Camping La Bucherie

The swimming lake a short walk away is lifeguarded during the summer months and has shower and toilet facilities. If the sound of exploring the water in a canoe appeals instead, then head to the Dronne river nearby: for those who rather like the idea of being guided by knowledgeable locals, the site runs regular outings there during the summer. For adrenalised adventure, take yourself and the kids to Espace Hermeline a short drive away, where brave types of all ages can test their steel among the high ropes courses. If heights aren't your thing, take the opposite approach and head underground to the Villars cave, to tour fab grottoes hewn over centuries by an underground river and filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Limoges is a splendid spot to wander around for a city day trip: must-sees include the Musée des Beaux Arts, the Jardin de l'Évêché botanical gardens and the historic pedestrianised Rue de la Boucherie. Périgueux has a fine mix of Renaissance and medieval architecture, a Roman site and a UNESCO-listed Byzantine cathedral.