10 amazing reasons to spend your summer holidays on France's south coast
With staycation costs soaring and the weather still looking unsettled for the summer, why not head to Languedoc on France's Mediterranean coast for a sizzling family break camping in south of France. Here are 10 reasons you should check it out.
1. The weather will be better
Why run the risk of drizzly grey days on British beaches when you can guarantee sunshine on France's Mediterranean coasts, where summer temperatures head into the high 20s and lazy days by the pool or sea are sure to be warm and relaxing. After all, who wants to wear their big coat at the beach!?
2. Enjoy an epic journey
It takes 90 minutes and costs from as little as £70 to cross the Channel from Dover to Calais on France's north west coast. From there, it's an all-day drive down to the south coast that should be turned into a fun-packed adventure by adding in an overnight stop and planning a route that includes plenty of attractions. Go via Rouen, Orleans, Vierzon, Bourges, Clermont Ferand and then amazing Milhau Viaduct, or choose St Quentin, Reims, Lyon and Nimes for a faster (but less scenic) route.
3. Or fly to save time
France's south coast is easy to reach from the UK, with flight times of under two hours to airports that include Beziers, Montpellier, Nimes and Carcassone. Even at this late stage, we found plenty of return flights for less than £150 per person. There's lots more about France fly-drive holidays here.
4. The beaches are all that!
Languedoc has some of the most beautiful beaches in all of southern France, with some of the best close to Siblu parks. They include Cap d'Agde with 14km of fine sand, including a rare black sand beach. Vias Plage, near Béziers, is a serene spot framed by marshland and lagoons, perfect for all ages. Valras provides a lively atmosphere with plenty of shops and places to eat. Nearby Serignan Plage boasts five beaches, including the wild Orpeillières Beach in a nature reserve. Explore these coastal gems, each offering unique charms and unforgettable experiences.
5. There's lot to enjoy for free on your park
When a day out seems like too much hassle, there is lots on every south-coast Siblu park to keep your family entertained. The lifeguarded pool complexes are always a big hit, and there's an action-packed programme of activities to join in with through the day. Children can head to our of our age-appropriate kids clubs, and the evening entertainment includes singers, shows and cabaret. That is all takes place on outdoor stages on warm summer evenings adds to the enjoyment!
6. Or you can head to one these amazing attractions
The region has family-friendly theme parks that will put the wow into 'oh-wow-can-we-come-again?'. Favourites include Aqualand Cap d'Agde, which is home to two of the highest water slides in Europe - the Tornado and the Ooomerang, and Sigean African Reserve, a sprawling drive-through safari park with over 3,800 animals from Africa.
7. Enjoy a day trip
There are plenty of fascinating towns and cities to visit on day trips. They include stylish Montpellier, where there are charming medieval streets and the impressive Place de la Comédie. Step back in time in Nimes, exploring the well-preserved Roman ruins, such as the iconic Arena of Nimes and the beautifully preserved Maison Carrée. Sete is a charming port town with scenic canals, and cafes and restaurants specialising in freshly caught seafood. A little further in the car is Perpignan, where highlights include colourful streets, the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, and discover the vibrant local markets. Another spectacular option is Carcassonne,
8. Historic sites for a change of pace
The Roman ruins of Languedoc Rousillion transport you back in time. Witness the ancient architectural marvel of the Pont du Gard. Proximity to the Spanish border has left a grand legacy of castles that tower over the surrounding countryside. One of the most spectacular is Carcassonne, a medieval fortress city with towering walls, witches-hat watchtowers, and winding streets transport you to a fairytale world.
9. Family adventures
Active families can get out and about by a variety of methods. Cycle along the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi for a traffic-free bike route, or take to one of the many rivers that meander through the region for family-friendly canoeing. Both are fascinating ways to explore the region's beautiful countryside.
10. Don't miss this food (and the wine's good too!)
Every great French adventure includes a healthy serving of food, and the south of France is no different. Languedoc's most famous dish is Cassoulet, which brings together slow-cooked white beans, succulent meats like duck, pork, and sausage, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Another favourite is Brandade de Nîmes, a creamy salt cod puree blended with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Don't miss the chance to sample the regional cheeses, such as Roquefort, the world-famous blue cheese with a distinctive tangy taste. For dessert, seek out Crème Catalane, a creamy custard infused with aromatic flavours of citrus and cinnamon.
Where to stay?
There are four Siblu holiday parks to choose from in Languedoc.
La Carabasse is one of the best-known holiday villages on France's south coast. The park's centre-piece is a giant lagoon pool which has waterslides and a paddling pool. Evenings are spent at the huge terrace, enjoying the entertainments team and live acts performing on the outdoor stage. There are lots of sports and activities on site, and the park is on the edge of the seaside town of Vias Plage, with direct access to the beach.
Le Lac des Reves is a 4-star site that offers a serene countryside setting overlooking Pérol lake, yet is just a short drive from Montpellier's historic city centre. The park has kids' clubs, evening entertainment, and a fantastic pool complex with thrilling waterslides.
Les Sables du Midi is perfect for a sun-drenched South of France holiday experience. The site is just 800 metres from the sandy shores of Valras Plage which makes it a great choice for lazy days spent sunbathing on the beach or evenings soaking up the atmosphere in the cafés and bars of this bustling seaside resort.
Le Mar Estang has a huge outdoor pool complex and direct access to Canet beach, plus kids’ clubs and evening entertainment included in the cost of every booking. Guests can take a break from beach life with visits to some of France’s most famous historic towns, including the incredible medieval city of Caracassone, plus Beziers and Narbonne.
