 Paris will dazzle your children as well as you, while the rest of France boasts amazing scenery, a rich history and all kinds of activities that appeal to children.
One of the most delightful ways to experience France is to take to the water and explore its canals and waterways. Crown Blue Line has a fleet of over 600 vessels cruising France, as well as the rivers of the UK, Holland, Italy, Germany, Ireland and Scotland. Choose from a huge fleet of self-skippered boats that can sleep from two to 12 passengers and include full kitchens, sheets, towels and all the necessary navigation and safety equipment.
You don’t need a special boat license – tuition is provided and the boats are really easy to handle. If you’re really worried or just want to totally relax, you can organise a skipper to do it all for you.
It’s a fantastic holiday with kids – get them involved in the selection of the area you want to explore and the type of boat you want. Explore Burgundy or the Loire Nivernais region, taste the wines of Alsace or the exquisite cheeses of Brittany, cruise the Canal du Midi, meander down the River Lot in Aquitaine, discover the Charente River – described by King Francois 1 as the loveliest river in his kingdom, cruise the beautiful Camargue or amble through Alsace-Lorraine.
Nothing beats floating down a country canal with the kids, fresh baguettes and cheese on the table for lunch, and a medieval village waiting to be explored.
You can charter the boats for seven days, or take the short break option of three to five days – perfect as part of a longer French trip. Paris is so exciting for kids of all ages, and will rekindle romance for stressed-out parents. The biggest drawcard is Disneyland Paris just outside the city, where you could count on spending a couple of days, but climbing the Eiffel Tower, wandering the parks and investigating some of the child-oriented museums will also keep your kids busy. It isn't all about high culture: street performers, playgrounds, carousels, circuses, toyshops and great ice-cream stores will also keep the little ones happy.
Other areas of France might also beckon, including the Riviera, the French Alps – where active families can enjoy hiking or skiing among glorious vistas of lakes and glaciers, the chateaux of the Loire Valley and pretty Provence. |
