La Danse des Papillons

Several hikes through the surrounding countryside are available from the site, and you can head down to the river nearby to take the kids paddling, go swimming or do a spot of laid-back fishing. There are several weekly farmers' markets within easy reach including Dieulefit, on Friday mornings; Grignan, on Tuesday mornings; and Nyons, on Thursday mornings. Take your camera to snap some pics of authentic French rusticism, and pick yourself up local specialities like limes, olives, lavender sprigs and regional cheese and wine. Hop in the car for a short drive to Grignan to see its 16th-century Collegiate Church of the Holy Saviour and 12th-century fortress, Château de Grignan, where the Marquise de Sévigné once stayed with her daughter. Other excursions within easy reach by car include tours around Rocheville winery and olive oil farm in Nyons, tandem paraglider flights in Mevouillon, Upie Zoo and Lussas Animal Park.