Are you planning a family trip to the historic town of Bergerac? This guide highlights some of the best family-friendly activities in and around Bergerac to help you plan a memorable holiday.
Bergerac, located in the Dordogne region of southwest France, is renowned for its historic old town, picturesque castles, and lush vineyards along the Dordogne River. Steeped in history, Bergerac has a fascinating past, including its role in the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion. Despite these turbulent times, the town flourished, earning its status as a designated Town of Art and History in 2013.
With its rich heritage, delicious cuisine, and fun activities for all ages, Bergerac is a wonderful destination for families.
Grottes de Maxange
The Grottes de Maxange, an extraordinary natural attraction, was discovered by chance in 2000 and has since become a must-see destination. These caves are celebrated for their stunning “eccentric” formations, unique crystallisations that seem to defy gravity. Visitors of all ages will be captivated by the cave’s otherworldly beauty, which took thousands of years to form.
Guided tours lasting around 40 minutes are available, providing fascinating insights into the cave’s geology. Located near Le Buisson-de-Cadouin, Maxange is easily accessible from Bergerac.
GIGA PARC
GIGA PARC in Creysse is a fantastic indoor play centre where little ones can burn off plenty of energy whatever the weather. Designed for children from birth to 12 years old, the air-conditioned venue features age-specific play zones with slides, ball pits, inflatable attractions, climbing equipment and activities suitable for both toddlers and older children. Parents can relax while the children explore, and there’s also a snack bar, free Wi-Fi and birthday party packages available. We visited before heading to Cyber Games 24 so Morgana could enjoy some playtime, and it was the perfect way to make sure both younger and older children had a fun-filled day.
Cyber Games 24
For families with older children, Cyber Games 24 in Creysse is an excellent indoor attraction just a short drive from Bergerac. The venue offers a fantastic mix of entertainment, from PlayStation 5 consoles and immersive virtual reality games to retro arcade machines, pool, air hockey and karaoke, while adults can even have a go at axe throwing. During our visit, everyone found something to enjoy, and we easily spent nearly two hours there. The venue is clean, well maintained and has a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for school holidays, rainy days or a fun family outing. If you’re planning a visit, note that Cyber Games 24 has recently relocated to 7T Rue des Lorrains, 24100 Creysse, where you’ll also find free parking right outside.
Zoo de Mescoules
Perfect for young animal enthusiasts, the Zoo de Mescoules introduces children to fascinating and often misunderstood creatures. From reptiles like crocodiles, pythons, and giant tortoises to wallabies, porcupines, and various birds, there’s something to captivate everyone.
Located in Mescoules, the zoo provides families with an engaging and educational experience.
LASER PLAY
If you’re looking for an action-packed day out near Bergerac, LASER PLAY Bergerac is a fantastic choice for families, groups of friends and teenagers. Located in Saint-Laurent-des-Vignes, this 2,000m² indoor leisure centre offers far more than just laser tag. Alongside its state-of-the-art laser game arena, you’ll also find a trampoline park, quiz room, blind test, badminton, futsal, bubble football, arcade games and a relaxing bar area, making it easy to spend several hours there. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, looking for a rainy-day activity or simply wanting something fun to do during the school holidays, Laser Play has activities to suit a wide range of ages and interests.
Aqua Park Bergerac
Aqua Park is an ideal destination for cooling off on warm summer days. Set on a spacious 2-hectare site by the Dordogne River, the park offers pools, water slides, and fun activities like canoeing and beach volleyball.
Families can relax on sun loungers or find shade in designated areas. At the same time, kids enjoy the pools and water features, including a child-friendly mushroom shower and a big slide for more adventurous swimmers.
The park is located in Saint-Laurent-des-Vignes, just outside Bergerac.
Les P’tits Castors
If you’re visiting Bergerac with younger children, Les P’tits Castors is a fantastic indoor play centre that’s perfect for burning off some energy whatever the weather. Designed for children from 12 months to 12 years old, the heated and air-conditioned play area features giant slides, ball pits, climbing frames, inflatable play equipment, giant building blocks and dedicated spaces that encourage both active play and imagination. There’s also an outdoor terrace, making it a great choice for families throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of fun during the school holidays or somewhere to celebrate a birthday, Les P’tits Castors is a popular family attraction near Bergerac that both children and parents will enjoy.
Château de Tiregand
A visit to Chateau de Tiregand is a must for families exploring Bergerac. This stunning estate in Creysse is renowned for its rich history and exceptional wines. The château’s vineyards produce some of the region’s finest reds, and the guided tours provide fascinating insights into traditional winemaking processes. For families, the peaceful gardens and scenic surroundings offer a lovely setting to explore while soaking in the charm of the Dordogne countryside.
The estate hosts events like garden parties, where families can enjoy outdoor activities, games, and local cuisine in the picturesque gardens. If you’re visiting in October, their Halloween events are a highlight, offering a spooky and fun atmosphere for kids and adults. I went to Les Fantomes De Tiregand with my 9-year-old son and his two friends, and they loved going through the castle, working out clues before going to the next room.
Bergerac Market
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Bergerac’s markets, held every Wednesday and Saturday. These bustling markets are a great place to explore local culture, sample fresh produce, and pick up unique souvenirs. Kids will enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds, while adults can browse for treats like truffles, cheese, and handmade crafts.
Karting de Bergerac
For a thrilling family outing, head to Karting de Bergerac. This 800-metre track offers an exciting experience for kids (aged seven and up) and adults alike. With professional supervision and a panoramic rooftop viewing area, it’s fun to add some adrenaline to your holiday.
Located in Saint-Laurent-des-Vignes, the facility provides a range of karting options.
Bergerac Boat Tours
Discover the Dordogne River on a traditional wooden barge, a relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery and local wildlife. Boat tours departing from Bergerac’s harbour offer a peaceful escape and an opportunity to see the town from a different perspective.
While most tours last around an hour, it’s worth checking whether multilingual commentary is available in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the quay, but booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot.
Bergerac offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and fun activities, making it an excellent choice for a family holiday. Whether exploring caves, visiting the zoo, or relaxing by the river, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of France.
