How many kids do you know who've seen fields that are completely purple? Or kayaked under a Roman aqueduct? Or listened to monks chanting in an ancient abbey? Your family will be the exception by the end of this amazing family vacation in France. Provence is perfect for a mellow family vacation. There are good walks…amazing countryside hotel…and memorable food. (Who knew the French ate pizza?). The adults will be welcomed to one of the fine vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. We’ve arranged a provençal cooking lesson for those so inclined. And everyone enjoys exploring the bories, weird circular stone huts that no one can explain. We love bringing families to this region because it’s unique enough for everyone to feel far from home…but so easy that even the least-seasoned traveler has fun.

We meet in Avignon for a kid-friendly stroll to the awesome 14th century Papal Palace, then head for our village hotel at the foot of the Alpilles. Explore the seaside Camargue region on horseback. Savor a colorful Provençal market, and kids dig into lessons in pastry, painting, and pottery. See a light show in a rock quarry. Enjoy easy walks through apricot groves and lavender fields.

Near the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that soars overhead is the start of a family kayaking excursion. Later, the kids will thrill to visit the Haribo candy factory, and you anticipate wine tasting in Châteauneauf-du-Pape, before parting company in Avignon.