Parc de Coullons

If you’re up for a couple of days doing some urban sightseeing, the Royal Abbey in historic Ferrières-en-Gâtinais (50 minutes' drive) could be the place to start: it was once the coronation site for French kings and today is fêted for its jewel-like stained-glass windows. You can also spot traditional stone washhouses on strolls along the Cléry River. Medieval Sully-sur-Loire (20 minutes’ drive) may be your next port of call. Springboard to the châteaux of the Loire Valley, the town’s own splendid 14th-century castle is open for tours of priceless decorative arts as well as walks along its ramparts for views over the moat. Close by is the Château de St-Brisson-sur-Loire (20 minutes), which has medieval-themed treasure hunts and a history museum devoted to kids. Most children will love the eccentric carousel and sculptures built out of scrap metal at La Fabuloserie, or they can let off steam on the high ropes at Léo Adventure Park (both an hour). Closer to base camp, you can all go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Étang du Puits (20 minutes).