Camping du Pré Morjal

Nature lovers can soon be out in the Cévennes National Park (20 minutes’ drive) for hiking on rugged limestone cliffs, kayaking down the River Tarn and dips in the pool below the spectacular Cascades d’Orgon (about an hour). While you’re wandering in the park, keep an eye out for local fauna including deer, mouflon sheep, beavers and vultures. If you’d like to delve into the cultural heritage of the area, start your explorations in Florac (15 minutes), hidden away in the Tarnon river valley and known for its fine château and lots of terrace restaurants in cobbled piazzas. Another gorgeous spot is Sainte-Enimie (25 minutes), a medieval village spread over two sides of the Tarn; if you need a swimming spot for cooling off on a sunny day, there’s a little pebble beach next to the bridge across the river. The kids might enjoy the novelty of going underground by funicular at Aven Armand cave complex (45 minutes), where you can admire prettily illuminated stalactites and stalagmites; another option is the Grotte de Dargilan (about an hour), where trails lead through meandering tunnels to subterranean rivers and lakes.