Issoire is a great destination for families with young children. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep little ones entertained, including indoor and outdoor play areas, a petting zoo, a water park, and a variety of museums and attractions. The town is also home to a number of child- friendly restaurants, making it easy to find a meal that everyone will enjoy. Issoire is a wonderful place to explore with young children, and families will find plenty of activities and attractions to keep them busy during their stay.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Issoire, France
1. Visit the Château de Murol
The imposing Château de Murol is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the picturesque village of Murol. The castle was built in the 13th century and has been beautifully preserved. Guided tours of the castle are available in English, French and German, and there is also a sound and light show which recounts the castle’s history. Kids will love exploring the castle’s many rooms, towers and courtyards, and there is also a playground on site.
2. Go on a boat trip on the Lac du Guéry
The Lac du Guéry is a beautiful lake situated in the Auvergne region of central France. Boat trips are a great way to explore the lake and its surroundings, and there are a number of boat rental companies in Issoire. The lake is also popular for fishing, swimming and windsurfing.
3. Visit the Martorey-Farinelle Farm
The Martorey-Farinelle Farm is a working farm situated just outside of Issoire. The farm produces a variety of fruits and vegetables, and visitors can learn about the farming process and purchase produce from the on-site farm shop. There are also a number of animals on the farm, including cows, pigs, chickens and rabbits, which kids will love.
4. See the Automates de Sourcieux-les-Mines
The Automates de Sourcieux-les-Mines is a unique museum which houses a collection of over 300 life-size mechanical dolls. The dolls are set up in a number of scenes which depict everyday life in a French village, and they are all fully operational. The museum also has a play area for kids, making it the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing.
5. Enjoy a meal at the La Table du Palais
The La Table du Palais is a charming restaurant located in the centre of Issoire. The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine, and the menu features a number of dishes which are suitable for kids. There is also a play area for children, making it the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat with the family.
6. Visit the Maison des Chocolats
The Maison des Chocolats is a chocolate museum located in the town of Riom, just a short drive from Issoire. The museum tells the story of the history of chocolate, and visitors can learn about the production process and taste a variety of different chocolates. There is also a shop on site where you can purchase chocolate products to take home.
7. Take a ride on the Little Train of La Chaise Dieu
The Little Train of La Chaise Dieu is a small railway which runs between the towns of La Chaise Dieu and Issoire. The train journey takes around 45 minutes, and along the way you will pass through some stunning scenery. The train is suitable for all ages, and tickets can be purchased on board.
8. Go horse riding at the Centre Equestre
The Centre Equestre is a horse riding centre located just outside of Issoire. The centre offers a variety of horse riding lessons and treks, making it the perfect place to learn how to ride or to explore the countryside on horseback.
9. Visit the Parc de la Grande Savanne
The Parc de la Grande Savanne is a large park situated on the outskirts of Issoire. The park is home to a variety of animals, including deer, wild boar, wolves and lynx, and there are also a number of walking and cycling trails. The park is open all year round, and entry is free.
10. Have fun at the Issoire Leisure Park
The Issoire Leisure Park is a large amusement park located just outside of Issoire. The park has a number of rides and attractions, including a rollercoaster, a Ferris wheel and a Ghosts Train. There is also a play area for young children, making it the perfect place to spend a day out with the family.