Family Nature Holiday: Head for the Haute-Charente Lakes

at a glance

Finding Your Rhythm by the Water

Morning
Settle in around the lakes of Lavaud and Mas Chaban. The setting quickly works its magic: wide shores, forests reaching the water, peaceful beaches where children instantly find where to run, paddle or throw stones.
Take time to unpack, open the windows and look at the lake – not the clock.

Afternoon & Evening
The afternoon revolves around the lake: swimming in supervised areas, a first paddle boat or kayak outing, or simply a long stroll along the banks to get your bearings. Watersports centres offer equipment for all levels.

As evening falls, the light turns golden and reflections stretch across the still water. The stay begins simply, with a clear sense of space and freedom.

at a glance

Step into Antiquity, Return to the Open Air

Morning
At Cassinomagus in Chassenon, the scale of the site is immediately striking. The thermal baths are massive and remarkably preserved: heating systems still visible beneath vaulted galleries.
You move freely between spaces, sensing the scale and imagining life here when the baths were filled with steam and water. Children quickly engage. There’s space to explore, things to touch, and passages to discover.

Afternoon & Evening
After a picnic, return to the lakes. The contrast is immediate: from warm stone to cool water, from enclosed galleries to open landscapes. The afternoon flows naturally: swimming, relaxing on the grass, or perhaps an adventure park or horse-riding nearby. The lake becomes the natural balance point of the stay.

at a glance

Following the River, Slowing Down

Morning
In Confolens, the Vienne and Goire rivers meet in the town centre. The medieval town unfolds around this confluence: stone bridge, timber-framed houses, narrow streets winding between ochre façades and hanging gardens.
You wander without a fixed plan, following views that open onto the river. Children move from bridge to bridge, watching the water and searching for fish.

Afternoon & Evening
The afternoon belongs to the river. Rent a canoe or kayak for a gentle trip downstream. Calm currents, shaded banks and a new perspective on the landscape. Alternatively, enjoy a walk along the riverside paths.
Return to the lakes in the evening with the feeling of having travelled far, without going far.

at a glance

Meteorite and Contemporary Art

Morning
At the Rochechouart Meteorite Space, discover the story of an impact that shaped the region 201 million years ago. Models, rock samples and clear explanations make it easy to understand — especially for children fascinated by space.

Afternoon & Evening
Then head to the Château de Rochechouart, overlooking the valley. Inside, contemporary art contrasts with medieval architecture. You move through the rooms freely, observing, questioning, discussing. A quieter moment in the trip, leaving space for reflection.

at a glance

Ending at Water’s Pace

Morning
One last morning by the lake. Cyclists on the paths, fishermen on the pontoons, herons lifting quietly from the water’s edge.
For a final adventure, short mountain bike loops around the lakes offer family-friendly routes through forest and viewpoints.
Or simply stay by the water: fishing, relaxing, enjoying the moment.

Afternoon
A final walk or swim before departure. Children revisit their favourite spots, adults take in the last views. You leave with dusty shoes and the feeling of having truly had space: to move, wander or do nothing at all.