The seaside remains the number one destination for French families, and for good reason. Between sandcastles, swimming and sunset barbecues, children are kept busy from morning to evening. Our seaside residences and hotels are perfectly suited to this: beaches within walking distance, outdoor pools and nearby water activities.
On the Atlantic side, the Landes offer huge beaches and calm lagoons for younger children. On the Côte d’Azur and around Saint-Raphaël, the sea is warmer at the beginning and end of the season. Cap d’Agde and the Gulf of Saint-Tropez appeal to families who want to combine the seaside with entertainment.
Family holidays in the mountains
The mountains with family are much more than skiing. In summer, they turn into a giant playground: suitable hikes, zip lines, high-altitude lakes and plenty of fresh air.
In winter, Sowell resorts are at the heart of the Alpine ski areas, with ski passes and lessons so even beginners can get started easily.
Avoriaz, La Plagne, Les Ménuires, Serre Chevalier, Isola 2000: our mountain establishments are selected for their proximity to ski lifts and their facilities adapted to families with children.
Family holidays in the countryside
Want to slow down, enjoy wide open spaces and authenticity? The countryside is the ideal destination for refreshing family holidays. Hiking, river swimming, local markets, heritage discovery, and nights without traffic noise.
The Ardèche and its gorges, Provence and its hilltop villages, the Camargue and its pink flamingos, the Carcassonne region and its medieval city: these are settings that make children’s eyes shine, and parents’ too.
All-inclusive family holidays, the So’Inclusive package
Going on an all-inclusive family holiday means choosing peace of mind. No calculations when you arrive, no negotiating with children in front of the restaurant menu: everything is included from the moment you book.
Sowell’s So’Inclusive package combines accommodation, catering (breakfasts, half-board or full-board depending on the establishment) and access to facilities. Some hotels even offer the XXL package with ski passes included in winter.
It is also the package best suited to large families or grandparents travelling with grandchildren: one all-inclusive price, zero unpleasant surprises.
When to go on a family holiday?
Each season has its advantages. The key is choosing the right destination at the right time.
Easter holidays (April)
The first real sunshine of the year. Ski resorts are still open at altitude, and the sea is beginning to warm up in the South. Ideal for families who want to avoid the summer crowds.
Visit our dedicated page “Where to go in April”
Summer holidays (July–August)
The family high season par excellence. Seaside, mountains or countryside: everything is open and lively. Book early for the best offers and Sowell Family establishments with water areas.
Visit our dedicated page “Where to go in summer”
All Saints’ Day (October)
Fewer people, softer prices, and the sun is still present on the Côte d’Azur, in Provence and in the Camargue. A pleasant surprise for families who want to avoid the summer peak.
Visit our dedicated page “Where to go at All Saints’ Day”
Winter holidays (February)
The ski season is in full swing in the Alps. Our ski-in/ski-out establishments are perfect for introducing children to skiing or enjoying still-snowy spring skiing.
Visit our dedicated page “Where to go in winter in the Alps”
Frequently asked questions about family holidays
Where to go on a family holiday in France?
France offers a wide variety of family destinations: seaside (Landes, Côte d’Azur, Mediterranean), mountains (Alps, ski and hiking resorts) and countryside (Ardèche, Provence, Camargue). Sowell offers more than 40 establishments across the country, with filters to find the destination that matches your family and your budget.
How to find affordable all-inclusive family holidays?
Sowell’s So’Inclusive package is the answer to all-inclusive holidays with no unpleasant surprises. It includes accommodation and catering in one single price. By combining this package with our flash sales (up to -50% depending on the establishment) and payment in instalments, you can plan all-inclusive family holidays at very accessible rates. The best offers can be found by booking early or on our private sale pages.
Which destination should you choose for family holidays in summer?
In summer, three destinations stand out for families: the Landes for their ocean beaches and calm lakes suited to children, the Ardèche for its natural water areas and outdoor activities, and the Côte d’Azur for the warm sea and Provençal setting. In every case, choose an establishment with a pool or direct beach access and the So’Inclusive package to simplify daily life.
Can you go on a family holiday with a baby?
Yes. Sowell Family-labelled establishments are particularly well suited to families with young children, including babies. They offer childcare equipment on request, secure pool areas, adapted menus and an environment designed so parents and babies can enjoy their stay. Filter by “Sowell Family” and “Family leisure” to find the best-equipped establishments.
Where to go with family in October or at All Saints’ Day?
All Saints’ Day is ideal for discovering still-sunny destinations without the summer crowds. In France, Provence, the Camargue, the Côte d’Azur and the Mediterranean coast (Cap d’Agde, Saint-Raphaël, Gulf of Saint-Tropez) still offer mild temperatures in October. Prices are generally more attractive than in July-August, making it an excellent period for affordable family holidays.
Family holidays in France: our tips for choosing well
Choosing the right family holiday destination is above all a matter of priorities. Children want action, water and space. Parents are looking for peace of mind, good value for money and the certainty of not spending their days dealing with unexpected issues. And grandparents, when they travel too, appreciate comfort and included meals.
A family holiday village with a pool, on-site catering and a children’s entertainment programme remains the formula that brings everyone together. This is precisely what Sowell Family establishments offer: hotels and residences designed for families, with facilities that really make a difference, water areas, multisport grounds and kids’ clubs depending on the site.
For original family holiday ideas, do not overlook the French countryside. The Ardèche, Dordogne and Provence offer incomparable natural and cultural richness, far from the big crowds and often at more accessible rates than the seaside in the middle of summer. For sporty families, stays in Ardèche with river access and water slides are among our most requested.
Finally, if you are travelling with young children or looking for affordable all-inclusive family holidays in France, remember to check our selection of flash sales and activate the “So’Inclusive” filter: it is the simplest way to control your budget while fully enjoying your stay.
Discover our stays with friends, with a baby or as a couple.
