FamilyFirst

Open Air Activities with Children on the French Riviera

Nature and Countryside Activities for Families on the French Riviera

Being a mother of two very energetic children aged 4 and 9 years and editor of www.familyfirst.fr, the local bilingual children’s guide, I’m always on the lookout for activities to please the whole family, especially during the school holidays.

For the month of July I’ve decided to share some of my favorite nature and countryside, free or nearly addresses with you. These are not only ideas that appeal to children as each one has some sort of fun aspect to it but also discovery and learning experiences for adults, whether you be local to the area or only passing through.

A trip to one of the nearby mountain resorts, only a 1 ½ hour drive away makes a fantastic day out. Choose Valberg for a four leaved clover hunt! Park in Valberg centre or along the main road and take one of the ski lifts heading up to the hills (departure points by the swimming pool or the Hotel Chalet Swiss) to find the trail. If walking with a baby or toddler, think of taking a baby carrier rather than a buggy. The walk can last as long as you want it to, either a near to 1 ½ hour round trip depending on how quickly your children walk, or you can turn back the same route to shorten the way. Part of the trail is lined with nature signs especially adapted for children and it will take you through woods and flower lined fields, past a trout lake and overlooking breathtaking views! The four leaved clover can be found in masses about half way along in a clearing in the woods. The rest of the day can be spent in the resort’s playground or open air pool and if you fancy a thrill buy tickets for the summer sledge slope or the adventure playground in the trees. To reach Valberg: A8 exit n° 52 Saint Isidore, then the RD 6202 direction de Digne then Touet/Var. Take the D 28 through the spectacular Gorges du Cians.

Mid way between Nice and Antibes, head for Villeneuve Loubet and the Rives du Loup Natural Park where the tourist office has created a treasure hunt for the 4’s and over. To participate, download the form from the web site: www.ot-villeneuveloubet.org/cote-famille/abracadabrix-jeu-en-ligne (French only), and go to the starting point across the bridge from Villeneuve Loubet’s old town, just next to the Canyon Forest office. Although ideal for children that can read, younger ones can also join in the search for clues and signs. The path can be walked or cycled, although I’d recommend walking if you are doing the treasure hunt. Once completed, fill in the on-line form to win a prize. Continue the adventure with a trip to the new “Bois des Lutins” adventure playground, a five minute drive away: www.leboisdeslutins.com . To reach the Rives du Loup Natural Park: A8 exit n°47, then the RD 2085.

If you prefer the coast, a cycle ride on the pedestrian Porquerolles Island near to Toulon in the Var is a great experience and real fun for the kids. Take a ferry from Giens (la Tour Fondue), to the island with your own bikes or hire them once on site. Most of the numerous bike hire shops provide bikes for children and adults and child seats or trolleys for babies and children too young to cycle. You can make a break for one of the sandy beaches, 5 minutes to a 1 hour cycle ride from the port, or go inland to explore the island’s historical and cultural sites. To reach Giens: A57 then the A570, then the D559 and the D197.

The Parc Phoenix in Nice, opposite the airport, is a compromise between wildlife and city life. This botanical garden is a real eye opener to flora and fauna from all over the world. Its beautifully kept grounds, free to enter for the under 12’s and only 2€ for others, are home to animals, birds, ducks, fish and other water creatures. It has a great play area for toddlers and older children with picnic tables and even organizes kid’s entertainment during the school holidays. To reach Parc Phoenix: Promenade des Anglais, opposite the airport. Car park: Arenas.

For lots more ideas on family walks and bike rides connect to: www.familyfirst.fr (French and English site).

Photo credits: 1) Valberg by Misseri 2) Valberg by Misseri 3) Porquerolles by A. Youngs

Article written in July 2009. Warning: The information and images are not legally binding and may change without notice.