Planning a family holiday can feel like a juggling act. As a parent, you want somewhere peaceful and beautiful, but also fun and safe for your children. Somewhere that offers the right balance between relaxation and adventure. For us, when we decided to create our own gîte business in France, we knew that the heart of what we wanted to offer was a true family-friendly gite in Charente. A place where parents can unwind, children can play, and everyone can feel at home.
Why We Chose Charente for Our Family Gîte
Charente was our dream destination long before it became our home. Nestled in south-west France, it’s a region full of wide open spaces, sunflower fields, historic towns, and riverbanks that just beg for picnics. As a family, we were drawn to its slower pace of life, gentle seasons, and strong sense of community.
We wanted our children to grow up in a place where they could climb trees, run through meadows, and enjoy the kind of outdoor childhood that sometimes feels hard to find these days. Now, many years later, we get to share that dream with our guests, many of whom are also families looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with what really matters.
What Makes a Gîte Truly Family-Friendly?
When we designed La Grue Gites, we thought carefully about what families really need. It goes beyond just having space. A family-friendly gite in Charente should feel welcoming, practical, and safe. That means things like enclosed gardens so you can relax while the kids play, swimming pools that are secure and well-maintained, and kitchens that make meal times easy.
We also know how valuable those small extras are. Board games for rainy days, books for bedtime stories, outdoor toys, travel cots and highchairs for younger children—they all help take the stress out of packing and planning. Our aim has always been to create a space where parents can take a deep breath and know that they’re supported.
Activities for All Ages
Charente is a playground in itself. Whether your children are toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, there is something here for everyone. We often recommend:
- Vallée des Singes – A magical monkey park where children can see over 450 primates in open spaces. A big favourite with our guests!
- Base de Loisirs de Saint-Yrieix – A large lake with swimming areas, sandy beaches, and play areas perfect for a full day out.
- Canoeing on the Charente River – Calm waters and beautiful views make this a great family adventure.
- Local markets – Even the weekly markets become a family affair, with fresh produce, homemade ice cream, and stalls full of treasures.
And when it comes to relaxing, there’s nothing quite like watching the kids splash in the pool while you sip a Pineau des Charentes in the sunshine. It really is the simple things that make the best memories.
Space to Reconnect
One of the things our guests often tell us is how much they value the space here—not just the physical space, but the headspace too. Life at La Grue Gites gives families the chance to slow down, reconnect, and spend proper quality time together.
We’ve hosted families from all over the world, many of whom arrive frazzled and leave glowing. There’s no pressure to rush from one attraction to another. Some of the best days are spent doing very little—wandering through the garden, playing cards, picking herbs for dinner, or enjoying a family barbecue as the sun sets.
Sharing Our Experience with Guests
We know from experience how daunting it can feel travelling with children, especially to a new country. That’s why we’re always happy to share tips, make recommendations, and offer a friendly ear. Whether you need to know where the nearest playground is, how to book a pony ride, or what time the bakery opens, we’re here to help.
Some of our favourite moments have been watching returning guests’ children grow from toddlers to teens. We’ve even had families who came as guests and later bought their own homes in the area. That sense of connection and continuity is something really special.
Why Charente Works So Well for Families
Charente’s climate is one of the things that really stands out. Summers are warm and sunny without being too intense, and spring and autumn are perfect for outdoor adventures without the crowds. It’s a region that values tradition, family life, and good food—all things that make it ideal for a family holiday.
Plus, the local community here is incredibly welcoming. From the friendly market vendors to the staff at local attractions, children are always made to feel included. That adds to the sense of ease and relaxation that we think defines a really great family getaway.
Our Family-Friendly Gîte in Charente
At La Grue Gites, we live and breathe this life every day, and it brings us so much joy to be able to share it. Our gîtes are designed with real families in mind—not just in terms of what they need, but what makes their time together meaningful.
So whether you’re looking to explore the countryside, visit charming villages, or simply relax in the sun while your children play safely nearby, our family-friendly gite in Charente is ready to welcome you. We understand that a holiday is more than just a break—it’s a chance to recharge, reconnect, and make lasting memories.
Ready to Book Your Family Getaway?
We would love to welcome you and your family to La Grue Gites. Whether it’s your first visit to Charente or you’re returning for another adventure, our gîte offers a warm, relaxed, and friendly space to enjoy everything this beautiful region has to offer.
Contact us for more information about staying with us, visit our Facebook or Instagram Page to follow our life in Charente or check availability and book today.
👉 Visit La Grue Gites to book your stay and discover the charm of a true family-friendly gite in Charente.