As a working dad, I really appreciate the time I get to spend with my kids, and try to make the most of it. Taking some time off work and going on holiday during half term is a great way to do this, especially during the warmer months! Something my family and I particularly enjoy is visiting France, exploring as much of the country and its culture as possible.
Going abroad during half term doesn’t have to be expensive, and with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, it is incredibly cost effective to transport you and the whole family across the Channel. And with a journey time of just 35 minutes, which runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, it is also the most convenient!
Looking for adventure
If you and your kids love to be active and get out and about, then make the most of the great outdoors with a camping holiday! There are loads of different options to suit everyone’s tastes and requirements. If you have your own tent, there is the freedom to camp anywhere you like, but even if you don’t, there are loads of places that provide tent accommodation for you, so you can still join in the fun!
Domaine des Alicourts, Pierrefitte-sur-Sauldre in the heart of the Loire Valley
As far as campsites go, a firm favourite with my family is Les Alicourts in the heart of the Loire Valley. There are plenty of activities on site to keep kids of all ages happy, and there’s even a spa where you and your partner can go to relax. Why not hire a bike to explore the surrounding countryside, or visit one of the many local chateaux, if you fancy a day off-site. You can choose to take your own tent with you, or hire one of theirs. Alternatively, you can even stay in the luxury of a villa or a modern tree house!
Beach getaways
Heading to the beach during the half term holidays is a sure-fire way to keep your kids happy. They can spend the day playing in the sea and building sand castles, whilst you relax on the beach in the sun with a good book. There are plenty of different accommodation options around the beach, as well, that will suit every budget, from hotels and B&Bs, to holiday chalets and campsites!
The beach at Dinard, Brittany
If you want to keep driving to a minimum on your half term holiday, then head straight along the north coast to Brittany. Some of the top beaches in this region of France are undoubtedly to be found in Dinard. This little seaside town boasts long, soft sandy beaches, with clear shallow waters, making it the perfect sport for all the family; the most famous being Plage de l'Écluse, with its stately homes and blue and white bedecked beach, which inspired the work of impressionist painter, Picasso!
Soak up some culture
As we all know, the weather in this part of the world can be unpredictable. That’s what makes a city break so great; come rain or shine, you will still be able to find something cultural to keep everyone entertained! And with a city like Paris only a few hours away, you’ll be sure to find plenty of half term activities!
The 'Dodo Manège' at the Jardin des Plantes, Paris
For the budding artists in the group, a trip to the Louvre is an absolute must. The hours will quickly disappear strolling along the galleries, admiring some of the most important works of art in history. Take the kids out for the traditional French pastime of riding the carousel. There is a particularly unusual one featuring a Dodo and dinosaurs found in the Jardin des Plantes, which in itself will provide hours of amusement. And why not end things on a high note, with a trip to a local French patisserie or sweet shop, for a delicious treat for the kids. Don’t forget to indulge a little yourself, of course!
Going away for half term
Getting to France, or anywhere in Europe, is easy with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle. The journey from Folkestone to Calais takes just 35 minutes, and the service runs 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which means you can travel at a time that suits you best! There are no baggage restrictions, other than the size of your car boot, and you can even take that family pet along for the ride! All that’s left to do is plan your half term holiday with the kids, and hit the open road – bon voyage!