7 family-friendly activities to enjoy in the Beaujolais
The Beaujolais is famous for its wines and rolling hills, but it’s also a surprisingly rich playground for families. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens or grandparents, you’ll find a blend of cultural experiences, outdoor fun and hands-on activities — many of them fully accessible to English-speaking visitors.
Here are seven of the best family-friendly activities to make the most of your stay in the Beaujolais.
1. Discover wine heritage at Hameau Dubœuf (Romanèche-Thorins)
Often called the "wine theme park" of Europe, Hameau Dubœuf is a must for anyone visiting the Beaujolais.
Spread over 30,000 m², this oenotourism complex combines history, entertainment and discovery. English is available throughout the site — from guided tours and audio guides to interactive touch screens.
Children can enjoy the 4D cinema, a miniature train ride, and outdoor games in the landscaped gardens. Parents, meanwhile, can explore the fascinating wine museum and taste a selection of Beaujolais crus.
Practical info: Open year-round. Adult tickets from €20. On-site restaurant and picnic areas. Fully accessible.
2. Meet 600 animals at Touroparc Zoo (Romanèche-Thorins)
Touroparc is more than just a zoo. Yes, you’ll see over 600 animals from 140 species, but the park also includes family rides, a monorail, and in summer, an aquatic area with five slides and 36 water games.
With staff available in English, guided tours, and visual experiences that don’t require translation, it’s an easy win for families. Highlights include the Canadian River ride and the aerial ropes course for adventurous kids.
Practical info: Open most of the year. Adult tickets from €15–25. Combination tickets with Hameau Dubœuf are sometimes available.
3. Swim in Europe’s largest natural pool at Lac des Sapins (Cublize)
If you’re looking for a full day outdoors, Lac des Sapins delivers. This 115-hectare site combines beaches, shaded picnic spots and sports facilities. The main attraction is Europe’s largest ecological swimming pool, a chemical-free natural lagoon with crystal-clear water.
Families can rent kayaks, paddleboards, pedalos, or try tree-top adventures at the Tempo Aventures park. For horse lovers, the on-site equestrian centre offers short rides.
Practical info: Swimming pool open in summer (entry fee applies). Other activities available year-round. Parking on site.
4. Get up close to wolves at Parc de Courzieu (Courzieu)
Nature and wildlife lovers shouldn’t miss Parc de Courzieu, set in 25 hectares of preserved forest. The park’s stars are its two wolf packs — grey and arctic — which can be observed from special viewing tunnels or during feeding times.
The daily bird of prey shows (14:00 and 16:00) are spectacular, even without English commentary. Marmots, foxes and other local species complete the line-up, making this a wild and authentic experience.
Practical info: Open spring to autumn. Adult tickets around €18. Sturdy walking shoes recommended.
5. Step into history at Château de Corcelles (Corcelles-en-Beaujolais)
Dating back to the 15th century, Château de Corcelles is both a historical monument and a working wine estate. Guided tours are available in English, and audio guides provide extra context for self-guided visits.
Families can explore the medieval towers, landscaped gardens, and old kitchens, before enjoying a tasting — wine for adults, grape juice for children. The surrounding parkland offers a pleasant picnic spot.
Practical info: Adult tickets from €17. Accessible to wheelchairs. Open most of the year.
6. Jump, slide and splash at Aquapark Beluga (Anse)
Located on the Colombier lake, Aquapark Beluga is a floating playground of inflatable slides, trampolines and obstacle courses. There’s a dedicated area for younger children, plus pedal boats and stand-up paddleboards for hire.
With lifeguards on duty and a lakeside beach, it’s a safe and exciting way to cool off in summer. The park is run by a team used to hosting international visitors, and staff can assist in English when needed.
Practical info: Open June to September. Tickets €12–20. Bring swim shoes for comfort.
7. Take a private wine tour tailored for families
Yes, wine tours can be family-friendly — especially when booked through operators specialising in English-language experiences, such as Beaujolais Insiders, Kanpai Tourism or GetYourGuide partners.
These tours include transport from Lyon, visits to two or three estates, tastings of both wine and grape juice, and walks through the vineyards.
Some even offer Segway or e-bike options, turning the day into an adventure for everyone.
Practical info: Prices from €35–75 per adult. Advance booking recommended.
Why these activities work for english-speaking families
All seven activities have either confirmed English-language services or are primarily visual and interactive, making them easy to enjoy without needing to speak French. They also represent the diversity of the Beaujolais — from wine culture and history to animals, nature, and pure fun.
A well-planned 2–3 day itinerary could combine them into a perfectly balanced family trip, with options for both sunny and rainy days.
The Beaujolais might be best known for its wines, but for families it’s a region full of surprises. From swimming in an eco-lake to walking through a medieval château, from watching wolves to bouncing on floating playgrounds, these experiences offer the perfect blend of adventure, culture and relaxation. And thanks to their English-friendly nature, you can enjoy them without worrying about the language barrier — just focus on making memories.