What to do with a group in the Gironde: activities for all ages

Organising a group stay also means finding activities that suit everyone — children and grandparents alike, adventurers as much as devotees of the good life. In the Gironde, the richness of the region allows you to combine nature, heritage, relaxation and gastronomic discoveries. Here is a complete overview of what you can do during a group stay in the area, setting out from the Domaine du Dahu estate in Sablons, between Bordeaux and Périgueux.

On the estate: nature as a daily companion

The first activity begins on arrival: letting yourself be carried by the surroundings. The private 3-hectare lake, the wooden chalets set on the water, the shaded banks — everything is designed so that each person finds their own rhythm.

• Lakeside walks: the circuit around the lake on foot is accessible to everyone, including the youngest children. Depending on the season, you will come across grey herons, roe deer at the forest's edge, and in spring, the magnificent hoopoe with its striking plumage.
• Wildlife watching: the site is a true sanctuary for animals. In the evenings, roe deer sometimes come close to the edge of the estate. Children love it.
• Evenings on the covered terrace: facing the lake, the terrace is the heart of the estate. Aperitifs, dinners, late-night gatherings — this is where the best group memories are made.
• Stargazing: far from any light pollution, the sky above the estate is exceptional on clear nights. Plan a moment to lie in the grass and look at the stars — children and adults alike are left speechless.

Fishing: an activity that spans generations

The estate's private lake is ideal for fishing, practised as catch-and-release (mandatory). You will find carp, pike, zander and black bass. Fishing is an activity that truly brings all ages together: children learn with enthusiasm, adults rediscover a contemplative and peaceful pursuit, and the more experienced anglers enjoy hunting the big pike.

Fishing from the bank or from the terrace of your floating chalet at sunrise — this is one of the most memorable experiences that groups report back to us. Remember to bring your rods and tackle.

Paddleboarding, kayaking and water activities

The lake is perfectly suited for a paddleboard or inflatable canoe outing. The estate does not provide water sports equipment, but you are welcome to bring your own or hire equipment nearby. Wearing a life jacket is mandatory on the lake. Swimming is not permitted in the lake, in order to preserve the quality of the site.

Paddleboard outings are particularly appreciated early in the morning, when the lake's surface is still perfectly smooth and herons take flight. A peaceful experience, even for young children accompanied by an adult.

In the surrounding area: heritage and discoveries

The estate is ideally positioned to explore the region. In less than 45 minutes you can reach some exceptional sites:

• Saint-Emilion (less than 25 min): listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this medieval hilltop town suspended above its vineyards is a must-see. A visit to the village, the troglodyte caves, wine tasting at the estates — a half-day that suits everyone, even those with no experience of wine. Children are fascinated by the cobbled lanes and underground passages.
• Libourne (20 min): a beautiful riverside town, with its lively markets, brasseries and historic centre. Ideal for a morning of shopping and coffee before returning to the estate.
• The Saint-Pardon tidal bore: a fascinating natural phenomenon, the mascaret is a wave that travels up the Dordogne during certain spring tides. The dates are published each year — if your stay coincides with one, it is an absolutely unique spectacle not to be missed, especially with children.
• The Pomerol and Fronsac vineyards: a few minutes from the estate, these discreet appellations offer magnificent vineyard landscapes and estates often open for visits by appointment.

Activities for children: little ones are rarely bored

A group stay with children calls for particular attention to their programme. The good news: the estate and its surroundings offer more than enough to keep them fully occupied without forcing anything.

• Watching herons fish from the bank
• Learning to fish by the lake
• Accompanied paddleboard outings (with a life jacket)
• Paper boat races on the water
• Exploring the lanes of Saint-Emilion
• Watching the tidal bore — an unforgettable experience for children

The natural environment of the estate, away from screens and artificial stimulation, has the power to reconnect children with curiosity and wonder. Many parents tell us this is what they appreciated most.

Evenings and moments of togetherness

Do not overlook the time with no fixed programme. Group evenings around a large table, board games after dinner, a late-night gathering over a drink on the terrace — these are often the moments that stay with you longest. The bright 75 m² room and the large covered terrace overlooking the lake provide the perfect setting for these shared moments of living together.

To organise your group stay from start to finish, visit our dedicated group and family events page. And if you are planning a special occasion, our articles on organising a christening in the Gironde and where to celebrate a milestone birthday in the Gironde will give you all the keys you need.