A family weekend is the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and share special moments together. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or simply enjoy quality time, the Centre-Val de Loire region in France offers a wide range of activities for all ages.
Why not start your family weekend with an extraordinary adventure where nature meets escape? ZooParc de Beauval invites you to immerse yourself in the heart of biodiversity. The whole family will be amazed by an impressive variety of animals some unique in France as well as facilities designed to captivate every visitor. Beauval stands out as a must-visit destination to enrich your stay with educational and unforgettable experiences.
Don’t wait any longer to explore the wonders of nature and create precious memories with your loved ones in the beautiful Loire Valley.
Visit ZooParc de Beauval for a family weekend
One of the gems of the Centre-Val de Loire region, ZooParc de Beauval is a must-visit destination for a family weekend. Ranked as the 4th most beautiful zoo in the world, Beauval invites you to discover more than 35,000 animals from 800 different species, including rare and protected animals such as giant pandas, koalas, and Sumatran tigers.
A visit to ZooParc de Beauval is an enriching educational experience for both children and adults, featuring impressive représentations such as Les Maîtres des Airs and L’Odyssée des Lions de Mer, where playful sea lions captivate the audience. For a longer stay, the Beauval Hotels offer comfortable, themed accommodations that immerse visitors in a unique atmosphere, while also providing great value on park admission.
ZooParc de Beauval is not just a place to admire an incredible diversity of animals—it’s a truly immersive experience where education and interaction play a central role. It stands out as an essential destination for a family weekend, offering much more than a simple visit.
For those who dream of going behind the scenes of a zoo, the “Keeper for a Day” experience is a unique opportunity. This activity allows you to follow animal keepers in their daily tasks, learn fascinating facts about different species, and actively take part in animal care. It’s a rare chance to witness conservation efforts up close and understand the dedication required to protect endangered species and biodiversity.
Trainee Keeper for Kids
For younger visitors, the Trainee Keeper - Kids program offers a child-friendly version of the experience, giving them the chance to step into the role of a junior animal keeper. This educational and interactive activity teaches children about animal welfare and raises awareness of endangered species conservation.
They will learn how to prepare meals, create enrichment activities, and discover how the ZooParc operates and the different roles within it.
Visit the Loire Valley Châteaux on a family weekend
The Loire Valley is famous for its succession of majestic castles, true symbols of French Renaissance history and architecture. A family weekend is the perfect opportunity to explore iconic châteaux such as Chambord, with its revolutionary double-helix staircase attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, or Chenonceau, which spans the River Cher with remarkable elegance.
These sites are not just museums—they are real-life playgrounds for children, featuring garden mazes and interactive exhibitions. Guided tours are designed to capture the attention of younger visitors, making the experience both fun and educational.
Have fun in the trees at Aventure Parc de Nançay
For families seeking adventure, Aventure Parc de Nançay offers an exciting day out in the great outdoors. The park features treetop adventure courses suitable for all levels, from easy routes for younger children to more challenging “black” courses for thrill-seekers. It’s a fun and active way to enjoy nature while building confidence and teamwork.
Aventure Parc de Nançay is also a great opportunity to raise children’s awareness of the environment, as they evolve in a preserved natural setting. After the effort, enjoy the picnic areas to relax and share a peaceful family moment.
Enjoy water activities at the Couflons Leisure Base
Located in Seigy in the Loir-et-Cher, less than 10 minutes from ZooParc de Beauval, the Couflons Leisure Base offers a wide range of outdoor and water activities from May to September. Set between lake, river, and countryside, this beautifully designed natural site is the perfect place to discover or improve your skills in sailing, rowing, or canoeing.
Both children and adults can also enjoy cycling, walking along the banks of the Cher River, or simply relaxing with a spontaneous family picnic in a peaceful natural setting.
Take a traditional boat ride on the Loire River
A boat trip on the Loire River is a peaceful and picturesque way to discover the landscapes of the Loire Valley. On board a traditional gabare or toue, you’ll glide along Europe’s last wild river, taking in views of châteaux, vineyards, and charming villages lining its banks.
This experience offers a unique perspective on the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage and provides a relaxing moment for the whole family. Guided commentary enhances the journey, sharing stories and anecdotes that captivate both children and adults.
Be amazed with your family at the House of Magic in Blois
During your family weekend, make a stop at the House of Magic in Blois. This unique museum, dedicated to the illusionist Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin, a native of the town, offers magic shows that delight both children and adults. The House of Magic also features exhibitions on the history of magic and optical illusions that intrigue and entertain.
Located just opposite the famous Château de Blois, it’s easy to combine culture and fun in a single visit. It’s the perfect place to spark imagination and curiosity for the whole family.
Taste local specialties on a family weekend
A family weekend in the Centre-Val de Loire wouldn’t be complete without discovering the region’s culinary specialties. Local gastronomy is rich and varied, offering flavors that will delight every palate. Among the must-try delicacies are goat cheeses such as the famous Crottin de Chavignol, perfectly paired with regional wines like Sancerre or Touraine.
For an authentic experience, visit one of the many local farms where you can buy fresh, sometimes organic products ideal for a family picnic by the Loire River. Traditional markets, such as those in Blois or Amboise, are also perfect places to sample fresh local produce, including fruits, vegetables, pastries, and meats.
Don’t leave without trying rillettes de Tours, a rustic pork spread, or tarte Tatin, the delicious caramelized apple tart that originated in the region. These specialties are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to discover local culture and heritage. Enjoy these gourmet pleasures and share warm, convivial moments around a great meal, strengthening family bonds during your stay in the Centre-Val de Loire.
By planning your family weekend in the Centre-Val de Loire region, you are guaranteed to enjoy moments of togetherness and discovery that will stay with everyone for years to come. With its rich history, beautiful natural landscapes, and exciting adventures, there is something to suit every interest and create unforgettable memories.
Do your part for conservation!
Sponsor an animal!
Becoming an animal sponsor allows you to form a strong relationship with your favourite animal whilst financing the conservation programmes supported by the Beauval Nature association. All money paid is allocated in full to the association and is then invested into one of the many species conservation programmes it supports around the world.
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