L'Etang de la Breche Holiday Park

1 reader found this review helpful

Fantastic camp-site. Can't find any fault - During our stay there, a circus arrived and pitched up in the camp-site near the Playing Fields, where they put on a show for tourists staying in the Campsite (ticket price).
This has to be the best camp-site my family have ever visited. Nowhere else comes close to it's standard of facilities.

2 readers found this review helpful

We were VERY impressed with this Castels site. We sailed into Le Havre and had a very stress-free drive (approx 206 miles) most of which was Autoroute.

We had pre-requested a pitch on the perimeter of the large playing area/games field and we were not disappointed. The pitches are absolutely HUGE, the largest we have seen. A plus is that you pay for the pitch + ehu / water (if required) + people. You can have any number of smaller tents, gazebos etc with no extra charge.

One thing we noticed straight off is that many families seemed to know each other - now we know why - they love the site so much they return year after year (we too will be returning next summer!).

In my opinion, the pitches on the perimeter of the playing field are the best. There are others which we would not like - especially a couple right opposite the dish-washing area and the loos. You would do well to request a pitch away from these (their website shows a map of the pitches).

The site caters exceptionally well for families. A nice outdoor pool, a separate children’s' / toddler pool, another large pool which can be covered if the weather is inclement and several water slides. There are safety gates at all entrances into the pool to stop very young children wandering off (or in) on their own, which is excellent. All shoes must be left outside on the racks provided and a notice advises that men / boys must wear trunks as opposed to swimming shorts - though this was not enforced during the two weeks we were there.

There is a lovely shaded patio area, perfect for those afternoon ice creams (all Carte D'Or and gorgeous!) and of course an ice cold beer or Kir Cassis!

In the evening, the restaurant serves excellent food albeit a little on the expensive side but they do advise of the English equivalent on the menu - something you will rarely find in other local restaurants - so at least you will know what you are ordering.

There is also another outdoor patio area between the bar and the shop and here you can order a take away pizza, burgers etc. The pizzas were gorgeous, generously topped super-thin crusts.

The shop on site has your basics - bread (cooked hourly), milk, a selection of hams & cheeses, snacks, toiletries, soft drinks, children's toys, postcards etc. In July & August the shop opens at 8.15am and you can smell the freshly baked croissants, pain-au-chocolats, pain-au-raisins and baguettes from several yards away.

Teenagers aged between 16 - 18 years are allowed a selection of alcoholic drinks in the bar such as beer, cider, alcopops & some wines. No Spirits.

There are two large children's play areas, a netted area for games such as football and basketball.

There are several shower blocks and toilets however some are shared male/female and some are not so you will need to keep an eye on the signs on the doors! If there are no signs, you can safely assume that it is for either male or female.

This site is one of quietest sites after 9pm we have ever come across - incredible considering its size!

The reception area is open early (8.30am I think!) and has a huge display of leaflets for local attractions. Some of them are available with discounts but you will need to ask at reception about these (I think they include Zoo de Doue, Futuroscope amongst others)

The local area is amazing. Saumur is lovely with its Chateau, narrow winding streets, fabulous Saturday market and numerous restaurants. You can park free of charge at either of the two car parks next to the river to the left or right of the roundabout as you cross the bridge from Ile-de-Saumur into Saumur Centre. There is also another large car park on Ile-de-Saumur with 200 places -again free of charge.

We also visited the local wine suppliers Gratien Meyer. It is just outside Saumur on the same side of the river and at first glance, it looks like a posh hotel perched on the hillside. If you require a tour of the caves (recommended) be sure to book in advance as it will likely be in French only otherwise.
Another tip - if you visit Saumur market on a Saturday, there will be a stand offering wine tasting (by Gratien Meyer) and if you ask about their tours, they will likely offer you a coupon for a free visit. All of the wines you taste are available much cheaper in the local Intermarche or E.L'eclerc.

For camping supplies or sports gear - visit the local Decathlon, just outside Saumur.

1 reader found this review helpful

Very good campsite - peaceful and spacious.
Our mobile home pitch was well away from the bar/restaurant area which meant it was very peaceful. Plenty of space for children to run around and play.
Excellent swimming pools especially the toddler pool with its slides.
Away from town of Saumur but also close enough to several main attractions.