During our trip to the Dordogne, we stopped at Puymartin Castle, just a few minutes from Sarlat. If you like places that feel alive, with real stories to tell and more than just pretty walls, this one is definitely worth it. The first thing that strikes you is the setting. Surrounded by forest, the castle stands proudly with its tall towers, stone walls in warm honey tones, and that unmistakable medieval look. You don’t need to be an architecture expert to feel that this place has seen a lot over the centuries. The castle was originally built in the 13th century. Like many others in the region, it didn’t escape the wars that shaped France. It was partly destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War, then rebuilt in the 15th century by the Saint-Clar family. Later, in the 19th century, it got a major facelift with neo-Gothic touches, which give it that almost fairytale-like appearance today. One thing we really liked is that the castle is still fully furnished. You don’t have to imagine what the rooms looked like – you see them as they are. The living rooms, bedrooms, and dining hall are decorated with period furniture, tapestries, and paintings. You get that feeling that history never really left the place. Of course, no visit to Puymartin is complete without hearing about the White Lady, probably the most famous legend of the area. The story goes that Thérèse de Saint-Clar, caught cheating on her husband, was locked away for 15 years in a small room of the north tower. Since then, people say her ghost still haunts the castle, dressed in white. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, it adds that extra little chill when you walk by that tower. A quick heads-up: filming inside the castle are not allowed. It’s part of the site rules. Frustrating, especially when you enjoy sharing your visits, but it also keeps the atmosphere calm and lets everyone enjoy the place without distractions. We also liked the surroundings. Being tucked away in the woods gives the castle a quiet, almost mysterious vibe. Even during peak season, you don’t feel overwhelmed by crowds, which is rare these days. For those into history and architecture, Puymartin is a great example of a Périgord castle. You can clearly see the medieval structure, along with the elegant 19th-century details added later. In short? Puymartin Castle is not just another pretty building. It’s a place full of history, legends, and atmosphere. If you’re in the Dordogne and looking for a visit that feels authentic, peaceful, and just a little bit spooky… this is it. Tourist Info & Useful Tips 📍 Address: Château de Puymartin, 24200 Marquay, France🕑 Opening hours: Generally open from April to November, with varying hours depending on the season. It’s always best to check the official website before your visit.💶 Entrance fee: Paid entrance (prices vary for adults, kids, and groups).🚗 Parking: Free parking available on-site.📵 Filming/Photography: Not allowed inside the castle. Allowed outside.👟 Advice: The site is partly accessible but some areas have stairs and uneven floors – good shoes recommended.⏳ Visit duration: Allow around 1 to 1.5 hours for the visit.🌲 Good to know: The castle is surrounded by forest, ideal for a short walk after the visit. Official website: https://www.chateau-puymartin.com
3 Days at Center Parcs Les Ardennes – Honest Review & What You Really Need to Know!
When you think of the Belgian Ardennes, you immediately picture vast forests, peaceful walking trails, and a real escape into nature. But this time, we decided to experience it differently… by spending a few days at Center Parcs Les Ardennes. We didn’t just pass through for a quick look — we stayed three full days, giving ourselves time to explore the park properly, test as many activities as possible, and, as always, give you our honest and unfiltered opinion. One thing is clear from the start: nature is everywhere here. The park is set in the heart of the forest, and as soon as you arrive, that feeling of being far from the daily grind kicks in. But of course, we’re not just here to admire the trees — we wanted to see what the park really has to offer. And guess what? There’s no way anyone gets bored here, whether you’re coming as a couple, with family, or with friends. From treetop adventure courses and Laser Battle to the indoor mini-golf, bowling, playgrounds, and sports courts — there’s no shortage of fun for everyone. Even practical things are taken care of. You’ll find a small supermarket on-site, which is really handy for stocking up without leaving the park. And if cooking isn’t on your agenda, there are several restaurants to choose from. We personally tried the Grand Café, a cosy spot to enjoy a relaxed meal after a busy morning exploring. It wouldn’t be a true Center Parcs experience without mentioning the Children’s Farm, a family favourite every time. But, no spoilers — that deserves its own dedicated article, and we’ll share all the details and our full opinion soon. The same goes for the cottage, the Aqua Mundo, and all the little things we tested — stay tuned for that in the next articles of our Center Parcs Les Ardennes series. These three days also gave us the chance to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Ardennes, without sacrificing comfort or entertainment. That’s probably the real strength of this Center Parcs: you keep the nature and the tranquillity, but with activities, shops, and services right at your fingertips. Of course, like in many places, not everything is perfect. Some areas of the park could definitely use a little freshening up. But overall, the stay was pleasant, family-friendly, and a great option for a short getaway. So, is Center Parcs Les Ardennes worth it? In short — yes, especially if you’re looking for a balance between nature, family fun, and convenience. But don’t just take our word for it — keep an eye on our upcoming articles, where we’ll dive deeper into the cottages, Aqua Mundo, Children’s Farm, and all those details that help make or break a holiday. As always, the best opinion is the one you make for yourself — but if you like honest feedback, we’ve got you covered. If you really want to enjoy your stay at Center Parcs Les Ardennes, here are a few tips based on our experience: The best thing you can do is plan ahead, especially for the activities. Download the official Center Parcs app — trust us, it makes your life much easier. You can book everything directly from your phone: activities, shows, bowling lanes, mini-golf… Some time slots fill up quickly, so it’s definitely the smartest way to avoid disappointment. Also, make sure to bring comfortable shoes. Even though everything is accessible, the park is big, and between exploring the forest paths and walking back and forth to Aqua Mundo, you’ll easily rack up some steps without realising it. One last little tip: try to enjoy the pool and the restaurants during off-peak hours if you want to avoid the crowds — early mornings or later in the afternoon are often the best times. With these simple tricks, your stay will be way more relaxed and smooth. 📍 Adresse complète Center Parcs – Domaine Les ArdennesRue de la Grotte 12, 6690 Vielsalm, Belgique 🌐 Site officiel centerparcs.fr/fr-fr/belgique/fp_AR_vacances-domaine-les-ardennes
🐻 Sainte-Croix Wildlife Park: Two Days in the Heart of Nature
Who hasn’t dreamed of sleeping just a few steps away from wild animals like black bears or grey wolves? In our previous article, we told you all about our unforgettable night in a lodge inside Sainte-Croix Wildlife Park. But this time, we take you on a full adventure through the park itself, where we spent two full days exploring, observing, and simply enjoying being surrounded by nature. 🌿 A Park Where Animal Welfare Comes First Located in Rhodes, Moselle, Sainte-Croix is no ordinary wildlife park. Spanning over 120 hectares of preserved nature, it’s home to over 1,500 animals from 130 species, all living in wide open spaces designed to replicate their natural habitats. You won’t see cages here — just peaceful animals and meaningful encounters. From the very start of our visit, we were greeted by roaming red deer, curious lemurs, and woodland trails that felt more like hiking than a zoo visit. Kids were instantly fascinated, and as a parent, I couldn’t be happier watching them fall in love with wildlife. 🐺 Wolves, Bears & Big Moments The predators’ area is without a doubt one of the highlights of the park. You’ll see European grey wolves, arctic wolves, and black Canadian wolves living in wooded habitats that feel authentic and free. You do need a bit of patience, but once they appear… it’s magical. Just nearby, North American black bears roam freely in large forest zones. We had already watched them from our lodge’s terrace the night before, but seeing them again by daylight was another powerful moment. 🦌 Nature, Learning, and Family Fun The park is divided into three thematic zones: Europe, North America, and local/domestic animals. All are thoughtfully organized, with educational signs, lookout points, interactive activities, and natural playgrounds. We loved the observation cabins, and the kids had a blast climbing, playing, and learning without even realizing it. Several presentations with park staff are available throughout the day — no circus-like shows, just genuine, respectful wildlife encounters. 🌄 Two Days? Just Enough! The park is so vast that one day really isn’t enough. We were thankful we had booked for two. Every visit feels different — some animals stay hidden, others come right up. It’s an experience that evolves moment by moment. We also stopped for picnics in the designated areas, wandered through the educational farms, and yes… we brought home a cuddly wolf plush (how could we resist?). ❤️ A Place to Remember — and Return To Sainte-Croix Wildlife Park is more than just a family outing — it’s an experience that connects you with the wild and leaves a lasting impression. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, it’s always worth coming back. And for the complete adventure, don’t miss our article about the lodges, where you can fall asleep to the sound of howling wolves. Trust me — you’ll remember it forever. 📍 Practical Info: From Lodge to Table: A Full Immersion at Sainte-Croix
Saint Quirin Chapel – A Hidden Gem in the Pétrusse Valley
When exploring Luxembourg City, most visitors are captivated by the fortress walls, the Casemates, or the impressive historical landmarks. But what I love about this city is that beyond the famous attractions, you can stumble upon secret, lesser-known places that are equally fascinating. And the Saint Quirin Chapel is definitely one of those. Tucked away in the heart of the Pétrusse Valley, just a stone’s throw from the city centre, this small chapel carved directly into the rock is a real hidden treasure for those who enjoy unique spots and forgotten history. A Place Full of History… and Mystery The first time you arrive at the chapel, you feel like you’ve discovered a movie set. It sits there, embedded in the cliff, surrounded by greenery — discreet, yet with undeniable charm. It’s one of the few remaining examples of a troglodyte chapel in the region. While its appearance is impressive, its history is even more so. The site has been a place of worship since at least the Gallo-Roman era. Back then, natural springs and caves were often considered sacred. So, it’s no surprise that a chapel eventually appeared here. The structure we see today dates back to the Middle Ages and is dedicated to Saint Quirin, a Roman martyr from the 3rd century, known for his protective powers against illnesses — especially eye diseases and headaches. The Healing Spring of Saint Quirin One of the chapel’s most curious features is the small spring that seeps from the rock beside it. For centuries, locals believed this water had healing properties. People used to come here hoping the water could cure their ailments or relieve their pain. Is it fact or legend? That’s for you to decide, but this little spring certainly adds an extra layer of mystery to the site. A Quiet Escape in the Middle of the City What I personally love most about Saint Quirin Chapel is its atmosphere. Just a few minutes from the bustling city centre, yet once you’re down in the Pétrusse Valley, it feels like another world. The rock, the greenery, the birdsong, the calm — it’s the perfect spot to pause, reflect, and simply enjoy the moment. It’s ideal for a solo walk, a romantic stroll, or even a family outing. And for those who love walking, the chapel visit fits perfectly into a longer hike through the valley or after exploring the nearby Pétrusse Casemates. How to Get There Access is only by foot. From the Old Town or the Gare (train station) district, simply follow the signs towards the Pétrusse Valley. Small paths and stairs will lead you directly to this hidden gem. The chapel is open and free to visit all year round. Just be cautious on rainy days — the paths can be slippery. My Personal Opinion As someone who loves heritage sites and authentic places, I think Saint Quirin Chapel is a must-see if you want to experience a different, quieter side of Luxembourg. It’s also a great opportunity to share a piece of history with the younger ones or just take a well-deserved break. So, next time you’re in Luxembourg, don’t miss this hidden treasure. Sometimes, the simplest places leave the most lasting memories.
🏰 A Hidden Gem Before Reaching Provins: A Family Stop at Château de La Motte-Tilly
Before reaching Provins, we decided to take a little detour and stopped at the Château de La Motte-Tilly, and let me tell you — what a surprise! This wasn’t part of the original plan, but it turned out to be one of those unexpected highlights you’re glad you didn’t miss. As soon as we drove through the gates, it felt like stepping into another time. A gorgeous pink château sits beside the water, surrounded by perfectly manicured French gardens. It’s peaceful, elegant, and picture-perfect. The history of the château is equally charming. Built around 1754, it was commissioned by Joseph-Marie Terray, who was the finance minister under Louis XV. Over time, the estate changed hands, but much of what you see today is thanks to the Marquise de Maillé, the last resident, who generously donated the property and its contents to the French State in 1972. Inside, everything is original. You don’t walk into recreations or modern redesigns — this is the real deal. The furniture, fabrics, tableware, even the layout, have all been preserved exactly as they were. Every room tells a story. ⚠️ One thing to note: you can only visit the interior with a guide. And honestly, it’s the best part! Our guide was incredible — she’s been working here for over 10 years and knows the château like the back of her hand. Her stories were captivating, full of passion, and made the whole visit feel like we were stepping into a living memory. The tour takes you through several beautifully furnished rooms: grand salons, a dining room, the library, and intimate bedrooms. You really feel like you’re a guest in someone’s noble home. Outside, the park is peaceful and expansive, with wide paths, old trees, and a serene pond. We took a break on a bench overlooking the château — the kind of quiet moment that stays with you. In short: make time for this place. Whether you’re heading to Provins or just passing through the Aube region, Château de La Motte-Tilly is well worth the stop. 👉 And a special shoutout to our guide — her enthusiasm and knowledge made this visit truly unforgettable. Thank you! 📍 Practical Info
🏡 Center Parcs Series – We Start with the Accommodation: Premium Cottage for 4
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).
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.