Activities & Kids

The Mayenne region in France offers a charming and family-friendly environment with plenty of activities that kids will enjoy. From outdoor adventures to historical sites and fun educational experiences.

1. Visit Château de Lassay

• Medieval Castle: Explore the well-preserved Château de Lassay, a stunning 15th-century fortress complete with towers, drawbridges, and a moat. Kids can imagine themselves as knights and princesses as they wander through the castle and its gardens.

2. Explore the Alpes Mancelles

• Outdoor Adventure: This natural area offers numerous outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and canoeing. The picturesque villages of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei and Fresnay-sur-Sarthe are also worth visiting for their charm and history.

• Picnic Spots: Pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful scenery by the riverbanks or in one of the many parks.

3. Refuge de l'Arche

• Animal Sanctuary: Located in Château-Gontier, this wildlife rescue center is home to a variety of animals, including exotic species and local wildlife. It's a great place for kids to learn about animal conservation and get up close to creatures like lions, bears, and birds of prey.

4. Laval Virtual Reality Centre

• VR Experience: In Laval, the Laval Virtual Centre offers interactive virtual reality experiences. It’s a fun and futuristic way for kids to engage with technology and explore virtual worlds.

5. Musée des Sciences (Science Museum) in Laval

• Interactive Exhibits: This museum offers a range of hands-on exhibits that cover topics like astronomy, biology, and physics. It’s a great place for kids to learn while having fun with interactive displays and experiments.

6. Bois Gamats Adventure Park

• Tree-Top Adventures: Located near Laval, this adventure park offers tree-top courses and zip lines that are perfect for adventurous kids. There are courses suitable for different age groups, making it a fun activity for the whole family.

7. La Cité du Lait in Laval

• Dairy Museum: Also known as the Lactopôle, this museum is dedicated to the history and production of dairy products. Kids can learn about how cheese and butter are made, see vintage farming equipment, and even sample some delicious local products.

8. Coëvrons-Mayenne Outdoor Leisure Centre

• Water Sports and Activities: This leisure centre near the town of Evron offers various activities like swimming, pedal boating, and fishing. There are also playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

9. Mayenne River

• Boat Rides: Take a relaxing boat ride along the Mayenne River. Many companies offer boat rentals or guided tours, providing a peaceful way to explore the countryside. Kids will love spotting wildlife and waving to other boaters along the way.

10. Jublains Roman Fortress

• Roman History: Visit the ancient Roman town of Jublains to explore its well-preserved fortress, thermal baths, and temples. The site also has a small museum with artifacts from the Roman era, and children can learn about life in Roman times through interactive displays.

11. Cider Route and Farm Visits

• Cider Tasting and Farm Animals: The Mayenne region is known for its cider, and many farms offer tours where kids can meet animals, learn about apple cultivation, and see how cider is made. Some farms also offer activities like apple picking in season.

12. Parc de Loisirs de l’Etang

• Leisure Park: Located near Château-Gontier, this park offers a range of activities including mini-golf, pedal boats, and a large playground. It’s a great spot for a family day out, with plenty of space for picnicking and relaxing by the water.

13. Mont des Avaloirs

• Highest Point in the West: Visit the Mont des Avaloirs, the highest point in western France. There's an observation tower offering panoramic views, and the surrounding area is perfect for hikes that the whole family can enjoy.

14. Aquabulle in Laval

• Swimming and Water Fun: Aquabulle is an indoor aquatic centre with swimming pools, slides, and a play area for kids. It’s a great place to spend a rainy day or just to cool off in the water.

15. Visit Local Markets

• Local Flavors and Crafts: Many towns in Mayenne host weekly markets where you can introduce your kids to local produce, cheeses, and crafts. The lively atmosphere is a great way to experience the local culture and pick up some tasty treats.

16. Outdoor Cycling

• Family-Friendly Bike Routes: The Mayenne region has several cycling routes that are suitable for families, including trails along the Mayenne River. Rent bikes and enjoy a day exploring the scenic countryside at your own pace.

17. Museé du Vieux Château in Laval

• Art and History: Housed in a medieval castle, this museum offers a collection of contemporary art, as well as exhibits on the history of Laval and the surrounding region. The castle itself, with its towers and ramparts, is fascinating for children to explore.

18. Horse Riding

• Equestrian Activities: The rural landscape of Mayenne is ideal for horseback riding, and there are several stables offering rides for children of all ages. It’s a fun way to experience the countryside and learn a new skill.

The Mayenne region provides a mix of educational, cultural, and outdoor activities that are perfect for keeping kids engaged and entertained. Whether exploring ancient castles, enjoying nature, or participating in interactive museums, there's something for every family to enjoy.

Normandy is a family-friendly destination with a wide range of activities that cater to children of all ages.

From exploring historical sites to enjoying outdoor adventures and learning about the region’s rich culture, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained.

1. Visit the D-Day Landing Beaches

• Omaha Beach and Utah Beach: While the history is serious, many museums, like the Utah Beach Museum and the Overlord Museum, offer engaging exhibits that help children understand the significance of these sites.

• Arromanches 360 Circular Cinema: This immersive 360-degree cinema near Arromanches shows a film about the Battle of Normandy, providing a captivating way for kids to learn about World War II.

2. Explore Mont Saint-Michel

• Climb the Abbey: The climb up to the abbey is an adventure in itself, with narrow winding streets and hidden nooks to explore along the way. The abbey itself offers stunning views and a chance for kids to imagine what life was like in medieval times.

• Tidal Walks: For older kids, guided walks across the bay at low tide can be an exciting experience, where they can learn about the unique ecosystem and tides.

3. Cité de la Mer in Cherbourg

• Aquarium and Submarine: This maritime museum is home to one of Europe’s largest aquariums, as well as the Le Redoutable nuclear submarine, which families can tour. Interactive exhibits make it fun and educational for kids to learn about marine life and the history of sea exploration.

4. Château de Falaise

• Medieval Castle Experience: Kids can enjoy a visit to this well-preserved medieval castle, the birthplace of William the Conqueror. The castle offers interactive displays and activities that bring medieval history to life, such as dressing up as knights or taking part in treasure hunts.

5. Zoo de Jurques

• Animal Encounters: Located near Caen, this zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world. Kids can see lions, tigers, giraffes, and even take part in feeding sessions with some of the animals.

6. Festyland Amusement Park

• Family Fun: Near Caen, Festyland is a theme park with rides and attractions suitable for all ages. The park is themed around Normandy’s history, with sections dedicated to Vikings, pirates, and medieval knights, making it both fun and educational.

7. Bayeux Tapestry

• Interactive Experience: The Bayeux Tapestry is an incredible piece of history, and the museum offers audio guides that are child-friendly. Kids can follow the story of William the Conqueror’s conquest of England in 1066, told through the detailed scenes of the tapestry.

8. Alligator Bay

• Reptile Zoo: Located near Mont Saint-Michel, Alligator Bay is home to hundreds of reptiles, including alligators, crocodiles, snakes, and turtles. The zoo has a covered area where kids can safely observe these fascinating creatures up close.

9. Mont Saint-Michel Puzzle Museum

• Interactive Fun: This small museum near Mont Saint-Michel offers a unique collection of puzzles and optical illusions that kids will enjoy. It’s a fun, interactive experience that can be a great break from more traditional sightseeing.

10. Les Jardins d'Etretat

• Art and Nature: This unique garden in Étretat combines natural beauty with modern art installations. Kids can explore the different themed gardens, which offer imaginative sculptures and beautiful views of the cliffs.

11. Train Rides

• Steam Train Ride: Take a ride on a historic steam train at the Chemin de Fer de la Baie de Somme or the Chemin de Fer de la Vallée de l’Eure. These scenic train journeys are a great way to explore the countryside and are sure to be a hit with kids.

12. La Maison du Biscuit

• Sweet Treats: Located in Sortosville-en-Beaumont, this traditional biscuit factory is a great place to take kids for a taste of Normandy’s sweet treats. The shop has an old-fashioned feel, and there are plenty of samples to try.

13. Horseback Riding

• Equestrian Activities: Normandy is famous for its horses, and many places offer horseback riding experiences suitable for children. Whether it’s a short pony ride or a longer trek through the countryside, it’s a fun way for kids to experience the region.

14. Beaches

• Family-Friendly Beaches: Normandy has several family-friendly beaches where kids can play, swim, and enjoy water sports. Deauville and Trouville are popular spots with soft sand, shallow waters, and nearby amenities.

Normandy offers a diverse range of activities that cater to families, blending history, nature, and fun in a way that will create lasting memories for kids and adults alike.

Brittany is a wonderful destination for families, offering a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and fun activities that are perfect for kids.

1. Explore the Pink Granite Coast (Côte de Granit Rose)

• Rock Climbing and Beachcombing: This stunning coastline features unique pink granite rock formations that kids will love climbing on. The beaches, such as Ploumanac'h and Tregastel, are great for swimming, exploring rock pools, and beachcombing.

• Sentier des Douaniers: Take a family-friendly hike along the Sentier des Douaniers (GR34) coastal path, offering breathtaking views of the sea and the unusual rock formations.

2. Visit Océanopolis in Brest

• Aquarium Adventure: Océanopolis is a large aquarium in Brest that’s perfect for a family day out. It has three pavilions dedicated to polar, tropical, and temperate marine ecosystems, where kids can see sharks, penguins, and colorful fish up close. There are also interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations.

3. Discover the Alignements de Carnac

• Megalithic Mystery: The Carnac Stones are one of the world’s largest collections of prehistoric standing stones, and their sheer scale is fascinating for children. You can take a guided tour to learn about the history and legends surrounding these mysterious stones.

4. Explore Monts d’Arrée

• Outdoor Adventure: Monts d’Arrée is a mountainous area with rugged landscapes and plenty of hiking trails suitable for families. Kids will enjoy the opportunity to explore the heaths, forests, and peat bogs, and you can visit Ménez-Hom, the highest peak in the region, for panoramic views.

5. Visit Château de Fougères

• Medieval Castle: This impressive medieval fortress is one of the largest in Europe and offers a fun and educational experience for children. They can explore the towers, ramparts, and dungeons, and take part in various interactive exhibits and reenactments.

6. Parc du Thabor in Rennes

• Urban Oasis: This beautiful park in Rennes is perfect for a relaxing day out with the family. It has expansive gardens, a rose garden, an aviary, and a children’s playground. It’s a great spot for a picnic or just letting the kids run around.

7. Brocéliande Forest (Forêt de Paimpont)

• Arthurian Legends: Brocéliande Forest is steeped in the legends of King Arthur and Merlin. Families can explore the forest, visit the Tomb of Merlin, the Fountain of Barenton, and participate in storytelling tours that bring the legends to life.

8. Zoo and Botanical Garden of Branféré

• Wildlife and Nature: This zoo in Le Guerno offers more than just animals; it’s also a botanical garden and an animal park where animals roam in semi-liberty. The Parcabout, a network of suspended nets in the trees, is particularly fun for kids.

9. Visit Île de Bréhat

• Island Adventure: Just off the coast of Brittany, this car-free island is a beautiful place to explore by foot or bicycle. The island is known for its mild climate, exotic plants, and charming villages. Kids will enjoy the boat ride to the island and exploring the coastal paths.

10. Les Machines de l’Île in Nantes

• Mechanical Wonders: Although Nantes is just outside Brittany, it’s worth the trip to see Les Machines de l’Île, a unique attraction featuring giant mechanical animals, including the famous Grand Éléphant. Kids can ride on the elephant and watch other fantastical machines in action.

11. Aquarium and Marinelife Centre Trégastel

• Underwater World: Located in a natural cave, this small aquarium showcases the marine life of Brittany’s coasts. It’s an educational experience where kids can learn about local sea creatures, including octopuses, starfish, and crabs.

12. Rennes Planetarium

• Stargazing for Kids: The Planetarium de Bretagne in Pleumeur-Bodou offers shows that are designed to introduce children to astronomy in a fun and engaging way. It’s a great indoor activity if the weather isn’t ideal.

13. Play at the Enigmaparc

• Adventure Park: Located near Rennes, Enigmaparc is an indoor theme park focused on puzzles and adventure. It’s divided into themed areas like ancient Egypt and medieval times, where kids can solve riddles, navigate mazes, and enjoy various challenges.

14. Cité de la Voile Éric Tabarly in Lorient

• Sailing Museum: This interactive museum is dedicated to sailing and maritime history. Kids can learn about the life of famous sailor Éric Tabarly, try out sailing simulators, and participate in hands-on activities.

15. Visit a Breton Farm

• Farm Life Experience: Many farms in Brittany offer tours where kids can learn about traditional Breton agriculture, meet farm animals, and see how local products like cheese and cider are made.

16. Cycling along the Nantes-Brest Canal

• Family Bike Ride: The flat paths along the Nantes-Brest Canal are perfect for a family bike ride. The canal is lined with beautiful scenery, locks, and quaint villages, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

17. Explore Saint-Malo

• Pirate History: The walled city of Saint-Malo is a great place for a family adventure. Kids can walk the ramparts, visit the Château de Saint-Malo, and learn about the city’s pirate history at the Musée d'Histoire de la Ville.

18. Domaine de Trévarez

• Historic Castle and Gardens: This grand estate near Châteauneuf-du-Faou features a beautiful castle and expansive gardens. Throughout the year, the site hosts special events and exhibitions that are geared towards families, including Easter egg hunts and Christmas festivities.

Brittany offers a rich variety of activities that blend history, nature, and fun, making it an ideal destination for families traveling with children.