3 seasons 04-2010 uk

SPRI

NG

2010

n°115

Magazine exclusively for Camping Cheque Gold Card holders

Like the pilgrims, take

Saint James' Wayto visit one of the most beautiful towns in Spain

Our campsites support the environment

Our campsites support the environment

Along the jagged coast,Camping Cheque invites you to discover the treasures of

Brittany

Like the pilgrims, take

Saint James' Wayto visit one of the most beautiful towns in Spain

Along the jagged coast,Camping Cheque invites you to discover the treasures of

Brittany

TOUR OF BRITTANY

CITY BREAK: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

IN DEPTH: THE ENVIRONMENT

Camping Cheque organizes for its Gold Card clientsa 12 day rally through the South-west of France

UK_COUV_MAG04-10.qxd 24/03/10 17:13

Editorial 3Letters from our readers 4Events in 2010 5NewsAwards 6Activities 7Special Offers 12Events 15New Campsite 17EventOktoberfest de Munich 18DestinationOn the banks of the Aveyron 22My Diary: BrittanyAlong the Breton coastline 26City BreakSantiago de Compostela 32In DepthOur campsites are committed to the environment 38Gold Card Rally 44Forum 47Gold Card Special Offers 48User Guide 51ZoomCamping Praha Klanovice 20Kawan Village Delftse Hout 21Eichenwald 36San Francesco 37

38

IN DEPTHOur campsites are committed to the environment

Because the accommodation does not have a high impact on thesurroundings and nature is central tothe location, camping has alwaysbeen a green way of spending yourholidays. However, this isn't enough.To further commit to protecting the environment and sustainabledevelopment, many campsites inEurope have decided to use greenmaterials, reduce their CO2 emissionsand look into clean energy sources.Here is a short overview of some of our campsites that are most committed to respecting the environment.

MY DIARY: BRITTANYAlong the Breton coastline

Like a finger pointing towardsAmerica, Brittany is a rock standing up to the furiousassaults of the Atlantic winds and waves that have sculpted its coastline over the centuries.Sea and land come together everywhere to create wild andunusual landscapes, wherefishing ports nestle and still reverberate with the stories of sailors who have set off toconquer the oceans. 3 Seasonsinvites you to travel in a motor-home around this rocky coastline,as well as into the vast expansesof moorland steeped in legends.

GOLD CARD RALLY Heritage, culture andgastronomy

For several years, CampingCheque suspended the ralliesthat had been key to its success in the early years. For an exceptional rally, exclusivelyreserved to its Gold Card customers, Camping Chequeand 3 campsites of the networkare revisiting this tradition andinvite you to a 12 day discoveryof the charms of South WestFrance. Be tempted!

44

26

Content

UK_COUV_MAG04-10.qxd 24/03/10 17:13

E d i T OLaiR

Rallies are backWhen I was a boy, at that age when your only worry is about missing yourfavourite cartoon programme, I had various, ever-changing dreams of what Iwould for a career. I just needed to watch Indiana Jones to have my sights set onarchaeology and any visit to a wildlife park turned me into a vet. I imaginedmyself in turn as a cowboy, an architect and even a designer of video games.However, when we took to the road on holiday with my parents, the caravanhitched up and the boot loaded, I should have never thought that travellingin a caravan or a motorhome would one day be my job. Many people envythis occupation, constantly repeating that I am always on holiday. It is truethat I am privileged to have this job,which allows me to travel all acrossEurope. Nevertheless, it is not alwayseasy. In fact, although travellingthrough the most beautiful regionsof the continent and taking photosis a very pleasant occupation, adegree of solitude can sometimescreep in during these long trips. It is not the end of the world butsometimes I should like to have abit of company when driving alongthe motorways of France, Spain orNorway. Also, some of my best memories as editor-in-chief of 3 Seasons werethose rallies when I spent time with other rally participants for a few days, inorder to prepare a report for your magazine. I really enjoyed spending a bit oftime with some of you during meals at campsite restaurants, on bus trips andalso during the many tasting sessions that peppered the programme. It wasall imbued with the warm and convivial atmosphere that characterisedCamping Cheque rallies. So in some way I envy those who will be taking partin the Gold Card rally in the spring, the first Camping Cheque rally for a fewyears. By spending a few days in the south-west of France, they will discovereverything that has made these rallies the success that they have been forseveral years. Moreover, if this latest one is a success, it will just be the first ina long series. There is therefore no doubt that I would find many reasons tojoin rally participants for part of their stay.

Thomas Lambelin Editor-in-Chief 3 Seasons Magazine

. . . s o m e o f m y b e s tmemories as editor-in-chief of 3 Seasons werethose ra l l i e s when Ispent time with otherrally participants for afew days...

3 Seasons - 3

Camping Cheque Europe16 route de Louhans71330 Simard - FranceTelephone: 0825 740 730 in France00 333 59 59 03 59 outside FranceFax: +33 3 85 72 29 [email protected]

DirectorshipPrésident: Simon Gil

Editorial StaffEditor-in-Chief: Thomas LambelinWriters and Translators: Jutta Wagner,Mattie Dijkstra, Camilla Dvinge, StinaBrandt Larsen, Camilla Boeggild, Stephan Saint Martin, EmmanuellePoughon, Guy Boully, Charlotte ColinGraphic Design: Nina Dutronc Auberger,Christophe Roubez, Séverine Léglise,Rachel RitterCampsite Relations: Mattie Dijkstra(Benelux), Emmanuelle Poughon (Spain -Portugal), Thierry Auvachey (Germany -Austria - Turkey), Grégory Derain(France), Jonathan Hopkins (France -United Kingdom), Guy Boully (Italy -Greece - Switzerland - Scandinavia -Eastern Europe).

Distribution - Production -PublicationsDirector of Publications: Karim ZaïdiDistribution and Publicity: Charlotte Colin

Customer RelationsCustomer Relations Director: Michel SidotiGold Card Developer: Stéphane Saint Martin

Camping Cheque UKSpelmonden Old OastGoudhurstKentTN17 1HETel. 01580 214 002Fax. 01580 214 [email protected]

Acknowledgements: Office de TourismeAllemand, DZT Images, CRT de Bretagne,Office de Toursime de Saint Jacques deCompostelle.

Cover: © Aleksandar Milosevic / istock.com

The autumn issue of the 3 Seasons will bereleased in the beginning of August.

Dépôt légal n°13/2000 TGI Chalon sur Saône

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 1

L E T T E R S F R O M O U R R E A D E R S

w

Would you like to share stories of your experience using Camping Cheques? Or share

anecdotes about your hol idays spent at one of the network's campsites? Do you have

a comment about 3 Seasons Magazine? Do you have a question to ask, or would you like

to solicit advice of some kind? 3 Seasons is listening. Send us your letters, allwill be read, and some will be published.

SAS KAWAN GROUP3 Seasons / Courrier des lecteurs1 6 , r o u t e d e L o u h a n s71330 Simard - France

«Why pay for the Gold Card whenthe Silver Card is free?

«The price of a Camping Chequehas increased by 1€, why?

«Almost 600 campsites is a wideselection, but why not furtherincrease the range?

Since the beginning of the 2010 season, many of you have written

and asked questions about changes in Camping Cheque. In the 2010

Spring edition of the 3 Seasons Magazine, we wanted to answer several

of these.

S e n d y o u r l e t t e r s t o :

[email protected]

3 Seasons - 4

3 Seasons / Camping Cheque Answer

The success of Camping Cheque is first and foremost dueto the fact that every participant in this programmeenjoys its benefits. Campsites are pleased to welcomemore customers in the low season and understand thatthey must adapt their prices and offer the same serviceas the rest of the year. Customers benefit from this discount, the safety of the system and the qualitativeselection of campsites.

For four years, the public price of campsites has increasedsteadily but not their revenue in low season withCamping Cheques. Many constantly invest and increasethe quality of their facilities and infrastructure. For 2years we have refused to increase the price in line withthe sectors' and other low season service providers. To ensure durability of the system, it was no longerreasonable to wait another year.

However, one euro represents less than a 2% increaseper year, a lot less than the rise in prices in campsitesin the same period. Camping Cheque remains anadvantageous formula: up to 60% less than the normalprice.


We are a small team, touring Europe takes time! Thecampsites are selected, we must visit them in detail toknow what they are like. Also, we do not seek to beexhaustive. We designed Camping Cheque for peace ofmind: when you stay in any one of our campsites, youshould not have any bad surprises and be assured thatthe site will meet our criteria for quality and hygiene.We also believe that the friendliness and service offeredby the campsite owners are of paramount importance.This is why we strive to offer only the best campsites.

You can help us increase our selection by helping us to discover a gem. Send us your suggest ions: [email protected].


The Silver Card is currently free with the guide, and like the Gold Card, it is a way of paying for your nightselectronically. However, the Silver Card does not offerall the advantages of the Gold Card: discounts on processing fees, cheques valid 4 years, free renewal, 3 Seasons magazines, Guide free every year, for threeyears etc. The Gold Card gives access to a "privilegeclub", whereas the Silver Card is only a means ofpayment.

««

«

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:42 Page 2

All year round (Istanbul)Istanbul 2010 - Capital of CultureCultural events (exhibitions, concerts,shows, etc.) are taking place throughoutthe year in the city of Istanbul.www.istanbul2010.org

30 April (Netherlands)Queen's DayThe whole country is decked out inorange and celebrates the Queen withprocessions, shows and concerts.www.holland.com

3 May (Caravaca de la Cruz)Festival of the Holy CrossThis festival, which recalls the greatperiod of the Spanish Reconquest, begins with the famous horse race. A lot of people are expected this yearbecause 2010 is a Holy Year for the littletown of Caravaca de la Cruz.www.caravacajubilar.com

9 May (Barcelona)Spanish Formula 1 Grand PrixFirst European event on the 2010 Formula 1championship calendar.www.fia.com

12 May - 4 June (Prague)Prague Spring Music FestivalOver a three-week period, Prague puts onclassical music concerts featuring thegreatest international performers.www.prague-spring.net

12 - 23 May (Cannes)Cannes Film FestivalThe major event in world cinema on theshores of the French Riviera. www.festival-cannes.fr

14 May -20 June (Vienna)Festival of ViennaFestival of music, as well as dance, theatre and opera.www.festwochen.at

16 May (Monaco)Monaco Formula 1 Grand PrixThe most legendary race of the Formula 1championship, through the streets of theMonaco.www.fia.com

18 May - 6 June (Paris)Roland Garros InternationalTennis TournamentOne of the four Grand Slam tournaments,which brings together the best players inthe world. www.billetterie.fft.fr

26 May - 5 June (Bergen)NattjazzThe biggest jazz festival in northernEurope.www.nattjazz.no

30 May (Istanbul)Turkish Formula 1 Grand PrixThe Istanbul circuit is a very recent additionbut has already attracted fans of Formula 1.www.fia.com

16-20 June (Bâle)Art BaselThis art exhibition brings together morethan 2,500 artists (painters, photographers,sculptors, etc.) from all round the world. www.artbasel.com

21 June - 4 July (London)Wimbledon Tennis TournamentThe major grass court tennisevent.www.wimbledon.org

24 June - 14 July (Granada)International Dance and MusicFestivalConcerts and shows take place acrossthe city and notably in the superb settingof the Alhambra Palace.www.granadafestival.org

2 July (Siena)PalioThis legendary horse race has taken placetwice a year, on 2 July and 16 August, inthe narrow streets of the historic centreof Siena, since 1644.. www.ilpalio.org

3-25 July (Netherlands - Belgium - France)Tour de FranceFurther information p.16

9 - 18 October (Budapest)Budapest Autumn FestivalThis festival includes shows in all genres:theatre, music, dance, etc. www.bof.hu

December (Copenhagen)Tivoli GardensDuring the Christmas period, the TivoliGardens are decorated and put onnumerous events. www.tivoli.dk

Please see our calendar of some

major events that will make 2010

an exciting year in Europe.

E V E N T w

3 Seasons - 5

21 June (France)Music festivalMusical concerts and shows are put onthroughout France..http://fetedelamusique.culture.fr

CALENDAR

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 3

Kawan Village Domaine de la Faurie - Lot (F)

Domaine de la Faurie, a campsitein bloomThose who know the Kawan Village Domaine de la Faurie(p.110, 2010 Site Directory) will not be surprised at the newsthat this very pretty 70 pitch campsite has (once again) beenawarded the prize of “most flowered campsite in the Lotregion”. This is a just reward for a campsite in which natureand flower beds hold pride of place. If you needed anotherreason to visit this leafy paradise, Cahors wine tastings areorganised regularly in June. Please contact the campsite for moredetails: www.camping-lafaurie.com

3 Seasons - 6

I N F O S AWA R D S

w

Campings van het jaar 2010

The ANWB rewards the Campsitesof the year during the Utrecht Fair The ANWB, the prestigious Dutch automobile club, handedout its Campsite of the year awards at the Utrecht TourismFair in January.

The Dutch campsite Delftse Hout (p.296, 2010 Site Directory) has beenawarded the first prize in the “City campsite” category, thanks to itslocation on the doorstep of the town of Delft (see the article on thecampsite in this issue) and the Spanish campsite Cambrils Park(p.585) was honoured for its good quality rentals. These two awardsprove the quality of these two faithful Camping Cheque sites.

Several campsites in the network have won Alan Rogers Awards

E V E R Y Y E A R , D U R I N G T H E U T R E C H T T O U R I S M F A I R

(NETHERLANDS), THE BRITISH TRAVEL GUIDE ALAN ROGERS

HANDS OUT PRIZES TO THEIR FAVOURITE CAMPSITES. EVERY

Y E A R, CA M P I N G C H E Q U E C A M P S I T E S R A N K H I G H LY I N A L L

CATEGORIES.

I n the “Welcome” category, the winner was Kawan VillageChâteau de l'Epervière (p.191, 2010 Site Directory) followed

by the campsite 't Weergors (p.197). The Airotel le Vieux Port(p.118 - first) and the Orangerie de Lanniron (p.59 - runner

up) were rewarded in the “Progress Award” category.The Wildhoeve campsite (p.288) came first in the

“Country Award” category and the guide’s readers voted for the Camping Vilanova Park(p.580) which wins the “Alan Rogers Readers’Award”.

The Alan Rogers Welcome Award is presented to the Kawan Village le Château de l’Epervière during the Utrecht Fair in January

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 4

I N F O S A C T I V I T I E S w

3 Seasons - 7

C'est Si Bon - France

Visit and Taste France with the « C'est si Bon » rallyThe 7 “C'est si Bon” campsites which we spoke of during our previous issueshave decided to organise a rally which will enable you to cross the West ofFrance, from Brittany to the Pyrenees, passing through Millau and the Périgord.In each of the 7 campsites, visits and tastings await you: cellars, traditionalmarkets, walks, meals, etc. Check out the C'est si bon site to download thefull programme or contact the Kawan Village Château le Verdoyer (p.106,2010 Site Directory). The price for the 28 days, from 20 May to 17 June willbe 700€ per couple and 28 Camping Cheques. Special offer for Gold Card customers: 4=3 so only 21 cheques!!!

Kawan Village le Coin Tranquille – Alpes-Dauphiné (F)

Natural setting in the Alpes DauphinéHaving over the years offered holidays at the campsite on a cookerytheme, Kawan Village Le Coin Tranquille (p.210, 2010 Site Directory) nowinvites you to Alpes Dauphiné to explore the natural charms of this littlecorner of France.

From 6 to 17 September, Gilles and Martine Vallon, the campsite’s owners, will beoffering a full programme, including a bus trip to Vercors, a cycle ride along thebanks of the Rhone, a ramble on foot, a morning picking grapes in the Bugeyvineyard and even raspberry-picking. Also, since some things never change, goodfood will still play an important part in your stay, with picnics, French-style break-fasts, barbecue evenings, welcome and leaving drinks, etc. The whole experienceis cloaked in a warm atmosphere that has made themed stays at Le Coin Tranquillesuch a success.

This one will take place from 6 to 17 September 2010 and will cost you 235€ perperson. This price includes the various meals and activities detailed in the programme. Holidays may be paid for with Camping Cheques. For more detailedinformation or to book your place, you can contact the campsite directly:www.coin-tranquille.com, [email protected], tel.: +33 4 76 32 13 48.

Kawan Village les Pêcheurs- Côte d'Azur (F)

Practice your Frenchin the warm sun ofthe Côte d'Azur

In spring, French lessons in the KawanVillage les Pêcheurs (p.246, 2010 SiteDirectory) will start again. Like everyyear, in a friendly atmosphere, arounda coffee or a glass of rosé, under theshade of the palm trees, you can practice your French and increase yourknowledge of French culture. Lessonswill take place twice a day (morningsand beginning of the evening), Mondayto Friday, from 5 April to 18 June and30 August to 24 September. The cost is 49€ per person for a week (10% offfor couples). Contact the campsite for more information and booking:www.camping-les-pecheurs.com,[email protected], tel.: +33 4 94 45 71 25.

COURS deFrançais

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 5

Parc la Clusure - Ardennen (B)

Trips organised by La Clusure ParkLa Clusure Park (p.275, 2010 Site Directory) organises holidaysthat cater to all tastes. From 4 to 11 June a week of walksawaits you with guided trips and a meal in a restaurant(39€ per person + 6 Camping Cheques for a comfort pitch),whereas from 16 to 23 April, from 28 May to 4 June, from18 to 25 June and from 10 to 17 September, the “plus weeks”await you. These weeks are specially planned for over 50swith an excursion, a meal in the campsite restaurant, a gameevening and a beer tasting all on the programme (44€ perperson + 6 Camping Cheque for a comfort pitch). Moreinformation: www.parclaclusure.be, [email protected],tel.: +32 84 36 00 50

Kawan Village Château le Verdoyer - Dordogne (F)

Special offer on the themedholidays at the Verdoyer ChâteauAs we announced in the previous issue of 3 Seasons, the KawanVillage Château le Verdoyer (p.101, 2010 Site Directory) hasorganised a holiday with the theme “Gourmet travels in thePérigord Vert” from 3 to 13 June. Please contact the campsitefor more information about this holiday: www.verdoyer.fr,[email protected], tel.: +33 5 53 56 94 64. The VerdoyerChâteau has a special offer for Gold Card customers. If, whenyou book your holiday you give your Gold Card number andthe special offer code 3SEPG10, you will get a 10% reduction.

3 Seasons - 8

I N F O S A C T I V I T I E S

w

Montrouant Château – Burgundy (F)

Two weeks of wine in South BurgundyJean-Michel Gruel, owner of the MontrouantChâteau (p.200, 2010 Site Directory) is passionateabout wine. In addition to the campsite, he ownsseveral acres of vines, organically farmed, and pressesthe grapes in a superb 200 year old press. To share hislove of wine, he invites you to two themed weeks.

The first week will take place from 5 to 12 June. It will include,amongst others, Montrouant wine tasting, a traditional Frenchsupper, a discovery of the surroundings from the sky, visit ofa vineyard by bus, cooking lesson and an initiation to the LyonBoules game.

The second week will take placefrom 4 to 11 September, and thetheme will be the grape harvest.

It will include most of the Springprogramme but will also include a

harvest morning in the vines followedby a pressing session with campsite’s

the old press.

The price for both weeks is 155€ per person+ nights paid by Camping Cheque. In addition

to the meals and events in the programme,the price will also include a baguette and

two croissants per pitch every morning. For the ful l programme and book: Tel . : +33 3 85 84 51 13, [email protected]

©St

eve

Dib

blee

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 6


3 Seasons - 9

Kawan Village les Pêcheurs - Côte d'Azur

Massage courses on the RiveriaThe Kawan Village les Pêcheurs (p.246, 2010 Site Directory)invites you to massage courses every weekend in June, onFridays and Saturday mornings.

During these courses, you will be able to access the spa area(heated swimming pool, pool with current, Jacuzzi, sauna, etc.)and massage lessons, alone or in a group, in order to be able toreplicate the benefits of spa massages. This costs only 10€ perperson. During these weekends, you will also be able to enjoyrelaxing Swedish or Balinese massages by appointment. Theywill be carried out by a professional masseuse and cost 30€per? hour or 50€ for a full hour. At the end of the course,a Mediterranean Provencal meal will be served (bookingrequired) at the Campsite Restaurant. It will cost 30€ per person. Please contact the campsite for more information:"http://www.camping-les-pecheurs.com/"www.camping-les-pecheurs.com, Tel: +33 4 94 45 71 25.

Kawan Village les Pêcheurs - Côte d'Azur (F)

Provencal cookery classes atKawan Village Les PêcheursSpring is the ideal time to discover the fresh produce ofProvence. In order to introduce you to the flavours ofProvencal cooking, Kawan Village Les Pêcheurs (p.246,2010 Site Directory) has decided to devise a 4-day course,from 3 to 5 May.

Over the course of these 4 days you will learn how to preparevarious regional specialities. Monday: garlic mayonnaise.Tuesday: vegetable soup with basil and garlic. Wednesday:Mediterranean fish soup. Thursday: Provencal pizza, anchovy pasteand tapenade. Each of these cookery lessons will be followed byan opportunity for participants to taste their creations.

For more information or to book your place, you can contactthe campsite directly: www.camping-les-pecheurs.com, tel.:+33 4 94 45 71 25.

© K

elly

Clin

e

De Molenhof - Overijssel - Twente (NL)

Tour of the windmillThe De Molenhof campsite (p.287, 2010 Site Directory), inthe East of the Netherlands, at the heart of the Twenteregion, organises guided visits of the windmill at theentrance to the site every Saturday, from 1.30 pm to 4.30pm. An opportunity to discover one of the emblematicwindmills that drained flooded lands in the Netherlands.

La Source Aveyron (p.158, 2010 SiteDirectory): Camping Cheques are acceptedfrom 15/03/2010 to 09/07/2010 and from16/08/2010 to 15/10/2010; special offers of7 nights for the price of 6 (all customers) and14 for 11 (Gold Card customers only) applyfrom 15/03/2010 to 12/05/2010 and from30/08/2010 to 15/10/2010.

Le camping le Nautic (p.235) accepts dogs,contrary to what may have been stated inthe 2010 Site Directory.

Repos del Pedraforca (p.569) is openthroughout the winter. It was missing fromthe article that appeared in our winter issuewith regard to campsites open during winterperiods. You can stay there from 23/08/2010to 03/12/2010 and from 08/12/2010 to31/12/2010.

Err

ata

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 7

I N F O S A C T I V I T I E S A N D FA C I L I T I E S

w

Domaine de la Rive - South Atlantic Coast (F)

New water park in theDomaine de la Rive The Domaine de la Rive (p.117, 2010 Site Directory),located on the Atlantic coast on the banks of theCazaux Sanguinet lake, only 20 km away from thePyla dunes, has just completed the extension of itswater park. The swimming area is now even larger,and includes a new wellbeing centre.

This new heated aquatic area of 1000 m2, at the heartof the campsite, includes a wave pool, a whirlpool bath,a hot pool, spa, waterfalls, water massage, etc. A reallyrelaxing and fun place for the whole family.

In addition to this fun swimming area, in 2010 the campsitewill open a 250 m2 gym, spa and fitness area with arelaxation pool, therapy benches, sauna, hammam,beauty centre, massage parlour and a hair salon. There issomething for everyone in the Domaine de la Rive, forfun and relaxation.

For more information on the campsite: www.larive.fr,[email protected], tel.: +33 5 58 78 12 33.

Domaine de Soleil Plage - Périgord (F)

Nordic walking at Soleil PlageHaving already been labelled as a "Rando-accueil"(Rambling Centre) in 2009, Domaine de Soleil Plage(p. 107, 2010 Site Directory) now invites you to come andexperience Nordic walking. Apart from the fact thatit enables you to walk through the very beautifulcountryside of Périgord Noir and the Sarlat region, this isan excellent discipline for keeping yourself fit. Nordicwalking excursions are supervised by an instructor not farfrom the campsite.

3 Seasons - 10

Ajstrup Strand Camping – Ostylland (DK)

Kayak lessons at Ajstrup StrandCampingFrom the beginning of spring, the Danish campsite Ajstrup Strand(p.347, 2010 Site Directory) offers its campers lessons in sea kayaking from the beach bordering the campsite. These kayakinglessons are certified and all equipment is provided. It’s anotherreason to come and explore this very peaceful campsite, locatedjust 15 km from the pretty city of Arhus.

't Kuierpadtien – Ruinen – De Valkenhof – Drenthe (NL)

Our campsites on TwitterTechnology is catching up with campsites. Three campsitesin Drenthe - 't Kuierpadtien (p.284, 2010 Site Directory),De Valkenhof (p. 283) and Ruinen (p. 285) - now have a presenceon Twitter. By registering on their sites (www.kuierpad.nl,www.camping-de-valkenhof.nl, www.camping-ruinen.nl), youcan from today take advantage of a special offer: if you stay atthe campsite for 5 nights during the week of 14 to 20 June, youwill only need to use 3 Camping Cheques. Moreover, the first100 Gold Card customers who register for a stay of 3 weeks atone of the 3 campsites will receive free entry to the Plopsaindoor amusement park at Coevorden, which opens on 30 April(further information about this park at www.plopsa.be).

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 8


3 Seasons - 11

Lærdal Ferie - og Fritidspark – Sogn og Fjordane (NO)

Active holidays in NorwayOn the banks of Sognefjorden, the longest fjord in the world,Lærdal Ferie - og Fritidspark is there to welcome you (p.326,2010 Site Directory). The campsite nestles at the heart of somebeautiful, protected countryside, where nature is king. Inorder for you to explore this region from some unexpectedviewpoints, Lærdal Ferie - og Fritidspark offers you a guidedtour through the land of the fjords.

From 1 May, 3 times a week, the campsite organises a guided ramble.This ramble is open to people of all ages and at any level. These walkswill let you discover some of the world’s finest landscapes. Sportierwalkers may possibly be tempted by the rambling competition,"Storehaugen Up", which will take them on a hike that begins at sealevel and finishes 908 metres above it. This competition will takeplace on 13 May.

Cycling enthusiasts are not left out since twice a week the campsiteinvites its visitors to take part in guided cycling excursions.

Apart from these guided excursions, the campsite is located at theheart of a region that lends itself perfectly to taking part in manyopen air sports: fishing, golf, sea fishing, etc. For further information,do not hesitate to contact the campsite: www.laerdalferiepark.com,[email protected], tel.: +47 57 66 66 95

Mané Guernehué - Morbihan (F)

Equestrian farm on the Gulf of MorbihanThe Mané Guernehué campsite (p.63, 2010 Site Directory), located on the Gulf ofMorbihan, was enhanced by an equestrian farm in 2010. On this farm, you will beable to take horseriding lessons, at any level (beginners or advanced), or to go onhorse rides (one hour for 22€). For younger people, ponies are also available.In particular, it will be possible to offer them their first pony rides, within thecampsite and accompanied by their parents.

For more detailed information on this equestrian farm, you can contact the campsitedirectly: www.camping-baden.com, [email protected], tel.: +33 2 97 57 02 06.

Kawan Village les Pêcheurs - Côte d'Azur (F)

Golf lessonsOn account of its climate, the Côte d'Azur is particularly favoured by golfers.Aware of such an asset, Kawan Village Les Pêcheurs (p.246, 2010 Site Directory)has put on a golf tournament (see winter issue of 3 Seasons) and has alsodecided to offer golf lessons. So, for 10€ an hour, you can take part in a group lesson (minimum of 5 people); for 25€ an hour you can have a joint lesson withone other person and for 50€ an hour you can enjoy an individual lesson.For further information: www.camping-les-pecheurs.com

© david kahn / istock.com

© GAPS Photography/Arjan de Jager / istock.com

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 9

3 Seasons - 12

I N F O S A C T I V I T I E S A N D S P E C I A L O F F E R S

w

Kawan Village Vanne de Pierre – Vosges (F)

Take advantage of the summer toexplore the charm of the VosgesNestling in the heart of the Vosges, Kawan Village Vanne de Pierre(p.181, 2010 Site Directory) enjoys a perfect starting point for exploringthis very beautiful mountainous region, as well as being a stop-off pointon your holiday route. This is possible all year round because the campsite,open throughout the year, has decided to extend the dates when itaccepts Camping Cheques to the summer months. You will therefore beable to stay there in July and August.

During your stay at this very pleasant campsite of 120 pitches, you will beable to go off exploring the Vosges, this mountainous region famed for itsBallons (ball-shaped mountains) and its lakes. It is conducive to rambling,all the more so because guided rambles, as well as cycling excursions, areregularly organised by the campsite. Also, going on a bit further, you cantravel through the vineyards of Alsace, with its very beautiful cities suchas Colmar and Riquewihr.

So whether it is for a long-term stay to explore this quiet region thatconceals many hidden treasures, or simply to make a stop-off on yourholiday route, Kawan Village Vanne de Pierre is ready to greet you duringthe months of July and August and will accept your Camping Cheques.For further information, you can contact the campsite directly: www.vannedepierre.com, [email protected], tel.: +33 3 29 56 23 56

Kawan Village Ardèche Camping – Ardèche (F)

Special offer for long-term staysLocated on the edge of Privas, Kawan Village Ardèche Camping(p.225, 2010 Site Directory) is ideally situated for exploring thevarious features of the Ardèche, with its famous gorges and ofcourse the Vallon Pont d'Arc tourist site, as well as Mont Gerbier deJoncs and the Eyrieux Valley with its delightful villages. In order togive you the time to appreciate fully all the treasures this region hasto offer, the campsite offers you a special deal of 30 nights for theprice of 20.

Recreatiecentrum De Noordduinen – Zuid-Hollande (NL)

Free entrance to the Katwijkaan Zee MuseumNest led in the Katwi jk aan Zee dunes , theRecreatiecentrum De Noordduinen campsite (p.295,2010 Site Directory) welcomes you on the shore ofthe North Sea. To enable you to discover all thecharms of Katwijk aan Zee, the campsite offers freeentrance to the Katwijk aan Zee Museum when youbook over a week.

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 10

I N F O S S P E C I A L O F F E R S w

3 Seasons - 13

Kawan Village Ile d'Offard - Kawan Village l'Isle Verte - Val de Loire (F)

Free cocktailsOn presentation of your Gold Card in the bar at Kawan Villages Ile d'Offard(p.81, 2010 Site Directory) and Kawan Village l'Isle Verte (p.82), you will beoffered a cocktail. Note that every evening these same bars offer opportunitiesto taste wines from the Saumur region.

RCN Belledonne - Alpes Dauphiné (F)

RCN Belledonne extendsthe datesThe RCN Belledonne (p.273, 2010 Site Directory),nestled in the Alpes Dauphiné region, close to theEcrins National Park, has decided to extend thedates for which they accept Camping Cheques.Contrarily to what is stated in the guide, they willaccept cheques up to 9th July. An extra few daysthen, to enjoy the delights of this beautiful region.

Hampen Sø - Midtjylland (DK)

Spend the summer in DenmarkThe particular feature of the Danois Hampen So campsite (p.348, 2010 SiteDirectory) is that it accepts cheques throughout the year. Whatever theseason, including the months of July and August, you can stay at this prettysite with a family atmosphere and take advantage of your stay to visit theLegoland theme park, for which entry tickets are available at the campsitereception.

Cieloverde - Tuscany (IT)

Free nights forexploring TuscanyThe Italian campsite Cieloverde(p.507, 2010 Site Directory),which is located close to theUccellina National Park and thecity of Siena, has decided tooffer special deals of 7 nights forthe price of 6 and 14 for theprice of 11 during the wholeperiod that Camping Chequesare accepted. It’s a good wayfor you to explore Tuscany andits artistic treasures.

Hjarbæk Fjord Camping (DK)

Special family offerThe Danish campsite Hjarbæk Fjord,which became part of the network afterthe guide was published and which wefeatured in the previous issue of 3 Seasons,has decided to extend a special offer tofamilies, since families of 2 adults and 3children can take advantage of the 2 for1 special offer. For stays of 4 nights ormore, the whole family will be offered anice cream or a bottle of beer. Contact thecampsite for more detailed information:www.hjarbaek.dk

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 11

3 Seasons - 14

I N F O S A C T I V I T I E S

w

Panoramacamping Petite Suisse - Ardennen (BE)

Excursions in the ArdennescountrysideSituated in a densely forested and protected natural region, the BelgianPanoramacamping Petite Suisse campsite (p.274, 2010 Site Directory)organises guided excursions in the Ardennes on the lookout forwildlife. In particular, a guide will take you to places where you canobserve the beavers that live wild in the neighbouring rivers.

Interpals - Costa Brava (ES)

Interpals is 50 years oldThe Interpals campsite (p.574, 2010 Site Directory), locatedon the Costa Brava, 400 metres from the beach, will becelebrating the 50th anniversary of its foundation in 2010(1960-2010). To mark this occasion and to share memoriesof these 50 seasons with campers, the site’s owners havedecided to publish a photo album. So, if you have photosfrom your holidays at Interpals, you may send them to the campsite for their potential inclusion in the 50th

anniversary album.

Kawan Village les Peupliers - Gorges du Tarn (F)

Bus trip to Millau marketEvery Friday morning, apart from in July and August, KawanVillage Les Peupliers (p.152, 2010 Site Directory) arranges abus trip to Millau market. Situated at the entrance to the Gorges du Tarn, running alongsidethe river and a few kilometres from Millau, Kawan Village LesPeupliers enjoys an extremely beautiful setting. It is an ideal basefor anyone who wants to visit the beautiful villages in the south ofthe Aveyron region, to spot vultures or to wonder at the MillauViaduct; the campsite is also situated in the heart of a region withgood, traditionally-cooked food. In order to sample the localspecialities, nothing beats walking around Millau market, whichtakes place every Friday morning. To make it easier to visit thismarket and allow you to stroll around at your leisure, withouthaving to worry about parking or driving in the city, Les Peupliersorganises a shuttle bus. The campsite minibus leaves the campsiteat 9 a.m. and brings you back to the site at 12 p.m. During thejourney, a guide gives you information about Millau and its viaduct.As the number of seats is limited to 20 people, it is advisable tobook your place.

For more detailed information, you can contact the campsitedirectly: www.campinglespeupliers.com, [email protected],tel.: +33 5 65 59 85 17

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 12

I N F O S E V E N T S w

3 Seasons - 15

Röstånga Camping - Skane (SE)

Trip to the zooThe Swedish campsite Rostanga (p.330, 2010 Site Directory) islocated in Skane, on the banks of the lake and close to the zooat Hoor, a huge wildlife park where you can notably see allspecies of Scandinavian animals. As Rostanga sponsors the zoo, its campers can get tickets at preferential prices from thecampsite reception. For further information on this wildlife park:www.skanesdjurpark.se

Kawan Village les Bois deBardelet - Val de Loire (F)

Music festival in Sully From 21 May to 4 June, the Sully-sur-Loire Château welcomes the37th edition of the prestigiousSully and Loiret Music Festival.During this festival dedicated toclassical music you can listen tomusicians and orchestras who willplay pieces from the 18th centuryas well as works at the crossroadsof great music and world music.The festival will take place in thebeautiful Sully Château. For moreinformation about the festival:www.festival-sully.com and if youwish to go to the festival, you canstay in the Kawan Village les Bois de Bardelet (p.75, 2010 SiteDirectory).

't Weergors - Zuid-Holland (NL)

The stars of cycling meet inthe 't Weegors campsiteThis year, the area around the 't Weegors campsite(p.297, 2010 Site Directory) welcomes two of themost prestigious races in the cycling season. InMay, the Giro, tour of Italy, which will make adetour in the Netherlands and in July the Tour deFrance will depart from Rotterdam. Two eventsyou should not miss.

In honour of the two most prestigious cycling races, thecampsite has organised events and festivities, on 10 Mayfor the Giro and the 4 July for the Tour de France.Special menus will be served in the campsite restaurantfor these occasions.

Coming to watch these races is a good opportunity todiscover this seaside campsite. It was awarded the“Welcome Award” by the Alan Rogers guide lastJanuary.

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t h e c a m p s i t e :www.weegors.nl, [email protected], tel.: +31 18 131 24 30.

© Albert Mendelewski / istock.com

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:16 Page 13

3 Seasons - 16

I N F O S E V E N T S

w

Tour de France 2010 – Netherlands – Belgium – France

Use Camping Cheque to follow the first stages of the Tour de FranceThe Tour de France is one of the major events in international sport. Every year, this race which attracts thebest cyclists in the world gathers millions of spectators onthe side of the roads. Enjoy the Camping Cheque campsitesduring the first half of July to cheer on Contador orArmstrong.

It has become a custom, the 2010 Tour will start abroad. Thistime, Rotterdam will welcome the prologue and the start of the1st stage. The Tour will then cross Belgium and then the North-eastof France, Burgundy and the Jura mountains, before moving onto the prestigious stages in the Alps. For this first stage of thetour, until the 11th July, you will find many campsites that takeCamping Cheques. Make the most of them to follow this Tour,which will be fascinating to watch, with Amstrong’s new teamready to defy Alberto Contador, the favourite.

For more information about the 2010 Tour de France and itsroute, check out the official website, www.letour.fr. To chooseyour stops, you will find a search engine on the new websitewww.campingcheque.com, which enables you to select yourcampsites according to the dates for which they take CampingCheques

Eiland van Maurik – Gelderland (NL)

Weekend in theGardens of BetuweThe Betuwe region has organised theBetuwse Tuinenroute which will takeplace during the last weekend in May.As you follow the planned route, youcan visit gardens open to the publicand meet their owners. This is a lovelyway to discover this area of countrysidewhich has a great variety of gardens.Access to these gardens is free, openfrom 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. Many peopleorganise art exhibitions and fleamarkets on this occasion. To take partin this weekend, you can stay in theEiland van Maurik campsite (p.291,2010 Site Directory). More informationabout this weekend on the websitewww.betuwsetuinenroute.nl.

Marveld - Gelderland Achterhoek (NL)

The vineyard trail,NetherlandsThe Achterhoek region Tourism officehas just created a road map whichcovers the Achterhoek vineyard trail.This free map will help you discoverthe twenty or so vineyards in theAchterhoek region. Three routes aredetailed: 2 car routes and 1 by bike.You can download this map from thewebsite: www.achterhoeksewijnen.nl.It is compatible with GPS. This mapwill ensure you make the most of yourtime when staying in the Marveldcampsite (p.290, 2010 Site Directory).

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 14

3 Seasons - 17

Only 10 km from Køge and 50 kmfrom Copenhagen, Stevns Campingwelcomes you to a region that isconducive to rambling, cycling andbird watching. Fishing enthusiastswill be more than satisfied with theTryggevælde River and Køge Bay,both of which are very popular forparticipating in this sport; otherswill enjoy walking in the old cityof Køge, which is bathed in a warmatmosphere, particularly when thefine weather returns and the streetsresound with music and restaurantsopen up their terraces.

Directions by road:E47/E55 motorway, exit 33. Turnleft onto the 150 (Ringsted/Ringstedvej), continue for 3.4 kmthen turn right onto the 151(bypass) and continue for 0.8 km.Then turn left at the crossroads(road number 209) and follow itfor 5 km. Turn left onto "Stevnsvej"(261), and follow it for 6 km. Turnleft onto "Strandvejen" (before the"Brugsen" supermarket). Continuefor 1.5km and the campsite willbe on your left.

GPS: WG S84 (decimal).

Special offers: 7 nights for the price of 6 and14 for 11 from 01/01/2010 to30/06/2010 and from 15/08/2010to 31/12/2010

Places of interest nearby:• Stevns Klint and its

fort - 20 km• Amusement parks:

BonBonLand - 40 km• Copenhagen - 50 km

Opening dates:01/01/2010-31/12/2010Supplement for large pitches(120m 2) and servicedpitches (140m 2)

NE W

C

AM P S I T

E

Stevns CampingParc Bellevue – French Riviera (F)

Festival de Cannes Every year, for a 10-day period, the Croisettein Cannes becomes the centre of world cinemafor the duration of the Cannes Festival, whenthe biggest stars on the planet come togetheron the French Riviera. Although all the hotelsare full (and exorbitantly priced) for the event,Camping Cheque offers you the opportunityto enjoy the Festival by staying at the ParcBellevue (p.243, 2010 Site Directory), just afew minutes from the Croisette and the Palaisdes Festivals.

This year, the Festival will take place from 12 to23 May. Following Isabelle Huppert last time, thisyear it will be the director of Ed Wood andEdward Scissorhands who will preside over a juryresponsible for finding a successor to MichaelHaeneke’s The White Ribbon.

Apart from the chance to see on screen some ofthe great films of 2010, the Festival is above all acelebration of the cinema and the opportunity tospot some of the greatest stars of the silver screen,such as Georges Clooney or Brad Pitt, on thefamous steps of the Palais des Festivals; you mayalso come across less famous but much moreaccessible actors on the streets of Cannes andabove all experience the energy and the madnessthat brings the city to life during these 10 days.

The Parc Bellevue allows you to stay withinwalking or cycling distance of all this excitementand avoids you having to travel around thecity by car. However, the campsite is obviouslyvery busy during the 10 days of the Festival. It istherefore advisable to find out from thecampsite about availability during this period:www.parcbellevue.com, [email protected],tel.: +33 4 93 47 28 97

© Dave Long / istock.com

Stevns Camping, Strandvejen 29DK-4671 Strøby, DanemarkTel. 0045 60 144 [email protected]

N E W C A M P S I T E w

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 15

E V E N T Beer Festival – Munich

w

3 Seasons - 18

T he origin of the beer festival goesback to 1810. To celebrate themarriage of Crown Prince Louis 1st

w i t h P r i n c e s s T h é r è s e o f S a x e -Hildburghausen, the citizens of Munichwere invited to the festivities in a meadowthat was then at the city gates. This meadowhas since been renamed Theresienwiese,the Meadow of Thérèse, in honour ofthe bride. The festivities concluded witha horse race and it was decided to run itagain the following year. The following

year, an agricultural festival was addedto the horse race. The horse race hassince disappeared but the agriculturalfestival has always taken place, everythree years. It was only in 1818 that thefirst merry-go-round appeared, then, in1896, huge tents were added by the city'sbrewers. The festival has not stoppedexpanding since then and it is now thelargest popular festival in the world,with some 6 million visitors going thereevery year.

The festival starts on a Saturday inSeptember (18 September this year) witha procession by brewers through the citystreets and by the tapping of the firstbarrel of beer. It lasts 16 days. On thefirst Sunday there is a second processionwith traditional costumes, brass bands,carriages, etc. and on the second Sundaya huge concert is staged by all the groupsparticipating in the festival at the foot ofthe statue of Bavaria, a Bavarian romanticallegory, which stands at the top ofTheresienwiese. The tents where beer isserved throughout the 16 days are runby the 14 major breweries in Munich. Youcan drink beer in Maß, huge one-litretankards (for a price that varies between8 and 9 euros). Given that the Oktoberfestis becoming more and more populareach year, it is advisable to book a tablebefore arriving. All the addresses of barsare available on the Munich tourist officewebsite. n

EVERY YEAR SINCE 1810, IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER, THE CITY OF

MUNICH HAS COME ALIVE TO THE BEAT OF ITS BEER FESTIVAL, THE FAMOUS

OKTOBERFEST. THIS YEAR, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 200TH EVENT, THE

OKTOBERFEST IS GETTING READY TO CELEBRATE ITS ANNIVERSARY IN STYLE.WHETHER YOU LIKE BEER OR JUST WANT TO ENJOY THE ATMOSPHERE OF

THIS HUGE FESTIVAL, THIS AUTUMN WILL BE THE ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME

OPPORTUNITY TO DISCOVER BAVARIA.

Caption: This year, one of Europe’s greatest events is celebrating its200th anniversary. 3 Seasons invites you to the Munich Beer Festival.

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 16

E V E N T Beer Festival – Munich w

3 Seasons - 19

WHERE CAN YOU STAY WITH

Legoland Feriendorf(p.395, 2010 Site Directory)www.legoland-feriendorf.de

Elbsee (p.396)www.elbsee.deGold Card special offer:Free booking, no deposit

Panorama Camping Harras (p.397)www.camping-harras.deGold Card special offer:Free booking, no deposit

Seegatterl (p.398)www.camping-reit-im-winkl.com

Max 1 (p.399)www.campingmax.de

Bavaria Kur und Sport (p.400)www.bavaria-camping.de

A FEW FIGURES

The beer festival on its own represents30% of annual beer sales for Munichbreweries (between 6 and 7 millionlitres over the 16 days). Some 12,000people work there, including 1,600waiters who are on hand to welcomethe 6 million people who argue overthe 100,000 seats.

Further information:

The official Oktoberfest website:www.oktoberfest.de

The Munich tourist office website:www.muenchen.de

The Bavarian tourist office website:www.bayern.by

A TRADITIONAL BEER

Bavarian brewers have been brewingtheir beer since the 16th century,following very precise rules. In fact, alaw dating from 1516 and enacted byDuke William IV only allows them tobrew using water, barley and hops.

WIESN BEER

As the Oktoberfest takes place onTheresienwiese, Bavarians have takento naming it the Wiesn beer festival.

© BAYERN TOURISMUS Marketing GmbH

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 17

Peace, quiet and natureon the doorstep of Prague

The campsite Praha Klanovice is a bitout of place in this section in whichusually present campsites which havebeen operating for some years. Thissmall campsite near Prague, on theedge of the Klanivice forest, is justpreparing its third season. Built in aformer sports complex, it has kept thetwo outside swimming pools (includingthe largest pool outside of Prague), andsport still holds pride of place in thecampsite, with a beach volley court,mini golf, trampolines etc. Many changeshave been made to the old centre in

order to convert it to a top quality site,by Czech standards. 16A electricityis available, half of all pitches havewater taps and a wifi system covers thewhole site. The two toilet blocks haveeither been substantially renovated orcompletely rebuilt. The campsite alsohas a fast food restaurant and freshbread is available. In 2010 new facilitieswere installed, including a camper vanservice point, new toilet block and arestaurant. In 3 years, the PrahaKlanovice campsite has undergone acomplete facelift. The only thing thathas not changed is the excellent welcomeby the young and dynamic managementteam (they mostly speak English andDutch) and the site’s friendly atmosphere.n

CAMPING PRAHA KLANOVICE - Slechtitelska - CZ-190 14 Praha 9- Klanovice - Tel. +420 774 553 542

i n f o @ c a m p i n g p r a h a . c zw w w. c a m p i n g p r a h a . c z

IN A PRESERVED NATURAL ENVIRONMENT, FAR FROM THE NOISEOF THE CITY, THE PRAHA KLANIVICE CAMPSITE IS A GREAT PLACETO STAY WHEN VISITING PRAGUE.

OZO M

THINGS TO DO AND SEEIN THE SURROUNDING AREA

PragueThe “City of a Hundred Spires” is areal open air museum which hasbeen able to preserve its architecturaltreasures throughout its historya n d b o a s t s a p l e t h o r a o fRomanesque, Gothic, Baroque andArt Nouveau palaces and churchesin the maze-like streets of the oldmedieval time. Without a doubtone of the most beautiful cities inEurope. More information: www.pis.cz

Kutna HoraThis small town was once the secondin Bohemia after Prague. It nowoffers visitors squares bordered by cafes and medieval streets withgothic façades. This charming cityis now a listed as UNESCO WorldHeritage, and is a pleasant alternativefor those who want to escape thehordes of tourists who visit Praguein the summer. More information: www.kutnahora.cz

Karlstein FortThis massive 14th century castle risesout of a rocky outcrop. It was builtby Charles IV to protect his crownjewels. Despite wars and the passage of time, it is one of themost impressive monuments inBohemia.

3 Seasons - 20

Gold Card Special offer: 12=14, no extra charge for comfortpitches, 10% reduction for tripsinto town, free booking, no deposit

The extras: n close to Prague and Kutna Horan quiet and natural environment

p406, 2010 Site Directory

Camping Cheques accepted: from 27/03/2010 to 03/07/2010from 21/08/2010 to 23/10/2010

Special offerfor a 7 night stay, you will bepresented with a bottle of Czech wine

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 18

Holidays in the land of Vermeer

Delftse Hout campsite opened in 1990on the s i te of the former loca l

swimming pool. The owner was not newto the business, as he already managed a near-by campsite, Koningshof campsite,also a member of Camping Cheque. Forthe day to day running of the campsite, heappointed a manager, Pim Meijkamp, whohad already worked in campsites in theNetherlands. After a few years workingthere, Pim recently purchased the campsite,thus becoming the owner.

Delftse Hout has 240 places locatedaround a central building which sheltersthe campsite restaurant. Although thepleasant setting, activities, comprehensivewif i access and the swimming poolencourage people to stay on the campsite,

the main asset of Delftse Hout is of courseits location. On the doorstep of the verybeautiful town of Delft, next to a naturereserve, it is the ideal place to stay whenvisiting one of the most beautiful townsin the Netherlands, the land of therenowned painter Vermeer. The campsiteis approximately 15 minutes walk away fromthe town centre, and has recently beengiven the 2010 campsite of the year awardfor “city campsites” by the ANWB, thefamous Dutch automobile club. To makeyour stay even more enjoyable, the campsitealso rents bikes, although you may preferto use the bus, which takes you to the towncentre in a few minutes. After your stay inDelftse Hout, Vermeer and the town willno longer have any secrets for you. n

KAWAN VILLAGE DELFTSE HOUT - Korft laan 5 - NL-2616 LJ Delft - Tel . +31 15 213 00 40

i n f o @ d e l f t s e h o u t . n l w w w . d e l f t s e h o u t . n l

DELFTSE HOUT CAMPSITE WELCOMES YOU ON THE DOORSTEP OF CHARMING LITTLE TOWN OF DELFT, AT THE VERYHEART OF VERMEER LAND.

OZO M


Delft This splendid city has an authenticold town criss-crossed with canalsand historic buildings on their banks.Art lovers will enjoy visiting theVermeer centre dedicated to oneof the greatest Dutch painters. Thetourism office offers various tours.For more information: www.delft.nlThe DelftXpress bus will take you tothe town centre from 9.45 am to 3.45pm, from April to November.

The HagueThis quiet and spacious town is dottedwith squares, parks and canals, andhas the old-town charm of spa towns.It is considered the most aristocratictown in the Netherlands. Don’t missa visit to the superb Maurithuismuseum. For more information:www.denhaag.nl

RotterdamRotterdam was destroyed duringthe Second World War and thencompletely rebuilt. It is thereforevery different to other Dutch cities,with their historic buildings. Modernarchitecture fans will enjoy a visit. For more information:www.rotterdam.info

3 Seasons - 21

Gold Card special offer:Free booking, no deposit

The extras:n 15 minutes walk away

from Delft centre

n bike rides and walksorganised by the campsite


Camping Cheques accepted:from 01/01/2010 to 29/04/2010 from 09/05/2010 to 12/05/2010 from 16/05/2010 to 20/05/2010 from 24/05/2010 to 15/07/2010 from 21/08/2010 to 31/12/2010

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 19

D E S T I N AT I O N

w

France

FROM ITS SOURCE IN SÉVERAC-LE-CHÂTEAU, THE RIVER AVEYRON WENDS ITS WAY

THROUGH CHARMING COUNTRYSIDE BEFORE ITS WATERS SURGE INTO THE RIVER TARN

BEYOND MONTAUBAN. AT THE BEGINNING ITS OPEN VALLEY RUNS ALONGSIDE THE

PLATEAU OF THE LÉVÉZOU LAKES BEFORE NARROWING TO CARVE OUT THE GORGES OVER

WHICH THE MEDIAEVAL CASTLES AND WALLED TOWNS OF THE ROUERGUE STAND

GUARD. 3 SEASONS INVITES YOU TO TAKE A TOUR IN THE MIDI-PYRÉNÉES TO EXPLORE

THE MANY FACES OF THE AVEYRON.

F or the first few miles of its course, the Aveyronmeanders leisurely through wide-open spaces.Its valley marks the northern border of the Lévézou,

an undulating and verdant region, with a wealth of openspaces suitable for walking or cycling as well as watersports. This plateau is in fact dotted with several lakes,among them Lake Pareloup, the largest in the area. With its1,200 hectares of water and nestling in a natural setting offorests and pastures, this artificial lake with numerousislets offers a range of choices for bathing (with twobeaches) and water activities. Continuing its route

1

3 Seasons - 22

On

the banks of

the Aveyron

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 20

The bastides are towns that were built in the 13th

and 14th centuries in thesouthwest of France. Thesetowns can be distinguishedfrom others by theirinnovative and regulararrangement, laid outaround a square. Severalare to be found in theregion: Najac,Villefranche-de-Rouergue,Villeneuve-d'Aveyron,Sauveterre-de-Rouergueand La Bastide L'Évêque.

westwards, the Aveyron crosses changing landscapes, alternatingbetween wild gorges, such as in the area around Villefranchede Rouergue, and much more open valleys. It is, however, beyondSaint-Antonin-Noble-Val, where it burrows into the forests ofGrésine and Garrigue, that the river shows us themost spectacular section of its gorges by plunginginto a ravine flanked by steep, white limestonecliffs. From Rodez to the walled towns of the RouergueAlthough the regions crossed by the Aveyronstand out mainly for their natural riches, there have alwaysbeen people here, as is proven by the towns and villageswhose heritage bears witness to a long history. The two maintowns bathed by its waters are Rodez and Villefranche deRouergue, which were long time rivals and gave meaning to

the expression "querelle de clocher" (local squabble - literally"church tower quarrel"), the church towers in this case beingthose of the church and the cathedral of Notre Dame. Theinhabitants of Villefranche indeed wanted their church tower

to be higher than that of the 87-metre high cathedralof Rodez. However, the money ran out and it couldonly reach 59 metres. As pretty as the church ofVillefranche is, we nevertheless favour a visit to Rodezand its very fine red sandstone cathedral. Around it laysa quite beautiful old town, which looks down from100 metres over the banks of the Aveyron and offers

superb viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. BeyondRodez, the Aveyron is flanked by towns and villages, eachone more delightful than the last, laid out in terraces on the valley slopes and watched over by mediaeval castles:Belcastel, the ancient Bastide (walled town) of

D E S T I N AT I O N w

“Beyond Rodez, theAveyron is flanked bytowns and villages, eachone more delightfulthan the last”

2

3 4Green and gently hilly plains stretch over the first few miles of Aveyron.

The village of Najac is perched on a rocky crest,protected by its medieval castle. Its surroundings and architectural heritage have won it a place on the list of the most beautiful villages in France.

The red sandstone cathedral in Rodez is impressive by its size and flamboyant gothic steeple. It is even more spectacular by night, when it is lit.

If it wasn’t for the roads and the odd building, it would seem that the vast plains had forgotten all aboutmankind.

(next page) Throughout its 1000 year history, Belcastelcastle has watched over the village.

5

4

3

2

1

© Fred Challis - iStockphoto.com

© Flô - Fotolia.com

n n n

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 21

3 Seasons - 24

Kawan Village les GenêtsPareloup Lake12410 Salles CuranTel.: 0033 5 65 46 35 34www.camping-les-genets.fr

Camping Cheques acceptedfrom 24/05/2010 to 11/07/2010and from 19/08/2010 to11/09/2010.

Gold Card special offer:special offer: free booking withoutdeposit

D E S T I N AT I O N

w


le Caussanel(p.156, 2010 Site Directory)tel. 05 63 31 98 57www.3cantons.fr

les 3 Cantons (p.154)tel. 05 65 46 85 19www.lecaussanel.com

les Gorges de l'Aveyron (p.157)tel. 05 63 30 69 76www.camping-gorges-aveyron.com

Villefranche as well as Najac and its fortress. In thearea of the gorges, these villages nestle in wild landscapes.This is the case for the delightfully charming mediaevalvillage of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, which has numerouslisted monuments, one of these being the 12th century townhall, one of the oldest examples of civil architecture inFrance; it is especially so for Penne, whose castle, standingon a rocky outcrop, seems to defy the laws of gravity. Apartfrom the architectural evidence, people in this regionhave left behind a long tradition of fine eating, with tastyspecialities such as aligot (mashed potato with garlic andcheese), fouace (oven-cooked bread), the famous Roquefortcheese in the Ruthénois area and duck-based recipes(conserves, foie gras, etc.) in the western section. It makesyour stay even more delectable. n

Kawan Village les Genêts

Located on the banks of Pareloup Lake, Kawan Village lesGenêts offers you the chance to sample the flavours ofAveyron. Indeed, it regularly organises Aveyron evenings,both in high and low season (subject to a minimumnumber of participants - enquire at the campsite), duringwhich you will have the opportunity to whisk and thentaste aligot. These evenings are just one of the manyreasons for coming to discover this campsite with a familyatmosphere and a warm welcome, whose pitches havebeautiful views over the lake and surrounding countryside.So don't think twice about coming to enjoy this campsite,which has the advantage of a protected natural setting.

5

© MB - Fotolia.com

n n n

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 22

3 Seasons - 25

MICROPOLIS

This theme park, which is bothentertaining and educational, is areal foray into the universe ofinsects and the infinitely small.

Further information:

12780 St-LéonsTel.: 0033 5 65 58 50 50www.micropolis.biz

ROQUEFORT CAVES

It is in the natural subterranean labyrinth of themountain of Combalou, above the little town ofRoquefort, that the famous and delicious cheeseof worldwide renown is matured. These cavescan be visited throughout the year.

Further information:Pays de Roquefort Tourist Office12250 Roquefort-sur-SoulzonTel.: 0033 5 65 58 56 00, www.roquefort.com,[email protected]

CORDES SUR CIEL

This superb mediaeval city, standing on a rockyoutcrop overlooking the Cérou Valley, is a site ofexceptional beauty, with its cobbled streets, archedpassageways and mediaeval well, etc.

Further information: www.cordes-sur-ciel.org

ALBI

This superb city in all shades of red is crisscrossedby winding narrow streets that surround thevery beautiful Sainte-Cécile Cathedral.

Further information: www.albi-tourisme.fr

D E S T I N AT I O N w

© jean gill - iStockphoto.com

© Terebenthine - Fotolia.com

© atmospheric - Fotolia.com

Where to goin the region

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 23

3 Seasons - 26

M Y D I A R Y

w

L I K E A F I N G E R P O I N T I N G

TOWARDS AMERICA, BRITTANY IS A

ROCK STANDING UP TO THE FURIOUS

ASSAULTS OF THE ATLANTIC WINDS AND WAVES THAT

HAVE SCULPTED ITS COASTLINE OVER THE CENTURIES. SEA AND LAND COME TOGETHER EVERYWHERE

TO CREATE WILD AND UNUSUAL LANDSCAPES, WHERE FISHING PORTS NESTLE AND STILL REVERBERATE

WITH THE STORIES OF SAILORS WHO HAVE SET OFF TO CONQUER THE OCEANS. 3 SEASONS INVITES

YOU TO TRAVEL IN A MOTORHOME AROUND THIS ROCKY COASTLINE, AS WELL AS INTO THE VAST

EXPANSES OF MOORLAND STEEPED IN LEGENDS.

Along the Breton

ILE D'YEU

ILE DE NOIRMOUTIER

BELLE-ILE

ILE DE GROIX

JERSEY

GUERNSEY

OUESSANT

Pte du Raz

Cap de la Hague

Golfe deSaint Malo

Rennes

Nantes

St Lô

Vannes

Quimper

Angers

Laval

Cherbourg

St Nazaire

Brest

MorlaixSt-Malo

Lorient

Fougères

PAYS DELA LOIRE

BRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNEBRETAGNE

VENDEE

Loire

Vila

i ne

GO!

St Brieuc

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 24

3 Seasons - 27

W e begin our tour in the bay ofthe Mont St Michel. Standingbetween Brittany and Normandy,

this granite islet is a gem of mediaeval art,for which it is well worth us devoting a dayof our Breton journey. This site can beappreciated both by going up and down theonly street, which leads to the abbey perchedon top of the rock, as well as from themainland, where the mount can be seen inits natural setting, encircled by the waters ofthe bay. This view is particularly attractive inthe soft light of sunrise and sunset, when therock is enveloped in warm colours.

Leaving the Channel coast, we then ventureinto the interior of the region to find twocities with a wealth of history: Fougères, awalled city dominated by a mediaevalcastle, and Rennes, the capital of Brittany.You need to take your time in the latter toappreciate its maze of mediaeval streets andthe elegance of its 18th-century buildings.Apart from its symbolic monuments, and

notably the palace of the Parliament of Brittany,which has been superbly restored after thefire that severely damaged it in 1994, the cityis also rated for its nightlife entertainment.Over the following days we continue todelve into Breton history and architecturethrough some of its finest cities; first of allcomes Dinan and its old town, hemmed inby its stone walls, and then the superb piratecity of St Malo. (We shall not expand here onSt Malo: for that we refer you to the articlethat appeared in 3 Seasons no.113).

Returning to the sea, we let ourselves beswept along by the magnificent landscape ofthe Emerald Coast. It was given this epithetto distinguish it from the Côte d'Azur anddue to the green reflections of the wavesthat bathe it; this part of the coastline, whichextends from the Pointe du Grouin to ValAndré, alternates between delightful seasideresorts, cities steeped in past glory and wildlandscapes. Letting ourselves go where themotorhome takes us along the

M Y D I A R Y w

coastline coastlineAlon

g

theBreton

The changing and surprisingBreton coastline, from whitesandy beaches to steep rockycliffs, as here on the wildshoreline of the QuiberonPeninsula, offers some ofthe finest countryside inFrance and one of the mostappealing aspects of Brittany.

n n n

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 25

3 Seasons - 28

coast road, we stop to enjoy theviews. The viewpoints that stretch out pastCap Fréhel are particularly spectacularand, in low season, it is easy to park togain access to them.

Continuing our journey along the shoreline, we changecolours, since we leavethe emera ld greenbehind us for the PinkGranite Coast. BetweenPerros-Guirrec and thePointe de Bihit, the seaand wind have erodedthe granite to give it amultitude of shapes that create a wonderful hotchpotch of rocks in ever-changing colours and in which creeksand islets lay hidden. The customs officers’ footpath, once used by customs

officers to watch over this wild coastlinefavoured by smugglers and today transformed into an itinerary for ramblers,is undoubtedly the best way to appreciatethe magic of the area, particularly aroundPloumanach and the Ile Renote (to the northof Trégastel). Bird lovers will enjoy visiting

the ornithologicalcentre dedicated tothe care of sea birds.

After visiting the Bayof Morlaix and lazingon the beaches ofCarantec, we pick upthe road to Brest

and decide to take time out to visitthe Armorique Regional Nature Park.Although i t i s home to some verybeautiful coastal spots, it is the hinterlandand the Monts d'Arrée that attract our

M Y D I A R Y

w

SOME EXCURSIONS NOT TO BE MISSED

A real little inland sea, dotted with sixty orso islands and islets. The ideal way to seethe Gulf is to take a boat trip. Further information:www.golfedumorbihan.fr

This peninsula with breathtaking cliffs hassome wonderful landscapes, in particularthe Pointe de Penhir located at i ts western tip. Further information: www.crozon.com+33 2 98 27 07 92

These religious monuments are characteristicof lower Brittany. They surround thecemetery and incorporate the church, theossuary and the calvary. The finest ofthem are between Morlaix and Brest, andparticularly at St Thégonnec, Guilmiliauand Lampaul-Guilmiliau.

In the extreme west of the Cornouaille area,this spectacular rocky spur turns proudlyto face the elements of the Atlantic Ocean.Follow the coastal path to reach it.Further information: www.lapointeduraz.com,+33 2 98 70 67 18

Fifty aquaria are home to some 10,000marine animals of 1,000 different species inexcellent surroundings that reproduce theirnatural habitat. A fascinating excursion forthe whole family. Further information:www.oceanopolis.com, +33 2 98 34 40 40

OCÉANOPOLIS

THE POINTE DU RAZ

THE CROZON PENINSULA

GULF OF MORBIHAN

THE ENCLOS PAROISSIAUX (PARISH CLOSES)

we leave the emerald

green behind us for

the Pink Granite Coast

n n n

© CRTB - Ville de Fougères © CRTB - Gratien Jean Patrick © OCENAOPOLIS - BREST

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 14:20 Page 26

3 Seasons - 29

attention. This chain of "mountains" (eventhough the word is a bit of an exaggerationgiven that it is 384 metres above sea level atits highest point) has sandstone and granite-topped peaks rounded by erosion called"Ménez" and sharp peaks, pointing skywards,or "Roc'hs". Austere yet spellbinding at thesame time, covered in heathland swept by thewind and only brightened up by the yellowand mauve touches of colour of the gorse andheather, the Monts d'Arrée are home to manynatural species, notably the Drosera, a veryrare carnivorous plant. However, you need atrained eye to see it. After spending severaldays in the region, it needed a guide to showus how to find one. In the evening, when themist takes hold of these desert landscapes,the atmosphere is tinged with mystery andyou understand how the region gave rise toso many legends that live on today. Indeed it issaid that here lived Ankou (the personification

of death in Breton legends) and that it wasthe location of the Youdig (the chasm thatserves as the gateway to Hell).

Leaving the world of legend, we immerseourselves in the history of Brittany by breakingour journey in Cornouaille. This region, whichformerly extended well beyond its currentborders, was in the Middle Ages the Kingdomand then the Duchy of Brittany. Quimper wasits capital at the time. The city has also retaineda rich heritage from that era, which you canappreciate by wandering down its narrowstreets of half-timbered houses, which extendaround the very beautiful Gothic cathedral ofSaint-Corentin. From Quimper we pick up thecoast road again but this time head eastwards.We stop at Pont-Aven, where the many artgalleries are still evidence of the position thatpainting occupies in the city, since Paul Gauguinand other artists came here to live

M Y D I A R Y w

From left to right:Mont St Michel, straddlingBrittany and Normandy.The old mediaeval c i tyof Quimper and its verybeautiful Saint-CorentinCathedral. The ochre-colouredrocks of the Granite Rosecoastline. Fougères, enclosedwithin its thick city walls.The wild shoreline of Pointede Saint Hernot, on the CrozonPeninsula. The Océanopolisaquaria. The old port ofAuray, nestling at the endof a narrow inlet.

n n n

© CRTB - Gratien Jean Patrick © CRTB - Guillaudeau D

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 14:20 Page 27

M Y D I A R Y

w

and work in the middle of the19th century. On leaving Pont-Aven weare back on the road taking us to Carnac,where once again history defined theregion. This small Breton city is home tosome of the most impressive megalithicstone alignments (menhirs), which appearto date from the Middle Neolithic period(approximately 3,000 years BC). The twomost spectacular alignments are thoseat Menec and Kermario (a dozen parallellines stretching for more than a kilometre).The Museum of Prehistory and megalithcentre help us to find out a little bit moreabout prehistory and the various theoriesthat abound with regard to these alignments. To the great disappointment

of a science fiction fan such asme, no record has been kept

of any theories suggestingextraterrestrials. Apart from its

historical importance, Carnacis also an excellent startingpoint for exploring theQuiberon Peninsula and itstruly beautiful wild coast, orthe charming village of Auraynestling at the end of a narrowinlet that is an extension ofthe Gulf of Morbihan. Notfar away, Vannes with itsmediaeval old town protectedby its ramparts offers us analternative destination.

Our last stop takes us to La BrièreRegional Park. The term "Breton" is nolonger applicable, however, since wehave left the administrative area ofBrittany to cross over into the Pays de laLoire. It is nevertheless difficult todistinguish a border that would depriveus of excursions into historic Brittany.This park is made up in the main ofchannels and aquatic plants and is thesecond largest area of marshland in Franceafter the Camargue. It is therefore bestvisited by boat and is bordered by theGuérande Peninsula and its salt marshes,which extend as far as the eye can see,like a mosaic of mirrors. Nantes awaitsus on the other side of La Brière NaturePark. However, the big question thatremains unanswered is whether Nantesis in Brittany or the Pays de la Loire.Although it was previously part ofBrittany (the Castle of the Dukes ofBrittany is also to be found here), it isnow attached to the Pays de la Loire.Not wishing to get further involved inthis argument, we finish our tour here,leaving Nantes for another article. n


Kawan Villages Haliotis(p.49, 2010 Site Directory)

Domaine du Logis (p.50)

Château de Galinée (p.51)

Neptune Lanloup (p.52)

Kawan Villages Les Alizés (p.53)Gold Card Special Offers, 6=7, 11=14,free booking without deposit

Domaine de Mesqueau (p.54)Gold Card Special Offers, 11=14,free booking without deposit

Camping de Trologot (p.55)

Camping Saint Jean (p.56)

Grand Large Camaret (p.57)Gold Card Special Offer, 11=14

La Pointe (p.58)Gold Card Special Offer,free booking without deposit

L’Orangerie de Lanniron (p.59)

L’Atlantique (p.60)Gold Card Special Offers, 6=7, 11=14-50% discount on bicycle hire

Le Ty Nadan (p.61)

Kawan Villages Le Moustoir (p.62)Gold Card Special Offerfree booking without deposit

Mané Guernehué (p.63)Gold Card Special Offers, 11=14 (3/4-30/6,27/8-30/9), free booking without deposit

Ferme de Lann Hoëdic (p.64)Gold Card Special Offers, 1 regional giftfor a min. 11-night stay, free bookingwithout deposit

Camping des Iles (p.65)Gold Card Special Offers, a free boxedset of local produce for a min. 3-night stay

n n n

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 28

WHAT TO EAT IN BRITTANY

Crêperies (pancake restaurants) in Brittanyare numerous. Don't miss the opportunityto stop and try a sweet (wheat) pancake or a savoury (buckwheat) flatbread. Tohave the best chance of finding a goodrestaurant, we recommend the "Crêperiesgourmandes de Bretagne" network, aquality label that has won awards forthree years following a surprise visit.Further information:www.bretagneacroquer.com

Cider is the regional drink. To try it out inmoderation, you can sample differentvarieties and in particular the Cornouaillecider, which now enjoys AOC (guaranteeof origin) certification.

With its 2,800 kilometres of coastline,Brittany is inextricably linked to the sea andits specialities. Oysters, in particular, areexcellent there, with no less than 12varieties present across the Breton region.

Regional tourism committee:www.tourismebretagne.comRegional tourism committee forthe Finistère area:www.finisteretourisme.comRegional tourism committee forthe Morbihan area:www.morbihan.comRegional tourism committee forthe Côtes d'Armor: www.cotesdarmor.comRegional tourism committee forIlle-et-Vilaine:www.bretagne35.com

PANCAKES AND FLATBREADS

CIDER

FURTHER INFORMATION ON BRITTANY

SEAFOOD

On the left : The famous stone alignments (menhirs) of Carnac areamongst the most renowned sites in Brittany. On the right: the charmof little Breton ports, colourfully decorated by fishing boats

M Y D I A R Y w

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 29

3 Seasons - 32

C I T Y B R E A K Saint Jacques de Compostelle

w

AT THE ENDOF THE WAY

T he history of Santiago goesback to the 9th century. Legendtells it that a star helped

shepherds discover the resting placeof St . James the Apost le , theSpanish evangelist. In those days of the Reconquest of the countryoccupied by the Moors, the Spanishchurch was happy that this symbolicfigure should appear; it made himthe patron saint of the Reconquistaand built a basilica on the apostle'stomb. It was, however, in the 11th

century that the city really came intoits own. With the Turkish presencemaking pilgrimage to the HolyLand hazardous, many believers fellback on Santiago. Its success wouldnever be denied and the city wasenhanced during the followingcenturies with sumptuous Baroqueand Neoclassical religious buildings,which merited the city being listed

as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in1985.

We begin our walk in the park ofSanto Domingo de Bonaval, formerlythe farm and cemetery of theDominican convent of Santo Domingode Bonaval, which currently housesthe Museum of the Galician People(1) and where you can still admirethe city’s only Gothic church. Not faraway stands the Galician Centre ofContemporary Art (2), one of the mainplaces dedicated to contemporary

THE CITY OF SANTIAGO DE

COMPOSTELA, THE THIRD MOST

VISITED PILGRIMAGE DESTINATION

IN THE WORLD, AFTER JERUSALEM

AND ROME, HAS SINCE THE

MIDDLE AGES BEEN ATTRACTING

THOUSANDS OF PILGRIMS FROM

ALL OVER EUROPE. HOWEVER,THE CITY IS NOT CONTENT JUST TO

BE THE LAST STAGE OF THE WAYS

OF ST. JAMES BUT REMAINS, WITH

THE MAZE OF STREETS THAT MAKE

UP ITS OLD TOWN, ONE OF THE

MOST BEAUTIFUL CITIES IN SPAIN.3 SEASONS THEREFORE INVITES

YOU TO DISCOVER THIS SUPERB

CITY, DEFINED IN STONE BY ITS

IMPORTANT RELIGIOUS ROLE.

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 30

C I T Y B R E A K Saint Jacques de Compostelle w

3 Seasons - 33

art in Spain. Built by the Portuguesearchitect Alvaro Siza, this monumentreflects the pronounced taste of this city, steeped in history, forcontemporary architecture. You canindeed also find in Santiago manyvery f ine bui ldings created bytalented 20th-century artists, such as the Trisca socio-cultural centre, designed by John Heiduk, the Sarmulti-purpose sports complex, byJosep Maria de Arenaza and JoaquinPujol, or even the unusual music schoolby Anton Garcia Abril.

From the park, we venture into the old town through the Porta doCamiño, the gate used by pilgrimswho have followed the French wayto the tomb of St. James. The Frenchway is the itinerary most rooted intradition. It was firmly defined in the12th century in the Codex Calixtinus,

the essential work for the pilgrimageof St. James. We then go up CasasReais, a street that runs alongsidesome very pretty buildings, notablythe Neoclassical parish church of NosaSeñora do Camiño (4) and then theimposing chapel of As Animas (5),both built at the end of the 18th

century. Crossing Cervantes Square(Praza de Cervantes) (6), which wasthe city's first major trading area, wecan then appreciate the Neoclassicalchurch of San Bieito. We leave theitinerary of the French way for a fewyards to dive down a small sidestreet, the Calella de Xerusalén,which leads us into the square ofSan Martiño Pinario (7), where themajestic facade of the eponymousconvent awaits us; the latter wasarranged like an altarpiece, notablywith a double-flight staircase. Insidethis building, constructed in the 17th

and 18th centuries, lies one of thefinest cloisters in Spain. We leavethe monastery through its mainfaçade that overlooks the Praza deImmaculada (8), alongside which isthe cathedral (9), the ultimate goal ofthe pilgrimage of St. James. Eventhough we have not crossed Europeon foot, as many pilgrims still do today,it is easy to understand the feelingsexperienced by these pilgrims whenthey arrive in front of this splendidbuilding; although built betweenthe 11th and 13th centuries, it

From left to right: Quintana Square overlooked by the illuminatedcathedral; high altar of the cathedral; a pilgrim sporting the emblematicshell on his walking stick and the impressive Holy Week processions.

THE SCALLOP SHELL, EMBLEM OF ST JAMESLegend has it that a knight was thrown into the water by his boltinghorse. St James is supposed to have saved him and he emerged coveredin shells. The shell has therefore become the emblem of St James andmany pilgrims wear it attached to their bag or their hat. It is also used tomark out the ways of St James.

© Fernando Alonso Herrero / istock.com

n n n

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 31

shows evidence of a Baroquestyle, which is surprising for thatperiod. We go round the cathedralto go in through the entrance locatedin the Praza do Obradoiro (10), a superb square surrounded bymonuments that compete with eachother in elegance. The cathedralshows its best side with the facadeof the Obradoiro, a richly sculptedmasterpiece of Baroque architecture.In holy years (when the day of St.James falls on a Sunday), pilgrimsare allowed to enter the cathedralby the holy door, which is locatedon the Praza da Quintana andwhich is only open in those years.The interior of the cathedral has noreason to be envious of its facade,in particular with its Pórtico de laGloria, a very beautiful sculpturecreated at the end of the 12th centuryby Master Mateo. Behind it stands astatue of Mateo, the "saint of bumps",which is said to bestow intelligenceand memory on anyone who bumpstheir head against it. However, itseems to be that you gain nothingapart from bumps from this exercise.The cathedral's other surprise is its

incense-burner, the Botafumeiro, the most impressive in the world. Itis, however, only used on certain occasions, notably in holy years. Therest of the time it can be seen in thecathedral's museum.

Not far from the cathedral, we comeacross the very fine College of SaintXerome (11) and its 15th-century gate,before continuing on our itinerarytowards the romantic Alameda Park(12), where we end our tour of theold town of Santiago. This park, andparticularly along the Paseo daFerradura, is one of the best spots inthe city for taking photographs ofthe old town and the cathedral. It isa view that must seem like a well-deserved reward to brave pilgrims. n

3 Seasons - 34

C I T Y B R E A K Saint Jacques de Compostelle

w


Moreiras (p.557, 2010 Site Directory)tel. +34 986 73 16 91www.campingmoreiras.com

Ría de Arosa 1 (p.558)tel. +34 981 83 13 05www.campingriadearosa.com

The rural produce market, theMercado de Abastos (14), is thesecond most visited attractionafter the cathedral. It is on theRua das Ameas and it offers a traditional atmosphere withtypical Galician products. Not tobe missed by anyone who enjoyssampling local flavours.

From Monday to Saturday, from7am to 3pm. The most populardays are Thursdays and Saturdays.

Information: www.mercadodeabastosdesantiago.com

1

4

11

2

13

37

14

6

9

12

10

5

THE MERCADODE ABASTOS

From top to bottom: The numerouscafés frequented by students remindus that Santiago is not just a city ofpilgrimage but is also a living city;the elegant cloisters of the FoncescaCollege, one of the many cloistersthat lie hidden away in the city; the facade of the Monastery of San Martín Pinario and the superbviewpoints afforded from AlamedaPark.

n n n

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 32

3 Seasons - 35

It is possible to access the rooftops ofthe cathedral on organised tours. Don'tmiss this tour, which affords one of thefinest viewpoints over the city.

Information and reservations: Tel: +34 981 55 29 85www.catedraldesantiago.es.

Located in the convent of SantoDomingo de Bonaval, it provides anoverall picture of Galician culture.

Information: www.museodopobo.es

A museum dedicated to the cult ofSt. James and to pilgrimage through theages.

Information: www.mdperigracions.com

Apart from its original architecture, thismuseum houses the latest trends incontemporary art.

Information: www.gcac.org

PLACES TO VISIT IN SANTIAGO

DE COMPOSTELA

C I T Y B R E A K Saint Jacques de Compostelle w

TOURS OF SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

City tours are organised by thetourist office of Santiago deCompostela. Information and reservations:+34 902 190 160,www.SantiagoReservas.com.

GUIDED TOURS OF THE OLD TOWN

Guided tours of the principal historicalmonuments of the old town areorganised by the tourist office.Meet in front of the main touristoffice (Rua do Vilar).From Tuesday to Sunday, from theend of March to the end ofOctober.

AUDIO GUIDE TOURS

MP3 audio guides are availablefrom the tourist office. 24-hour rental from the main tourist office (Rua do Vilar).

GASTRONOMIC TOUR

City tours based on Galician gastronomy, with stops in traditional shops to taste local specialities. From June to October.

CONVENT TOUR

Guided tours of the city's convents.From June to October.

CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE

TOUR

City tours focusing on thecontemporary architecture ofSantiago. From June to October.

TOURIST TRAIN

This tourist train, which also givescommentaries, is a practicalsolution for discovering the city, its gardens, its historical districtsand its finest viewpoints. Consult the timetables at thetourist office.

GALICIAN CENTRE OFCONTEMPORARY ART

MUSEUM OF THE GALICIAN PEOPLE

PILGRIMAGE MUSEUM

THE ROOFTOPS OF THE CATHEDRAL

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 33

A trip to the heart of the Austrian mountains

I t was in 1985 that the Eichenwald campsite came into being. The building

at the centre of the campsite served as ayouth hostel and accommodated the sportsschool classes. During the summer, thegrounds were already home to a few tents,when the Zoller family took over the reinsof the establishment. After some work,Bruno and his wife Klara opened a 5,000 m2

campsite on which there were only 15 to

20 pitches. Every year, they expanded thesite so that they can now offer a surface areathat is 10 times bigger. However, they havenot tried to fill it to maximum capacity. Infact, there are only 100 pitches. These arevery spacious with an average surface areaof 140 m2. Some of these pitches even havetheir own sanitary facilities. The campsiteservices have also been improved, withfreshly renovated sanitary facilities equippedwith private washrooms, a restaurant servingexcellent food and even a swimming pool andsauna. Campers appreciate the modest sizeof this site, where they are not consideredjust as numbers, as is reflected in commentstaken from prestigious guides such as thatof the ANWB (Royal Dutch Touring Club).On the occasion of its 25th anniversary, thecampsite is in the process of putting togethera programme of festivities. Among otherthings, each customer will be entitled to aspecial anniversary meal in the restaurantand will be able to take part in variousevents (evenings of music and dance,excursions, brewery trips, etc). It is anexcellent opportunity to come and treatyourself to a few days in the heart of theTyrol. n

EICHENWALD - Schiessstandweg 10 - AT-6422 Stams - Tel. +43 5263 6159 - [email protected]

w w w. t i r o l - c a m p i n g . a t

THE AUSTRIAN CAMPSITE EICHENWALD IS CELEBRATING ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY

OZO M


Monastery of StamsThe only Cistercian monastery inAustria, built in the 13th century.However, the two onion-shapedtowers that characterise the buildingdate from the 17th century. Theinterior houses some superblydecorated rooms. Further information: www.stiftstams.at

InnsbruckThe small Austrian city is home tosome prestigious monuments, themost symbolic of which is the famoushouse with the golden roof situatedin the heart of Innsbruck's mediaevalcity, one of the finest in Austria. Further information: www.innsbruck.info

Sporting activities in the open airThe region is conducive to open airsports: climbing, rambling, cycling,horseriding, water sports in the riveror on the lakes, etc. in the summer;skiing during the winter (ski slopes20 km away).

3 Seasons - 36

Gold Card Special Offers:special menus / free bookingwithout deposit

The extras:n a superb setting in

the heart of the Tyroln programme of festivities

for the campsite's 25th

anniversary

Camping Cheques accepted:from 20/02/2010 to 30/06/2010from 01/09/2010 to 10/10/2010from 19/12/2010 to 31/12/2010

Special Offers:6=7 (1/4-9/5, 25/9-10/10)11=14 (1/4-9/5, 25/9-10/10)

p454, 2010Site Directory

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 34

On the banks of Lake Garda

3 Seasons: How did the San Francescocampsite come into being?Margherita Facchini: The campsite wasset up by my father in 1963 and he tookcare of it until 2002. He was always at the forefront in the field and always hadinnovative ideas. When I took up the torchin 2002, I tried to bring a more moderntouch, by focusing on training my staffand renovating the facilities. In 9 years,the campsite has changed in appearance,with the larger pitches, more services andparticular attention paid to the disabled,green spaces, etc.

3 Seasons: Do you have projects forthe future?Margherita Facchini: On the one hand,I'm working on a project to set up a car-free mobile home village and on the otherhand I'm working on the idea of creatinga modern campsite but one that could

recreate the atmosphere of the formercampsite, so as to let those who never knewthat era to experience it.

3 Seasons: What is it that people particularly like about your campsite?Margherita Facchini: It's the wonderfulsetting of the campsite, situated at thegateway to the Sirmione Peninsula, wherethe sunsets are superb and where natureoffers a relaxing backdrop.

3 Seasons: What is it that people likemost about the region?Margherita Facchini: The campsite is quiteclose to Verona, the amphitheatres and theOpera in Venice, the Dolomites and themediaeval villages of the Moraine Hills. Thebest times to visit are May and September,when the weather is mild and the influx oftourists is limited. n

SAN FRANCESCO - Strada Vicinale S. Francesco - IT-25015 Desenzano del Garda (BS) - Tel. +39 030 911 0245

[email protected] . com

MEETING WITH MARGHERITA FACCHINI, OWNER OF THE SAN FRANCESCO CAMPSITE IN ITALY

OZO M


Verona Made famous by Romeo and Juliet,this city has numerous monumentsdating from ancient times, the MiddleAges and the Renaissance. Its famousamphitheatres play host every yearto a major operatic festival andaround the Piazza del Erbe you canfind magnificent palaces as well asone of the finest Roman churchesin Italy. Further information: www.veronatuttintorno.it

MantuaThis little city has a quite particularcharm of i t s own with a r ich heritage created by some of themost prestigious artists of theRenaissance. Its Palazzo Ducale, inparticular, is well worth a visit. Further information:http://turismo.comune.mantova.it

BresciaAround its mediaeval castle, the cityof Brescia has numerous Roman,Romanesque, Renaissance and evenBaroque monuments and churches. Further information:www.comune.brescia.it

3 Seasons - 37

Gold Card Special Offer:free booking withoutdeposit

The extras:an outstanding setting onthe Sirmione Peninsula


Camping Cheques accepted:from 01/04/2010 to 10/07/2010 from 16/08/2010 to 30/09/2010

Special Offers:6=7 and 11=14

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 35

I N D E P T H

w

Our campsites are committedto the environment

3 Seasons - 38

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 36

BECAUSE THE ACCOMMODATION DOES NOT HAVE

A HIGH IMPACT ON THE SURROUNDINGS AND NATURE

IS CENTRAL TO THE LOCATION, CAMPING HAS ALWAYS

BEEN A GREEN WAY OF SPENDING YOUR HOLIDAYS.HOWEVER, THIS ISN'T ENOUGH. TO FURTHER

COMMIT TO PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AND

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT, MANY CAMPSITES IN

EUROPE HAVE DECIDED TO USE GREEN MATERIALS,REDUCE THEIR CO2 EMISSIONS AND LOOK INTO

CLEAN ENERGY SOURCES. HERE IS A SHORT

OVERVIEW OF SOME OF OUR CAMPSITES THAT ARE MOST

COMMITTED TO RESPECTING THE ENVIRONMENT.

ecology

3 Seasons examines the effortsmade by Camping Cheque campsitesto protect the environment

I N D E P T H w

3 Seasons - 39

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 37

Les Gorges du Chambon – France

Les Gorges du Chambon, located in a beautiful natural area inthe Charente region of France, (p.100, 2010 Site Directory) hasmade the environment their main concern for years, and everyaspect of the campsite reflects this preoccupation. The labelsawarded to the campsite in the last few years attest to this commitment (Clef Verte in 2002, European Eco-Label in 2009)as does its participation in several ecological associations (ViaNatura since 2006, creation of the first Eco-Label certified clubin France in the Poitou-Charente region).

Jacques Petit, the owner, is strongly committed to the protectionof the environment, and shows this by respecting the site onwhich the campsite is built, using organic products, choosinglocal suppliers, informing guests, a charter and reducing waterand electricity consumption, etc. To enable customers to enjoythis commitment, an organic market comes to the campsite andthe restaurant menu includes at least 20% organic products.

To compensate for the CO2 emissions of guests coming on holidays, les Gorges du Chambon takes part in a project in Beninwhere mangroves are replanted according to the quantity of CO2

to be compensated.

To find out more about les Gorges du Chambon:

www.gorgesduchambon.fr

Wilhelm Tell – BelgiumThis year, the Wilhelm Tell campsite (p. 273 of the 2010 guide)has equipped itself with solar panels enabling it to produce 28%of the electricity needed to run the campsite. Thanks to atracking system, some panels follow the sun all day for an evenhigher yield.

For more information about the Wilhelm Tell campsite:

www.wilhelmtell.com

3 Seasons - 40

I N D E P T H

w

Zmar Eco Camping Resort – Portugal

Located in Algarve, Zmar Eco Camping Resort (p.605,2010 Site Directory) opened very recently. As its name suggests, it was designed taking into account the need topreserve the environment and blend in completely with thesurroundings. The campsite has been built using renewablematerials such as wood and stone where possible. Woodhas many advantages (thermal comfort, acoustic insulation,anti-earthquake properties, easy maintenance, etc). Thewood used comes from certified forests where the growthrate of trees is higher than that of trees cut down. Objectsthat had to be made out of plastic were made using recycledplastic.

To save energy, the buildings were built in areas that make the most of natural shade and the windows fitted

to facilitate air circulation to reduce the use of air conditioning. When energy is needed, it comes mainlyfrom solar panels which are particularly productive in thisregion, where the sun shines over 300 days per year. Toreduce consumption, the toilet block is of course equippedwith movement detectors for the lights, the taps havewater saving devices and eco-bulbs are used.

The campsite has its own water treatment centre to recyclewater and use it for watering plants.

To find out more about the environmental commitments ofthe Zmar campsite, check out their website:

www.zmar.eu (You will also find an application that worksout your CO2 emissions.)

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 38

3 Seasons - 41

I N D E P T H w

© Pat on stock© cerbere - Ferdinand Jean-François- Fotolia.com

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 39

3 Seasons - 42

I N D E P T H

w

© swiss-images.ch / Christof Sonderegger

Sérignan Plage Nature – France

In the Sérignan Plage Nature campsite (p.612, 2010 Site Directory),on the seaside South of Béziers, ecology is not a recent concernborn of the current fashion for all things green. Indeed, 45 yearsago the campsite decided to invest in a water treatment systemthat combines infiltration and evaporation in the ground withplant transpiration: trees ensure half of the water treatment.This system has also enabled the growth of a wooded parkwhich provides shade for 1400 pitches at the heart of coastalplain with salty soil which normally cannot support much vegetation. This system has many advantages, both for thecampsite (extra space thanks to underground irrigation, softening of the water table which encourages vegetation, lowinvestment and running costs) and for campers (landscaping,good quality sea water). This system was picked in 2000 by the European Commission from 900 projects to be a LifeEnvironment project (The Financial instrument for the environment).

For more information about Sérignan Plage Nature and theGEOASSEV project, you can check out the campsite's website:www.leserignannature.com and the project's website:

www.reevanver.org.

De Luttenberg – Netherlands

On the doorstep of the Sallandse Heuvelrug national park, thede Luttenberg campsite (p.286, 2010 Site Directory) benefits froma leafy environment. To help preserve its environment, in 2006the campsite built toilet blocks with plant-based insulation. Thetoilets have a living roof, which is an efficient and natural typeof insulation, enabling the building to blend into the landscapeof this site and its wide pitches.

For more information about the de Luttenberg campsite:

www.luttenberg.nl

European Ecolabel

The European Ecolabel was created in 1992 and rewards companies that respect the environment. The selection criteriafor this label are very strict and guarantee the true commitmentof those who are awarded it. The criteria include the impact ofthe product on the environment during its entire life cycle, fromdesign to recycling. Several campsites have been awarded thislabel, including some Camping Cheque campsites: Alpencamp(p.457), Cevedale campsite (p.486), Les Gorges du Chambon(p.100), Due Laghi (p.488), La Brande (p.92), Vidor Campsite(p.483), Elbsee (p.396), FDM Holbaek Fjord Campsite (p.357),FDM Hegedal Strand Campsite (p.345).

For more information about the eco-label:

www.eco-label.com

River Dart Country Park – Angleterre

To preserve the natural beauty of the area in which the RiverDart Country Park campsite is located, (p.317, 2010 SiteDirectory), the owners decided to install their own hydro-electricgenerator to produce electricity using the river that runs alongsidethe campsite, thus reducing the campsite's CO2 emissions. Thisgenerator supplies enough electricity for 9 months of the yearand significantly reduces consumption during the summer, whenthe campsite is at its busiest. This system has been rewarded bya DEBI Award (Devon Environmental Business Initiative) in 2007and the BCE Environmental Award in 2009. In the first two yearsof use, 600 tons of CO2 emissions have been saved.

To find out more about River Dart Country Park:

www.riverdart.co.uk

Kawan Village le Couspeau – France

The Kawan Village le Couspeau (p.219, 2010 Site Directory), inProvencal Drôme, has built an ecologically friendly toilet blockmade from non-treated wood (only the foundations are madeout of concrete), with a solar panel heating system and a greenroof so that the building blends into its natural environment.

For more information on the Kawan Village le Couspeau:

www.couspeau.com

Camping Wildhoeve

Wildhoeve campsite, which received the gold Clef Verte (greenkey) in March 2010 and the Alan Rogers Country Award inJanuary 2010 (p. 288 of the 2010 guide) is a resolutely greencampsite. To reduce its CO2 emissions, the campsite has decidedto reduce its energy consumption as much as possible. The outside pool is heated with solar panels and the campsite hasjust bought 3 wood granule stoves to heat its indoor pool. Thepool no longer emits any CO2.

More information on this campsite:

www.wildhoeve.nl

Kawan Nature

The chain Kawan Villages has decided to make ecology a forefront issue and has created the label Kawan Nature. To beawarded this label, campsites must commit to preserving theenvironment by sorting rubbish, using recyclable products and environment friendly cleaning products, as well as fittingwater saving devices in the toilets. To promote their natural environment, the campsites also put up bird nesting boxes andinformation boards presenting the different species of trees onsite.

To obtain a comprehensive list of Kawan Villages with theKawan Nature label:

www.kawan-villages.com

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:17 Page 40

3 Seasons - 43

I N D E P T H w

Héliomonde – FranceWith 116 acres at the heart of a preserved natural environment,the Héliomonde campsite (p.608, 2010 Site Directory) hasexceptional surroundings which it wishes to preserve. The campsite therefore has a very active conservation policy whichraises the awareness of users, monitors water consumption andmanages refuse carefully. It also promotes local produce throughresponsible purchasing, trains staff, places under 10 families peracre, rents electrical vehicles, animals (goats and sheep) are usedto maintain fallow land and cars are forbidden to drive in thecampsite, etc. In the future, the campsite wants to develop solarenergy.

For more information on the Héliomonde campsite:

www.heliomonde.fr

Rivendale – England The English campsite Rivendale (p.309, 2010 Site Directory) haswon 11 David Bellamy Awards, a prize that rewards conservationefforts on English campsites. Water recycling, energy savings,the promotion of local products, biodiversity, etc are taken intoaccount for these awards. Buildings are heated by a stove whichuses wood scraps, almost all food is purchased within a 20 kmradius of the campsite and a pond has been dug to encouragethe return of certain wild life and plants, as well as other measures.

For more information about the Rivendale Campsite:

www.rivendalecaravanpark.co.uk

De Luttenberg

Sérignan Plage Nature

Rivendale

Les Gorges du Chambon

Kawan Village Le Couspeau

River Dart Country Park

De Luttenberg

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 41

3 Seasons - 44

R A L LY

w

CAMPING CHEQUE INVITES ITS GOLD CARD CLIENTS TO A 12 DAY RALLY THROUGH THE SOUTH-WEST OF FRANCE

Gold Card Rally: Heritage, culture and gastronomy

FOR SEVERAL YEARS, CAMPING

CHEQUE SUSPENDED THE

RALLIES THAT HAD BEEN KEY

TO ITS SUCCESS IN THE EARLY

YEARS. FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL

RALLY, EXCLUSIVELY RESERVED

TO ITS GOLD CARD CUSTOMERS,

CAMPING CHEQUE AND 3

CAMPSITES OF THE NETWORK

ARE REVISITING THIS TRADITION

AND INVITE YOU TO A 12 DAY

DISCOVERY OF THE CHARMS

OF SOUTH WEST FRANCE.

BE TEMPTED!

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 42

R A L LY w

3 Seasons - 45

KAWAN VILLAGE LE TALOUCH > CAMPING LES Ô KIR I > CAMPING CÔTE D’ARGENT LABENNE OCÉAN

T hose who knew the CampingCheque rallies a few yearsago and their predecessors,

the French Flavour Holidays, knowthat what made the charm of therallies was a clever mix of culture,heritage and good food, with awarm atmosphere which favourscontact. For this Gold Card rally, we have decided to go back to the traditional formula with a 12day programme full of visits andtastings and to do that we havedecided to take you to South-westFrance, in the Gers, Landes andAtlantic areas.

As always, the programme willinclude fascinating visits, includingthe discovery of beautiful townsand sites such as Auch, a medievaltown listed as a UNESCO worldheritage site, the Flarans Abbey,Pau and the Spanish town of SanSebastian, as well as walks inauthentic landscapes such as theJurançon vineyards and Cantabriain the North of Spain.

Of course these visits will be livened up by tastings of local products (Armagnac, Jurançon, goat'scheese, etc.), picnics, traditional mealsin the campsite restaurants and eventssuch as Bearn songs. However, thehighlight of this rally will be thetime you spend with the owners ofthe 3 campsites which have decidedto welcome you. They will sharetheir passion of their regions andtheir good humour will rub off onyou. After 12 days, you will have ahead full of memories and plentyof new friends with whom you canshare your next holiday.

Stage 1

Kawan Village le Talouch

31 May 2010 6h00 pm welcome with ownersand presentation of the rest ofthe programme.

01 June 2010 09.00 am departure by coach foran exploration of the vines andthe heritage of Jurançon: tour ofPau, walk in the vineyards, tastingsin a wine cellar, lunch with awine grower for a traditionalmeal, visit of the Saint Girons de Monein church. In the evening, discover theBearn regional songs

02 June 201009.00 am departure bycoach for a pastoral trip inthe Pyrenees: discovery ofthe Soulor peak (1474

Stage 2

Campingles Ô Kiri

Auch

27 May 20107.00 pm welcome drink with ownersand presentation of the programme.

28 May 20102.30 pm Departure by coach fora tour of the Gers region. You willtravel through this beautiful areausing the historical back roads.You will discover, amongst others,the Lavardens castle, the Montluccastle and its cellars (tasting ofregional produce), the Flaransabbey, the Cassaigne castle cellarwith tasting of the Floc de Gascogne(speciality made from wine inmid-fermentation), Larressingle,the “little Carcassonne”, etc.

29 May 2010In the afternoon you can visit thetown centre of old town of Auch,the historical capital of Gascony.For dinner and the evening, youwill be welcomed in the farm-guesthouse “Le Cousteau” in SaintLary for an authentic Gascony meal.

30 May 2010Free day.

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 43

morning, typical lunch in a ciderfactory in Usurbil and return viathe Cantabria coast with a stopin the traditional village ofGetaria to discover one of theoldest villages in the region.

06 June 201008.30 am Day in the coach in the Haute Lande area withvisits of the resinous productworkshop in Luxey, a monumentto the industrial heritage of the19th century, the Sabres railwaystation and the Marquèze eco-museum, lunch in Marquèzeand the discovery of the ruralsociety in Grande Lande area(miller, baker, cow herds, sheep folds, mills, etc.)

07 June 2010Free day. For dinner you are invited to a grand meal for theend of the Rally in thecampsite restaurant. n

3 Seasons - 46

R A L LY

w

KAWAN VILLAGE LE TALOUCH > CAMPING LES Ô KIR I > CAMPING CÔTE D’ARGENT LABENNE OCÉAN

metres), picnic lunch in theopen, on the banks of a lake,visit of a goat farm with tastingof goats cheese, etc. For dinner, you will be welcomedin the campsite restaurant for agourmet meal with local producefrom Bearn followed by Karaoke.

03 June 2010Free day.

04 June 2010At the start of the evening youwill be invited for a cocktail withtapas by the owners and NicoleCasati from Camping ChequeGold Card, who will then staywith you for the last part of theRally.

05 June 2010 09.00 am Departure by coachfor San Sebastian (Spain).Guided visit of the town in the

Stage 3

Camping Côte d'ArgentLabenne Océan

PRICE AND BOOKINGS

Prices: 878€ per crew (2 people) + 12 paperor digital Camping cheques 439€ per person + 12 paper or digitalCamping cheques. All the services offered in the framework of the programme areincluded in the package. For your coach visitsand trips, you will be met on the campsiteby a guide. Everything is planned and organised.For a detailed programme, check out thewebsite www.campingcheque.com or contactus at the address below.

Our prices do not include:The provision of camper van or caravanequipment, meals and visits not planned inthe programme, road expenses (fuel, tolls andothers), cancellation and travel interruptioninsurance.

To book:KAWAN GROUP / CAMPING CHEQUEGOLD CARD Rally 16, Route de Louhans71330 SIMARDFRANCE

By telephone 0825 740 730 (0.15€ a minute)from France or +33 359 59 03 59 from abroad.

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 44

C A M P I N G C H E Q U E F O R U M

w

a place to relax

campingcheque.com

forumYou have been asking us to improve the Camping Cheque forum for a long time,making it more interactive and instructive. After several weeks of delay for which we dosincerly apologize,Camping Cheque has created a new forum on its new website, whichwill allow you to express yourself and freely discuss topics that are important to you.

To be sure that the Camping Cheque forum keeps itsintegrity, we will select a few moderators in eachlanguage. Gold Card Members, knowledgeable aboutthe Camping Cheque formula, enjoying discussion onforums and spending time on the Internet? If you wishto help us and become a moderator on the CampingCheque forum, please send an e-mail to:

[email protected]

PLEASE APPLY

Campsites in the networkFavourite campsite? Camping, country by country

Motorhome forumModels, technical, classified ads

Caravan forumModels, technical, classified ads

Before you leaveDiscuss equipment, accessories, organisation,routes...

Leaving together, exchange, the camping spiritRally announcements, events and good deals

The caféGeneral discussion

c a m p i n g c h e q u e . c o m

You can openyour own threadin the topics andreact to otherm e s s a g e s

TOPICS:

3 Seasons - 47

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 45

Gold CardG O L D C A R D

w

TheNEW OFFER

Leisure

FRANCE – MORBIHAN

T he Gold Card allows you to

benefit from manyadvantages:a subscription to theCamping Cheque SiteDirectory and the 3 Seasonsmagazine, payment facilities,loyalty points, specialoffers in campsites, etc.Since we strive toconstantly increase ouroffers, we have compileda plethora of tourismspecial deals that wehope will satisfy you. Youcan indeed benefit from preferential priceson our selection by simplyshowing your CampingCheque Gold Card. Youwill find the details ofthese tourist offers onthese pages… Don't hesitate to go there totake advantage of thenew benefits on offerbrought to you by yourGold Card throughout the low season.

3 Seasons - 48

Campsites nearby: Le Ty Nadan (p.61, 2010 Site Directory), Kawan Village Le Moustoir(p.62), Mané Guernehué (p.63), La Ferme de Lann Hoëdic (p.64), Camping des Iles(p.65), KawanVillage Château du Deffay (p.66), Airotel la Roseraie (p.67) and LaTabardière (p.68).

LA COMPAGNIE DES ILES The Compagnie des Iles invites you on a cruise…

Sail between the small islands that populate the Golfe du Morbihan - Ile aux Moines andIle d'Arz. Enjoy the mellow countryside to be explored on the Etel River. Explore the islandsin the open sea - Belle-Ile en Mer, Ile de Houat and Ile de Hoëdic, Ile de Groix, etc.

The pleasure craft of the Compagnie des Iles (from 140 to 250 passengers) are suitable for cruisesfor the whole family, with interior lounge, twindecks, etc.

Many ports of departure:

In Loire-Atlantique: Le Croisic and La TurballeMorbihan:Port-Navalo, Vannes, Locmariaquer,Quiberon, Etel, LocmiquelicFinistère: Doëlan

10% reduction on crossings to all destinations

of the Compagnie des Iles and theCompagnie NAVIX (excluding meals)on presentation of your Gold Card.Offer valid only at the company'sticket offices and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion.

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 46

3 Seasons - 49

G O L D C A R D

w

G O L D C A R D

w

REMINDER OF THE OFFERS PRESENTED IN THELAST PUBLICATIONS OF 3 SEASONS MAGAZINE

France - Val de Loire

LES BAINS DOUCHES50% off the swimming pool, saunaand exercise machines and 10%off massages and treatments.

HÔTEL RESTAURANT GEORGES SAND10% off the menu (excluding theday menu).

LE CHÂTEAU DU CLOS LUCE -LE PRIEURÉ10% off the "Escriptau des Metz"Renaissance discovery menu.

CHÂTEAU DE CHAMBORD -L'HOSTEL DU PRINCE10% off the "Escriptau des Metz"Renaissance discovery menu.

ATTELAGE PLAISIRHorse-drawn carriage rides:- Family offer: For every 2 adulttickets, get 2 children's tickets for free;- Couple/individuals offer: 20%discount for a 2-hour outing;Outing on horse-back (or a lesson):- 13€/hr per person (instead of 15€);- 25€/2hr (instead of 28€)Training course:- 20% discount for a 2nd person onall the courses.

ZOOPARC DE BEAUVAL1 poster-gift for free (for a valueof 3€ in the Zoo's shop space).

CHÂTEAU DU GUE-PEAN5€ instead of 6.50€ for the visit ofthe chateau.

VAL TOUR AIR10% reduction on all the services.

CHÂTEAU DE TROUSSAYReduced price of 4€ instead of5.50€ for the visit of the chateau.

RESERVE DE BEAUMARCHAIS5,50€/person instead of 6.50€(for the GC bearer and thoseaccompanying him) + 1 free drinkfor those eating at the inn.

DOMAINE DE LA CARTE10% off the Green Fee (week-week-end). / 1 bucket purchased=1 bucket free / Lessons: Golf forbeginners 35€/person and memberprices for all the other teachingproducts.

CHATEAU DE VALLAGONTrail horse ride 28.80€ instead of32€ per hour / family trail ride ina horse drawn carriage 40.50€instead of 45€/h.

LES VAUCORNEILLES5% off for cash payment of allpurchases of wine (bottled andbag in box) -excluding promotionaloffers-.

SA PAUL BUISSE10% off the "wine" price list.

CHATEAU DE JALLANGESA complimentary rose-flavouredhouse cocktail is offered to eachGold Card bearer.

THE CELLAR AND THE MUSH-ROOM FARM OF LES ROCHESSingle visit: 5.50€ (instead of 6,50€)/Both visits: 9€ (instead of 10.50€)- a complementary welcome drinkfor reservations of 20 people andfor Gold Card bearers.

CHATEAU DE BEAUREGARDAdmission fee to the chateau 5€instead of 7€.

CHATEAU DU MOULINAdmission to the guided tour of theinterior and exterior at the reducedprice of 7€ instead of 8€.

CHATEAU DE VILLESAVINGuided tour at 6.10€ instead of7.50€ / free exterior visit at 4.60€instead of 6€.

LES CAVES DUHARD5% off purchases of wines or 1free bottle of rosé, wine of theseason, or a fixed rate for the"Gastronomy" tasting of cheesesand wines of the Loire at 7€instead of 10.50€/person (onreservation).

LOISIRS LOIRE VALLEYGroup admission rate for Archeryand Quad activities.

LA BELANDRE10% reduction on the followingtours: tour with restaurant (2h30)and sightseeing tour (50 mins) atChenonceaux, sightseeing tour(50 mins) at Amboise.

DOMAINE DE RABELAISA gift for bearers of a Gold Cardor 5% reduction for all purchasesgreater than or equal to 25€, 10%for all purchases greater than orequal to 50€, 15% for all purchasesgreater than or equal to 100€.

LA MAGNANERIEReduced prices: 6€ (adults) and3,50€ (children).

LES TRAÎNEURS DE LOIRESurrey package: 1 surrey = 14€(1 surrey with extension = 18€) /Rowing boat package: 2 people =10€, 3 people = 12€ / 4 to 5 people= 14€ / Motorboat package: 3 people = 12€, 4 to 5 people =14€ / Picnic: 9€ per person.

DOMAINE DES THÔMEAUX10% reduction on beauty care (apartfrom "relaxation pass"), the spa andFantasy Forest park activities.

Campsites nearby:Kawan Village La Grande Tortue(p.74)Les Cochards (p.76)Kawan Village La Citadelle (p.77)Airotel La Mignardière (p.78)

© C.

Mouto

n - C

RT C

entre

© E.

Mang

eat -

CRT

Centr

e

© C.

Mouto

n - C

RT C

entre

© C.

Mouto

n - C

RT C

entre

...

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 47

G O L D C A R D

w

G O L D C A R D

w3 Seasons - 50

REMINDER OF THE OFFERS PRESENTED IN THELAST PUBLICATIONS OF 3 SEASONS MAGAZINE

For more information on these special offers,check out our website www.campingcheque.com.(“Gold Card Leisure”section). To help us offereven more special deals,you can suggest s i tes by sending an email tothe following address: [email protected].

Your opinion counts andwe will take note of yourcomments.

France - Savoie

LA COMPAGNIE DES BÂTEAUXdu Lac du Bourget et du HautRhôneOffers leaving from Aix-les-Bains:Return cruise to Hautecombe: 11.25€(instead of 12.50€) / Tour of theLake (1,30hrs): 12.15€ (instead of13.50€) / For lunch/dinner: 1 childfree for one paying adult, the captain's drink free at the end ofthe meal, free birthday cake.

DOMAINE MONIN5% reduction on the wines.

Campsite nearby:Camping du Lac du Lit du Roi(p.209)

France - Lorraine

SIMSERHOFAdult admission: 10€ instead of12€ / Children's admission: 7€instead of 8€.

Campsites nearby:Ohmbachsee (p.389)Kawan Village FreizeitzentrumSägmühle (p.390)

France - Bretagne

THALASSOL PERROS GUIREC 10% off all thalassotherapy services.

Campsites nearby:Le Neptune Lanloup (p.139) Camping De Trologot (p.55)

France - Pyrénées

THALASSOL PORT-BARCARES10% off all thalassotherapy services.

Campsites nearby:Kawan Village Le Haras (p.131)Kawan Village Ma Prairie (p.132)

France - Italy

SNCMMinimum 35% reduction on allprice components: passengers,cabins, vehicles as well as specialvehicles (caravans, motorhomes,etc.).

Italy - Toscana

GROTTA DEL VENTOWhatever itinerary you choose,Gold Card holders benefit fromgroup prices.

Campsites nearby:Argegna (p.497), Kawan VillageToscana Village (p.500).

Spain -Costa DauradaCENTRE MIRO DE MONT-ROIGDEL CAMP20% of the admission price -With the Gold Card, enjoy "theMiró landscapes" for only 8€ perperson! - The package includesthe hire of a bicycle for a day andadmission to the Miró Centre.

Campsites nearby:Torre del Sol (p.586)Cambris Park (p.585)

Germany

M & M CUT2€ discount on all cuts.

Camping à proximité :Am Hohen Hagen (p.385)

SCHUHHAUS MIELENHAUSENWith the Gold Card, there is a10% discount on all purchasesover 50€.

Campsite nearby:Am Hohen Hagen (p.385)

HERBORT10% discount on all wallet orpurse purchases.


UHRENHAUS HARTMANNChange of battery at 5.50€/unit.


WeserberglandRESTAURANT & CAFE“GAUSSTURM”For all GoldCard members, at theend of the meal, Florian Beister orConny Grabner will offer you aspeciality for the coffee.


Germany (Lower Saxony)VOGELPARK WALSRODEAdult ticket: 11€ instead of 14€Child ticket: 7€ instead of 9€.

Campsites nearby:Camping Hanseat (p.373)Ferienpark Heidesee (p.374)Campingpark Hüttensee (p.376)Camping Aller-Leine-Tal (p.375)

Austria - CarentieAQUARENA25% off entry to the water park.

Campsite nearby:Alpencamp (p.457)

UK-04-10-48 pages.qxd 25/03/10 10:18 Page 48

G O L D C A R D w

3 Seasons - 51

USE OF YOUR GOLD CARD

KNOW THE REMAININGCHEQUE BALANCE

ON THE CARD THE LOYALTY POINTS

1

2

3

45

6

FIRST RECEIPT

SECOND RECEIPT

1. Purchase. I order my digital CampingCheques from my customary agent, statingthat I am a Gold Card holder. My cheques are then credited onto my customeraccount, waiting to be downloaded ontoyour Gold Card via the payment terminal. This transaction takes place on the first campsite visited.

2. Downloading. On arrival at a CampingCheque member campsite, I request thedownloading of my digital CampingCheques. I will be handed a ticket stating mybalance; my digital cheques are now readyto be used for payment.

3. Payment. When it is time to pay for yourstay, my Gold Card is inserted in the paymentterminal, which will in turn debit the numberof Camping Cheques due. I will receive a transaction receipt on which my CampingCheque balance is indicated. My LoyaltyPoints are credited on to the Gold Card.

All the information you need is printed onthe receipts which the campsite will give youwhen you pay for your stay.

FIRST RECEIPT: DEBIT RECEIPT

Gold Card no.

Balance before debit

Balance after debit

Surname

First name

SECOND RECEIPT

Total balance on the card6

5

4

3

2

1

1. Earning the Points. I earn Loyalty Points exclusively with mydigital Camping Cheques.

2. Collecting the Points. You are no lon-ger required to present your Gold Card atthe campsite to collect Loyalty Points; theyare, in effect, automatically credited witheach night spent on a Camping Chequecampsite.

3. Earning Bonus Points. Two rules applyhere: 6 Camping Cheques used on the same campsite earns 7 LoyaltyPoints; 11 cheques earns 14 points (6=7,11=14).

UK_COUV_MAG04-10.qxd 24/03/10 17:13 Page 3

Luxury mobile-home and chalet rentals141 high-end campsites(France, Italy, Spain, Croatia, etc.)

www.holiday-cheque.com

Your loved ones would like to join you at a campsite? Or would you like to go on a holiday with your grand children?

Keep the HOLIDAY CHEQUE Formula in mind!

Up to

rebates duringthe low season

60%NEW:

from only 2 nights

Call us for a quote(from Great Britain) (from another country)

01580 214004 00333 59 59 03 59

UK_COUV_MAG04-10.qxd 24/03/10 17:13 Page 4

3 seasons 04-2010 uk

Documents

depthour campsites

gold card clientsa

gold card customers

gold card rally heritage

gold card special offers

campsites ineurope

environmentour campsites

camping chequeand