I have to share this hidden gem we stumbled upon three years ago and revisited this summer on our way back to Paris from family vacation. It's an ideal weekend retreat, just two hours from the capital.
This post offers a refreshing green escape amid back-to-school blues—especially with the weekend sun playing hide-and-seek.
Ready for a dose of nature?
Where to stay near Avallon with kids? La Cimentelle is our top pick, just 10 minutes from town. These guest rooms are exceptionally comfortable and peaceful, with two family suites (one boasting three bedrooms and two bathrooms). Breakfasts are legendary—think pancakes, fresh fruit salads, croissants, and more (yes, expect a couple of kilos gained in two days). Enjoy the expansive park-like garden, heated pool, trampoline, ping-pong, and foosball. Rooms are stocked with books, comics, and games. As a family with older kids, we can't recommend it enough—it's a trusted favorite from our travels.
Enough with the TripAdvisor vibes.
What to do around Avallon with family? We typically stay two nights as our final pitstop heading north from southern vacations. It's rejuvenating.
At summer's end, La Cimentelle's owners tipped us off about Lac de Saint-Agnan. It was breathtaking—see the photos.
The 8km lakeside loop was perfect: we picnicked, hiked, dipped our toes, laughed endlessly, and nearly took a wrong turn (but my inner GPS prevailed).
Then, our true last stop before Paris: a few hours in Auxerre. Rent bikes at the Maison du Vélo for a scenic ride along the Yonne River's greenway. Stunning views. No photos from me—I was too busy ensuring our little one stayed upright and away from the water. For lunch mid-ride, try "Chez Emeline"—simple, fresh, and delicious.
That's a wrap on our 2016 summer family adventures.
