What do you prefer to do during holidays? Are you going for an all-inclusive resort, or back to basics at the campsite? Will it be a long car ride, or will you go for the plane? This time we take you on a small (digital) trip to… Northern France! From the French Ardennes to the world famous Champagne region… Never been? Every nature lover can indulge themselves here. Northern France is also a fantastic region for children, full of castles, lakes and practical history lessons.
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The French Ardennes are located in Northern France. And that's a nice bonus, because that means that you only have to sit in the car for about 4 hours from the south of our country to arrive at a beautiful holiday location. A relatively short travel time… And certainly with children in the car it is always nice not to have to travel too long. A lot less far than Lyon, and a lot greener, that's for sure.
When you think of a holiday in Northern France, you probably immediately think of Paris. Also a beautiful destination of course. But perhaps not the ideal holiday spot to discover with your children. The French Ardennes are actually one large nature reserve, which you can explore together. Whether you are staying in a holiday home or want to stay at a campsite, success is guaranteed! Haven't found a campsite yet? At Camping-and-co you will find a wealth of campsites throughout France and therefore also for a holiday with children in Northern France.
If you prefer to go to the Belgian Ardennes, read more about Kindercamping Parc la Clusure in Belgium.
Northern France is not exactly the most touristic region of France. As a result, you can still see the French country in a nice and authentic way. Small villages, old farms, castles and lots of nature. In some 'villages' it even seems as if time has stood still. Do you like a bit of culture, beautiful landscapes and historical places? Then this region is definitely worth exploring for you! Below you will find some beautiful gems that you should not miss if you are in the area.
Is the weather a little less or do you just feel like a trip? Then the castle of Sedan is a must. Every castle appeals to the imagination of many children and adults, and that is no different in Sedan.
Meander over the castle walls or through the underground passages. There are fun assignments for children everywhere, so that they immediately learn more about life in the castle. There is a small museum, and everywhere are dolls that depict former castle life. Tip:if you visit the castle of Sedan in the summer, you might see a medieval show!
Located a little further south, but still in northern France, you will find the city of Verdun. It is known for its strategic location during the First World War. There has been a hard struggle for years and memories of that can still be found all over the city. Today Verdun is known as 'the city of peace'. Are you visiting Verdun in Northern France with children?
Then don't miss a visit to the Citadel. Here you are taken with a cart through a kilometers long underground tunnel system. With 3D animations and the old soldier stuff you immediately imagine yourself 100 years back in time. Very impressive! Put on something warm, because even during a heat wave it is quite cold here.
A museum visit is not to every child's taste. Until you come to a museum where you can just touch things! The village of Romagne sous Montfaucon is a short 40-minute drive from Verdun. At first glance, a French hamlet like no other. With a bakery, a church… And the largest war cemetery in Europe. But that's not the only thing worth visiting in the village.
For years, the Dutchman Jean Paul de Vries has scoured every field around the village to collect a gigantic collection of things. From bullets to a soldier's razor; you can't think of it that crazy. He opened the Romagne museum 14-18 and hosts schools, especially to teach children about war and its far-reaching consequences. But you can also just visit the museum with your family! This makes Northern France not only fun with children, but also educational.
Tip:be sure to ask Jean Paul for a tour, because behind every little thing there is a story that he can tell. You can also book historical walks here where you can explore the area full of bunkers and learn a lot.
If you go a little more to the west, you are in the Northern French Champagne region. Vast fields of grapes as far as the eye can see. Reims is a beautiful historic city to visit. And, you can also enjoy shopping there! Also visit one of the Champagne Houses where you get a tour of the cellars with barrels full of champagne. Please note:check in advance whether there are also guided tours in Dutch or English, that makes this outing in Northern France a lot more interesting for the children! Mom and Dad will have fun anyway… Especially during the tasting!
