Even though the beach remains one of the favorite activities for children during summer vacations, the Hérault department offers many equally entertaining activities.
Paleontologist for a Day
25 km from the L'Occitan campsite in Vias, the town of Mèze hosts the largest dinosaur park-museum in Europe. Located on the very site where eggs and bones were discovered, children can learn about these extinct species through a trail featuring life-sized skeletons and reconstructions. It’s a fun and educational outing for the whole family. (RD 613, 34140 Mèze – Tel.: +33 4 67 43 02 80).
Reaching for the Stars
The Galilée Planetarium in Montpellier is the perfect place for budding young scientists. Exploring and understanding astronomy has never been easier thanks to 3D space journeys, films, and experiments. It’s a fun way to learn about planets and the skies. (100 Allée Ulysse, 34000 Montpellier – Tel.: +33 4 67 13 26 26)
Underground Safari
In the southern part of the Causse du Larzac, the Labeil Cave and its underground river hold many secrets. Your little ones can don a helmet, headlamp, and cave map for a safari adventure. Acting as speleologists, they’ll explore the crystals, sediments, and sands that make this place so enchanting. (Tel.: +33 4 67 96 49 47)
Welcome to the Amazon
Within the Lunaret Zoo in Montpellier, a small slice of paradise called the Amazonian greenhouse stretches over 2,900 m². This re-creation of the tropical rainforest is a remarkable success, featuring 500 animals and 3,500 plants. Your children will enjoy exploring this far-off world and, at the same time, will become more aware of the fragility of the Amazonian ecosystem. Thunderstorms triggered every 30 minutes make the experience even more realistic. Don’t forget to bring your umbrella! (Lunaret Zoo, 50 Avenue Agropolis, 34090 Montpellier / Tel. 04 67 54 45 23)
Treasure Hunters
How can you introduce children to exceptional or hidden places without them getting bored? By making them active participants in their discoveries, of course! Geocaching, or modern-day treasure hunting, is the trendiest way to do so. Many towns have embraced it, offering delightful treasure hunts for kids. In Sète, for instance, the tourist office has developed a smartphone and tablet app to follow in the footsteps of the pirate Barberoussette. Pieces of a treasure map have been hidden throughout the city for children to find. Adventure guaranteed!
Rich in activities, the Hérault department will leave your children with unforgettable memories. After enjoying the pool at the Occitan campsite in Vias (34), why not fulfill their thirst for adventure and discovery?