Our Journal
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Hunting for treasures with Geocaching !
If you have kept your childhood spirt and your passion of treasure hunting, good news for you ! Finished with maps made out of old parchment paper which tears with the slightest fold or gust of wind, now treasure digital maps are available !
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Campsites in Centre-Val de Loire
The Centre-Val de Loire region has an exceptional natural and cultural heritage that draws interest from international visitors year after year.
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Seafood recipe from Pays de la Loire region
Seafood and the Pays de la Loire, go hand in hand. Mussels are simple to prepare and so delicious a real buzz for the taste buds ! The Castel la Garangeoire suggests the recipe for Moules Bouchot a la creme which can be prepared in no time at all ! Something so simple to put together at your camping site once you’ve retuned from the market !
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Campsites in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Discover Europe’s largest mountainous region extending from the Massif Central in the west to the Alps in the east.
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A weekend at Île de Ré
From La Garangeoire, Île de Ré is only two hours away from your Castel. An escape that you must experience whilst on this island where life is very enjoyable. Here is the program, bike rides, water sports and a historic visites !
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Campsites in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Spend your holidays in one of France’s most beautiful regions discovering Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
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Focusing on Occitanie
Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and the National Park of the Pyrenees, Occitanie is the ideal region for all nature lovers ! Together the former regions of the Midi-Pyrénées and Languedoc-Roussillon the area benefits from a very pleasant climate all year round complimented by so many activities, including walks in the wonderful fresh air.
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Your Canoeing-Kayak holiday
This Summer, you’ve decided, water sport is going to be your thing ! But where to begin ? What does one need to know first ? What equipment is needed ? You have been wondering about all these things for days now, Here is some advice !
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Clafoutis Limousin : The recipe of Château Leychoisier
It’s the cherry season at last ! Picked in your garden before going on holidays or bought at a market near your Castel, these fruits are delicious eaten naturally or cooked ! The Castel « Le Château Leychoisier » offers you the recipe from the Limousin region, making for a successful clafoutis !
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Digital detox
Holidays are the ideal opportunity to disconnect and have a break from your computer and your smartphone. Gone is the stress related to un read e-mails and the notifications from the social networks which can monopolize your time. Make the most of your long weekends and days off by cutting the digital cord !
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The most beautiful beaches of France
France is edged with beaches of varying landscapes. Luminous, tropical or untamed, so many are worth seeing ! Even if your Castel offers a wonderful swimming pool, you must not resist visiting and experiencing the wide open sea and the sublime beaches ! A stroll along the French coast:
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A weekend in Nîmes during Pentecost
Does a long weekend in sunshine wandering through the streets of a Provençal city sounds inviting ? Perfect ! Nîmes just happens to organise its flamboyant festivals from 1st June until 5th June !
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The best games to take camping !
This Summer you will be able to make the most of your Castel camping holidays and find relaxation and enjoyment ! Ideally, if you still have some room in your suitcase make sure you add a few small, easy to pack games.
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The Tour de France 2017
The Tour de France 2017 will take place on the 1st July until the 23rd July, the map of the route is available here:
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The best restaurants in Bayonne
Whilst on holidays in the Basque Country, your taste buds will be surely tantalized ! This region of France is known for its varied culinary specialities.
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Recipe – Fish loaf
The Castle « Château de Les Eaux » in Normandy offers a unique recipe for a fish loaf, this mouth watering entree can be made with Julienne or Cod fish .
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The most beautiful rivers in France
Large expanses of breathtaking natural waterways are spread throughout regional France. To be appreciated whilst hiking with family or alone walking alongside running waters, these rivers will undoubtedly refresh your well being.
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Travelling lightly is possible !
Going on a camping holidays is much more enjoyable when traveling lightly ! Especially with children, we are often tempted to fill the suitcases to the brim.
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How do you choose the best pack for hiking ?
Wildlife and nature holidays often remind us of the many beautiful hiking trails in the beautiful regions of France.
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The most beautiful natural reserves in France
France is abundant in natural reserves, its where wild birds and various species travel great lengths often pausing during their migration. Discover within the 5 corners of France, these natural reserves where the diversity and the beauty of the landscape will make you wish you also had wings !
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Easter hunt on the road to camp Castels
Some of our Castels have opened their doors from the beginning of April and welcome you to a new delightful season ! Starting with the Easter weekend, we have discovered some unique places for Easter egg hunts on your journey, these are adapted to the young ones and older ! A wonderful, fun activity to be had whilst halfway to your destination. This stopover will surely entertain the children and make for an unexpected chocolate break on your travels !
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Some recipe ideas whilst camping
On holidays, times spent sharing a meal is full of enjoyment and relaxation. We can now take time to taste seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables, refreshing drinks and often meals cooked putdoors on a barbecue.
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How to take great holiday photos ?
This year, you’ve made the decision to invest in a camera ! Even if your smartphone allows you to capture your moments of fun, nothing beats having your photos developed leaving fond memories for years to come …
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Sporting discovery : Tree Surfing
Who hasn’t dreamt of being Tarzan, suspended from a line soaring through the treetops in wonderful natural environment. Good news ! It’s possible in many regions of France thanks to Treetop Adventure Parks ! This sporting activity gives you the opportunity to choose a route that suits you high up through the tree tops in total safety, for the young and old !
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5 books to be taken in your suitcases
Long weekends or holidays are often spent simply enjoying reading ! Whether it is during your journey, making sure that you don’t get travel sickness ! On a deckchair by the edge of a swimming pool or just before going off to bed in your rented Castel, there is always a place you’ll love to read during your holidays, so make sure you dive into a great book !
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Respecting the environment whilst camping
Campsites Castels are very conscious about protecting nature and it’s surrounding environment. Our campsites have installed hot air pumps to heat all the swimming pools. The development and installation of thermal solar panels for heating water, toilet flushing, and general water use for compost and the compaction of waste …
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Exercises to relax during your car trip
The long drive to your holiday destination requires your full attention and to say the least your back and neck muscles. Whilst driving in the continuous seated position muscular spasms and tension can appear. Here are some exercises and solutions to help keep you in shape and for you to arrive at your Castel as relaxed and serene as possible.
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The SPA of the Castels
There’s nothing better than giving yourself a little pampering whilst on holiday. Les Castels 4 and 5 star campsites suggest a visit to their well-being relaxation centres, within the various domains or chateaux you will find excellent service.
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A weekend at Belle-Ile-en-Mer
Situated south of Brittany in the open sea, just off the Gulf of Morbihan lies Belle-Île-en-Mer, offering so many opportunities to spend timeless holidays. The largest of the Brittany islands, Belle Ile has the ultimate peacefulness of the countryside in contrast to the rugged cliff faces along the water coast.
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The benefits of the sun
During your camping holidays at Les Castels, naturally, your skin will be exposed to the sun. Starting from breakfast, you feel the heat on your body, which is often so revitalising making you feel good.
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Holidaying amongst the vineyards
Red, white, rosé or champagne, the French country side produces every type of wine in its many beautiful regions. A tourist attraction which bears the name: oenotourisme. This activity is in discovering different vineyards in various regions and enjoying a tasting and possibly purchasing some wine. It will also please young ones as they can get involved by actually picking the grapes and have the excitement of seeing the large machines and wine presses at work !
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Swimming in the Wilds
Wild water swimming is one of the many features in which campers can indulge ,it creates such a sensation of total freedom! What could be more exhilarating than to dive into fresh and reinvigorating water surrounded by cliffs all around. If you are swimming in these waters we strongly recommend that you read the safety regulations for your own well being. Here are some places that will certainly tempt you to experience this wonder.
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The most beautiful lakes of France
For the campers and the devotees of campsite Castels, lakes have always been an excellent place to relax by the waters edge enjoying the benefits of any aquatic sport. In France, there is a diversity of lakes, all beautiful, some more than others. Here are some suggestions that are close to campsite Castels.
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Duck foie gras terrine from Parc de Fierbois
Whilst holidaying in New Aquitaine, it would be impossible to resist a taste of foie gras, a speciality of the region. Food lovers have been known to leave with full baskets of produce to take home !
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Zoos near Castels
There are several zoos a few hours from campsite Castels ! A golden opportunity to see the animals of the savanna and discover some rare species ! People of all ages will be enthralled by this adventure !
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The most beautiful waterfalls in France
This year, an original theme can be the defining moment of your camping holiday : waterfalls ! Go in search of the most beautiful waterfalls of France, you will not be disappointed !
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Mountain clothing
As you would expect, the temperatures will be very low, so to avoid taking numerous suitcases pack clothes made of fabrics specifically for these conditions.
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Recipe : Gratin Dauphinois
To really warm oneself up and make the most of Winter fare, what could be better than a delicious gratin Dauphinois ? This dish originated in Dauphiné (currently region of Grenoble), a great dish enjoyed by family and friends.
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Grande Métairie Fried King Prawns
Here is a simple festive recipe to make from the coast of Brittany, Carnac to be more exact !
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Great gift ideas for friends who love travelling
Birthday’s, Christmas, are you always looking for original gifts ? Amoungst your circle of friends iyou must know people who love to travel, here are some ideas which will certainly make them happy . Electronic luggage weight Very practical and not too cumbersome, this gadget allows traveler’s to leave within their baggage limit, arriving at the airport in a serene frame of mind and not burdened by excess. It costs only 10€, so why go without ? The Sublime Travel book : Pblished by National...
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Some new Winter sports
So your leaving soon to go on a Winter holiday and would like to try something new, rather than skiing or snowboarding ? Here are five new ways to enjoy gliding which can be practised at most ski stations. The truly invigorating downhill thrills can be amazing.
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Tips and tricks for your camping holidays
You’ve decided to go camping this Summer? Here are some ideas as to how to create some simple and enjoyable things to do alone or as a family. ” Do It Yourself ” !
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The best “Road-trip” and Camping movies
Holidays and life in the open air are often very good subjects for movie directors, a source of inspiration for the cinema. The reason for the journey maybe searching for oneself or a family reunion and celebration. A movie director creates colourful personalities, these characters are travelling most of the time in mobile homes ! So we discover beautifully filmed landscapes.
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How to occupy your children whilst on the road ?
Whether you leave to ski next week or either simply drive a few kilometres from home, trips by car can seem endless for your toddlers ! So to make this time go by more quickly for the children, and for yourself ! Here are some suggenstions for activities that can be worthwhile testing when on the road.
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Remaining pretty whilst camping is possible !
You leave for campsite(camping) this summer, it does not necessarily mean that it is necessary to leave aside your rite beauty / make-up! Indeed, the idea is to remain natural, to take advantage of the pure air and to use least possible products. Here are some tricks(clevernesses) to remain fresh(cool) and pretty!
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How to drive in the mountains and be safe ?
Ski resorts have been opened now for some weeks and you have planned a trip by car through the mountains . For the novices or the experts, driving through the mountain ranges demands a great deal of concentration, a certain dexterity, and a lot of caution.
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Brittany in May
As usual during the month of May we are lucky to have so many public holidays giving us more opportunity to enjoy a long weekend away.Whats better than planning your trip a few months in advance ? We suggest you discover Brittany and its endless beautiful beaches !
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Holiday diary : unforgettable moments !
A multigenerational memory by Isabelle C. de la Roche (69): “Our fondest memory whilst staying at the Castel de la Forge de Sainte Marie, is time spent with three generations of our family ! The children, parents and grandparents. The younger ones trying to catch fish in their nets, the older ones have fun playing petanque and the grand parents allowing themselves being enticed by the cheese board and the wine tasting. Sheer simple happiness ….” A ghost story by Catherine S. de la Ville Dieu...
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Basque Cake recipe
The Christmas season recalls the delicacies and other culinary delights With all the wonderful desserts you will taste during the festivities we suggest you try a speciality of the Pyrenees: the Basque cake. It’s at Ruisseau des Pyrenees that you will have the chance to experience this cake.
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Brittany recipe: Seared scallops with a cider sauce.
French gastronomy is renowned throughout the world for its quality and its diversity. An inheritance well preserved by chefs who dare and offer traditional recipes. All French regions invite you to taste their specialities so you can experience a typical art-de-vivre ! In Brittany, in the area of the l’Orangerie de Lanniron, you will be fortunate enough to savour delicious seared scallops in a cider sauce. For those who wish to experience the dish and impress their dinner guests, we are sharing the recipe with...
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The Basque culture
The region of the Basque Country or Euskal Herria is a territory of tradition and pop culture. From Bayonne to the communities autumns Spanish, this “region ” has up to more than 3 million inhabitants. A reputation of a strong identity and breathtaking landscapes, the Basque Country is a region to be visited for its large cultural wealth ! A few kilometers away from Bayonne, the Ruisseau des Pyrénées openly offers an unforgettable moment in the Basque Country !
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End of year cultural activities
Ending the year with a cultural discovery is always a lovely moment. Here are some events which will allow you to know more about the French culture and it’s many facets !
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The benefits of a mountain holiday
You’ve succumbed to the mountains ! Health, being disconnected from city life and exercising activities are all good reasons why time spent in the mountains is time well spent . Whether you stay at Ruisseau des Pyrénées or the Castel Criques de Porteils, both are quite close to the mountainous border of Spain, or Château de Rochetaillée which is situated at the foot of the Alpe Huez, you will find all the benefits of the wonderous beauty of the Alpine mountain range!
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Vacation diary: Special children testimonies Part 2
Here is the continuation of testimonials of your best moments spent together with your children in our Castels
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Breton recipe : Paris-Brest
Paris-Brest is the typical dessert of Brittany. In the shape of a crown, the base is made of puff pastry, filled with praline flavoured mousse then scattered with flaked almonds. Paris-Brest was created in 1910 by the pastry cook Louis Durand due to a request from the creator of the famous bike race bearing the same name . Originally the shape of the cake represented the wheel of a bike !
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Vacation diary: Special children testimonies
Many of you have participated in our competition regarding your most special memories whilst staying at our Castels. Your favourite memories are often emotional, related to your children and time spent with us. We have selected the 10 most symbolic ones
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Discovering Mont Saint-Michel
“The Beauty of Normandy “, Mont Saint-Michel is of itself the heart of an immense bay in which lies the most powerful tide in Europe. This world renowned site in Normandy, can be reached within an hour if you are staying at the Castel of Château de Lez Eaux or the Domaine des Ormes. The campsites of L’Anse de Brick and Château de Matragny are also only a few hours away from Mont St-Michel. Often claimed and disputed by the Bretons throughout its history, Mont St-Michel for...
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A country weekend
Far from the noise and stress of city life our Castels are situated in the most peaceful environment. A perfect opportunity for you to make the most of your stay by relaxing in the beautiful countryside over a weekend, or more ,an extra day can do wonders ! Leave work and the everyday household worries behind as you have now chosen our destination to getaway! The countryside has all the benefits needed to allow you to refresh and to clear one”s thoughts .
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The 10 most beautiful castles in France
The center of the world for many centuries, French culture and politics has shone in its grand lifestyle. A large part of this impressive power has been shown through the castles of France. Anchored in the landscape and always created an enormous passion and intrigue.
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3 typical dishes of Nord-Pas-de-Calais
Nord-Pas-de-Calais is a border region abundant with delicious culinary specialities. Being in the centre of Europe, the cuisine is inspired by it’s surrounding countries offering speciality dishes with a wide variety of choice ! Surrounded by the influences of Belgium, England and Poland the regional gastronomy combines the earth and marine life in it’s recipes .Products such as cheese, potatoes and herrings. Dishes are prepared mainly with butter and beer, adding a delicate yet bitter flavour. A few insights into three traditional dishes which are...
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Mobile apps for camping
Camping is often a time of relaxation where one can leave your working environment and simply disconnect. Goodbye computer and see you later tablet ! However there is one connection which never leaves you and that is your telephone ! Why not use this time to gain better value from your phone, therefore a better holiday ?
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Charente-Maritime cultural news
During your Summer holidays in Charente-Maritime, you can enjoy numerous cultural events. Musical festivals, extreme sports and some fabulous shows. The region organises all that it can to offer you a fun time !
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Glamping
Glamping is a term frequently used when referring to holidays, but what does the word actually mean ? It is an abbreviation of the term « glamour » and « camping ». Glamping is a style of camping which offers original out of the ordinary accommodation. It creates a concept that combines cosy comfort and that luxurious feeling at the same time respecting the surrounding natural environmental.
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Castels campsites welcome people with reduced mobility
If you would like to learn more about what our Castels have to offer people with reduced mobility, we can help you. Be assured, we welcome the opportunity to assist where we can and adapt to make each day enjoyable, stimulating, in an outdoor environment.
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Jogging whilst on holidays
If you love your sport all year round, and even on holidays, we recommend that it’s essential that you pack your running shoes in your suitcase!
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Cultural news in Languedoc-Roussillon, Summer 2016.
During the holidays in the region of Languedoc-Roussillon, festivals and cultural events can be found in abundance! Whether you stay at « Criques de Porteils » or « Château de Boissson » you will find wonderful experiences right next to your Castel resort!
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Gastronomy in Burgundy
So this summer you have decided to holiday in the Burgundy region , brilliant idea ! We suggest staying at Chateau de l’ Eperviere.
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They share their holiday memories
Alec W. – Le Château de Rochetaillée In the summer of 2015 our family stayed at Le Chateau Rochataillée near Bourg D’Oisains.
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Cultural activities in the Gironde region
You have planned to holiday in the Gironde region this summer, great choice! Whether you have booked at the Village Western or not here are some terrific suggestions to fill your days in this area.
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Holidaying with friends.
going on a holiday with friends is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together! At last the dates are agreed upon and bookings confirmed,so all that is left is to pack your bags.
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Specialities of Gironde
Gironde is a beautiful region in which Bordeaux a vibrant city where life is very enjoyable: Often referred to as a mini Paris, position between the land and sea gives one the advantage of its beautiful weather all year round. Our campsite Castels Le Village Western welcomes you during your gourmand escapade in the region. The municipality of Gironde offers numerous specialities to eat. By reading this article, we hope you will be tempted to make a visit and discover southwest France 🙂 La tourte...
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An initiation to golf
How about taking the opportunity during your holidays and learn to play golf ? Golf brings together thousands of people every year and is a sport that is enjoyable on a beautiful day.
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The best addresses around Saumur
Saumur is a town in the Maine-et-Loire area which is part of the Loire Valley region.
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Possible activities for your teenagers ?
Occuping children during the holidays is much easier with a wide choice of activities which will keep them busy (we list you some here)!
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The culinary specialities of Ardèche
If you decide to spend your holidays in the beautiful Ardèche region, we highly recommend two campsites Castels, Le Domain de Sévenier and L’Ardéchois.
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Canyoning
There are various ways to practise canyoning, this discipline involves several sports. Either in a canoe a kayak or hiking, beginner or the experienced. There’s sure to be one that suits you !
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Horse riding holidays
Most of our Castels include Equestrian clubs, some are situated nearby which allows you to participate easily in any equestrian event during your holiday!
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Bretonne gastronomy: 3 specialities one needs to know
One thing’s for sure, the flavours of Breton are truly gourmond and we love it ! Your heart will be content whether you are a salty or a sweet afficiando.
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Festivals at Poitou-Charentes
The region of Poitou-Charentes offers numerous events, particular during Summer ! One must say that the Atlantic coast is magnificent, who wouldn’t want a festival by the sea ?
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What to do during rainy holidays ?
The weather report hasn’t spared France these last few weeks, so much rain and flooding.The headlines of the media have kept us up to date, its been one of the many discussions in the cafes. If some people think that rainy weather can spoil our holidays , we can suggest
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Limousine cuisine
We continue our selection of best local specialties, and today we leave for Limousin ! More than likely we don’t need to tell you that the basic products of this region are the pure-bred beef of Limousine and also the pork and sheep.
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Sporting events – The Loire Valley
The Loire valley region is full of sporting events during the high season. If you are a lover of bicycle riding or running, we advise you choose this destination for your holidays.
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What’s to do with your pets when you go on holidays ?
We adore our fluffy pets but as much as we love them, sometimes it is impossible to take them to a holiday resort. The majority of our Campsite Castels authorize your pets on the campsites, but some don’t give access to animals.
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The best addresses in the Rhône-Alpes
The Rhône-Alpes reputation has been established for many years ! Who hasn’t heard of Paul Bocuse and the brasserie of Lyon ?
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Tennis holiday
Ah the holidays … sun, lounging around, time for yourself … How about if you took the opportunity to play sport?
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Cultural news in the Dordogne region
Dordogne is not lacking in cultural events, they give so much pleasure to young and old, particular durong the Summer !
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Interview with Angela Finch’s – Camping Castels La Forge de Sainte Marie
Looking behind the scene of Castels, and discover the men and women who work all year to offer you the best possible holiday !
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Children on holidays … How to occupy them !
Occuping children during the holidays … Is not always an easy task. Whether they spend their holidays with grandparents, friends or simply with you, it can become difficult to keep them amused. Before you do anything else, we suggest you read the following internet page which lists camping sites suitable for families : here You will find accommodation which offers Kids Clubs for children ranging from 4 to 12 years of age, which is ideal for entertaining younger ones during their stay. If this year a...
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The cultural events in Brittany
Brittany, a truly magnificent region, abounds with festivals and shows for the young and the old and those inbetween !
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Culinary specialities in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region
France is well known for its numerous culinary specialities.
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Sporting holidays in Ardèche !
One thing for sure is that sporting activities in l’Ardèche are not lacking !
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The culinary specialities of Charente-Maritime.
The gastronomy of our regions….What a joy ! The flavours of our country are so rich and delicious, I am sure you will agree ?
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Typical Basque recipes that you won’t be able to resist
We’re not telling you anything new, French cuisine is one of the best in the world!
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Aqua Parks… games of waters !
Enjoying your holiday is also about occupying and pleasing your children… Remembering your fond childhood memories…
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How to pack your suitcase ?
Being able to close your suitcase before going on holidays can be a real headache !
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Jacuzzi®… Pamper yourself !
The jacuzzi…Has made a comeback ! The bubble bath is all the rage again… And we understand why !