I have shared lots about our trip to France, and Guedelon. There is so much to see and do, a full of family activities. We were so excited about visiting Accrobranche or Parc d’Aventure, it is bigger, better and faster than any tree tracking experience we have ever encountered. And we have tried a few.
I was feeling pretty confident. I felt I could keep up with the Christie boys, who quite frankly are like monkeys. Firstly we worked through the practice route and safety talk with Kathryn who explained there were 9 routes, each increasing in difficulty.
There was another small course but that was for smaller children, thankfully Joe was tall enough for the larger course. The boys however, were eager the start on level 6. Kathryn persuaded them to start at the beginning, assuring the boys it would be harder than they thought. And wow, it sure was.
The course at Accrobranche was the highest I have ever climbed, as the boys raced off into the trees confidently Chris and I positioned ourselves either side of Joe so we could monitor him and rein in his confidence a little. Jack raced ahead and negotiated the first course quickly and confidently.
By the time we had got to the 3rd level it had increased dramatically in height and difficulty. I have to say, as the boys zoomed down the zip lines shouting with joy, my heart was in my mouth. Some of the zip lines were so long you could not see the other end. I had to wait to hear them shout clear to know they were safely across.
I got to the end of level 6 before deciding my bravery had reached its peak. Much to the disappointment of the boys I called for a retreat. They would have gone on till the end if we would have allowed them too, but time was creeping on and we had to get showered and ready for dinner.
There is something about tree trekking that gets me every time. Seeing the delight on the boy’s faces. Watching them concentrate, and navigate courses with such skill makes me feel so proud. Also it is an activity we all love. That feeling when you are up in the canopy of the trees, the views, the sound of the birds and the sun peeking through the trees is a special feeling.
I would thoroughly recommend Parc d’Aventure, the course had routes to suit all confidence levels. We had become a little blasé about tree trekking courses. As we have completed quite a few and felt confident. But this course challenged us all; it was high, fast, exhilarating and fun. The boys are still talking about it, we had a wonderful afternoon climbing in the trees, trying to keep up with the boys, and enjoying being part of nature.
