, explore, and thrive, and parents can enjoy the ‘us time’ that is so elusive in their everyday lives.

Our Absolutely Everything Included package takes all the pressure off. There’s no need to worry about food, drinks, or even nappies! We plan your holiday with you, and then take care of everything for you. Everything is done – gourmet meals, wine from our exclusive wine cellar, premium drinks, childcare, laundry, housekeeping, and a packed schedule of supervised fun for the kids.

Our approach to your family holiday means you can spend your time on the most important things in life – making memories to treasure forever. Because, with acres of space, surrounded by nature, and a team that genuinely cares, Country Kids is more than a holiday – it’s your home away from home for unforgettable adventure holidays in France.

Sounds like your kind of all-inclusive escape, doesn’t it? Laure and I would love to welcome you to Country Kids. Get in touch or check availability, and we’ll help you create a family adventure you’ll never forget.

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