2014 - Alan Rogers The Best Campsites 2013 Award Winners

digital guide

2014 the best campsites

2013 Award Winners

Contents

The Alan Rogers Awards The Alan Rogers Campsite Awards were launched in 2004 and have proved a great success. Our awards have a broad scope and before committing to our winners, we carefully consider more than 3,000 campsites featured in our guides, taking into account comments from our site assessors, our head office team and, of course, our readers.

Our award winners come from the four corners of Europe, from southern Spain to Croatia, and this year we are making awards to campsites in 13 different countries.

Needless to say, it’s an extremely difficult task to choose our eventual winners, but we believe that we have identified a number of campsites with truly outstanding characteristics.

In each case, we have selected an outright winner, along with two highly commended runners-up. Listed in this guide are full details of each of our award categories and our winners for 2013.

The Alan Rogers Award Presentation The Vakantiebeurs in Utrecht is Europe’s largest holiday exhibition open to the public.

It attracts over 170,000 visitors and is the ideal occasion to present our Alan Rogers Campsite Awards.

Our award ceremony is well attended by campsite owners from the four corners of Europe, along with many other interested parties. Since their launch in 2004, the Alan Rogers Campsite Awards have grown in status and now occupy a unique place in camping/caravanning. Our ceremony provides an invaluable and convivial forum for us to acknowledge the best of the best.

For more information about campsites across Europe visit www.alanrogers.com

While every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of the information given in this book, no liability can be accepted by the authors or publishers for any loss, damage or injury caused by errors in, or omissions from, the information given.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission in writing from the publishers.

© Alan Rogers Travel Ltd 2014

Progress Award

4

Welcome Award

6

Active Holiday Award

8

Innovation Award

10

Small Campsite Award

12

Seaside Award

14

Country Award

16

Family Site Award

18

Readers’ Award

20

Special Award

21

3

Alan Rogers Progress Award 2013

Alan Rogers Progress Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Alan Rogers Progress Award

Alan Rogers Progress Award

This award reflects the hard work and commitment undertaken by particular site owners to improve and upgrade their site.

Camping Elbsee Am Elbsee 3, D-87648 Aitrang (Bavaria (S)) T: 083 432 48. E: camping@elbsee.de

alanrogers.com/DE36720

Marjal Costa Blanca Eco Camping Resort Partida de las Casicas, 5, AP7 exit 730 (Catral-Crevillente), E-03330 Crevillente (Alacant) T: 965 484 945. E: camping@marjalcostablanca.com alanrogers.com/ES87435

Marjal Costa Blanca is a new, fully equipped site situated 15 km. inland on the southern Alicante coast, close to the town of Crevillente and the Parque Natural de El Hondo. The 1,432 hardstanding pitches range in size from 90-180 sq.m, and all have electricity (16A), water, drainage, TV and WiFi connections. On-site amenities include a tropical themed swimming pool complex and a state-of-the-art wellness centre.

There is full disabled access, including at the swimming pool and staffed gym. There is accommodation for rent, including 16 Balinese-style bungalows adapted for disabled visitors. The site is a major new initiative and ideal for both family holidays in summer and for winter sun-seekers. The site’s principal restaurant, Marjal Plaza, is open all year and, during summer months, features a buffet with fresh, local produce. The site has been developed along very strict environmental guidelines. More than 7,000 mulberry trees have been planted and every effort has been made to conserve resources and use sustainable materials. Activities are organised for all ages – Spanish lessons, tap dancing, quiz night, bingo etc. For younger campers there is a children’s club, led by the site’s mascot, Marjalita.

This site is attractively situated in the foothills of the Alps on land sloping down to a lake with a backdrop of mountains.

Together with its associated hotel, it has been developed into a first class, family run site with good, modern facilities. All of the 120 touring pitches have 16A electricity and fresh and waste water connections. The grass and gravel pitches are level, some are on terraces and some are shaded by trees.

A range of interesting activities are provided, particularly for children, including painting, pony riding and entertainment programmes in summer. Next to the site is a municipal supervised lake bathing area with a kiosk selling drinks and snacks, a playground and an indoor play area. Entrance to this is at a reduced price for campers. This area is not well known to tourists, so with this in mind, there is a wealth of information about the region in reception.

Facilities

Directions

Two well appointed, well maintained, heated sanitary blocks include free showers, washbasins all in cabins, a children’s bathroom area and family bathrooms to rent. Facilities for disabled visitors. Dog shower.

Motorcaravan service point. Shop (order bread for following day). New playground, indoor play area and activity rooms. TV, games and meeting rooms. Sports field. Fishing. Bicycle hire. Riding. Boat launching.

Activity programme (20/7-31/8). WiFi over site (charged).

Off site: At hotel: a good restaurant, takeaway and bar.

Shop and ATM 2 km. Golf 12 km. Cycling. Rambling.

Site is 36 km. NNW of Füssen. From centre of Marktoberdorf, take minor road northwest to Ruderatshofen and from there minor road west towards Aitrang/Elbsee. Just south of Aitrang, site is signed to south of road. The road to site (2 km) is winding and narrow in places.

GPS: 47.80277, 10.55343

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons incl. electricity (plus meter) extra person

€ 22.10 - € 26.20 € 6.60 - € 7.60

Open: All year.

Facilities

Directions

Six modern, spotlessly clean toilet blocks have washbasins and free showers in cabins. Facilities for children, babies and disabled visitors. Well equipped shop. Bar, restaurant and takeaway (all year). Swimming pool complex with outdoor pool (all year), heated indoor pool (all year), sauna and hammam. Fully equipped gym.

Wellness centre. Hairdresser. Play areas. Games rooms.

Library. Multisports courts. Minigolf. Tennis. Football.

Entertainment and activity programme. Business centre.

Bicycle hire. Car hire service. Doctor and vet. Free WiFi.

Take the southbound A7 coastal motorway until you reach the fork close to Elche-Crevillente. Continue on AP7 towards Cartagena, take exit 730 (Catral) and follow signs to site. GPS: 38.177901, -0.809504

Open: All year.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and all services (plus meter) extra person child (4-12 yrs) dog Camping Cheques accepted.

Camping Krk Politin bb, HR-51500 Krk (Kvarner) T: 051 221 351. E: camping@valamar.com

€ 26.00 - € 45.00 € 4.00 - € 7.00 € 3.00 - € 5.00 € 1.50 - € 2.20

alanrogers.com/CR6758 This is an attractive site in a secluded hillside setting on the wooded peninsula of Prniba, quite close to the centre of Krk. On arrival you are assured of a good welcome from the staff, who speak good English. There are 342 clearly defined and well spaced out touring pitches, mostly on level sandy terraces, all with 10A electricity, and ranging in size from 70-110 sq.m. Of these, 130 plots are fully serviced and include 96 with satellite TV connection. There are also 55 seasonal pitches that do not impinge on the touring units. The site has an open feel to it with flowers, shrubs and grasses being allowed to develop naturally.

It has its own Blue Flag accredited private beach, and for those seeking some degree of solitude there is little need to venture out of the site. An attractive restaurant with a large outside terrace is a focal point and provides a good selection of food at reasonable prices. Snacks, drinks and takeaway foods are also available at the separate Beach Bar. Boat trips to the neighbouring islands of Rab and Cres are possible and can be arranged on site.

Facilities

Directions

Two sanitary blocks are clean and well decorated and provide very good toilets, hot showers and washbasins plus dishwashing facilities. Restaurant, bar and shop (all 1/5-30/9). Tennis. Playground. Children’s activity programme (May-Sept). Fishing. Boat launching. Sailing.

Free WiFi to most of site. New, spacious mobile homes for rent. Payphones at reception. Outdoor pool. Saunas.

Off site: Fitness centre 1.5 km. Sports centre 2 km.

Krk town centre. Buses from Krk serve other towns on the island.

Cross toll bridge from mainland to island of Krk, head for island’s capital, Krk (28 km). On arrival head to first traffic junction and turn right. After 500 m. turn left (beyond petrol station). Continue on this road for 800 m. to site. Site is well signed.

GPS: 45.02440, 14.59280

Open: April - September.

4

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (4-18 yrs)

€ 22.50 - € 35.50 € 5.40 - € 8.60 free - € 4.15

5

Alan Rogers Welcome Award 2013

Alan Rogers Welcome Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Alan Rogers Welcome Award

Alan Rogers Welcome Award

This award takes account of sites offering a particularly friendly welcome and maintaining a friendly ambience throughout readers’ holidays.

Sites et Paysages les Saules Les Saules, F-41700 Cheverny (Loir-et-Cher) T: 02 54 79 90 01.

E: contact@camping-cheverny.com alanrogers.com/FR41100

Camping De Paal Paaldreef 14, NL-5571 TN Bergeijk (Noord-Brabant) T: 0497 571 977. E: info@depaal.nl

alanrogers.com/NL5970 A really first class, family run campsite, De Paal is especially suitable for families with children up to ten years old, and in low season those seeking a quality, peaceful site. Situated in 42 hectares of woodland, there are 580 touring pitches, (up to 150 sq.m). The pitches are numbered and in meadows, separated by trees, with cars parked mainly on dedicated parking areas. All have 6A electricity, TV, water, drainage and a bin. There are 60 pitches with private sanitary facilities some of which are partly underground and attractively covered with grass and flowers. Sixteen newer pitches have a kitchen, accommodation for sleeping and sanitary facilities, again partly underground. Each group of pitches has a small playground; additionally, there is a large adventure playground, more like a small desert. There is a large barn play area for wet weather. In high season, a team provides entertainment. The indoor heated pool consists of play pools for babies and children, with a deeper one for parents. The heated outdoor and toddlers pools are also shallow. Maps can be purchased in reception showing the many walking and cycling opportunities in this attractive area.

Facilities

Directions

High quality sanitary facilities are ultra modern, including wash cabins, family rooms and baby baths, all with lots of space. Facilities for disabled visitors.

Launderette. Motorcaravan services. Underground supermarket. Restaurant (high season), bar and snack bar (all season). Indoor pool (all season, supervised in high season). Outdoor pool (May-Sept). Tennis. Play areas. Theatre. WiFi (charged). Bicycle hire. Pet zoo.

Off site: Tennis complex with indoor and outdoor courts (Sept-May) and pleasant lounge bar. Riding and covered wagons for hire 500 m. Fishing 4 km.

Golf 12 km. Bakery museum.

From E34 Antwerpen-Eindhoven road take exit 32 (Eersel) and follow signs for Bergeijk and site (2 km. from town). GPS: 51.33635, 5.35552

Open: Easter/1 April - 31 October.

Set in the heart of the château region, les Saules has developed into a popular, friendly campsite run by a local family. The well renovated, traditional reception buildings in their lakeside setting give a very pleasant welcome. There are 164 good size, level pitches with 149 available for touring units. All have shade from the many trees on the site, and electrical connections (a few will require leads longer than 25 m), and there are ample water taps. A large, grassy field provides room for youngsters to play safely. There are many designated cycle paths and walking circuits in the area, often linking châteaux through attractive, sleepy countryside. Cheverny, just a five minute cycle ride away, is considered to have the best interior and furnishings of all the châteaux in the Loire region, and many others are within easy reach (Chambord, Chenonceau, Chaumont and more).

Facilities

Directions

Two sanitary blocks with toilets, showers, washbasins in cubicles and facilities for disabled visitors. Laundry facilities. Motorcaravan service point. Gas supplies.

Shop. Restaurant (July/Aug). Bar. Snack bar and takeaway. Swimming and paddling pools. TV/social room with toys, board games, books. Two play areas. Large grass area for ball games. Minigolf (free).

Fishing. Bicycle hire. Internet and WiFi. Off site: Golf and riding 3 km.

From Cheverny take D102 south towards Contres.

Site is on the right after 2 km.

GPS: 47.478003, 1.450842

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (4-10 yrs) dog

€ 20.00 - € 33.50 € 4.50 € 2.00 € 2.00

Open: 1 April - 20 September.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and services € 31.00 - € 49.00 extra person € 4.00 - € 5.00 dog € 5.00 Discounts outside 5/7-16/8 daily 30%, over 7 days 35%, (over 55s 45% for more than 7 days).

Balatontourist Camping Napfény Halász ut. 5, H-8253 Révfülöp (Veszprem County) T: 87 563 031. E: napfeny@balatontourist.hu

alanrogers.com/HU5370 Camping Napfény, an exceptionally good site, is designed for families with children of all ages looking for an active holiday, and has a 200 m. frontage on Lake Balaton. The site’s 370 pitches vary in size (60-110 sq.m) and almost all have shade – very welcome during the hot Hungarian summers – and 6-10A electricity. As with most of the sites on Lake Balaton, a train line runs just outside the site boundary. There are steps to get into the lake and canoes, boats and pedaloes for hire. An extensive entertainment programme is designed for all ages and there are several bars and restaurants. There are souvenir shops and a supermarket. In fact, you need not leave the site at all during your holiday, although there are several excursions on offer, including to Budapest or to one of the many Hungarian spas, a trip over Lake Balaton or a traditional wine tour.

Facilities

Directions

The three excellent, well equipped sanitary blocks have child-size toilets and washbasins. Two bathrooms (hourly charge). Heated baby room. Facilities for disabled campers. Launderette. Motorcaravan services.

Dog shower. Supermarket, souvenir shop and several bars (all 1/6-31/8). Restaurants. Children’s pool (1/6-31/8). Massage. Hairdresser. Sports field. Minigolf.

Fishing. Bicycle hire. Canoe, rowing boat and pedalo hire. Entertainment. WiFi throughout (one free zone, elsewhere charged). Off site: Riding 3 km. Golf 20 km.

Follow road 71 from Veszprém southeast to Keszthely. Site is in Révfülöp.

GPS: 46.829469, 17.640164

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (2-14 yrs) dog Camping Cheques accepted.

HUF 3750 HUF 900 HUF 550 HUF 550

-

7300 1250 1000 1000

Open: 25 April - 28 September.

6

7

Alan Rogers Active Holiday Award 2013

Alan Rogers Active Holiday Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Camping Seiser Alm Saint Konstantin 16, I-39050 Völs am Schlern (Trentino - Alto Adige) T: 047 170 6459.

E: info@camping-seiseralm.com alanrogers.com/IT62040

Südsee-Camp Südsee-Camp 1, D-29649 Wietzendorf (Lower Saxony) T: 051 969 80116.

E: info@suedsee-camp.de alanrogers.com/DE30700

Südsee-Camp in the Lüneburger Heide is a large, well organised holiday centre where children are especially well catered for.

Südsee has its own brochures that include walking, cycling and car tours. There are 488 touring pitches of varying types and sizes, 350 with electricity and fresh water and drainage; 250 of these have a TV connection. Modern sanitary blocks are well maintained and contain all necessary facilities, including some areas specially built for children. Although centred around a large sandy shored lake, complete with shipwreck, the main swimming attraction is the South Sea Tropical swimming pool.

This large, well designed, glass-roofed complex has pools of different sizes with slides, whirlpools and a pirate ship as well as a sauna, steam bath, sun benches and roof terrace.

Adjoining is an outdoor pool. There is a full range of entertainment facilities and programmes for children of all ages. The campsite organises excursions to many interesting locations within the region. Next to the site is a riding school. Reception has a wide range of tourist information brochures and good English is spoken, with the staff only too happy to help and advise. A member of Leading Campings group.

Facilities

Directions

Twelve modern, well maintained sanitary blocks with all the expected facilities, including those for disabled visitors and private bathrooms to rent. Hot showers need a token. Special areas for children (Kinderland), facilities for babies. Laundry rooms. Kitchens. Choice of bars, restaurants and snack bars. Pool complex (on payment). Soundproofed disco. Fitness room.

Bicycle and pedal car hire. Games room. WiFi over part of site (charged). Climbing wall. Jungle golf. Overnight parking outside site. Off site: Riding adjacent. Fishing 2 km. Golf 12 km.

From A7 autobahn take exit 45 towards Bergen and Celle on the B3 (campsite is signed). After 6 km. turn left (site again signed). GPS: 52.931639, 9.965254

Open: All year.

What an amazing experience awaits you at Seiser Alm! Elisabeth and Erhard Mahlknecht have created a superb site in the magnificent Südtirol region of the Dolomite mountains.

Towering peaks provide a wonderful backdrop when you dine in the charming, traditional-style restaurant on the upper terrace. Here you will also find the bar, shop and reception.

The 150 touring pitches are of a very high standard with 16A electricity supply, 120 with gas, water, drainage and satellite connections. Guests were delighted with the site when we visited, many coming to walk or cycle, some just to enjoy the area. There are countless things to see and do here. Enjoy the grand 18-hole golf course alongside the site or join the organised excursions and activities. Local buses and cable cars provide an excellent service for summer visitors and skiers alike (discounts are available). In keeping with the natural setting, the majority of the luxury facilities are set into the hillside. A family play park with an enclosure of tame rabbits is at the lower part of the site where goats also roam. If you wish for quiet, quality camping in a crystal clean environment, then visit this immaculate site.

Facilities

Directions

One luxury underground block is in the centre of the site. 16 private units are available. Excellent facilities for disabled visitors. Fairytale facilities for children. Washing machines and large drying room. Sauna. Supermarket.

Quality restaurant and bar with terrace. Entertainment programme. Miniclub. Children’s adventure park and play room. Special rooms for ski equipment. Torches useful. WiFi (charged). Apartments and mobile homes for rent. Off site: Riding alongside site. Golf 1 km.

From A22-E45 take Bolzano Nord exit. Take road for Prato Isarco/Blumau, then road for Fie/Völs. Road divides suddenly – do not miss the left fork as you enter a tunnel. Enjoy the climb to Völs am Schlern and site is well signed. GPS: 46.53344, 11.53335

Open: All year excl. 2 November - 20 December.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons extra person child (2-16 yrs) electricity (per kWh)

€ 21.10 - € 37.90 € 7.00 - € 10.20 € 3.60 - € 8.10 € 0.60

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (2-18 yrs) dog

€ 21.80 - € 51.50 € 4.20 - € 5.20 € 2.70 - € 4.20 € 2.70 - € 3.70

Kamp Koren Kobarid Ladra 1b, SLO-5222 Kobarid T: 053 891 311. E: info@kamp-koren.si

alanrogers.com/SV4270 Superbly run by its owner, Lidija Koren, this peaceful, well shaded site is located above the Soca river gorge in the countryside close to Kobarid. A small site with 90 pitches, it is deservedly very popular with those interested in outdoor sports, including hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, canoeing, canyoning, rafting and fishing. At the same time, its quiet location makes it a good site for those seeking a relaxing break. Six attractive, well equipped chalets are a recent addition. The Julian Alps, and in particular the Triglav National Park, is a wonderful and under-explored part of Slovenia that has much to offer. Kobarid, probably best approached via Udine in Italy, is a pleasant country town, with easy access to nearby rivers, valleys and mountains, which alone justify a visit to Kamp Koren. But most British visitors will remember it for the opportunity it provides to fill that curious gap in their knowledge of European history. The local museum in Kobarid was recently voted European Museum of the Year and is excellent.

Facilities

Directions

Two attractive and well maintained log-built toilet blocks. Facilities for disabled visitors. Laundry facilities.

Motorcaravan services. Shop (March-Nov). Café dispenses light meals, snacks and drinks apparently with flexible closing hours. Play area. Bowling. Fishing.

Bicycle hire. Canoe hire. Climbing walls. Communal barbecue. WiFi. Off site: Town within walking distance.

Riding 5 km. Golf 15 km. Guided tours in the Soca valley and around Slovenia start from the campsite.

Approaching Kobarid from Tolmin on 102, just before Kobarid turn right on 203 towards Bovec and after 100 m. take descending slip road to right and keep more or less straight on to Napoléon’s bridge (about 500 m). Cross bridge and site is on left in 100 m.

GPS: 46.25075, 13.58658

Open: All year.

8

Alan Rogers Active Holiday Award

Alan Rogers Active Holiday Award

This award reflects sites in outstanding locations which are ideally suited for active holidays, notably walking and cycling, but which could extend to include such activities as winter sports or watersports.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity dog

€ 25.00 - € 28.00 € 2.00

9

Alan Rogers Innovation Award 2013

Alan Rogers Innovation Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Camping Monte Holiday Ctra Rascafria-Lozoya km. 9, Finca El Tercio Nuevo s/n, E-28739 Gargantilla del Lozoya (Madrid) T: 918 695 278. E: monteholiday@monteholiday.com alanrogers.com/ES92120

Camping Jesolo International Viale A. da Giussano, I-30016 Lido di Jesolo (Veneto) T: 042 197 1826. E: info@jesolointernational.it

alanrogers.com/IT60370 At this brilliant family resort-style site with a focus on sporting activities, you can plan the cost of your holiday with confidence. The amazing array of on-site activities is included in the price and there are large discounts for some off-site attractions. Jesolo International is located on a beautiful promontory with 700 m. of uncrowded white sandy beach and slowly shelving waters for safe swimming. As the site is narrow, all the pitches are close to the sea. There is a choice of two types of pitch, all flat, well shaded and with 10/20A electricity, water and drainage, WiFi and satellite TV connection. Each ‘ultra’ pitch has a private bathroom. Chalet accommodation is excellent. This is said to be the first carbon neutral campsite in the world. The superb pool complex, where an excellent entertainment programme is presented each night, is centrally located and very spacious. The dynamic director, Sergio Comino, works long hours to maintain and improve this high quality, family orientated site, to combine a unique holiday experience for guests, with real value for money. As the site is community owned, profits are returned to the guests in the form of facilities, sporting opportunities and entertainment. Cleanliness, security and environmental issues are high priorities.

The Somosierra offers spectacular scenery and is very popular with Spanish skiers. This site is situated in an open, sunny lower valley, in the Madrid area’s only beech forest near a large nature reserve. The area is ideal for anglers and walkers and also offers many opportunities for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

The site is on terraces and has 308 small pitches with 100 for touring (50 with electricity 5/7A Europlug; long leads required in some areas). These pitches are mainly flat with grass or gravel surfaces and shade from mature trees, but unfortunately are very uneven. The upper area is taken by permanent units. The site has an attractive swimming pool with sunbathing areas.

The bar/restaurant offers a limited range of meals including some regional dishes. The strength of this site is the range of adventure and outdoor activities in the nearby mountains. There is horse riding in the area and skiing on the nearby slopes in winter. From here it is possible to enjoy the wonderful Somosierra mountains or even to make a short trip to Spain’s exciting capital, Madrid.

Facilities

Directions

The modern, heated and well equipped toilet block is well maintained. Facilities for disabled visitors and babies. Laundry facilities. Motorcaravan services. Shop.

Bar and fair quality restaurant (15/6-15/9, B.Hs and weekends). Swimming pool (mid June-mid Sept).

Multisports court. Tennis. Table tennis. Beach volleyball.

Play area. Gas supplies. Bicycle hire. WiFi (free).

Off site: Mountain trips, guided climbs. Fishing 1 km.

Skiing 20 minutes. Boat launching and riding 8 km.

From A1 motorway (Burgos-Madrid) take exit 69 towards Rascafria. Turn right after passing under a railway tunnel and site is on left after 800 m.

GPS: 40.949917, -3.729267

Open: All year.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (3-10 yrs) Camping Cheques accepted.

€ 27.10 - € 29.90 € 6.40 € 5.90

Facilities

Directions

Sanitary facilities include 72 modern, continually cleaned bathroom units (shower, toilet and basin) and baby rooms. Laundry facilities. Dishwashers. Motorcaravan service point. Supermarket. Family-style restaurant.

Beach bar with snacks. Pool bar serving light lunches.

Sports centre. Children’s club. Indoor gym. Tennis courts (free use and lessons). Golf (lessons and fees all free). Large grassy play area with adventure-style equipment. WiFi free. Sailing (with tuition), banana boat, canoes, pedal boats, loungers and sunshades (all free).

Doctor on site (free). Scuba diving (free; introductory lesson). Language course (free). Pony riding (free).

Pirates ship (free). Dogs are not accepted.

Off site: Ferry to Venice and Murano 200 m.

From A4 Venice-Trieste autostrada take Dona di Piave exit and follow signs to Jesolo then Punta Sabbioni. Turn off to Lido di Jesolo just before the Cavallino bridge where the site is well signed.

GPS: 45.48395, 12.58763

Vrijetijdspark Beerze Bulten

Charges guide

Kampweg 1, NL-7736 PK Beerze-Ommen (Overijssel) T: 0523 251 398. E: info@beerzebulten.nl

Open: 25 April - 29 September.

Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (1-5 yrs)

Alan Rogers Innovation Award

Alan Rogers Innovation Award

Our Innovation Award acknowledges campsites with creative and original concepts, possibly with features which are unique, and cannot therefore be found elsewhere. We have identified innovation both in campsite amenities and also in rentable accommodation.

alanrogers.com/NL5985 € 28.50 - € 59.50 € 6.00 - € 14.00 free - € 6.00

Beerze Bulten is a large leisure park with superb indoor and outdoor amenities, so you can enjoy yourself whatever the weather. A large, partly underground ‘rabbit hole’ provides a big indoor playground for children, a theatre for both indoor and outdoor shows, a buffet, a superb full wellness spa and a very large, specially designed indoor pool. Beerze Bulten has 550 pitches, mainly for touring units, but also accommodation for hire (all year). In the shade of mature woodland, all the pitches are level and numbered, and all have 10A Europlug electricity, water, drainage and TV connections. To the rear of the site is a large lake area with a sandy beach and new, adventure play equipment. As well as heated indoor and outdoor pools, a fun paddling pool, jet stream, several different saunas and a water playground, the site also offers full fitness facilities and a special salt cave treatment for those suffering from asthma or skin troubles. Beerze Bulten will provide a relaxing and active family holiday. The extensive surrounding woodland is good for walking and cycling.

Facilities

Directions

Several toilet blocks include washbasins in cabins and hot showers. Laundry. Shop. Bar and snack bar/restaurant with open-air terrace. Heated indoor and outdoor pool complex and spa centre. Multisports court. Bicycle hire. Indoor playground and theatre.

Playgrounds. WiFi over site (charged). Full entertainment team in season and school holidays. Dogs only allowed on some fields. Off site: The sand dunes, forests, juniper fields and the Vecht river of Overijssel provide opportunities for day trips.

From A28, take exit 21 (Ommen) and continue east towards Ommen. From Ommen, follow N34 northeast and turn south on N36 at crossing. Site is signed from there. GPS: 52.51139, 6.54618

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and full service pitch extra person dog

€ 23.00 - € 45.30 € 4.00 - € 5.20 € 3.50

Open: April - November.

10

11

Alan Rogers Small Campsite Award 2013

Alan Rogers Small Campsite Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Alan Rogers Small Campsite Award

Alan Rogers Small Campsite Award

This new award acknowledges excellent small campsites (less than 75 pitches) which offer a friendly welcome and top quality amenities throughout the season to their guests.

Langstone Manor Holiday Park Moortown, Tavistock PL19 9JZ (Devon) T: 01822 613371. E: jane@langstonemanor.co.uk

alanrogers.com/UK0802

Camping El Mirador de Cabañeros Canada Real Segoviana s/n, E-13110 Horcajo de Los Montes (Castilla La Mancha) T: 926 775 439.

E: info@campingcabaneros.com alanrogers.com/ES90960

With panoramic views all around of the Sierra de Valdefuertes mountains, Camping El Mirador is set in the Cabañeros National Park. This is a well cared for, landscaped site with 80 terraced pitches on gravel and all with electricity. Although level once sited, the approach is via a steep slope which may cause difficulties for larger units. Run by a very helpful and friendly family, this site is in a peaceful location where you can just sit and relax or visit the many attractions that the national park has to offer. It is an ideal base for walking and birdwatching.

Facilities

Directions

One spotlessly clean central toilet block with solar heating includes open washbasins and cubicle showers.

Facilities for disabled visitors and babies. Laundry facilities. Motorcaravan services. No shop but bread and gas available from reception. Bar and restaurant (15/6-15/9, weekends in low season). Outdoor swimming pool. Games room. Basic (unfenced) play area. Off site: Village of Horcajo de los Montes 200 m.

From north head towards Toledo. At Toledo, take CM4013 to Cuerva and pick up CM403 to El Molinillo. Turn right on CM4017 to Horcajo de los Montes. Through village onto CM4016 towards Alcoba de los Montes, past garage and up hill for 2 km. Site is on left (narrow approach).

GPS: 39.3219, -4.6495

Open: All year.

Per person child pitch electricity

Situated on the southwest edge of Dartmoor, this holiday park has been developed in the grounds of the old Langstone Manor house. The touring pitches are tucked into various garden areas with mature trees and flowering shrubs, or in the walled garden area with views over the moor. In all there are 42 level grass pitches which vary in size (30 with 10A electricity). A new camping area is popular and has been terraced with open views over farmland and the moor. You pass by a number of holiday caravans on the way to reception and the touring pitches, where you will also find some holiday cottages and flats for rent. Approaching over a short section of the moor, you realise how well Langstone Manor is situated to explore Dartmoor by foot, by car or by bike (the park has direct access). The market town of Tavistock is three miles away and there is a wealth of National Trust houses and gardens to visit nearby.

Facilities

Directions

The facilites have been totally refurbished to a very high standard and include a bathroom and private cabins. The showers are now free. There is a laundry, dishwashing area and chemical toilet liquid disposal point. Changing mats for babies now in both the men’s and ladies’ rooms. Basic supplies kept in reception (order bread the day before). Bar/restaurant with terrace.

Games room. Play area. Outdoor table tennis. Camping pods for hire. Off site: Golf 1 mile. Leisure centre and pool 2 miles. Fishing and bicycle hire 2 miles. Riding 5 miles. Boat launching 10 miles. Sailing 15 miles.

From Tavistock take B3357 Princetown road. After 2 miles turn right at crossroads (site signed). Pass over cattle grid onto the moor and follow site signs.

GPS: 50.5449, -4.084167

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (3-16 yrs acc. to age) dog

£ 17.00 - £ 22.00 £ 4.00 £ 2.50 - £ 3.00 free

Open: 15 March - 15 November.

Charges guide € 4.80 - € 5.20 € 3.70 - € 3.90 € 7.70 - € 9.90 € 4.20

Camping Lazy Duchenec 163, SK-96252 Cerovo (Banská Bystrica) T: 090 859 0837. E: info@minicamping.eu

alanrogers.com/SK4955 Lazy is a real mini site of ten hectares and only 15 pitches (ten with 4/6A electricity). This means pitches are up to 300 sq.m. or more and there are panoramic views over the sloping countryside. Pitches are off one meandering, gravel access lane, some with shade to the back. Lazy is a working farm, more or less in the middle of nowhere. This makes it ideal for nature lovers (deer may be seen by day or night), with several marked and unmarked walking routes available. A great site for exploring the Slovakian countryside. Activities on site include goat milking, fishing and camp fires. Close to the site are several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Banska Stiavnica mining town and the wooden church in Hronsek.

Facilities

Directions

Good, clean toilet block with washbasins and hot showers. Laundry facilities. Fridge. Drinks available.

Small paddling pool for youngsters. Walking routes available. Off site: Restaurant 8 km.

The site is 8 km. from Cerovo. Use the 75 road and turn north towards Zvolen in Cebovce. After 9 km. there is a small wooden sign to the right. Turn left here and follow to the site.

GPS: 48.251818, 19.216939

Open: 1 May - 30 September.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra adult child (over 6 yrs) dog

12

€ 16.00 € 2.50 € 2.00 free

13

Alan Rogers Seaside Award 2013

Alan Rogers Seaside Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Alan Rogers Seaside Award

Alan Rogers Seaside Award

This award is made for sites which we feel are outstandingly suitable for a really excellent seaside holiday.

Camping le Petit Rocher 1250 avenue du Docteur Mathevet, F-85560 Longeville-sur-Mer (Vendée) T: 02 51 20 41 94.

E: contact@camp-atlantique.com alanrogers.com/FR85000

Le Petit Rocher has a seaside location (150 m. from the beach) set in a pine forest, with an air of peace and tranquillity.

Although the area is undulating, the 132 good sized touring pitches are flat and arranged in terraces throughout the wooded area. Electricity hook-ups are available (10A Euro plugs) and there are adequate water points. A grassy play area for children is thoughtfully situated in a hollow, but has limited equipment. Various accommodation types to rent.

Camping Union Lido Vacanze Via Fausta 258, I-30013 Cavallino-Treporti (Veneto) T: 041 257 5111. E: info@unionlido.com

alanrogers.com/IT60200 This amazing site is very large, offering everything a camper could wish for. It is extremely well organised and it has been said to set the standard that others follow. It lies right beside the sea with direct access to a 1.2 km. long, broad sandy beach which shelves very gradually and provides very safe bathing (there are lifeguards). The site itself is regularly laid out with parallel access roads under a covering of poplars, pine and other trees providing good shade. There are 2,200 pitches for touring units, all with 6/10A electricity and 1,749 also have water and drainage. Because of the size of the site, there is an internal road train and amenities are repeated across the site (cycling is not permitted and cars are parked away from the pitches). You really would not need to leave this site – everything is here, including a sophisticated wellness centre. Overnight parking is provided outside the gate with electricity, toilets and showers for those arriving after 21.00. There are two aqua parks, one with fine sandy beaches (a first in Europe) and both with swimming pools, lagoon pools for children, a heated whirlpool and a slow flowing 160 m. ‘river’. A huge selection of sports is offered, along with luxury amenities too numerous to list. Union Lido is above all an orderly and clean site, which is achieved by reasonable regulations to ensure quiet, comfortable camping, and by good management. A member of Leading Campings group.

Facilities

Directions

Fourteen well kept, fully equipped toilet blocks which open and close progressively during the season; 11 have facilities for disabled visitors. Launderette.

Motorcaravan service points. Gas supplies.

Comprehensive shopping areas set around a pleasant piazza (all open till late). Eight restaurants each with a different style plus 11 pleasant and lively bars.

Impressive aqua parks. Tennis. Riding. Minigolf. Skating.

Bicycle hire. Archery. Two fitness tracks in 4 ha. natural park with play area and supervised play. Golf academy.

Diving centre and school. Windsurf school in season.

Boat excursions. Recreational events. Hairdressers.

Internet cafés. ATM. Dogs are not accepted. WiFi over site (charged). Off site: Aqualandia (special rates).

From Venice-Trieste autostrada leave at exit for airport or Quarto d’Altino and follow signs first for Jesolo and then Punta Sabbioni, and site will be seen just after Cavallino on the left.

GPS: 45.467883, 12.530367

Facilities

Directions

Three spacious sanitary blocks are clean and well maintained. Snacks and takeaway, heated indoor pool, (all open all season). Tennis court. Multisports area.

Bicycle hire. WiFi over site. Max. 1 dog. Only gas barbecues permitted. Communal barbecue.

Off site: Bars, restaurant, and small shops nearby.

Beach 150 m. Riding 2 km. Boat launching 11 km.

Fishing 15 km. Golf 20 km.

From Longeville-sur-Mer follow signs for Le Rocher towards La Tranche-sur-Mer. Turn right at first roundabout, following campsite signs to site on right. GPS: 46.403767, -1.507183

Open: 12 April - 21 September.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (0-5 yrs) dog

€ 18.00 - € 32.00 € 5.00 - € 9.00 free - € 6.00 € 5.00

Orbitur Camping São Pedro de Moel Rua Volta do Sete, P-2430 São Pedro de Moel (Leiria) T: 244 599 168. E: infospedro@orbitur.pt

alanrogers.com/PO8100

Charges guide This quiet and very attractive site is situated under tall pines, on the edge of the rather select small resort of São Pedro de Moel.

This is a shady site which can be crowded in July and August.

The 525 pitches are in blocks and unmarked (cars may be parked separately) with 404 electrical connections. A few pitches are used for permanent units. Although there are areas of soft sand, there should be no problem in finding a firm place.

The large restaurant and bar are modern as are the superb swimming pool, paddling pool and flume (there is a lifeguard).

The attractive, sandy beach is a 600 m. walk downhill from the site and is sheltered from the wind by low cliffs.

Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity € 28.70 - € 53.80 with services € 29.20 - € 68.50 extra person € 6.60 - € 11.80 child (1-11 yrs acc. to age) € 3.70 - € 9.70 Three different seasons: (i) high season 29/6-31/8; (ii) mid-season 18/5-29/6 and 31/8-14/9, and (iii) off-season, outside these dates.

Open: 16 April - 28 September (with all services).

Facilities

Directions

Four clean toilet blocks have mainly British style toilets (some with bidets), some washbasins with hot water.

Hot showers are mostly in one unisex block. Laundry.

Motorcaravan services. Gas supplies. Supermarket (1/6-15/9). Large restaurant and bar with terrace (1/6-15/9). Swimming pools (1/6-30/9). Satellite TV. Games room. Playground. Tennis. Free WiFi over part of site. Off site: Beach 500 m. Fishing 1 km.

Site is 9 km. west of Marinha Grande, on the right as you enter São Pedro de Moel.

GPS: 39.75883, -9.02229

Charges guide Per person child (5-10 yrs) pitch electricity

€ 3.80 - € 6.40 € 1.90 - € 3.20 € 8.50 - € 14.30 € 3.50

Open: All year.

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15

Alan Rogers Country Award 2013

Alan Rogers Country Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Alan Rogers Country Award

Alan Rogers Country Award

This award contrasts with our former award and acknowledges sites which are attractively located in delightful, rural locations.

Camping Al Sole Via Maffei 127, I-38060 Molina di Ledro (Trentino - Alto Adige) T: 046 450 8496.

E: info@campingalsole.it alanrogers.com/IT62320

Le Camp de Florence Route Astaffort, F-32480 La Romieu (Gers) T: 05 62 28 15 58. E: info@lecampdeflorence.com

alanrogers.com/FR32010 Camp de Florence is an attractive and very well equipped site on the edge of an historic village in pleasantly undulating Gers countryside. The 197 large, part terraced pitches (100 for tourers) all have electricity (10A), 20 with hardstanding and 16 fully serviced. They are arranged around a large field with rural views, giving a feeling of spaciousness. The 13th-century village of La Romieu is on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrims’ route. The Pyrenees are a two hour drive, the Atlantic coast a similar distance. The site has been developed by the friendly Mijnsbergen family. They have sympathetically converted the old farmhouse buildings to provide facilities for the site. The Collegiate church, a UNESCO World Heritage monument, is visible from the site and well worth visiting (the views are magnificent from the top of the tower). The local arboretum has the biggest collection of trees in the Midi-Pyrénées.

Facilities

Directions

Three toilet blocks provide all the necessary facilities.

Washing machines and dryers. Motorcaravan services.

Restaurant (1/5-30/9, also open to the public).

Takeaway. Bread. Swimming pool area with water slide.

Jacuzzi. Protected children’s pool (open to public in afternoons). New playgrounds, games and animal park.

Bouncy castle. Trampoline. Outdoor fitness machines.

Games room. Tennis. Pétanque. Bicycle hire. Discos, picnics, musical evenings. WiFi over site (charged, free in bar). Max. 2 dogs. Off site: Shop in village 500 m.

Walibi theme park nearby. Fishing 5 km. Riding 10 km.

Walking tours.

Open: 1 April - 10 October.

Site signed from D931 Agen-Condom road. Small units turn left at Ligardes (signed), follow D36 for 1 km, turn right at La Romieu (signed). Otherwise continue to outskirts of Condom and take D41 left to La Romieu, through village to site.

GPS: 43.98299, 0.50183

Lake Ledro is only 9 km. from Lake Garda, its sparkling waters and breathtaking scenery offering a low key alternative for those who enjoy a natural setting. The drive from Lake Garda is a real pleasure and prepares you for the treat ahead. This site has been owned by the same friendly family for over 40 years and their experience shows in the layout of the site, with its mature trees and the array of facilities provided. Situated on the lake with its own sandy beach, pool and play area, the facilities include an outstanding wellness centre. The site is 70% powered by solar energy. The Chiva Som centre provides a whirlpool, solarium, beauty therapies, aromatic showers and massage room. The sauna has panoramic views over the lake and mountains and there is a heated outdoor spa pool where one can relax under the stars at night. We are told this is a wonderful experience in the summer and even more spectacular when there is snow! Fully serviced pitches have also been added. This is a very pleasant, peaceful site for extended stays or sightseeing. It came as no surprise to hear that many people choose to return to Camping Al Sole year after year.

Facilities

Directions

Superb toilet block with well appointed facilities. Five private bathrooms with shower, toilet, basin and safe.

Excellent facilities for disabled visitors. Baby room.

Laundry facilities. Freezer. Motorcaravan services.

Well stocked mini-market. Pleasant restaurant/pizzeria with terrace. Bar serving snacks and takeaway. Sun decks and snack bar at the lake. Swimming pool. Play area. Bicycle hire. Windsurfing, fishing and canoeing.

Children’s club. TV room. WiFi (charged). Torches needed in some areas.

From autostrada A22 exit for Lake Garda North to Riva del Garda. In Riva follow sign for Ledro valley.

Site is well signed as you approach Lago di Ledro.

GPS: 45.87805, 10.76773

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (2-11 yrs)

€ 27.00 - € 48.00 € 7.00 - € 10.00 € 5.00 - € 6.50

Open: Easter - 2 November, 5 December - 10 January.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (4-9 yrs) dog (max. 2)

€ 17.00 - € 37.00 € 3.60 - € 7.60 free - € 5.40 € 1.50 - € 2.30

Veluwecamping De Pampel Woeste Hoefweg 35, NL-7351 TN Hoenderloo (Gelderland) T: 0553 781 760.

E: info@veluwevakantieparken.nl alanrogers.com/NL5840

Camping De Pampel has the most congenial atmosphere and caters both for families (great facilities for children) and for those seeking peace and quiet. This is enhanced by its situation deep in the forest, with nine hectares of its own woods to explore. There are 280 pitches (20 seasonal) with 6-16A electricity. You can choose to site yourself around the edge of a large, open field with volleyball in the middle, or pick one of the individual places which are numbered, divided by trees and generally quite spacious. This peaceful park offers many opportunities for interesting outings, with two national parks in the vicinity, the Kröller-Müller museum and the cities of Arnhem and Apeldoorn. The latter is particularly interesting as it is home to the Royal Palace of Het Loo, the Apenheul monkey park and the Juliana Tower. The area has excellent cycle paths which can be joined from a gate at the back of the site.

Facilities

Directions

Toilet facilities are excellent, and the new Sani Plaza has to be seen. Laundry. Well stocked shop (1/4-1/10).

Restaurant. Snack bar (July/Aug, otherwise weekends only). Swimming pool and new fun paddling pool with water canon (heated by solar panels; open 1/4-31/10).

Play area. Pets’ corner. Sports area. Indoor play area.

Barbecues by permission only, no open fires. Dogs are not accepted. WiFi over site (charged). Off site: Riding 1 km. Golf 10 km. Fishing 15 km.

From the A50 Arnhem-Apeldoorn road exit for Hoenderloo and follow signs.

GPS: 52.11885, 5.90569

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (1-11 yrs)

€ 20.00 - € 37.00 € 4.25 - € 5.25 € 3.25 - € 4.25

Open: All year.

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17

Alan Rogers Family Site Award 2013

Alan Rogers Family Site Award 2013 – RUNNERS-UP

Alan Rogers Family Site Award

Alan Rogers Family Site Award

Many sites claim to be child friendly but this award acknowledges the sites we feel to be the very best in this respect.

RCN le Moulin de la Pique Le Moulin de la Pique, F-24170 Belvès (Dordogne) T: 05 53 29 01 15. E: moulin@rcn.fr

alanrogers.com/FR24350

Camp du Domaine B.P. 207 La Favière, F-83230 Bormes-les-Mimosas (Var) T: 04 94 71 03 12.

E: mail@campdudomaine.com alanrogers.com/FR83120

Camp du Domaine, 3 km. south of Le Lavandou, is a large, attractive beachside site with 1,200 pitches set in 45 hectares of pinewood, although surprisingly it does not give the impression of being so big. The pitches are large and most are reasonably level, 800 with 10A electricity. The most popular pitches are beside the beach, but the ones furthest away are generally larger and have more shade. Amongst the trees, many are more suitable for tents. The price for all the pitches is the same – smaller but near the beach or larger with shade. The beach is the attraction and everyone tries to get close. American motorhomes are not accepted. Despite its size, the site does not feel too busy, except perhaps around the supermarket. This is mainly because many pitches are hidden in the trees, the access roads are quite wide and it all covers quite a large area (some of the beach pitches are 600 m. from the entrance). Its popularity makes early reservation necessary over a long season (about mid June to mid September) as regular clients book from season to season. A good range of languages are spoken. A member of Leading Campings group.

This high quality campsite set in the heart of the Dordogne has fine views looking up to the fortified town of Belvès. It is a splendid rural estate where there is plenty of space and a good mixture of trees and shrubs. Set in the grounds of a former mill, the superb traditional buildings date back to the 18th century. There are 219 level pitches with 159 for touring units, all with 10A electricity, a water point and drainage. The remainder are used for mobile homes to rent. The site is ideally suited for families with young and teenage children as there is so much to do, both on site and in the surrounding area. Moulin de la Pique boasts four swimming pools, two heated, and three water slides – a water paradise. There is also a lake which can be used for boating and fishing. Large motorcaravans are catered for and access is good. Activities are organised daily and are a feature of this campsite.

A recreation team is on hand from May to September. There is something for nearly everybody.

Facilities

Directions

Three modern sanitary blocks include facilities for disabled visitors. Launderette. Shop (bread to order), bar, restaurant, snack bar and takeaway (all open all season). Swimming pools (two heated). Recreational lake. Playgrounds. Outdoor fitness area. Library. Fossil field. Sports field. Tennis. Minigolf. Boules. Satellite TV. Games room. Bicycle hire. Internet facilities. WiFi (charged). Off site: Bars, restaurants and shops in the Belvès 2 km.

Site is 35 km. southwest of Sarlat on the D710, 7 km. south of Siorac-en-Périgord.

GPS: 44.76228, 1.01412

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons, electricity and water extra person (over 3 yrs) dog (max. 1) Camping Cheques accepted.

Open: 20 April - 28 September.

Facilities

Directions

Ten modern, well used but clean toilet blocks. Mostly Turkish WCs. Facilities for disabled visitors (but steep steps). Baby room. Washing machines. Fridge hire.

Well stocked supermarket, bars, pizzeria (all open all season). No swimming pool. Excellent play area. Boats, pedaloes for hire. Wide range of watersports. Games, competitions (July/Aug). Children’s club. Tennis.

Multisports courts. Only gas and electric barbecues are allowed. Dogs are not accepted 10/7-21/8. WiFi throughout (charged). Off site: Bicycle hire 500 m.

Riding and golf 15 km.

From Bormes-les-Mimosas, head east on D559 to Le Lavandou. At roundabout, turn off D559 towards the sea on road signed Favière. After 2 km. turn left at site signs. GPS: 43.11779, 6.35176

Europacamping Nommerlayen

Charges guide

Rue Nommerlayen, L-7465 Nommern T: 878 078. E: info@nommerlayen-ec.lu

Open: 30 March - 31 October.

Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (under 7 yrs) dog (not 10/7-21/8)

€ 16.50 - € 49.00 € 2.60 - € 5.50 € 7.00

alanrogers.com/LU7620 € 29.00 - € 45.00 € 6.00 - € 10.00 free - € 4.90 free

Situated at the end of its own road, in the lovely wooded hills of central Luxembourg, this is a top quality site with fees to match, but it has everything! A large, central building housing most of the services and amenities opens onto a terrace around an excellent swimming pool complex with a large fun pool and an imaginative water playground. The 367 individual pitches (100 sq.m) are on grassy terraces, all have access to electricity (2/16A) and water taps. The pitches are grouped beside ageappropriate play areas and the facilities throughout the campsite reflect the attention given to families in particular.

Interestingly enough, the superb new sanitary block is called Badtemple (having been built in the style of a Greek temple).

Entry to the sauna and hot water for washbasins, showers and sinks is by a pre-paid smart key. Sports facilities are varied and cater for all ages. There is organised entertainment for children and families in high season, and beyond the site walking and cycle paths abound. Adults can enjoy spa and beauty treatments. Day visits to Luxembourg, Vianden castle and the Mosel Valley are easy from here. A member of Leading Campings group.

Facilities

Directions

A large, high quality, modern sanitary unit provides some washbasins in cubicles, facilities for disabled visitors, and family and baby washrooms. The new block also includes a sauna. Twelve private bathrooms for hire.

Laundry. Motorcaravan service point. Supermarket.

Restaurant. Snack bar. Bar (all 1/4-1/11). Swimming pool complex (1/5-15/9) and new covered and heated pool (Easter-1/11). Solarium. Fitness programmes.

Playground. Bowling. Large screen TV. Entertainment in season. WiFi (charged). Off site: Riding 1 km.

Fishing and golf 5 km.

Take the 118 road between Mersch and Larochette.

Site is signed 3 km. north of Larochette towards the village of Nommern on the 346 road.

GPS: 49.78472, 6.16519

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person (over 2 yrs) dog

€ 22.50 - € 43.75 € 5.50 € 3.00

Open: 1 March - 1 November.

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Alan Rogers Special Award 2013

We believe our Readers’ Award to be the most important. We simply invite our readers (by means of an on-line poll at www.alanrogers.com) to nominate the site they enjoyed most.

A Special Award is made to campsites which have suffered a very significant setback, but have coped admirably in very difficult circumstances. In 2013, we wish to acknowledge two very special campsites.

Firstly, this is a highly impressive Austrian campsite badly affected by flooding but which very rapidly returned to its normal very high standard:

The outright winner for 2013 is:

Beverley Park

Park Grubhof

Goodrington Road, Paignton TQ4 7JE (Devon) T: 01803 661978. E: info@beverley-holidays.co.uk

Nr. 39, A-5092 Sankt Martin bei Lofer (Salzburg) T: 065 888 237. E: home@grubhof.com

alanrogers.com/UK0870

alanrogers.com/AU0265

Beverley Park is an amazing holiday centre catering for every need. It has been developed and run by the Jeavons family for over 50 years to very high standards. It is popular, busy and carefully landscaped with marvellous views over Torbay. The pools, a cabaret area, bars and entertainment, are all run in an efficient and orderly manner. The park has 184 caravan holiday homes and 23 lodges, mainly around the central complex.

There are 165 touring pitches in the lower areas of the park, all reasonably sheltered, some with views across the bay and some on slightly sloping ground. All pitches can take awnings and have 16A electricity (15 m. cable), 42 have hardstanding and are fully serviced. Tents are accepted and a limited number of tent pitches have electrical connections. The park is open all year and reservations are essential for caravans in high season. Entertainment is organised at Easter and from early May in the Starlight Cabaret bar. There are indoor and outdoor pools, each one heated and supervised. The Oasis fitness centre provides a steam room, jacuzzi and an excellent fitness room. The park is in the heart of Torquay, with views across the bay to Brixham and the English Riviera. Dogs are not accepted.

Facilities

Directions

Good toilet blocks adjacent to the pitches are heated and well maintained with roomy showers, some washbasins en-suite. Baths on payment. Unit for disabled visitors. Facilities for babies. Laundry. Gas. Motorcaravan service point. General shop (25/3-2/11).

Restaurant, bars and takeaway (all 25/3-14/4, 3/5-15/9, 27/9-3/10, and 26/10-1/11). Heated swimming pools (outdoor 3/5-1/9). Fitness centre. Tennis. Crazy golf.

Playground. Nature trail. Children’s room. Soft play area.

WiFi over site (charged).

Park is south of Paignton in Goodrington Road between A379 coast road and B3203 ring road and is well signed on both. GPS: 50.413533, -3.568667

Open: All year.

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity tent pitch incl. 2 persons extra person

£ 17.20 - £ 38.40 £ 14.00 - £ 34.10 £ 4.90

Alan Rogers Special Award

Alan Rogers Readers’ Award

Alan Rogers Readers’ Award 2013

Park Grubhof is a well organised, level and spacious site set in the former riding and hunting park of the 14th-century Schloss Grubhof. The 200 pitches, all with 12A electricity, have been carefully divided into separate areas for different types of visitor – dog owners, young people, families and groups, and a quiet area. There are 150 very large pitches, all with electricity, water and drainage, many along the bank of the Saalach river.

Although new, the central building has been built in traditional Tirolean style using, in part, materials hundreds of years old reclaimed from old farmhouses. The result is most attractive.

On the ground floor you will find reception, a cosy café/bar and a small shop and on the first floor, a super sauna and wellness suite, two apartments and a relaxation room. Some areas are wooded with plenty of shade, others are more open and there are some very attractive log cabins which have been rescued from the old logging camps. Many of the possible activities are based around the river, where you will find barbecue areas, canoeing and white-water rafting, fishing and swimming.

Facilities

Directions

Three attractive, modern sanitary units built with plenty of glass and wood, give good provision of all facilities.

The newest (2013) includes large family bathrooms (free with certain pitches, to rent in the winter), a recreation and conference room and a fitness centre. Saunas, steam bath, massage, fitness room. Separate drying facilities for canoeists. Ski and equipment room.

Motorcaravan service point. Shop, restaurant and bar. WiFi throughout (charged). Playground. Games room. Children’s playroom. Watersports. Bicycle hire.

Cabins to rent. Hotel and B&B accommodation.

Off site: Cross-country track 300 m. Swimming pools at Lofer (July/August) 1 km.

From A12 exit 17 (south of Kufstein) take B178 east to St Johann in Tyrol, then continue on B178 to Lofer, then south on B311 towards Zell am See. Site is 200 m. after Lagerhaus filling station on left.

GPS: 47.57427, 12.70602

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (under 15 yrs) dog (max. 2) No credit cards.

€ 19.00 - € 32.50 € 6.30 - € 8.50 € 5.00 - € 8.50 € 3.50

Open: All year excl. November.

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Alan Rogers Special Award 2013

Alan Rogers Special Award

Secondly, the owners of FR24180 Saint-Avit Loisirs have developed a second top quality site, le Cro Magnon, over a period of 10 years. Very sadly, they have been obliged to close le Cro Magnon as a result of a possible subsidence risk, and we wish to acknowledge their excellent work at both campsites.

Castel Camping Caravaning Saint-Avit Loisirs Le Bugue, F-24260 Saint Avit-de-Vialard (Dordogne) T: 05 53 02 64 00.

E: contact@saint-avit-loisirs.com alanrogers.com/FR24180

Although Saint-Avit Loisirs is set amidst rolling countryside, far from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist areas of the Dordogne, the facilities are first class, providing virtually everything you could possibly want without the need to leave the site. This makes it ideal for families with children of all ages.

The site is in two sections. One part is dedicated to chalets and mobile homes which are available to rent, whilst the main section of the site contains 199 flat and mainly grassy, good sized pitches, 99 for touring, with electricity (6/10A). With a choice of sun or shade, they are arranged in cul-de-sacs off a main access road and are easily accessible. Environmental friendliness is high on the agenda for this site and each visitor is provided with a bag with instructions as to what should be placed in it before disposal. Two tour operators are in evidence, but their tents and mobile homes are positioned so as not to detract in any way from the attractiveness of the surroundings. The café, shop and bar open onto a large terrace with a pergola and hanging baskets, which overlooks the excellent pool complex. In high season, a variety of activities and entertainment are organised – tournaments, aqua gym, bingo and even weekly films in English. An impressive new activities area has been created away from the pitches and includes a golf driving range and putting green.

Although the site is lit, a torch may be useful in some areas.

Facilities

Directions

Three modern unisex toilet blocks provide high quality facilities, but could become overstretched (particularly laundry and dishwashing) in high season. Motorcaravan service point. Shop, bar, good quality restaurant, cafeteria. Outdoor swimming pool, children’s pool, water slide, crazy river, heated indoor pool with jacuzzi. Fitness room. Soundproofed disco. Minigolf. Boules. BMX track.

Tennis. Quad bikes. Play area. Bicycle hire. Canoe trips on the Dordogne organised. WiFi over site (charged).

Off site: Riding 2 km. Boulangerie, supermarket, Tuesday market, Birdland (over 500 different species) at Le Bugue 6 km. Golf 10 km. Medieval town of Sarlat 20 km.

Site is 6 km. north of Le Bugue. From D710 Le Bugue-Périgueux road, turn west on narrow and bumpy C201 towards St Avit-de-Vialard. Follow road through St Avit, bearing right and site is 1.5 km.

GPS: 44.95161, 0.85042

Open: 5 April - 14 September.

22

Charges guide Per unit incl. 2 persons and electricity extra person child (under 4 yrs) dog

€ 18.60 - € 42.70 € 3.60 - € 10.70 free € 2.00 - € 5.10

For more information about campsites across Europe visit

www.alanrogers.com