Are you looking for a family friendly adventure abroad that isn’t the usual do-nothing beach getaway or city break you always choose? I’ve got the solution you’ve been looking for: barge holidays in France. Not only do river cruises give you the opportunity to visit more than one city on a single trip (and, in turn, expose your children to more culture and history), they also incorporate exciting stops with activities and excursions that are fun for all ages.
If you’re in search of a trip that will allow you to spend quality time with the whole family while still getting in the adventure and excitement the kids crave (and that the adults will enjoy too!), look no further than this article. Here are my favourite routes for barge holidays in France.
Alsace and Lorraine
Some of the best areas for family friendly barge holidays in France are the Alsace and Lorraine regions – and one of the best cities en route is Strasbourg. There you’ll be able to take the kids ice skating or, if you want to slip in a little bit of education without them realising, to some entertaining museums. Consider visiting the Chocolate Museum to learn all there is to know about the sweet and its history (complete with taste tests, of course) or, if you don’t want the children riding a sugar high, head to Museé Zoologique. This is a natural history collection displaying thousands of mammals, birds, insects, invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians and fish. It’s the perfect detour for any little animal lovers or future history buffs.
Canal du Midi
Canal du Midi is another popular choice when it comes to family friendly barge holidays in France. The area contains lots of activities perfect for all ages. Adventurous kids will love a stop at Aqualand Park, an outdoor waterpark complete with slides and a large pool, or the River Orb, where they will have the chance to partake in an unforgettable kayaking experience. Other child-friendly detours include horse riding, an interactive dinosaur museum-park, tennis and badminton.
Upper Loire and Western Burgundy
The Upper Loire and Western Burgundy regions are two more areas that are popular among families searching for barge holidays in France. If your children are teenagers, consider an archery excursion. Older kids will also enjoy stops to play paintball, go hot air ballooning and try go-karting, while all ages will get something out of biking, tennis and bowling. There are also options to dock and embark on a horse-drawn carriage ride and pony trekking if you have little animal lovers in your brood.
When it comes to figuring out what you’re doing for your next all-ages trip, the decision can be tough. A river cruise specifically tailored towards families is the perfect choice. It may not be the most obvious option at first but once you realise it’s something everyone will enjoy, it’s sure to make its way to the top of your list. Get planning today and before you know it everyone in your group will be ready to make a splash all the way down France’s rivers.
Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury barge holidays in France. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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