Hello fellow travelers! Looking for advice about which region (Haut-Jura or La Dordogne) would be better for an active toddler? We will have a rental car and are not necessarily planning a trip involving a lot of “adult” activities. Our main vacation goals are to enjoy the natural beauty in either region and maybe to visit with friends from Lyon/St Etienne. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Portland, Maine
2916 posts
I think both regions are great, although for seeing spectacular scenery, the Dordogne might have an edge, especially for a child. But the Jura is closer for visiting people in the Lyon/St. Etienne area. I'm attaching the link to my travel blog. There are entries for the Dorgogne in April 2016, and for the Jura in May 2015 and April 2010.
http://mainelywinenews.blogspot.com/
Posted by
1230 posts
I haven't been to Haut Jura but I was in the Dordogne summer 2017, and here are some of the activities that might appeal to a toddler: a castle visit with trebuche demonstrations and lots of exploring the castle. Another castle to explore. Canoeing the Dordogne (flat, swimmable). Taking a train down into a cave to see cave paintings (the paintings may not be interesting to a toddler, but a train into a cave might). And then there's a water park if you just want to go that route while there. We stayed in a great b&b with a pool. And to top it off, in a driving tour of southern France, the Dordogne was surreal-ly picturesque.
Jessica
Posted by
Moncton NB
1117 posts
The Dordogne is unbelievable, and I saw lots of French kids frolicking in the river and around the many attractions. Kids will love:
Splashing in the river; the Sarlat market; and the Lascaux II caves.
Posted by
885 posts
To make your decision more difficult, I would recommend Auvergne as well, the region west of Lyon/st. Etienne. You could visit Le Puy. We stayed in Salers and Orcival, both on the west side, so not as close to your friends. Great hiking and wonderful Romanesque churches.