Upon reflecting on our family’s experience, it became evident that we had outgrown Center Parcs. The tipping point was when my husband returned from purchasing drinks at a staggering price of five pounds for two Fruit Shoots. Despite enjoying numerous stays at Center Parcs, this was the moment we realized the costs were no longer justifiable.
Our journey into exploring alternative holiday destinations began with Haven and Parkdean resorts within the UK. However, after extensive research on parenting forums, we uncovered the potential savings offered by European holiday camps. Following thorough research on driving in France, we decided to swap Center Parcs for Eurocamp during the recent bank holiday, an experience that exceeded our expectations and left us already planning our next visit.
Eurocamp has gained recognition for its activity-oriented park holidays, boasting 400 park options across 11 countries. Our choice was Domaine des Ormes in France, nestled in 400 acres of picturesque countryside with diverse accommodation options catering to various budgets. Opting for a lodge, we were pleasantly surprised by the amenities and comforts it provided for our five-night stay, including separate bedrooms for the kids and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Unlike the Center Parcs lodges, our Eurocamp lodge emphasized outdoor living, featuring a spacious covered decking area with ample seating for enjoying the pleasant weather. We spent most of our time outdoors, relishing family moments through activities like card games, outdoor movie nights, and simply lounging in the serene environment.
Domaine des Ormes boasts a remarkable aquapark with an array of swimming options and thrilling attractions, offering a refreshing alternative to Center Parcs’ Subtropical Swimming Paradise. The resort’s attractions, such as zip lines over the lake, catered to both adults and children at a fraction of the cost compared to Center Parcs activities.
In addition to the aquapark, Domaine des Ormes provided a range of activities like kids clubs, archery, and horse riding, ensuring there was no shortage of entertainment for families. Dining options on-site were abundant, with our favorite being Chez Madeline, offering delectable dishes at reasonable prices.
Exploring the local area with our car added another dimension to our holiday experience, allowing us to indulge in local delicacies and immerse ourselves in the French culture. The overall affordability and variety of activities at Eurocamp, combined with the idyllic setting, made the venture worthwhile and memorable.
For those considering a trip to Eurocamp, there are still savings to be found for summer bookings, although popular accommodations are filling up quickly. Comparing prices with Center Parcs revealed substantial cost disparities, making Eurocamp a more budget-friendly option for families seeking a memorable holiday experience.
Our journey to Eurocamp was facilitated by a seamless ferry ride and minimal language barriers, providing a stress-free travel experience. The small moments of joy and growth experienced by our children during the trip reinforced our decision to step outside our comfort zone and explore new horizons.