Review and Highlights of Domaine de Manville

Overview

Domaine de Manville is tucked within Les Alpilles (or “little Alps”) in southwest Provence, a swath of protected natural parkland that’s dotted with sun-baked limestone ridges, gnarled olive trees and thickets of pine. The vine-draped main house at the heart of the grounds originally anchored an early 20th-century farm; several generations later, local couple Edith and Patrick Saut, who have deep ties to the area, saw its potential as a luxe oasis within this rugged region. They transformed the main house and outbuildings into a stylish resort that honors its heritage, christening it Domaine de Manville in tribute to original owner Louis-Alexandre Blanc de Manville.

Although its 5-star elegance is unmistakable, the estate warmly welcomes families, and it’s as appropriate for a getaway with young kids as it is for a romantic retreat or a couples’ escape. It retains a strong sense of history yet never comes across as staid or formal — all ages feel equally comfortable and catered to.

Unlike many Provençal resorts that close for the winter, Domaine de Manville remains open year-round. There’s no bad time to visit, but I think early autumn is the finest season to be in this part of France, as the grapevines turn rusty and the plane trees blaze with golden foliage. Our early October stay brought warm sunny days with evenings crisp enough for a sweater — perfect weather for lingering outdoors in the large outdoor courtyard that acts as the social heart of the resort. Guests gravitate here from morning to night, settling into the cushioned lounge chairs with a book or gathering around the café tables with a glass of local rosé in hand.

No matter when you visit, what really elevates the onsite experience is the people. Hospitality is second nature at Domaine de Manville — from the bell and concierge desks to the breakfast and bar staff, everyone we encountered was kind and eager to help. Service feels genuine and personal, with staff members taking pains to remember drink preferences or the way you take your morning coffee, offer insider tips and suggestions, and ensure every detail of your stay runs seamlessly. This level of care and attention is woven into the property’s DNA, and it’s another reason I found it exceptionally hard to leave.

Accommodations

With 30 rooms plus nine individual villas, Domaine de Manville feels intimate even at peak capacity. Our ground-floor Terrace Suite was expansive yet cozy, with a full sitting area and king bedroom linked by a small corridor, bookended by glass window walls that brought to life the sassy palette of charcoal, black and dusty rose. In between lay an airy bathroom with a spacious rain shower, a freestanding footed tub and two separate WCs. My favorite feature was the rear patio overlooking the courtyard, draped with a canopy of vines that allowed light to filter through yet offered just the right amount of shade and privacy.

Other accommodations range from smaller Classic Rooms and Deluxe Rooms (the latter equipped with balconies) to Manville Suites, which have skylights and private loggias, and the Prestige Suite, which evokes the air of a private apartment and includes its own rooftop deck. There’s also a Duplex Family Suite with two bedrooms, one downstairs and one in an upper loft, that’s well suited for a family of four.

The villas are generously sized and a bit more contemporary in style. Depending on the category, each has three or four bedrooms plus multiple bathrooms, an outdoor terrace, a fireplace, a dining room and a full kitchen. Although they’re centrally located on the property, you have a welcome impression of seclusion once you step inside, and there is a dedicated outdoor pool for villa guests as well.

Activities and Amenities

One of the things that sets Domaine de Manville apart for families is the variety of onsite activities that truly engage children rather than just keeping them occupied. Housed in a pair of cute structures that resemble wagon cars, the kids’ club is available in summer, on weekends and during French school holidays for ages 3-12. In addition to unstructured playtime outdoors, the daily-changing schedule might include painting, crafts, games, movies or nature hunts. Kids and farm animals go hand in hand, and they’ll love meeting the resident donkeys and pony, perhaps offering them a treat or two … the sweetest!

The large, heated outdoor pool within the courtyard is great for families — you’ll feel completely at ease splashing with the kids. But parents who want a tranquil respite or a full workout can head for the spa, which holds an indoor pool in addition to a whirlpool tub, sauna, steam room and fitness equipment. The menu of treatments ranges from massages and facials to skin and body therapies — though I didn’t make time for a session, the hourlong outdoor massage amid the pine trees sounded divine. And I love that they offer treatments just for the unique needs of teenage skin as well.

Beyond the pools and spa, there are plenty of options to stay busy. Borrow electric bikes to explore the property’s private trails and venture into the surrounding Alpilles countryside, or hike through the hills on your own or with a guide. On chilly or rainy days, take a seat in the private cinema for a film screening; if it’s nice out, try your hand at a game of pétanque (while you sip pastis, of course). Part of Domaine de Manville’s 100 acres are devoted to a permaculture garden, where seasonal fruits and vegetables are cultivated to supply the restaurant kitchens, and you can arrange a visit with a horticulturist to learn more about the process. The concierge can also book cooking classes, excursions like horseback riding, wine tastings in the estate’s cellar or private wellness sessions. There’s never an idle moment, unless you want it that way.

Golf is among Domaine de Manville’s main draws — its celebrated 18-hole course sits in the shadow of Les Baux-de-Provence, one of the area’s prettiest and most dramatic hilltop villages. If you want to fine-tune your putts and chip shots, the onsite Manville Golf Academy provides individual coaching for both adults and kids. The golf club also hosts various tournaments throughout the year; the highlight is the Manville Legends Cup, an annual October event in which professional soccer and rugby players face off against each other on the links.

At the edge of the first hole you’ll find La Cabane, a small cabin that invites relaxing over a beverage and a casual bite. The fare includes simple sandwiches, omelets, burgers and salads plus beer, wine, sodas, juices and hot drinks such as cocoa and cappuccino, accompanied by a perfect view of the ruined medieval castle perched atop Les Baux’s sheer cliffs.

Dining

Domaine de Manville offers several dining venues in addition to La Cabane, each with its own appeal. The Michelin-starred signature restaurant, L’Aupiho, is a serene cocoon of creamy hues and moody lighting, with an inventive, well-curated menu that features dishes such as pigeon with green curry, bluefin tuna with fresh basil and lentil cream, and wine-poached figs with blackcurrants and mascarpone. The wine list is equally stellar; vineyards fan out through the surrounding countryside, and you’ll find a wealth of choice bottles from the organic Les Baux-de-Provence appellation.

At the less formal Bistrot, you can feast on Provençal classics like pissaladière (flatbread with onions and anchovies), steak tartare with frites, and lamb accompanied by mushrooms and potato gratin. And breakfast, served in a soaring glass conservatory known as Le Jardin d’Hiver, starts the day on a lovely note with a lavish buffet supplemented by a small selection of egg dishes cooked to order. I recommend dolloping your baguette with a little of the honey that’s produced in the onsite beehives — it’s delicious.

At apéro time, we especially loved lounging on the cushioned sofas outside the bar, fortified by nibbles like olives, breads and a beautifully presented cheese plate. Had the temptation of dinner not lured us away, we’d probably have spent all evening there sipping one of the excellent local wines and watching the stars flicker into brilliance above the courtyard.

Local Area

Among the highlights of Les Alpilles is Carrières des Lumières, an old limestone quarry-turned-digital artscape where famous paintings are animated and projected in shifting scenes along the stone surfaces, immersing visitors in color, light and sound from every angle. It’s a treat for all ages and not to be missed. The site is only 10 minutes or so from Domaine de Manville, and the concierge desk typically keeps tickets on hand; the staff will also shuttle you there and back, a nice perk as parking can fill up in a blink. Programming changes with the seasons — the featured artists during our stay were Monet and Rousseau, as well as a kid-friendly Le Petit Prince exhibit.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, one of the most charming towns in the region, is also an easy drive from Domaine de Manville and an essential stop. This is Van Gogh country, and the self-guided Van Gogh Trail spans a mile-long path through town, with placards along the way highlighting spots central to the artist’s life and depicted in his paintings. Be sure to visit the Monastery of Saint-Paul de Masole, where he spent a year recovering from the mental health crisis that led him to sever his ear, and where he created masterpieces like Irises and The Starry Night. There are no original works on display, but you can see a reconstruction of his bedroom and other spaces that lend a sense of how patients at the monastery lived in those days.

TIP: If you want a deeper dive, download a podcast or an audiobook about Van Gogh and listen to it on your way to and from Saint-Rémy — there are kid-friendly versions that will shed light on his life and works in an age-appropriate way.

Getting There and Around

The closest major airport to Domaine de Manville is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), about an hour’s drive away. You can also opt for a direct TGV train from Paris to Arles or Avignon, which takes between 2 1/2 and 4 hours; the resort sits roughly halfway between the two. Although Domaine de Manville offers shuttle service to Les Baux and the nearby village of Maussane-les-Alpilles, you’ll want a car for exploring farther afield — it takes a little time to get used to driving on the narrow back roads, but navigating the region is easy.

Relevant Links:

Browse all accommodations and destinations in France on Ciao Bambino

52 tips for traveling in France with kids

5 favorite kid-friendly things to do in Provence

Why September is the best time to visit Saint-Tropez

Top kid-friendly things to do in Sainte-Maxime, France

A family escape to the Dordogne region of France

Ciao Bambino received a media package in order to review Domaine de Manville. As always, our opinions are our own. Photos by Lisa Frederick except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented. 

The post Domaine de Manville: A Warm Provençal Welcome with Exquisite Style appeared first on Ciao Bambino!.

Hotel Lou Calen: Boutique Style Amid Authentic Provençal Village Life

CB: What makes this property stand out for Ciao Bambino! travelers?

Amie: Hotel Lou Calen is a gem, truly. It’s an eco-conscious boutique property with just 36 rooms, but it feels expansive and full of character — a good choice for families and travelers seeking something in the heart of an authentic French village, yet with space to roam (it sits on 7.5 acres), a splash pool for kids and even a tennis court. It’s casual, full of Provençal charm and, at around €350 for an entry-level room with village views, the value is unbeatable.

CB: Can you describe the village of Cotignac for families who may not be familiar with the area or with France?

Amie: Cotignac is one of the cutest villages I’ve seen in the south of France, about an hour and 15 minutes from Aix-en-Provence and two hours from Avignon. It’s set dramatically at the base of a cliff, and some of the oldest homes are built into the rock. It has everything you want your French village vacation to have: cobblestone streets, shady plane trees, adorable cafés and a weekly farmers’ market (Tuesdays). Hotel Lou Calen is a definite yes if you’re traveling to the South of France. It’s no wonder George Clooney and George Lucas both chose to have properties nearby!

CB: Can you share more about how the hotel caters to families?

Amie: The hotel has made thoughtful choices. There are three pools, one of which is designated for adults only, and a splash pool with a sandy bottom, giving it the feel of a small beach. There are a few multi-room configurations available for families, ensuring everyone has their own space. And the grounds are a bit of a natural maze, which is great for kids who love to explore. Lou Calen is low-key and not a “kids’ club” type of property, but for families who value togetherness in a French village, it works beautifully.

CB: How is the dining experience at Hotel Lou Calen?

Amie: The food is fantastic, simple, fresh and prepared with a lot of attention to detail. Their Secret Garden restaurant even boasts a Green Michelin Star, which speaks to their commitment to sustainability. Le Bistrot, meanwhile, leans into French classics and flame-grilled meat in a light and airy space that’s open every day. One night we had dinner for around €55 per person, and the quality blew us away. Everything is elevated enough but doesn’t feel fussy, which is perfectly on brand for laid-back Provence. You’ll feel welcomed and relaxed.

If you’re a fan of local brews, you can’t get more local than the hotel’s microbrewery, La Tuf, set up in a former laundry room (closed Sunday and Monday). There’s also a pastis bar, O’Fadoli, on site, with 80 kinds of pastis and absinthes.

CB: You mentioned the Tuesday market. What will we find there?

Amie: The market on Tuesdays is my new favorite in the region with loads of French goodies like spices, olive oil, wood products, beautiful fabrics and, of course, fresh locally grown and made food.

CB: How does Cotignac fit into a broader Provence itinerary? Could you use Hotel Lou Calen as a home base?

Amie: This part of Provence, the Var department, is still relatively under the radar, which is part of its appeal. The hotel is also well-situated to make it a peaceful home base for exploring other major French cities. So while Cotignac feels blissfully off the beaten path, you’re never too far from a cute café or a local market, and within a couple of hours of more iconic sites and hubs of Provence and the Côte d’Azur.

For first-timers to Provence, I’d recommend staying on-property for two days, exploring Cotignac, enjoying the market, sipping local rosé under the plane trees and dining at the hotel’s excellent restaurants. Then, if you want, move on to the Alpilles or the Luberon Valley, or nearby cities or coastal towns like Sainte-Maxime or Saint-Tropez.

CB: What kinds of travelers should consider Hotel Lou Calen as part of their French holiday?

Amie: Families, couples and friends looking for an immersive experience with a touch of rustic elegance will fall in love with Hotel Lou Calen’s eclectic and stylish vibes. Anyone who wants to show their kids a more authentic side of France, or who appreciates relaxed hospitality in the heart of a Provençal village, will get the most out of it. Think of it as less tourist checklists and more authentic connections.

CB: Any tips for booking?

Amie: As is the case everywhere these days, if you have your heart set on an experience or a place, book early, especially in high season, to avoid disappointment. The town is small and the hotel, with only 36 rooms, fills fast. It’s open year-round, so off-season travel is also a worthwhile consideration.

CB: How does Hotel Lou Calen compare to other resorts in the area?

Amie: Nearby Château de Berne is gorgeous, but it’s much more of a wine resort. It’s also more remote, not in a village setting. At Hotel Lou Calen, you get the best of great food and wine, warm hospitality and a setting that lets you walk out your door and straight into French village life.

To book your stay at Hotel Lou Calen, contact our Ciao Bambino Travel Advisor team today.

Relevant Links: 

Browse all accommodations and destinations in France on Ciao Bambino

52 tips for traveling in France with kids

5 favorite kid-friendly things to do in Provence

Top kid-friendly things to do in Sainte-Maxime, France

Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented. 

The post Get Immersed in Provençal Village Charm at Hotel Lou Calen appeared first on Ciao Bambino!.

Here’s a look at five of my favorite activities when you visit Provence with kids.

5 Best Things to Do in Provence with Kids

Hike in Roussillon

The village of Roussillon in the Luberon is known for the ochre clay around the village that used to be mined for its rich pigment. This former quarry is now home to a fantastic walking path, the Sentier des Ochres, through a stunning Dr. Seuss-like landscape. Although the walk is not difficult, some of the drops are steep. This is recommended for kids who are school-age and up.

A visit to Roussillon can easily be paired with a visit to nearby Gordes for lunch and photos. The views of (and from) this village, perched on the side of a hill, are incredible. All these outdoor activities are perfect jet lag busters, so they work well early in the trip to pump the family full of fresh country air.

Sénanque Abbey

Sénanque Abbey is also easily accessible from Gordes and Roussillon. The monks who live here grow lavender, and when it’s blooming (June to early August), the monastery is one of the most stunning places on the planet. Visitors can visit the abbey and the cloister, then peruse the array of wonderful handcrafted lavender products in the gift shop.

History Lesson in Avignon

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Avignon was home to several popes in the 1300s; their castle, the Palais des Papes, is in excellent condition and interesting to tour. The city is also famous for the beautiful Pont d’Avignon, an incredibly scenic bridge over the Rhône River that dates back to the Middle Ages. This is a good day trip with older kids who can digest the history and are happy with a bit of walking, as the city is good-sized.

Head to a Provençal Market

No visit to Provence is complete without a market visit. These rural markets have everything imaginable, from clothes and soaps to spices and kid-pleasing candy in every size, shape and color. Be sure to do a little research in advance. Most markets are held weekly, but the days vary from town to town. Just strolling the narrow streets of Provence’s villages is incentive enough to go.

Île sur la Sorgue is the most famous market in the region and home to the biggest flea market in France outside Paris. If you are not an antiques buff, this excursion may be overkill. We enjoyed the market at Lourmarin, a pretty village in a dramatic setting near the Luberon Massif.

Joie de Vivre in Saint Rémy de Provence

For a day of all-ages loitering in one of the most picturesque villages in Provence, look no further than Saint Rémy de Provence. Home to Vincent van Gogh (where he painted The Starry Night) and the birthplace of Nostradamus, the streets are wonderful for wandering and there are a number of excellent restaurants. The Roman ruins of Glanum are a short distance from town; we didn’t get a chance to see them, but I hear this is a worthwhile stop.

Nearby Les Baux-de-Provence is good to pair with Saint Rémy de Provence. Dramatically situated in the heart of the Alpilles mountains, the rocky scenery is stunning and very unique with spectacular vistas and a ruined castle to explore.

And if you can’t get enough art history, devote a day to Aix-en-Provence, which was home to post-Impressionist master Paul Cézanne. It has a great walking trail connecting various sites that were of importance to him. It’s also a lively university city and a nice change of pace from the smaller villages.

Day Trip from Provence: Hit the Beach

I wouldn’t stay ON the beach on the Mediterranean Sea in late July and August for all the tea in China. It’s very crowded. I would, however, plan a day trip to the beach from Provence, provided you ask a local for the best traffic avoidance strategy.

Sainte-Maxime is a lovely village within 2 hours of many central Provence locations. There are beaches there or you can take the ferry to Saint-Tropez (although the beaches of Saint-Tropez require a bus or taxi ride from the center of town).

Relevant Links:

See all of our favorite family hotels and things to do in France with kids

52 tips for traveling in France with kids

Terre Blanche: An all-suite family oasis in the heart of Provence

Club Med Opio: The ultimate all-inclusive family adventure in Provence

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented. 

The post 5 Favorite Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Provence, France appeared first on Ciao Bambino!.

Family-Friendly Review of Terre Blanche

Welcome to Provence!

Southern France is dreamy, and it’s one of Europe’s best regions to visit with kids. However, once you start planning, you may be overwhelmed by the tough choices. Do you want a lake trip, a countryside trip, a beach trip or days spent in the small hilltop towns? With Terre Blanche, you have access to them all.

The property, nestled in the Var area of Provence and surrounded by the rolling hills that are iconic to this part of France, is 35 minutes northwest of Cannes and even closer to the port of Mandelieu-La Napoule. This means you can enjoy time on the water along the French Riviera while avoiding the crowds that may not suit younger children.

If you don’t fancy heading all the way to Cannes, Lake Cassien is a mere 5-minute drive from Terre Blanche and has the most beautiful turquoise water — difficult to find elsewhere nearby. For families who are tired from a day of fun at the resort and just want an easy place to dine, Terre Blanche is 10 minutes from the picturesque town of Fayence.

Accommodations

As Terre Blance is an all-suite property, you’ll have plenty of space even when booking an entry-level room. Deluxe and Premier suites have either a king bed or two oversize twins plus a sofa bed, comfortably accommodating a family of up to four.

For larger families, or those who want more space, Terre Blanche also offers a variety of villas. These have one or two bedrooms; some include a full kitchen so you can enjoy the comforts of home with the conveniences of the resort. As an extra-special touch, multiple connecting rooms are also available (both in Suite and Villa categories), which means large or multigenerational families have plenty of options.

Warm rooms and a Provençal welcome amenity

All of the accommodations are filled with thoughtful details that are super helpful for families. Every bedroom has a bathroom with children’s soaps, so little ones’ bedtime routines can stay consistent. Suites and villas each come with a beautiful private terrace that’s great for in-room dining or relaxing after the kids have gone to sleep. Our favorite detail was that the terrace has an entrance from both the living area and the bedroom so that if you have sleeping children in one area of the suite, you don’t have to tiptoe around. An added bonus for families with older children: The resort is secure, so they can safely have freedom to explore the property on their own.

Amenities

While there is plenty to do outside the property, you could also stay onsite and still feel like you’ve had a lovely vacation. Terre Blanche is a golf resort, with a full training center and two championship courses. Golf not your game? Spend the day beside one of the stunning pools. The infinity pool is among the most beautiful we have ever seen, with views toward the countryside. There are no restrictions on children (a nice treat for the adults!), but there is also a wonderful children’s pool just below the infinity pool for parents with younger kids who want to splash around in shallow water.

For relaxation beyond the pools, pay a visit to Terre Blanche Spa. With kid-focused treatments for ages 5 and up, you can savor family pampering in this beautiful oasis or indulge in some parents-only time.

Terre Blanche also has a kids’ club that operates during the entire open season (April to November) for ages 2-12. Children are whisked off to their own special space, where they can play in a pool specifically designed for them, feed the resident donkeys, get a golf lesson, learn about beekeeping or enjoy arts and crafts. You can include lunch if you want the full-day experience, and a rest period after lunch accommodates little travelers. In the summer months, the club provides evening options and day excursions, plus a teens’ club, for a small fee (the standard kids’ club is included in the room rate).

My favorite part of the kids’ club was how happy it made our daughter. Typically, we only book one day of kids’ club activities, because while she always has fun, she gets sad to leave us a second time. This, however, was not the case at Terre Blanche. She asked about it all day after we picked her up, so we decided to use the service again the next morning before we checked out. She couldn’t have been happier. We got some extra spa time and had the opportunity to pack our bags without a toddler simultaneously unpacking them.

Dining

It is no secret that the South of France has amazing food, and Terre Blanche raises the bar with its dining experiences. With five restaurants open during the summer (one of them with a Michelin star), there is something for everyone.

The thoughtful details that make a stay at Terre Blanche so easy for families are mirrored in the food options as well. A full children’s menu with a variety of healthy options is available, and the culinary team is wonderful about accommodating young eaters and food requests. Our daughter has an intolerance to cow’s milk, and I inadvertently ordered her pasta with butter on one of her days at the kids’ club. The chef remembered our restriction and thoughtfully made her pasta with olive oil instead of butter, saving us from a tummy ache later that day.

Additionally, we were amazed at the high quality of the room-service meals for both adults and children. There’s no additional charge for in-room dining, so we were able to order food for our daughter to enjoy while we got ready for the evening, without worrying about it being double the cost of what we would pay in the restaurant. She ate on time and we had zero stress. It is touches like these that make a stay at Terre Blanche truly feel like a vacation.

Nearby Activities

When you are ready to leave the haven of the resort, there are plenty of activities nearby that the concierge can help you arrange. Gregory, the head concierge, takes special care in crafting itineraries for families to make sure everyone has an incredible time in this special region.

Local highlights include a day trip to the coast to unwind at a beach club or embark on a sail, and Lake Cassien, which has a holiday park with paddleboats, canoes and a water trampoline. You can enjoy a custom quad or bike tour of the area (we ended ours with a wine tasting), or take a day trip to Gorges of Verdon or the nearby lavender fields in the summer. There are multiple small towns to visit, each with its own appeal. We loved tasting chocolate and making perfumes in Grasse as well as the charming shops and restaurants of nearby Fayence.

Relevant Links: 

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Provence on Ciao Bambino

See our collection of the world’s best luxury hotels with kids

52 tips for traveling in France with kids

5 favorite kid-friendly activities in Provence

Katie was hosted by Terre Blanche to review the property for families. As always, all opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Katie Brown except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented. 

The post Terre Blanche: An All-Suite Oasis in the Heart of Provence appeared first on Ciao Bambino!.

Where to Travel in 2019: Ciao Bambino’s Destination Shortlist

Argentina

We’re heading to Argentina and can’t wait! After spending a few days at the historic Alvear Palace in Buenos Aires, we’ll head to the coast for a few days of beach relaxation and then end our trip at Iguazu Falls … a longtime bucket list line item for my family. From tango lessons to Malbec tasting to hiking through the jungle as we experience Argentina’s incredible natural beauty, we’ll packing a ton into our nine-day trip. But we’ll return soon as there is much more to explore, including Patagonia and Mendoza. — Amie O’Shaughnessy

Montana

This winter we are heading to Big Sky, Montana, for a family ski trip. We’re looking forward to exploring the resort and sampling the family-friendly activities both on and off the slopes. There is nothing like a family ski vacation to enjoy nature and time together creating lifelong memories! — Melissa Rosdahl

London, Paris and the Middle East

My Harry Potter-loving children are counting down the days until we visit London and Paris. They are excited to visit Warner Bros. Studios but also see the London sites from the movies. With the new Fantastic Beasts movie taking place in Paris and the ease of the Eurostar, we are heading there for a few days afterward. Of course we won’t be missing the must-sees in both locations, like the Tower of London tour with CB’s favorite guide and a chocolate and pastry tour in Paris. 

We are also taking an extended trip to the Middle East this summer, based out of Bahrain. While it’s the hottest season, sometimes school schedules do not allow for a long visit at other times of the year. — Melissa Smith

Hong Kong and Borneo

If friends described my family, they would probably say we’re adventurous with a huge passion for wildlife and nature. It’s to nobody’s surprise that we are planning a trip to Hong Kong and Borneo this spring. In Borneo, we hope to marvel at the unmatched biodiversity, including orangutans, sun bears, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, thousands of orchid species and rare birds found nowhere else on the planet. I am excited about staying at the Sukau Rainforest Lodge (a National Geographic Unique Lodge) and hopefully witnessing millions of bats as they leave the Deer Cave in twirling clouds. Did I mention my 7-year-old daughter, who cannot wait for thrilling hikes and finding some leeches? Kids will often marvel at a distinctly different biodiversity than their parents. — Nicole Schick

Zermatt

While my husband and I have both skied in Europe numerous times, this is the first time we are taking our son, and we’ve decided on Zermatt. We can’t wait to see the Matterhorn, have wonderful food in mountain huts and explore the ski terrain of this vast resort. Of course, a visit would not be complete without a day trip over to Cervinia on the Italian side of the border. — Barbara Weindling

Tennessee

I travel a lot internationally, but I am excited about doing something a little closer to home this year. A friend of mine recently visited Blackberry Farm in Tennessee and she couldn’t stop raving about it. It sounds like the food and service are impeccable and there are lots of great activities onsite. Sometimes I just crave a vacation where I don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting from one place to another and there are plenty of things to keep me and my family busy. — Cary Walker

Italy, France and Spain

My annual travels to Italy, leading groups through the Tuscany region, are always a highlight of my summer. I intend to combine a week at a villa in Lucca with visits to some of the other local properties we love to use for families. I’m also looking at extending this trip with some time in southern France or back to Croatia to explore with family. Also, one of my daughters will be studying at the University of Valladolid this spring, and the rest of the Annis clan will connect in London for family sightseeing paired with time in Madrid and northern Spain. — Amy Annis

Provence and Scandinavia

We try to avoid traveling during the summer, but a week in Provence in June sounds too dreamy to pass up. We are excited to explore the small towns and see the lavender fields. In an area that houses Cezanne’s studio, you can imagine the fun art workshops available for kids. We hope to explore farmers’ markets in an attempt to get our picky eater to try new things while we enjoy olives, goat cheese and fresh fruit. With plenty of country home rentals that include playgrounds, and hotels with great kids’ clubs, our only tricky decision is where to stay!

This fall, an ancestry hunt will take us through Scandinavia. We cannot wait to explore the fjords and Viking villages, and hopefully get to see the Northern Lights. Plenty of green space to run around will make this multigenerational trip toddler-friendly. We may get the opportunity to visit the region twice this year — we are also hoping to take our daughter to Santa’s Village in Finland for an extra-special Christmas. — Katie Brown

Glacier National Park

We are taking a road trip through the West to Glacier National Park. It has been on my son’s wish list for a while, and we want to see some glaciers before they are gone, so we are hitting the road! We plan to search out lots of roadside attractions, go whitewater rafting in the Grand Tetons, take a wildlife safari in Yellowstone and fly fish in Glacier. — Megan Norris

Sardinia

My husband has told my daughters and me wonderful stories of long and lazy, hazy summers on Italy’s Costa Smeralda on the island of Sardinia. This summer we are determined to go and see this beautiful area as a family, and create a new generation of happy summer memories. — Jen Donati

Portugal

Portugal is one of the hottest destinations, and I can’t wait to explore it! In June, we will be heading to this magnificent country with my toddler and baby in tow for a multigenerational family vacation. Our trip will begin in the capital, Lisbon, then we’ll head to the Algarve for breathtaking scenery, sun and relaxation on the wonderful beaches. — Mandy Cecchetto

South Florida

We are heading to our second home on Singer Island (just north of Palm Beach) in March. We love getting away from the Minnesota cold and embracing the beach, water sports, shopping and amazing food venues in and around the Palm Beaches. — Susan Robinson

Relevant Links:

Browse our favorite family vacation ideas on Ciao Bambino

18 summer vacations to take before your kids grow up

10 family vacations that will change kids forever

10 great places to take kids … while they are still kids

5 favorite summer vacation ideas to book now

The post Let the Planning Begin! Where to Travel in 2019 with Kids appeared first on Ciao Bambino!.

Family-Friendly Review of Club Med Opio

Personal, Tailored Experience

Since 1950, the Club Med brand has been a pioneer in creating the ultimate vacation resort experience by being the first in a locale to claim the best beach or most dramatic ski slope. They have also set the standard for family-friendliness, focusing as much attention on children’s vacation experience as that of the parents. 

Upon visiting Club Med Opio after such a long hiatus, I immediately reconnected with idea that everyone should achieve their own vacation goal their own way. The foundation of a Club Med stay is creating your own adventure. Guests want for nothing onsite, yet they feel free to relax in peace or depart the friendly confines of the resort for an adventure outside its doors. The latter is actually encouraged, as each Club Med maintains a very strong bond to the community in which it operates.

Throughout the day, the GOs (“Gentil Organisateurs,” as the resort’s employees call themselves) go out of their way to engage with you in a meaningful way, sitting with you at lunch or chatting with you by the pool to learn more about what you want to get out of your vacation. By the end of a stay, you may regard them as old friends whom you are sad to leave but promise to come back and see again soon.

Kids’ Club and Childcare

Another hallmark of Club Med is the expansive kids’ club options, with children as young as 4 months able to enjoy their own authentic Club Med experience. Kids are not simply lumped together to sit in a room and color or watch XBox — in fact, there isn’t a single video game in the Opio complex. Instead, kids are grouped by age, then taken throughout the resort to enjoy the same fun activities as their parents, from archery and golf to guided walks and circus activities.  

At Opio, kids’ club participants often help tend to the children’s garden, where the local bounty will ultimately feed guests via the resort’s amazing buffet. Childcare extends later into the evenings as well, to allow parents alone time for a dinner on the terrace or dancing with their favorite GOs. Mini Club Med, which accommodates children from 4 to 10 years, and Junior Club Med, for children 11 to 17 years, are included in the Club Med package; Baby Club Med, for children 4 to 23 months, incurs an additional cost. 

One of my favorite moments at the resort was seeing a young family dance in the theater to an amazing band, choosing to milk all of the fun out of their day together. The two young girls’ genuine smiles told you everything that you needed to know about their time at Opio.

Dining

At every all-inclusive resort that I have experienced, the food is the place where costs are cut and the need to please a crowd leads to simple foods or bland options. Not at Club Med. The food on the expansive daily buffet, Le Provence, is an extension of the resort’s respect for the location and its bounty. Given that we were in Provence, the buffet was full of local treasures like lavender-infused honey next to the creamiest of French cheeses. My personal favorite were the large juicy local tomatoes, sliced and rolled up with bursts of arugula, cut into pinwheels and doused in the resort’s own olive oil. Yes, there was escargot, and no, I didn’t feel the need to be that authentic. 

Unique Circus-Inspired Activities

One of the newest ventures for Club Med is their partnership with Cirque du Soleil on CREACTIVE, a training ground for guests to tap into their inner daredevil and come away feeling invigorated and brave. Guests can participate in up to 25 activities; at the encouragement of the GOs, I stepped out of my comfort zone to partake in the Aerial Bungee and found it beyond thrilling. Children are encouraged to participate with their parents, making lifelong memories that only Club Med can offer.

Local Area

Outside the gates of Club Med Opio, you’ll find amazing beauty both near and far. One morning, I joined the daily power walk with fellow guests, venturing into the nearest local village. It was a lovely jaunt through the countryside and fun to get a peek into the amazing homes on the outskirts of the resort, which blends effortlessly into the local landscape. Another day, I traveled to Antibes, the seaside city between Nice and Cannes on the Cote d’Azur. Antibes showcases the best the French Riviera has to offer, including a celebrated outdoor marketplace, luscious beaches along the Mediterranean and rich history and culture. A can’t-miss attraction in Antibes is the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the most thorough Picasso collections in the world in a castle that used to be his private workspace.

Another unforgettable stop on this excursion was the walled medieval town of St-Paul-de-Vence, whose claim to fame is the rich history of artists who have lived within. It’s easy to see why it would attract such a wealth of talent: The hillside is a convergence of olive trees, orchards and grapevines abutting medieval walls that have stood for centuries. Just a 30-minute drive from the gates of Club Med Opio, St-Paul-de-Vence feels like a secret gem.

Many families are reluctant to explore the all-inclusive vacation model, but Club Med works hard to persuade them otherwise. Unwind, enjoy your family and experience the local thrills, I was told, but most importantly, be free to be you and be happy. What more does any of us want from a holiday?  

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in France on Ciao Bambino

Five favorite kid-friendly activities in Provence

52 tips for traveling in France with kids

Editor’s Note: Katy was hosted by Club Med Opio in order to review the resort for families. As always, our thoughts and opinions are our own on Ciao Bambino. Photos by Katy Hanagan.

The post Review of Club Med Opio, in Provence, France appeared first on Ciao Bambino!.