Family-Friendly Adventures in , Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur!

Cap Taillat

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Cap Taillat, France

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your adventure at Cap Taillat by arriving in Ramatuelle, a picturesque village near Saint-Tropez. You can drive or take a bus from Nice, which is about a 2-hour drive. Once there, settle into one of the family-friendly accommodations available.

Morning: L"Escalet Beach

After breakfast, take a short drive or a local bus to L"Escalet Beach. This beach is perfect for families, offering clear shallow waters and stunning views of the coastline. Spend the morning swimming, building sandcastles, or snorkeling in the calm waters.

Afternoon: Hike to Cap Taillat

Post lunch, prepare for a gentle 30-minute hike to Cap Taillat from L"Escalet Beach. The path is well-marked and offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The hike is easy, making it suitable for children, and leads to the beautiful isthmus of Cap Taillat. This area is a protected natural site, renowned for its unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including diverse bird species which can be a great educational experience for kids.

Evening: Dinner in Ramatuelle

Return to Ramatuelle for dinner. Choose a restaurant with local cuisine to give the family a taste of French culinary delights. The village also offers quaint streets and historical sites that you can explore post-dinner, perfect for a leisurely evening walk.

Day 2: Relaxation and Departure

Spend your morning leisurely. You might want to revisit the beach or explore local shops for souvenirs. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in town before heading back home.

Interesting Fact

Cap Taillat is part of the Natura 2000 network, which is a European ecological network aimed at protecting the most seriously threatened habitats and species across Europe. A visit here not only promises stunning natural beauty but also a chance to educate your family on the importance of conservation.

This itinerary balances relaxation with adventure, making Cap Taillat a memorable family getaway!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Pampelonne Beach (Plage de Pampelonne)

Why Visit?

### Family-Friendly Itinerary to Pampelonne Beach (Plage de Pampelonne)

Morning: Arrival and Setup at Pampelonne Beach

- How to Get There: From the nearby town of Saint-Tropez, rent a car or take a local bus that heads towards Ramatuelle. There’s parking close to the beach, or you can stop at Ramatuelle and enjoy a scenic walk.

- What to Do: Choose a spot on the 5-km long sandy beach. The northern part of Pampelonne is quieter and perfect for families. Lay out your beach mat and umbrella, and prepare for a relaxing day under the sun.

Midday: Lunch at a Beachside Restaurant

- Where to Go: Try one of the family-friendly restaurants along the beach. Many establishments offer a kids’ menu and boast fantastic sea views. Le Club 55 is a popular choice with a history of attracting celebrities, providing a delightful mix of glamour and delicious food.

Afternoon: Water Sports and Exploration

- Activities: Rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the coastline from the sea. For older children, consider a beginner"s snorkeling session to spot marine life.

- Interesting Fact: Pampelonne was the filming location for the 1950s film "And God Created Woman," which significantly boosted the fame of Saint-Tropez.

Late Afternoon: Visit to the Cap Camarat Lighthouse

- How to Get There: A short drive or a hike from the beach, visit the iconic lighthouse for breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.

- What to See: Enjoy a family photo session as you capture the panoramic vistas.

Evening: Return to Saint-Tropez

- Leisurely Stroll: Before heading back, take a stroll in the charming streets of Saint-Tropez. Enjoy gelato from a local vendor and soak in the vibrant, artsy atmosphere.

- Dinner: Conclude your day with a meal in Saint-Tropez, where many restaurants offer early dining options suitable for families with young children.

This itinerary offers a blend of relaxation, activity, and local culture, making it perfect for a family day out at Pampelonne Beach.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Port Grimaud

Why Visit?

Welcome to Port Grimaud, the enchanting lakeside town in the heart of the French Riviera, often referred to as the "Venice of Provence." Here"s a family-friendly itinerary guaranteed to charm every member of your clan:

Day 1: Discovering Port Grimaud

Start your adventure at the central market square, Place du Marché, bustling with local vendors and vibrant stalls. Grab a croissant and some fresh fruits for a picnic later in the day. Next, stroll to the nearby boat station and hop on a guided boat tour of the canal system. These tours, which last about an hour, offer fascinating insights into the history of this architecturally unique town designed by François Spoerry in the 1960s. The colorful houses with their quaint shutters and private moorings make for stunning views.

After the boat ride, walk over to the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, notable for its modern design and beautiful stained glass. Climb up to the church bell tower for a panoramic view of the entire town and the glittering Gulf of Saint-Tropez.

Day 2: Beach Day and Grimaud Castle

Pack up your beach gear and take a short drive or a local bus to Grimaud Beach, a lovely sandy stretch perfect for building sandcastles and splashing in the Mediterranean Sea. After lunch at one of the beachside cafes, drive up to the medieval village of Grimaud, about 15 minutes from the coast. Explore the ancient ruins of Grimaud Castle, where the kids can learn about medieval life and enjoy more spectacular views.

Additional Tips

- Port Grimaud is pedestrian-friendly; however, you can rent bikes or electric boats for a unique way to explore around.

- Summer is bustling with tourists, so booking accommodations and activities in advance is recommended.

This picturesque town offers a blend of historical intrigue and seaside fun, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Abbey of Thoronet

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: A Day at the Abbey of Thoronet

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure to the Abbey of Thoronet by driving from nearby cities like Nice or Marseille, which takes about 1.5 hours. Set in the heart of Provence, this Cistercian abbey, founded in 1160, is not only a gem of medieval architecture but also a journey back in time. Park your car in the visitor parking area; from there, it’s a short, scenic walk to the abbey entrance.

Exploring the Abbey

Begin your tour at the visitor center, where you can pick up audio guides available in multiple languages, providing insightful historical context that’s engaging for both kids and adults. As you step into the abbey, notice the serene ambiance and the remarkable acoustics of the abbey church - whisper at one end and hear it clearly at the other! This can be a fun experiment for the kids.

Interactive Learning

Join one of the family-friendly guided tours usually available in the mornings. These tours are tailored to keep younger visitors fascinated, explaining the monks" daily lives and the abbey’s function in an understandable way. Don"t miss the scriptorium, once a hub of medieval bookmaking.

Picnic Lunch

Post-tour, enjoy a picnic on the abbey grounds. There’s a designated picnic area where you can relax under the shade of old trees. It’s perfect for a family lunch and for the kids to play around.

Afternoon Activities

In the afternoon, explore the surrounding natural trails. The “Path of the Monks” is a gentle walk suitable for families, offering both a sense of adventure and spectacular Provencal landscapes.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon, ensuring you leave with plenty of time to return before sunset, soaking in the memories of a beautifully spent day steeped in history and nature.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

St-Tropez Market (Marché Place des Lices)

Why Visit?

Family Day Out at St-Tropez Market

Embark on a delightful family adventure at the charming St-Tropez Market, located at Place des Lices. This vibrant market, open primarily on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, is perfect for families looking to explore local culture and cuisine.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at St-Tropez. If you’re staying nearby, a leisurely walk through the quaint streets offers a scenic route. Alternatively, consider a local bus or a taxi from your accommodation to Place des Lices.

Exploring the Market

Once at the market, immerse yourselves in the lively atmosphere where local vendors showcase an array of goods from fresh produce and flowers to artisan crafts and clothes. Teach your kids about local foods as you sample traditional treats like the Tarte Tropézienne or a slice of fresh socca. Don"t forget to pick up some handcrafted souvenirs!

Fun Fact: The market is a historical spot where locals have gathered since medieval times, making it a rich part of St-Tropez’s heritage.

Picnic at the Park

Around noon, head to the small park area within Place des Lices. Here, you can enjoy a picnic with goods purchased from the market beneath the shade of plane trees. It’s a great spot for children to play, and for adults to enjoy a game of pétanque, a local favorite.

Afternoon Stroll and Gelato

Post-picnic, take a walk to the nearby marina to see the spectacular yachts and enjoy the sea breeze. Stop by one of the gelaterias for a refreshing ice cream as you stroll.

Visit the Citadel

Wrap up your day with a visit to the Citadel of St-Tropez, just a short walk uphill from the marina. The climb is rewarded with panoramic views of the sea and a historical museum that captivates all ages.

Return to your accommodation by evening, enriched with the cultural delights of St-Tropez. Enjoy this picturesque village at your own pace, creating memories that your family will cherish for years to come!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.