France Travel: Natural Destinations for Families
From LoveToKnow Travel
France is a country rich with natural wonder. Filled with wild mountain ranges, golden beaches, and rolling countryside, France travel is perfect for families that love the outdoors. Just like the variety of its landscape, France boasts a wide array of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. The geographical landscape of France makes the perfect backdrop for sports, activities, and relaxation. Whether a family enjoys high-octane pursuits - such as white water rafting, rock-climbing, and country hikes - or just relaxing on a beach on the French Riviera, the natural landscape of France provides ample opportunities.
National Parks
During France travel, visitors encounter numerous natural destinations to enjoy. France boasts more than 30 National Parks spread throughout the country. They are located in some of the most amazing and awe-inspiring landscapes Europe has to offer. Vanoise National Park is just one example of the spectacular National Park destinations available in France. This amazing park covers around 520 square km (322.92 square miles) and is set in the rugged backdrop of the Haute Alpes in the Savoie region of the country.
Vanoise Park is also home to more than 500 km (310.5 miles) of trails, with difficulty levels ranging from simple to exceptionally difficult. Visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of landscapes, flora, fauna and natural beauty within the parameters of the park.
Accommodations in Vanoise Park are basic and often rustic. Camping is not allowed within the park itself. For overnight hikers, the best option is to find one of the 11 alpine huts that are spread throughout the Park. The alpine lodges comprise of dormitories and private double rooms. For family travelers, therefore, it is best to plan a route and to book well in advance. This is particularly true during peak times of the year, which are primarily the summer months.
Provence and the Loire Valley
Regions like the Loire Valley and Provence are particularly beautiful and popular France travel destinations. Lakes, rivers, and stunning scenery provide the area with an outstanding natural beauty that has inspired artists, writers, and poets for centuries. Today, the regions have become a magnet for tourists from all over the world. They provide visitors with a variety of activities, accommodations, and guides to help optimize their enjoyment. With the increase in popularity of France as a travel destination, more money is being invested in France tourism. As a result, many natural destinations are far more accommodating to the average family.
Provence and the Loire Valley each offer visitors a plethora of accommodation options and activities. Available activities include sports, which take full advantage of the natural beauty of the area. Bike riding, kayaking, and walks are commonplace throughout these regions. In addition, trails, guides, and equipment are available for visitors of all kinds and needs. More specific activities, such as rock climbing, may also be found throughout France. One of the most popular destinations for this sport is the ski resort of Chamonix. This highly physical sport may not be the choice of many families, but for those with a desire for action and adventure, it is an exiting pursuit.
French Riviera
Among the most popular natural destinations for families to visit during France travel are the various beaches throughout the country. The most popular of these are located on the southern coast of France on what is often referred to as the French Riviera. From Perpignan in the West to Nice in the East, the Riviera is made up of miles of golden beaches. Each experiences the joy of having the warm Mediterranean Sea lapping on to them.
The resort towns of St. Tropez, Cannes, Nice, Monte Carlo and others have become built up within the French Riviera, but the natural beauty of the beaches and surrounding areas still provide the main draw for most visiting families. The natural backdrop of the beach, coupled with the developed attractions of major towns, makes the Riviera a hugely popular destination for families. Be aware, however, that some of the beaches, particularly those in Nice, have pebble beaches in stead of white sand. Accommodations, activities, and entertainment are bountiful. The area is also capable of accommodating various budgets, making this French travel destination affordable and filled with family fun and natural beauty.
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