What to Do with the Family During the October Holidays on the French Riviera
The October holidays are a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a few days with the family on the French Riviera.
At this time of year, the Var coastline returns to a more peaceful rhythm. Milder temperatures are perfect for outdoor adventures, villages can be explored away from the summer crowds, and a variety of special events and activities are organised for children during the school holidays.
Between Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, Cavalaire, Le Lavandou, Bormes-les-Mimosas and Saint-Tropez, there is plenty to keep both children and adults entertained.
A day trip to Porquerolles, nature activities at the Domaine du Rayol, museums, cycling and Halloween celebrations: discover our selection of things to do during an October family holiday on the French Riviera.
1. Explore the Domaine du Rayol as a Family
Just a few minutes from La Villa Douce, the Domaine du Rayol is one of our favourite recommendations for families.
Overlooking the Golden Islands, its Jardin des Méditerranées, designed by landscape gardener Gilles Clément, takes visitors on a journey through landscapes inspired by Mediterranean-climate regions around the world.
In October, the Domaine is open every day from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with guided tours also available.
During the 2026 October holidays, several activities have been specially designed for children.
On 18 and 25 October, the activity Qui se cache sous la coquille ? invites younger visitors to discover the living world around them. On 21 and 28 October, Les mains dans la terre introduces children aged 6 to 12 to gardening through a fun, hands-on family workshop. Advance booking is required for the latter.
It is a lovely way to combine nature, learning and family time just a short distance from the hotel.
2. Spend a Day on Porquerolles and Discover the Golden Islands
A day on Porquerolles is undoubtedly one of the most memorable excursions to enjoy during your stay.
From the Tour Fondue on the Giens Peninsula, take the boat across to Porquerolles, the largest of the Golden Islands.
The good news for October visitors is that crossings continue during the school holidays. For autumn 2026, several daily departures between the Tour Fondue and Porquerolles are scheduled through 1 November.
Once you arrive on the island, leave the car behind.
Porquerolles is best explored on foot or by bicycle, following paths that lead through Mediterranean landscapes towards beaches and viewpoints.
Families can choose a gentle walk, hire bicycles or simply head towards one of the beaches before enjoying lunch in the village.
In autumn, the island offers a very different experience from the height of summer, with fewer visitors and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere.
Our tip: take a morning ferry so you have plenty of time to enjoy the island, and check the latest boat timetable the day before your trip, particularly if the weather is changeable.
3. Enjoy the “Jeux d’Automne” in Cavalaire-sur-Mer
For children, Cavalaire-sur-Mer is one of the places to keep on your radar during the 2026 October holidays.
The town is organising its Jeux d’Automne, with a varied programme of family entertainment throughout the school holidays.
Activities include laser game on 19 October, remote-controlled Mario Kart cars on 21 October, Petit Archéologue workshops on several dates, pony rides on 24 October, obstacle courses, traditional games and other sporting activities.
It makes Cavalaire an easy choice for a family morning or afternoon, depending on the age of your children and the day’s programme.
Halloween in Cavalaire
On 31 October 2026, the Jeux d’Automne conclude with Cavalaire’s big Halloween celebration.
Starting at 3 pm on the Esplanade Sainte-Estelle, the programme includes a family musical show, a Halloween snack and the traditional sweet hunt through the town centre. Admission is free.
A fun way to bring the October holidays to a close.
4. Discover Saint-Tropez with the Children
Saint-Tropez is not just a summer destination.
During the autumn holidays, take advantage of the quieter atmosphere to explore the harbour, wander through the old town and discover its museums as a family.
Visit the Museum of the Gendarmerie and Cinema
For an outing that can appeal to parents and children alike, head to the former Saint-Tropez gendarmerie.
The Musée de la Gendarmerie et du Cinéma tells both the story of the local gendarmerie brigade, which occupied the building from 1879 to 2003, and the story of Saint-Tropez on the silver screen, including the famous Gendarme de Saint-Tropez films.
In 2026, the permanent collection is complemented by temporary exhibitions. Et Dieu… créa la femme, 70 ans de légende looks back at Roger Vadim’s film, which helped cement Brigitte Bardot and Saint-Tropez in international cinema history.
The museum is also celebrating its tenth anniversary with De la caserne au musée, 10 ans déjà, running until 31 December 2026. From September onwards, the museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm.
Another advantage for families: admission is free for children under 12.
It is also an excellent option to keep in mind for a rainy autumn day.
5. Explore Bormes-les-Mimosas and Celebrate Halloween
With its narrow streets, picturesque passageways, small squares and traditional Provençal houses, Bormes-les-Mimosas is a lovely village to discover as a family.
Turn your visit into a little adventure for younger children: look for colourful façades, hidden passages and viewpoints as you make your way through the old village.
During the 2026 holidays, Bormes also has a special family event on the calendar.
“Sortilège”: Halloween Comes to Bormes
On 25 October 2026, the town hosts Sortilège: Bormes fête Halloween at the Bormisport sports complex.
The event forms part of the town’s family-friendly autumn programme. Children under three can attend free of charge, while the announced admission price is €5 for children aged 3 to 12 and €3 for teenagers and adults.
It is a good opportunity to combine a visit to one of the Var’s charming Provençal villages with an activity specifically designed for the children.
6. Enjoy the October Holiday Events in Le Lavandou
Le Lavandou also offers several events during the school holidays.
On 24 and 25 October 2026, the town hosts a Street Theatre Festival, with free admission.
Combine the festival with a walk along the seafront or around the harbour for an easy family day out.
Halloween at the “Fête des Lutins”
On Saturday 31 October, head to the Parc du Grand Jardin from 2 pm for the Fête des Lutins.
The programme includes an afternoon of entertainment, a complimentary snack for children and the prize-giving ceremony for the town’s scarecrow competition.
The event is free of charge.
7. Take a Family Walk Along the Mediterranean
The October holidays are also an excellent time to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Milder temperatures can make walking much more comfortable than during the height of summer, offering an opportunity to experience the coastline from a different perspective.
Around Rayol-Canadel, several walks allow families to enjoy Mediterranean vegetation and beautiful views towards the sea and the Golden Islands.
For younger children, choose a shorter and more accessible itinerary and allow plenty of time for stops along the way.
Before setting off, always check that the chosen trail is open and accessible, particularly following heavy rain or strong winds.
For more inspiration, take a look at our guide to hiking and cycling in the Var outside the summer season.
8. Discover the Coast by Bike
For families with children who are confident cyclists, exploring the coastline by bike is another enjoyable option.
From La Villa Douce, you can head towards the developed sections of the coastal cycle route in the direction of Cavalaire-sur-Mer or Le Lavandou.
Thanks to our local partner Clear Kayak, bicycles can be delivered directly to the hotel, making your day out easier to organise.
Our concierge team can assist with the rental and help you choose an itinerary suited to your plans.
Please note that the journey from the hotel to the developed cycling sections includes roads shared with motor vehicles. The route should therefore be selected according to the age and cycling ability of your children.
9. What Can You Do with Children on a Rainy Day?
Even on the French Riviera, autumn can occasionally bring a rainy day.
Fortunately, there is no need to spend it in your hotel room.
The Museum of the Gendarmerie and Cinema in Saint-Tropez is an excellent family option, and several temporary exhibitions can also be found nearby.
In Cavalaire, an exhibition dedicated to gladiators, their games, battles and legends is scheduled to run until 31 December 2026, providing another cultural option during the holidays.
In Le Lavandou, Villa Théo is hosting an exhibition dedicated to Neo-Impressionist painter Théo Van Rysselberghe from 10 October until 6 March 2027, with free admission.
A few useful ideas to keep in reserve should the weather change your plans.
Stay with the Family at La Villa Douce During the October Holidays
After a day on Porquerolles, an afternoon exploring Saint-Tropez or family activities in Cavalaire, return to the peaceful surroundings of La Villa Douce** in Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer.
Perched on the hillside above the village, the hotel offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean towards the Golden Islands.
For families, our Junior Suites can accommodate up to four guests, while our Prestige Suites feature two bedrooms.
Baby cots are available free of charge, while an additional bed can be added to certain room categories.
During your stay, enjoy the outdoor heated swimming pool during its seasonal opening period, subject to weather conditions, or simply relax overlooking the Mediterranean after a busy day of exploring.
Enjoy a Family Dinner at L'Envol Restaurant
Family holidays are also about spending time together around the table.
At our panoramic L’Envol Restaurant, Chef Théo Duval serves Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the seasons and local produce.
Families can end the day with dinner overlooking the Mediterranean, without having to get back in the car.
A children’s menu at €20 is also available for younger guests.
Awarded two Écotable Macarons, L’Envol embraces a more responsible approach to gastronomy, in keeping with the environmental commitments of La Villa Douce, which has also been awarded Green Key certification.
Enjoy an October Family Holiday on the French Riviera
Nature, islands, Provençal villages, museums, outdoor activities and Halloween celebrations: the October holidays offer plenty of opportunities to discover the French Riviera with children.
From Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer, every day can be different: Porquerolles and the Golden Islands for adventure, the Domaine du Rayol for nature, Saint-Tropez for sightseeing, Cavalaire and Le Lavandou for family entertainment, and Bormes-les-Mimosas for Provençal charm.
And between adventures, simply take some time to enjoy the Mediterranean together.
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Book your October family stay at La Villa Douce and enjoy a relaxing getaway overlooking the Golden Islands, in the heart of the Var coastline.
FAQ – October Family Holidays on the French Riviera
What can you do with children on the French Riviera in October?
Around Rayol-Canadel, families can visit the Domaine du Rayol, spend a day on Porquerolles, explore Saint-Tropez and its museums or enjoy the special 2026 holiday events organised in Cavalaire, Bormes-les-Mimosas and Le Lavandou.
Can you visit Porquerolles during the October holidays?
Yes. In 2026, crossings between the Tour Fondue and Porquerolles are scheduled throughout the October holiday period, with several departures and return services each day. Timetables should always be checked before travelling, particularly when weather conditions are changeable.
Are there Halloween events near Rayol-Canadel in 2026?
Yes. Bormes-les-Mimosas celebrates Halloween on 25 October, while Cavalaire hosts its main Halloween celebration and Le Lavandou its Fête des Lutins on 31 October.
What can you do near Saint-Tropez with children when it rains?
The Museum of the Gendarmerie and Cinema in Saint-Tropez is a good family option. You can also visit the gladiator exhibition in Cavalaire or discover the exhibitions at Villa Théo in Le Lavandou.
Where can families stay near Saint-Tropez during the October holidays?
Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer provides a peaceful base within easy reach of Saint-Tropez, Cavalaire, Le Lavandou and Bormes-les-Mimosas. At La Villa Douce, several room and suite categories are suitable for families travelling with children.
