Centre de Reintroduction des Cigognes et des Loutres, Ribeauville, France

The Centre de Reintroduction des Cigognes et des Loutres, found within the town of Ribeauville, France is a zoo that works for the preservation of endangered species in the locality. Some of the animals they care for in the facility include the white stork, otters, penguins, and hamsters. The five-hectare animal park is nestled amid a vineyard that provides visitors with a pleasant green environment. As you stroll around the park, you will be treated to a show of cormorants, sea lions, and otters leisurely fishing every afternoon. A total of six million visitors had come to the site since its opening some four decades ago.

When staying overnight in the town, you can check out the cozy accommodations dotting the area. One such guesthouse is the Chambres D'hôtes Sainte Hune, located in the village of Hunawihr, just seven minutes’ walk from the animal park. The hotel has multilingual staff to assist you, along with several notable features like a terrace and garden. Breakfast can also be availed at a minimum surcharge. For more family-friendly accommodation, you can check out Hotel Le Ménestrel. It sits around a 14-minute walk from the zoo and comes complete with a full-service spa and outdoor tennis court. Make sure to see the Château du Girsberg when visiting the town, as well. This castle overlooks the whole village at an elevation of over 1700 feet. Cap your day off with a stopover at the Jean SIPP Winery, an independent winegrower that dates back to the early 1400's.