Comfort, nature, and simplicity — the perfect mix For this trip to Center Parcs Les Ardennes, we decided to take you with us in a full series of articles and videos. And of course, every trip begins with where you stay.So here we go — our first focus is on the Premium Cottage for 4 people, and to be honest… it exceeded our expectations. 🛎️ A smooth arrival and warm welcome The moment we arrived, everything went smoothly. Quick check-in, friendly staff, and clear instructions — no stress, no confusion.As a family, that really matters. You feel relaxed from the first moment. 🌲 A cottage surrounded by nature Our Premium Cottage was nestled deep in the trees. Surrounded by greenery, birdsong, and fresh air, it instantly gave us a feeling of peace.The setting was quiet and calming — exactly what we needed after the road and daily life. 🧹 Clean, fresh, and surprisingly cool Let’s be honest — we had read some mixed reviews online before coming, especially about the cleanliness of the cottages.But in our case, everything was clean, tidy, and the beds were made on arrival.Nothing felt neglected. No bad smells. Just a nice, fresh welcome — and that matters when you walk in carrying bags and a toddler. Also worth noting: even though the weather outside was extremely hot (over 30°C), the cottage stayed cool inside, naturally. No air conditioning, just a well-designed space with shade from the trees — a big bonus we didn’t expect. 🛏️ Practical, functional, and cozy The Premium Cottage for 4 includes: Just one thing to remember: towels are not included, so make sure to bring your own or rent them on site. 🧺 A little cocoon in the woods We loved how this cottage gave us space to slow down.Each morning we’d enjoy coffee on the terrace while our son played around us.No rush, no pressure — just the chance to breathe, connect, and enjoy. This cottage is not luxury, but it’s exactly what you want for a family escape: comfortable, clean, peaceful, and practical. ✅ Final thoughts The Premium Cottage may not be fancy, but it ticks all the right boxes.And even if other guests have had mixed experiences, our stay was a positive one.If you’re looking for simple comfort in a quiet setting, this is a solid option — and it set the tone for a great holiday. 📌 Coming soon:Our full video and next articles featuring the Aqua Mundo, activities, restaurants, and more — all to be discovered on familytravelguide.eu.
The Underground Tunnels of Provins: A Hidden World Beneath the Old Hospital
At street level, it looks peaceful. An old hospital building, tucked away in the heart of Provins. But beneath that calm façade lies an unexpected journey—a mysterious world carved into the earth, just waiting to be discovered. As soon as you descend the first few steps, something shifts. The air becomes cooler. The atmosphere quiets. The light softens. You’re no longer in the present day—you’re in a hidden part of history. These tunnels aren’t open for wandering. They’re only accessible via guided tours—and thankfully so. Without a guide, you’d get lost… and miss the best parts. This time, we struck gold. Our guide was wonderful—warm, passionate, and incredibly kind. She made every corridor feel alive. With her gentle voice and heartfelt knowledge, she brought the place to life. Even our little ones were enchanted. Her kindness stayed with us long after the tour ended. A Peaceful Labyrinth Beneath the Surface The tunnels stretch out under the former hospital. They’re carved in soft chalk, giving the walls a pale, almost glowing color. Every few meters reveals a surprise: a strange symbol scratched into the stone, a hidden alcove, or a vaulted chamber that feels like it’s been untouched for centuries. Their true origin? Still uncertain. Maybe used for storing goods during medieval fairs. Perhaps they were chalk quarries. Or even secret meeting places. In truth, no one knows for sure. And that mystery makes the visit all the more captivating. You don’t come for facts—you come for feelings, for stories, and for that quiet sense of awe as you walk through time. Family-Friendly and Full of Wonder The visit lasts about an hour—just enough for kids and adults alike. It’s not stroller-accessible, but manageable with a baby carrier or older children who enjoy exploring. The pace is calm, and the guide makes sure everyone feels included. There’s something magical about seeing children’s faces light up down here. The dim light, the echoes, the drawings on the walls—it captures their imagination. And ours too. A Timeless Experience Beneath Provins These tunnels don’t scream for attention. They whisper. And if you take the time to listen, they’ll leave a lasting impression. With the passion of the guides and the depth of history under your feet, this isn’t just a stop on your trip—it’s a memory in the making. So next time you walk past the old hospital in Provins, remember: just beneath it lies one of the city’s quietest treasures. A place that doesn’t shout, but speaks straight to the heart. ℹ️ Practical Info
5 Reasons to Visit Saint Ayoul Church – The Heart of Provins You Didn’t Know About
When you think of Provins, you probably picture the medieval walls, knights, maybe even the famous Caesar Tower. But what if I told you that the real heart of the city is actually hidden down below, away from the crowds? That’s right – it all begins with Saint Ayoul Church. We started our day in Provins a bit differently, skipping the upper town first and heading to the quiet lower part. And honestly? Discovering Saint Ayoul Church was one of the best decisions of the trip. This peaceful church is where it all began. Back in the 11th century, a humble hermit named Ayoul (or Ajoul) was buried here. People believed his tomb had healing powers, so pilgrims came from far and wide… and slowly, a village grew. That small village eventually became the Provins we know today – famous for its fairs and medieval prestige. The church itself is a beautiful blend of styles. You’ll notice Romanesque arches here, some Gothic flair there – it’s a mix that tells a long story without trying too hard. It’s not flashy, and that’s what makes it so special. You can visit the church for free, which is great when you’re exploring with kids or on a budget. Inside, there’s this sense of calm. The kind of calm that makes you slow down. We even turned it into a little game for our son – spotting the angels in the windows, guessing the age of the stonework. It’s peaceful, authentic, and feels far away from the touristy buzz of the upper town. Now, behind the church, you’ll find something else: the old Saint Ayoul Priory, now a museum. This part is not free, but it’s included in the Provins Monuments Pass, which we definitely recommend grabbing from the tourist office. The priory is full of surprises – small exhibitions, ancient objects, and even archaeological finds. But really, the church itself was the real gem for us. So here’s my advice: don’t skip Saint Ayoul Church just because it’s not “the big attraction.” It’s actually one of the most meaningful spots in Provins – a quiet guardian of history, standing right where the town began. 📍 Exact address of Saint-Ayoul Church: Saint-Ayoul ChurchRue Saint-Thibault77160 ProvinsFrance 🕰️ Opening hours: Open during the day (usually from morning to early evening).🎟️ Admission: Free access to the church itself. The priory/museum behind requires a ticket (or is included with the Provins Pass).
Discovering the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Luxembourg
You don’t need to be religious to step inside a church or cathedral. Sometimes, it’s simply worth it for the architecture alone — because these buildings are often far more exceptional than we might think. And considering that, when they were built, men had ideas and visions that seem unimaginable today… it becomes even more impressive. A Striking First Impression In the heart of Luxembourg City, just a few steps from Place d’Armes, the Notre-Dame Cathedral rises with elegance and grace. Its late Gothic architecture, enhanced by subtle Renaissance touches, makes it stand out. But the true experience begins the moment you step inside. The high vaulted ceilings immediately catch your eye. You feel small in the face of such grandeur — in the best way possible. There’s silence, a soft play of light, and a timeless atmosphere that surrounds you. The stained glass windows cast vibrant colors across the floor and pillars, and suddenly, you’re caught in a moment that feels suspended in time. The Crypt – Where History Sleeps Tucked beneath the cathedral lies its crypt — a peaceful and intimate space where several members of Luxembourg’s Grand Ducal family are buried, including Grand Duchess Charlotte. It’s quiet, solemn, and full of respect. A place that reflects the nation’s heart and memory. The cathedral is more than a religious monument. It’s a symbol of national identity. It has witnessed the country’s evolution and continues to stand as a place of spiritual and cultural unity. The Stained Glass Windows – A Show of Light The stained glass is one of the cathedral’s most memorable features. Some windows date back centuries, while others are more recent, but they all contribute to an ever-changing light show that brings warmth and color into the stone interior. It’s the kind of beauty that makes you pause — even just to watch how sunlight filters through history. Visiting with Children? Absolutely. I visited with my son Kai. Though still very young, he was amazed by the echo of his voice, the giant wooden doors, and especially the colorful windows. The cathedral offers a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere where both adults and children can experience wonder — each in their own way. 🧭 Tips for Visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral
Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church: Silent Grandeur in the Heart of Provins
Some places don’t need words to silence you.The Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church, standing tall in the upper part of medieval Provins, is one of those places. You spot its dome from afar—majestic, almost too big for the town—and yet, somehow, it stays humble. Not as famous as the Caesar Tower, not as interactive as the underground tunnels… and still, it might be one of Provins’ most soul-stirring corners. A Church Left Unfinished… and That’s Part of Its Beauty Construction began in the 12th century, meant to be monumental. But time and money ran short. Some parts were never completed. And yet, what stands is breathtaking. Towering pillars. Vaulted ceilings. A dome that seems to hover above you. It’s the contrast between what is and what could have been that makes this church so moving. This isn’t a polished cathedral—it’s a survivor. Honest. Real. Majestic in its own quiet way. A Silence That Speaks Louder Than Words What strikes you most isn’t the architecture—it’s the atmosphere.A deep, resonating silence. Not cold or empty. Just peaceful. Humbling. Calming. There’s no guided path here. No flashy displays. Just light filtering through stained glass, stone arches stretching toward the heavens, and the sound of your own footsteps. Even kids lower their voices instinctively. Adults pause. Breathe. Look up. And listen. A Piece of History That’s Still Breathing Some will say the church is worn. It’s true. It could use restoration. But somehow, that adds to its charm. It’s a place that has known kings, pilgrims, wars—and it’s still standing. This is no museum. It’s a living place of worship, still open to the public. Free to visit. But respectful silence is expected, especially during services. A Bonus: That Stunning View Just Outside When you step outside, don’t rush off. Walk to the small terrace next to the church.You’ll find a wide view of the surrounding countryside—a perfect place to pause, let the kids stretch their legs, and snap a few photos. 📍 Practical Info
🏰 Caesar Tower of Provins: A Real Step into the Middle Ages
Some places just have that feeling, like you’re about to experience something timeless. The Caesar Tower in Provins is exactly that. I had visited Provins before, but this time was different. We came as a family, with Kai, who’s now 4 years old. It’s important for us that he learns about history not just through books, but through real-life experiences. And trust me, Caesar Tower is one of the best places for that. A Tower That Watches Over the Town As you arrive in Provins, you’re instantly transported back in time. The upper town has this preserved medieval charm that’s hard to find. And standing tall above it all is this massive octagonal tower, watching silently over the cobblestone streets and ancient rooftops. Built in the 12th century, the Caesar Tower was part of the fortification system created during the town’s golden age — when the Champagne Fairs turned Provins into a major international trading hub. The tower served multiple roles: keep, lookout post, prison, and even a bell tower. A true symbol of medieval strength and ingenuity. Climbing Through Time As soon as we stepped inside, we could feel the weight of history. Thick stone walls, cool damp air, and narrow spiral staircases — everything designed for defense. Kai immediately got into the spirit. “Is this the dragon’s tower?” he asked as we climbed the first steps. I smiled. For him, it was the beginning of an adventure. For me, it was the perfect chance to bring history to life with real images and emotions. We moved from room to room, discovering guard posts, prison cells, and wooden beams that have stood for centuries. I explained how soldiers watched through arrow slits, how prisoners were held, and how the bells once rang out to warn of danger. That View… And then, we reached the top. From the platform, the view is stunning. The whole upper town of Provins lies at your feet — red roofs, ramparts, the countryside stretching to the horizon. It’s calm, beautiful, and oddly emotional. Kai stood silently at the railing. He didn’t say a word. He just looked. And I knew he was taking it all in. A Living Monument What I love about this kind of place is how it sparks the imagination. No boring museum-style explanations here — you explore, you climb, you feel the cold stone under your fingers. You imagine. And more than anything, this is where family memories are made. Climbing a 12th-century tower with your child, explaining medieval life as you go — that’s the kind of moment that sticks. Why You Should Visit If you’re near Seine-et-Marne, even just for a day, I highly recommend visiting Provins — and especially the Caesar Tower. The visit doesn’t take too long, but it leaves a lasting impression. It’s sincere, solid, and full of stories. Kids love it — the adventure, the height, the imagination. And for adults? It’s a beautiful way to reconnect with the past. 📍 Practical Info Caesar Tower isn’t just another monument — it’s a living bridge between past and present. If you love exploring history with your family, this is a stop you won’t regret.
A Medieval Stop in the Müllerthal: Exploring Larochette Castle
As we continued our journey through the Müllerthal, often called Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland, we made a stop at Larochette Castle. It was a peaceful break in a landscape of rolling hills, forests, and charming villages. Standing proudly on a rocky promontory above the White Ernz valley, this castle makes a strong impression from the very first steps. It’s one of those places where history blends into the landscape, and the ruins still tell stories of centuries gone by. I visited with my son, and as usual, he set the pace—running through tall grass, climbing stone stairs, and marveling at ancient archways. Meanwhile, I found myself imagining what life was like here in medieval times. The site dates back to the 11th century and was home to several noble families. What’s interesting is that it’s not just one building—it’s a complex of fortified structures, almost like a small medieval village. One of them, the House of Créhange, has been partially restored and is open to visitors. What I really appreciated was how authentic everything felt. No flashy displays—just the raw stone walls speaking for themselves. The open views over the valley are breathtaking, and it’s easy to see why this spot was so strategically important. The visit doesn’t take hours, but it definitely leaves an impression. You’ll find calm, curiosity, and a strong sense of place. Kids will love the open space and adventure, while adults can enjoy a moment of historical immersion—before continuing on to the next wonders of the Müllerthal. Larochette Castle may not be Luxembourg’s most famous fortress, but it has soul, and you can feel it. A true hidden gem worth discovering if you’re looking for something sincere, quiet, and rich in memory. 📍 Address:Larochette CastleRue du ChâteauL-7612 LarochetteLuxembourg 🎟️ Admission fees:
Discovering Larochette Castle – A Family Journey Through Time
That morning, the sky played between sun and clouds, but our plan was clear: we were heading to Larochette Castle. Just the three of us — Daddy, Papa, and our little adventurer Kai — setting out to explore one of Luxembourg’s most picturesque ruins. Right as we arrived, the castle stood tall above the village, perched on a massive rock formation. It’s almost like it’s watching over Larochette — and honestly, it kind of is. This medieval fortress has been here since the 11th century, guarding the valley and holding onto centuries of stories. What strikes you first is the raw charm of the ruins. Unlike castles that are fully restored, this one feels real. The stones are worn, yes, but full of character. We walked up a narrow path surrounded by greenery, and just a few steps in, we were already back in time. Our visit began at the Créhange House — one of the better-preserved parts of the complex. You can still walk through the old rooms, climb the staircases, and enjoy the breathtaking views through medieval windows. As we stood there, Kai asked: “Where did they keep the dragons?” — a perfect reminder that sometimes, imagination tells the best stories. We climbed higher into the site, taking in the stunning views of the forested valley. The higher we went, the more magical it felt. There’s something special about seeing this kind of place with a child — everything becomes an adventure, even the quiet moments. The castle isn’t huge, but it’s full of little surprises. Hidden staircases, narrow stone passages, dramatic overlooks… There are some areas closed for safety, but there’s plenty to see, touch, and imagine. What I loved most is how the castle seems to grow right out of the rock — as if it’s part of nature itself. Even with a young child, it’s a manageable visit. We didn’t rush, we wandered, we explored. And most importantly, we shared the experience. At the end, we sat near the entrance on a wooden bench. Kai munched on a snack while we soaked up one last view of the valley. Larochette Castle isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. It’s a quiet, beautiful corner of Luxembourg that invites you to pause and wonder. Practical Info
🧯Firefighter Museum of Senningen – A Hidden Gem for Families in Luxembourg
Tucked away in the peaceful village of Senningen, not far from Luxembourg City, lies a small but fascinating museum that will delight both kids and grown-ups: the Firefighter Museum of Senningen. Housed in a building with its own story — it was once a dairy before becoming a fire station — the museum offers a charming journey through the history of firefighting in Luxembourg. But this is not just a place to look — it’s a place to experience! The museum is only open by appointment, making every visit a personal and unique moment. Your guide will most likely be Pierrot Reding, a former member of the Senningen Fire Brigade. With warmth and humor, Pierrot shares anecdotes and stories that bring the museum to life. While the exhibition features a rich collection of firefighter uniforms, tools, and historic gear, children are especially welcome here. They can play with toy fire trucks, explore a fireman’s world up close, and feel like little heroes in a setting that sparks imagination. From the preserved fire engine to the vintage helmets and the hand-crafted models, every corner of this museum tells a story — not only about firefighting, but about community, courage, and Luxembourgish heritage. Whether you’re visiting Luxembourg with your family or simply curious about local history, this museum is a heartwarming stop that deserves more recognition. A Royal Honor for the Museum On May 14, 2025, the village square « Place Grand-Duc Henri » in Senningen was ceremoniously inaugurated in the presence of Grand Duke Henri himself. It was a great honor for the Firefighter Museum, as Gilbert Sauber took the opportunity to guide Grand Duke Henri and Minister Martine Hansen through the small museum. The Grand Duke was delighted by the many treasures he discovered inside, making it a memorable and proud moment for the entire village. 🧑🚒 With Family Travel Guide, we take you where the greatest adventures are often the most unexpected. The Firefighter Museum in Senningen is a hidden gem for both kids and adults! 🚒 📍 Practical Information: 📌 Address: 2 Rue du Château, 1631 Senningen, Luxembourg🕒 Visits only by appointment📞 Contact: +352691507814 or aps-s@pt.lu
🏰 The Renaissance Castle of Beaufort – A Personal Journey Through Time
As a family travel ambassador and passionate heritage explorer, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems that families can enjoy. One of my latest discoveries took me and my 4-year-old son to the eastern side of Luxembourg: the Renaissance Castle of Beaufort. Many people know the medieval ruins of Beaufort, but just a few steps away stands a remarkably well-preserved 17th-century gem that deserves far more attention: the Renaissance castle, built around 1649. A Castle with a Soul Unlike many monumental châteaux, this one feels real – human-sized, elegant yet humble. Originally begun by Jean Baron de Beck, a respected Luxembourgish general, the castle was finished by his son after his premature death. It was designed not as a fortress but as a refined residence. Since 2012, the castle has been open to the public, thanks to the generosity of Anne Marie Linckels-Volmer, its last private owner. She chose to sell it to the Luxembourg State so that it could be preserved and shared with future generations. Her decision was selfless and visionary – one that allows visitors like me to share this piece of history with their children. Our Visit The visit is only possible with a guide – and I highly recommend it. We discovered: Some parts are no longer intact: the private chapel can’t be visited, and the kitchen has lost much of its historical interest. But the overall experience remains memorable. Family-Friendly History What I appreciated most was the approachable storytelling. There are no sterile displays or dusty corridors. The guide brings the castle to life, and the ambiance allows both young and old to connect with history in a real and meaningful way. 📍 Location: Château de Beaufort, 24 Rue du Château, L-6313 Beaufort🎟️ Access: Guided tours only, April to October🎫 Combined tickets available with the medieval castle👨👩👦 Best with kids – but bring a carrier for little ones, as there are stairs Visiting the Renaissance Castle of Beaufort isn’t just a historical visit. It’s a heartfelt connection to a legacy that has been generously preserved. If you’re in Luxembourg with your family, this is a must-see.