Yourtes Royales

Start your day out in Vichy, 20 minutes’ drive from the site, with a trip on the town’s little tourist train to get your bearings. Later on, there are riverside walks to be taken, museums to visit and, of course, thermal spas to soak in. Golfers can play a round or two at one of the town’s two courses. For a glimpse of how the real royals lived, take the 10-minute drive to the Domaine Royale de Randan, where the ruined 19th-century castle is in the process of being restored. There’s a fab collection of art and everyday items here that give glimpses into life as master and servant, and extensive grounds to roam around. Top days out nearby with the small sorts include Le PAL, an excellent theme park with exciting rides and animal attractions. It’s also worth making the hour-long trip to Puy-de-Dôme to scale the dormant volcano (on foot or using the panoramic train depending on how intrepid you’re feeling) and learn more about geology through the rides and exhibits at Vulcania theme park. All are about an hour from the site.