Family: Wildlife Parks and Nature

Six wildlife parks and nature sites among the most loved by families, from ZooParc de Beauval — voted the world's best zoo — to Parc Astérix, by way of Océanopolis in Brest, the Sigean African reserve, the Padirac chasm and the Pyrenees wildlife park. The idea: introduce children to wildlife and wide-open spaces, blending wonder with learning. Each site makes a two- or three-day visit with an overnight stay, and several offer unusual lodgings inside the park. Pack good shoes, water and plan an early start in high season. A selection to dip into through the holidays, depending on which region you're in.