Aux Yourtes de la Fabrique

There’s plenty around Aux Yourtes de la Fabrique to keep history buffs entertained for their hols: the historic city of Luçon, with its 12th-century cathedral and seventh-century Benedictine convent, is less than half an hour away. Castles, monuments and museums can be found further afield in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, Les Lucs-sur-Boulogne and Olonne-sur-Mer, all within 40 minutes' drive. Olonne-sur-Mer should be high on your to-do list if you’re after a seaside getaway: the town has two natural beaches where you can splash around, build castles of your own or simply stroll along the sand. If getting out on the water is more your thing, set your sights on Talmont-Saint-Hilaire instead, as it’s a top spot for watersports and boat trips. Kids lagging along behind? Put a spring back in their step with a visit to the aquarium at Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, the wildlife parks and zoos in Les Lucs-sur-Boulogne, treetop adventure at Indian Forest or the treasure hunts and investigation at Le Château des Aventuriers. If they’re still chomping at the bit, pile them into the car and bring them to the immensely popular Puy de Fou amusement park, about 50 minutes away. This is the second most-visited theme park in France – pipped to the post only by Disneyland – so there’s certain to be plenty to keep the whole family entertained.