Villas to Rent South of France
Family Getaways in Provence: Adventure, Relaxation, and Culture
Imagine a family vacation where kids can run through lavender fields, explore medieval castles, and splash in a private villa pool, while parents sip rosé under the Provençal sun.
From kid-friendly luxury villas to exciting outdoor adventures and cultural gems, here’s everything you need to plan the ultimate Provence family getaway—where both kids and parents will have the time of their lives.
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Provence as a family is the ability to rent a private villa. Unlike hotels, a villa offers space, privacy, and flexibility—plus, many come with private pools, game rooms, and kid-friendly amenities to make your trip effortless.
Why Choose a Villa Over a Hotel?
- More space for kids to play freely
- Private pools & gardens for safe outdoor fun
- Fully equipped kitchens for easy family meals
- No crowds—just peace, quiet, and stunning landscapes
Kid-Friendly Adventures & Activities in Provence
A Provence family vacation is all about balancing adventure with relaxation. Here are some of the best activities for kids (and parents!) to enjoy together.
Explore Castles & Medieval Villages
Provence is filled with storybook castles and charming medieval towns that will make your kids feel like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
Best Castles & Villages for Kids:
- Château des Baux (Les Baux-de-Provence) – A real medieval fortress with knight shows & catapult demonstrations!
- Gordes – A stunning hilltop village with secret tunnels & cobbled streets to explore.
- Château de Lourmain – Blending medieval and Italian-inspired architecture, offering stunning views, rich history, and cultural events.
- Château de la Barben – Stunning medieval fortress rich in history and charm with onsite zoo.
Insider Tip: Visit in the morning before the crowds arrive for the best experience!
Meet the Animals at a Provençal Farm
For younger kids, a trip to a working farm is a fantastic way to experience rural Provence.
Best Family-Friendly Farms:
- Ferme de Billy Billy (Luberon) – Meet goats, sheep, and donkeys & taste fresh cheeses.
- Château de Berne (Var) – A vineyard with wine tastings for parents & pony rides for kids!
- Les Agnels (Apt) – Learn about the lavender distillation process, and enjoy the amazing boutique shop!
Insider Tip: Many farms have picnic areas, so bring some fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruit for a classic Provençal lunch.
Outdoor Adventures for the Whole Family
Nature lovers will adore Provence’s kid-friendly outdoor activities, from bike rides through vineyards to kayaking down the Sorgue River.
Best Outdoor Activities for Families:
- Biking in the Luberon – Rent bikes and cycle past olive groves, vineyards, and historic villages.
- Kayaking in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse – Paddle down a crystal-clear river with stunning scenery.
- Hiking in the Gorges du Verdon – Easy trails with epic views & places to swim!
Insider Tip: Pack a picnic for a mid-adventure break—there’s nothing like enjoying a meal surrounded by Provence’s breathtaking landscapes.
Provençal Food Kids Will Love
Kid-Friendly Provençal Dishes:
- Panisse – Chickpea fries that taste like French fries but even better!
- Tarte Tropézienne – A sweet pastry filled with vanilla cream.
- Crêpes – Endless tasty varieties, from sweet classics like Nutella and strawberries to savory delights filled with cheese and herbs.
- Lavender Ice Cream – A unique Provençal treat that kids & adults will love!
Insider Tip: Visit local markets in Saint-Rémy, Aix-en-Provence, or L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to grab fresh fruits, cheeses, and picnic goodies!
The Perfect Provence Family Itinerary
Day 1: Relaxation at Your Villa
- Check in, unpack, and enjoy a relaxing pool day.
- Visit a nearby village for a casual Provençal dinner.
Day 2: Medieval Castles & Outdoor Adventures
- Visit Château des Baux & Carrières des Lumières
- Have lunch at a charming village café
- Afternoon: Bike ride through the Luberon
Day 3: Farm Visits & Wine Tasting (For Parents!)
- Morning: Visit a goat farm & taste fresh cheese
- Afternoon: Parents enjoy a wine tasting while kids play outdoors
- Dinner: Hire a private chef to prepare dinner at your vill while you dine under the stars
Day 4: Kayaking & Lavender Fields
- Kayak down the Sorgue River
- Lunch at a riverside restaurant
- Explore Valensole’s lavender fields (optimal in June–July)
Day 5: Market Shopping
- Stroll through L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’s antique market
- Grab souvenirs & Provençal treats to take home
Provence: A Perfect Destination for Family Memories
Provence is so much more than just a picturesque region—it’s an unforgettable experience for families.
Why Provence is Perfect for Kids & Parents:
- Adventure & relaxation blend seamlessly
- History & culture are fun and interactive
- Incredible food that even kids will love
- Luxury villas with space to unwind together
Ready to Plan Your Dream Family Vacation in Provence?
At Only Provence, we are dedicated to helping you discover the best that this region has to offer. Our selection of hand-selected luxury villas alongside our 15+ year history in the region makes us the safest and most knowledgeable agency to plan your stay. We can also refer you to our local partners who will plan itineraries to ensure that your visit is both enriching and unforgettable.
Browse family-friendly villas & start your adventure today!
Provence is waiting—are you ready to explore it with your family?
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© 2025 Only Provence
Only Provence co-founder Lydia Dean writes about their experiences raising a family, building a business in Provence, and later combining the love of travel with giving back in "Jumping the Picket Fence”. In 2021, she published “Light Through the Cracks,” a continuation of her journey, much of which has been based in Provence. Both books are available Amazon, Amazon.uk, and Amazon.Fr.