Bosc Nègre Village de Vacances

Drive five minutes or cycle the two and a half kilometres to Lacapelle-Biron's tree climbing adventure centre of Parc-en-Ciel, set over 16 hectares of forest greenery. There are eight routes to tackle, as well as an open-air pool, ziplining and miniature golf. Even reluctant small historians should like a look around the 12th-century Dordogne castle of Château de Biron, on a hiltop setting with spectacular countryside views. After that, drive 15 minutes south for the Château de Gavaudun, a ruined fortress between the Lot and Dordogne valleys. Then on to famed Château de Bonaguil (25 minutes), hailed by the Bosc Nègre team as the most handsome in the country. Take a self-guided tour (download the 'games of Bonaguil' booklet for ages six to 12 first), or have a guided tour in French throughout the year, and in French, English or Dutch in summer.