When planning a family holiday, finding activities that everyone will enjoy can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are lots of family-friendly activities near Mons and the surrounding areas in Charente that offer a fantastic mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and unique attractions to keep children and parents entertained.
As a family-run gîte owner, I understand the importance of keeping little ones happy while also allowing parents to relax and soak in the beauty of rural France. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities near Mons that you won’t want to miss!
1. Adventure and Exploration at the Vallée des Singes
A firm favourite with families, the Vallée des Singes (Valley of the Monkeys) is a magical place where you can get up close and personal with over 450 primates roaming freely. Unlike traditional zoos, this wildlife park allows monkeys and apes to move around in vast open spaces, making it an unforgettable experience for children of all ages. Watching the playful antics of the squirrel monkeys or seeing the majestic gorillas up close is an absolute delight.
Why you’ll love it:
- No cages or barriers – a more immersive experience
- Large picnic and play areas for a full day out
- Educational talks and feeding sessions throughout the day
2. Canoeing on the Charente River
For families who love adventure, a gentle canoe trip down the Charente River is a must. The calm waters make it an ideal activity for beginners, and kids will love spotting wildlife along the banks. Several rental companies offer family-friendly options, including shorter routes and guided tours.
Why it’s great for families:
- Safe and easy for children with life jackets provided
- Beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities to stop for a riverside picnic
- A fun and active way to explore Charente
3. Discovering Local Wildlife at Zoodyssée
If your little ones are animal lovers, then Zoodyssée is another wonderful place to visit. Located just a short drive from Mons, this wildlife park focuses on European animals and conservation. From bears and lynxes to wild boars and otters, the park provides a great opportunity to learn about the native species of France in a relaxed and natural setting.
Highlights:
- Beautiful, wooded pathways make it a lovely walk for families
- Horse and carriage ride around the park
- Regular feeding sessions and educational programs
- Playground and picnic areas for a relaxing break
4. A Step Back in Time at the Château de La Rochefoucauld
Introduce your children to history in a fun and interactive way with a visit to the magnificent Château de La Rochefoucauld. This fairy-tale castle is perfect for families, with stunning towers, medieval halls, and even a dressing-up area where kids can try on period costumes!
What makes it special:
- Children can dress up as knights and princesses
- Breathtaking views and a fascinating history
- Guided tours tailored for families
5. Play and Picnic at Base de Loisirs de Saint-Yrieix
For a more relaxed day out, head to the Base de Loisirs de Saint-Yrieix, a large recreational lake near Angoulême. With sandy beaches, shaded picnic spots, and plenty of activities for kids, it’s a fantastic spot for a family outing. In the summer, the lake offers safe swimming areas, paddle boats, and a water play area.
Why kids love it:
- Shallow water zones perfect for younger children
- Playgrounds, mini-golf, and sports courts
- Ice cream stands and picnic areas for a full-day visit
- Inflatable assault course for teens
6. Discovering Cognac in a Family-Friendly Way
While Cognac is often associated with spirits and tastings, many distilleries offer family-friendly tours that focus on the history and production of this world-famous drink. Several houses provide interactive experiences with videos, storytelling, and even mocktail tastings for children. Parents can enjoy the experience while children learn something new in an engaging way.
Recommended for families:
- Hennessy offers a fascinating river tour as part of their visit
- The Cognac museum has interactive displays for children
- Local markets and smaller producers offer tastings suitable for all ages
7. Family Cycling Through Charente’s Vineyards
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Charente countryside, and there are plenty of family-friendly cycling routes that take you through vineyards, sunflower fields, and quaint villages. Several bike rental companies offer child-friendly bikes and even trailers for the little ones.
Why it’s great for families:
- Easy, flat routes perfect for beginners
- Beautiful scenery and plenty of spots to stop and explore
- A great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay active
8. Visiting the Charming Village of Verteuil-sur-Charente
One of the prettiest villages near Mons, Verteuil-sur-Charente is a wonderful place to explore as a family. With its stunning riverside setting, historic château, and charming cafés, it’s the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
Family-friendly highlights:
- A scenic walk along the river with ducks and swans to feed
- The picturesque mill is straight out of a storybook
- Lovely cafés offering ice cream and local treats
9. Exploring the Mysterious Caves of Gurat
For something truly unique, take the family to the Caves of Gurat, a fascinating underground site where ancient monastic communities once lived. The caves are carved directly into the limestone cliffs, creating an otherworldly experience that kids will find exciting.
Why it’s an adventure:
- Mysterious underground tunnels to explore
- A great way to mix history with a fun outing
- A perfect alternative for a rainy day
10. A Day at the La Palmyre Zoo
If you’re up for a longer day trip, La Palmyre Zoo, located by the coast, is one of France’s best zoos and well worth the drive. Home to over 1,600 animals, it offers an incredible experience for children, with opportunities to feed giraffes and see rare species up close.
Why families love it:
- Well-designed enclosures with interactive exhibits
- Large play areas and picnic spots
- Conservation-focused with a strong educational aspect
Plan Your Family Getaway Today!
Mons and the surrounding Charente region offer a treasure trove of activities that families will love. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, historical explorations, or relaxing lakeside picnics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
At La Grue Gites, we welcome families looking for a comfortable and charming base to explore the region. Our spacious gîtes provide all the amenities needed for a stress-free holiday, and we’re always happy to share tips and recommendations to make your stay even more special.
👉 Book your family-friendly stay at La Grue Gites today and start making memories in beautiful Charente!
Contact us to check availability or if you need any help about visiting and staying in France.