Overview
A rare French find, La Ferme du Cayla effortlessly marries generous sized gîtes and gloriously laid-back village living with something almost unheard of in rural France: beautifully run childcare (from as young as six months we may add!). For families looking to avoid the overwhelm of big resorts, but who know that restless little ones need more than just a bed and a pool to stay happy, La Ferme du Cayla provides the perfect mix – it’s a case of small hotel, big charm. It’s the kind of place that instantly puts you at ease, like staying with friends who happen to be extraordinary hosts
Set in the rolling hills of the Lot Valley, the storybook setting feels like the backdrop to the ‘Belle’ song in Beauty and the Beast – all honey-hued cottages, flower-filled beds and a pretty central square complete with fountain. Six spacious, child-friendly homes (sleeping 2–10) blend rustic charm with modern ease – think exposed beams, fully equipped kitchens and sweeping terraces that open onto cinematic countryside views – offering privacy when you want it and community when you don’t
During high season, two kids’ clubs are included, welcoming babies (6 months+) and children up to 12, with thoughtfully designed spaces. There are evening parties twice weekly – treasure hunts, dance performances and even “popcorn cinema” under the stars. Beyond the supervised sessions, the grounds read like a childhood wish list: mini-golf, trampoline, treehouses, zip-wire, swings, sandpits and even a private lake just 200 metres away
Every element of La Ferme du Cayla is designed with grown‑ups in mind as much as little ones. The on‑site spa beckons with a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and indulgent treatments. During summer, guests stay on Full Board, enjoying all meals alongside a wonderfully stocked honesty bar to cover your well-earned tipple time, with every dish crafted from local ingredients, including produce from the farm’s own organic gardens. Outside of peak season, the gîtes can be enjoyed as self-catering stays, although breakfast is always included
Hidden away in a landscape so pretty it could be a painting, La Ferme du Cayla is the sort of place families fall for once and then never let go. Many begged us not to spill the beans – so consider this your insider tip. With its perfectly relaxed pace, brilliantly run childcare, and truly restorative moments for grown-ups, it’s destined to become your new French holiday obsession, just promise us you won’t tell everyone
Mama
Get in touch
Flight
Direct flights from the UK are available to Rodez Airport (about 1h50 from London Stansted), Limoges Airport (around 1h50 from London Stansted, Manchester, and East Midlands), Bergerac Airport (about 2h from London Stansted, Bristol, Liverpool, Bournemouth, East Midlands, and Edinburgh, mostly seasonal), and Toulouse Airport (around 2h from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester)
Transfer
Approx 50 minutes’ drive from Rodez Airport, 2 hours 15 minutes from Limoges and Bergerac Airports, and 2 hours minutes from Toulouse Airport
Best time to visit
La Ferme du Cayla is open year-round, making it wonderfully easy to find an excuse to hop across to France. During the school holidays, thoughtfully curated packages take the planning off your plate, typically including your private cottage accommodation, complimentary Kids Club on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday (complete with super-sweet seasonal themed activities), a 50-minute massage per adult, plus yoga and relaxation classes to truly help you unwind. Come peak season (June, July and August), this is elevated even further with a full board dining experience- think generous French feasts, a welcome buffet, pizza evenings, and leisurely breakfasts and lunches that celebrate the best of the region
January: highs of 10°C
February: highs of 12°C
March: highs of 15°C
April: highs of 17°C
May: highs of 23°C
June: highs of 26°C
July: highs of 30°C
August: highs of 28°C
September: highs of 25°C
October: highs of 20°C
November: highs of 14°C
December: highs of 11°C
Favourite room
Lilas Cottage – Sleeping up to 5, Lilas is tucked just off the central courtyard, offering a peaceful retreat with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a spacious living area
Dahlia Cottage – Ideal for 4 guests, Dahlia sits at the heart of the rustic village courtyard. This charming split-level cottage has two bedrooms and a large terrace surrounded by lush greenery
Rose Cottage – Stylish and full of character, Rose Cottage is just steps from the central square. With three bedrooms and two bathrooms, this substantial home comfortably sleeps up to 6
Acacia Cottage – Perched at the highest point of La Ferme du Cayla, the stand-alone Acacia Cottage boasts three bedrooms and space for six plus a baby
Laurier Cottage – Newly renovated and fully air-conditioned, Laurier is a bright, cheerful family home with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a private terrace, all on a single-level layout
Grand Charm Cottage – The jewel in the crown, Grand Charm sleeps up to 12 across four bedrooms. With air-conditioning throughout the first floor, a large covered dining terrace, and breathtaking views over the valley, gardens, and central courtyard, it’s hard to imagine a more spectacular family retreat
Price & Special Offers
from £120 p/night in low season and £ 200p/night in high season for a family of three (1 baby without half board)
from £120 p/night in low season and £250 p/night in high season for a family of four (1 baby without half board, 1 toddler with half board)
from £120 p/night in low season and £300 p/night in high season for a family of five (1 baby without half board, 1 toddler with half board, 1 child age 3 or older with half board)
Worth waking the baby for
01
Gramat Animal Park
A delight for little animal lovers, Gramat Animal Park brings children face-to-face with everything from friendly farm animals to exotic species. Adults will love the beautifully landscaped grounds and the chance to enjoy a leisurely stroll while the kids feed goats, stroke ponies, and watch birds of prey in action
02
Monkey Park
Just a short drive from La Ferme du Cayla, Monkey Park offers playful encounters with a troupe of mischievous primates. Children will be enchanted by the close-up viewing platforms and interactive feeding sessions, while adults can appreciate the park’s natural setting and its focus on conservation and animal wellbeing
03
Reptiland
For a day packed with curiosity and excitement, Reptiland is a must-visit, showcasing the most beautiful diversity of reptiles in Europe. From slithering snakes to colourful lizards and turtles, the hands-on discovery zones make it an engaging adventure for everyone
Reviews from other parents
The gîtes were simple but very well done. The real wow factor was the view - utterly beautiful across the French countryside. We were with our children, aged 8 and 4, and they LOVED IT. There was an optional Kids Club, with organised activities led by English and French team leaders. The resort has indoor and outdoor heated pools, as well as bikes you can borrow, ping pong, a play area with a zip line, and resident tortoises, goats, and rabbits. The whole place is enclosed and feels very safe - we didn’t even lock the door to our gîte when we went to eat. The kids loved the independence of running around with their new friends. The food, the freedom, and quality time with the kids was amazing
Mama @hanniboo82
