Le Grand Roc

Rural surroundings like this are fabulous for hiking and bike riding, of course – ask your hosts for some ideas of where to go. They can also help you to organise horse riding days for all ages and abilities at nearby Equin’ox (10 minutes’ drive). For more outdoor activities, head to La Loge des Gardes (25 minutes), where you can go tubing, ride ziplines and try mountain boarding among other exciting options. For more outdoor time, try some watersports at Plan d'eau de Saint Clement or take a hike through the woods to Rocher Saint-Vincent (both 20 minutes). There’s also the option of a stroll around Château de Montgilbert (10 minutes) or the grand Château de Lapalisse (half an hour). If you’ve got the kids with you, a trip to Le PAL (an hour) should be on the cards for a day of rides and animal encounters. For a more relaxed day, take a trip to Vichy (half an hour), where you can take to the waters of this historic spa town or just wander among the attractive buildings.