How to Survive Your First Holiday with a Toddler – and Actually Enjoy It

Your first holiday with a toddler can feel like a big leap. You want sunshine, naps, and happy memories — but worry about meltdowns, overtired little ones, and overpacking.

Here at Emerald Coast Gîtes, we’ve been helping families with babies and toddlers holiday happily in Brittany for over 15 years — and we’ve got you.

Here’s how to make your first family holiday stress-free, toddler-friendly, and actually relaxing.

1. Forget perfect – aim for peaceful

This isn’t the trip for sightseeing marathons or Michelin Star restaurants. It’s about those little moments: a cuddle under a tree, a splash in the toddler pool, warm croissants, whacky races on the drive in the Little Tikes cars or ride on tracktors,  an afternoon nap in the shade on a giant fatboy beanbag, and Kir Royales at Happy Hour whilst the toddler plays in the soft play.

Set realistic expectations, follow your toddler’s rhythm, and let the rest go. That’s where the magic happens.

2. Choose accommodation designed for young families

Not all “child-friendly” places actually work for babies and toddlers. At Emerald Coast Gîtes, everything is set up with small children in mind – so you don’t need to overpack or stress.

We provide:

• Cots, highchairs, baby monitors, blackout blinds & stair gates

• Toddler-safe spaces indoors and out

• Play areas, ride-ons, swings, dens, trampoline and shaded spots

• Toyboxes, books and plastic crockery and cutlery.

• On site washing machines, frozen toddler meals, and food for the adults

• An onsite bar attached to a soft play!

  

3. Pack light – we’ve got you covered

Travelling with a toddler doesn’t mean bringing the kitchen sink. With so much already provided on-site, just pack:

• A few favourite snacks or soft toys

• Lightweight clothes, sun hats and swimwear

• A compact buggy or sling

• Wipes, nappies, and a sense of humour 😄

4. Stick to a simple rhythm, not a strict routine

Toddlers love predictability, but flexibility is key on holiday. Try this gentle daily rhythm:

• A lazy breakfast whilst the kids play, then off to a market or a beach.

• Lunch in a local creperie where they love children!

• Back to the gites for nap time…. monitors on and fall asleep or just read a book in one of the Fatboys.

• After nap time its time to hit the pool or short trips out in the afternoon

• Early supper and chill evenings
  

5. Let someone else do the cooking

We know how tiring it can be feeding little ones on holiday — so we offer easy, homemade options that parents love.

• 🧊 Frozen children’s meals (all homemade)

• 🥐 Daily breakfast delivery service

• 🍽️ Onsite meal nights where you don’t have to lift a finger

Because feeding your family shouldn’t be a full-time job while you’re on holiday.

6. Relax by the pool — without the sun cream stress

Our shared pool is designed with toddlers and tired parents in mind:

• ☀️ UV shade cover – perfect for delicate skin

• 🌡️ Heated to 30°C for maximum comfort

• 👶 Dedicated toddler pool for safe splashing

• 🏖️ Sun loungers nearby so you can relax too

No baking in the sun, no chasing a toddler with SPF 50 every 10 minutes.

7. Discover Brittany – gentle adventures for little explorers

Our location in coastal northern Brittany is ideal for a toddler’s pace:

• Sandy beaches with shallow waves

• Gentle countryside walks

• Local creperies that welcome families

• Animal parks, castles, and markets with space to roam

Everything is nearby, and nothing is too much effort — perfect for short outings between naps.

8. You deserve a break, too

This is your holiday just as much as theirs. Whether it’s a coffee in the garden while they nap, a family BBQ, or a glass of wine once they’re tucked up in bed — we’re here to help you relax.

Many of our guests are on their first trip abroad with a baby or toddler, and we’re always happy to help. We’ve raised our own family here and love welcoming others to experience the magic.

Ready to book your first family holiday?

Let us take the stress out of it.

Check availability and plan your stay at www.francefamilyholidays.com
Or get in touch – we’re always happy to chat.