Rcn magazine of holiday parks in france and the netherlands

T H E M AG A Z I N E O F R C N PA R K S I N F R A N C E A N D T H E NETHERLANDS

DISCOVER

All 17 RCN Holiday Parks in the Netherlands and France Lots of inspiration for superb destinations and wonderful getaways

TIPS FOR KIDS

Tree hut, fossil fields, Fun2Dance and more

pa 116 rk -p sp ag ec e ia l

VACATION 2015

w o n s r e h c u o v g n i p m a c r u o y r e d Or camping!

for low-priced

Inexpensive camping?

If you order your RCN camping vouchers before 1 January 2015, you’ll pay just € 6,50 per person per night, € 6,75 after 1 January and € 7,50 after 1 March (excluding tourist tax). Order 24 camping vouchers and you get 4 for free! Camping vouchers are valid at any RCN Holiday Park in either the Netherlands or France. Order our vouchers at www.rcn.nl or call +31 (0)343 513547.

s s a p g n i p m a c N C R r u o y Order 3,10 3,10 per per pitch pitch per per night night

and and spend spend the the night night for for just just € €

The ultimate camping discount? The RCN camping pass!

Get yourself 160 days of camping in the Netherlands for just € 495. That’s just € 3,10 per night. Do you enjoy camping in France as well? Then your

kampeer pa

camping pass costs € 650. On your arrival all you have to pay is tourist tax.

‘15

balk

Foreword 2015, a year full of new (holiday) possibilities! That’s why we bring you this special park edition packed with inviting previews of our superb parks in France as well as the Netherlands. We will also illustrate RCN Holiday Parks’ added value during your holiday. What about glamorous safari tents or an adventurous tree house for the kids to play in? With this special edition of Holiday! you can start daydreaming about your next holiday right away. Thanks to our special selection of diverse trips and attractions you will see all the wonderful places the Netherlands and France have to offer.

The Netherlands offers many breathtaking landscapes. Our natural parks are the perfect starting point to explore the surroundings. And when you’re feeling hungry afterwards, you and your family can always prepare your very own pizza in the original pizza oven some bungalows have. You’ll find the recipe in this Holiday! issue. Our park restaurant menus are also worth tasting. Kids up to twelve years old can eat with their parents for free!

I wish you lots of holiday planning fun!

Ina Steenbeek Chief Editor

No.01 2015

3

Inhoud 6 11 12 17 18 24 29 30 35 36 41 42 47 48 53

Brabant means hospitality

RCN DE FLAASBLOEM

Summer Specials Water sports at the Veerse Meer

RCN DE SCHOTSMAN

Prize puzzle Fun at the beach

RCN TOPPERSHOEDJE

Under the trees

RCN HET GROTE BOS

Restaurant indulging Where beach and forest meet

RCN ZEEWOLDE

Go glamping Amidst forest animals

RCN DE JAGERSTEE

Cycling Full of outdoor activities

RCN DE ROGGEBERG

Looking for fossils For animal and nature-lovers

RCN DE NOORDSTER

A COMFORTABLE TREE HOUSE FOR YOUR CAMPING PITCH

High up in the trees

4

54 60 62

Sailing across the Friesian lakes

RCN DE POTTEN

Villa Park Sneekermeer Beach holiday by the Mediterranean Sea

RCN DOMAINE DE LA NOGUIÈRE

67 68

Your own Côte d’Azur mobile home Exploring the Gorges du Verdon

RCN LES COLLINES DE CASTELLANE

73 74 79 80 85 86 91 92 97 98 104

Survival fun at RCN Cycling paradise

RCN BELLEDONNE

Cartoon Versatile river campsite

RCN LA BASTIDE EN ARDÈCHE

Fun2Dance Meet historic France

RCN VAL DE CANTOBRE

Comic Fairy-tale enjoyment

RCN LE MOULIN DE LA PIQUE

Handicrafts Room for relaxation

RCN LA FERME DU LATOIS

RCN PORT L’EPINE

Unique peninsula

No.01 2015

109 110 112 114

Fishing at RCN Seasonal pitches Service Contact details and colophon

5

‘Burgundian’

and afforested

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

de Flaasbloem

Forest dwellers such as squirrels and rabbits around you, the smell of the seasons in the air. All is quiet and peaceful, but with the facilities adding to an even more pleasant stay. That’s the feeling you get walking around RCN de Flaasbloem in Chaam.



The park has been there for 53 years now in an area that used to be a vast forest. You can still tell by the numerous small winding paths between the various fields, leading you directly into coniferous as well as deciduous trees. The ideal spot for children to play hide and seek or for a lovely walk whenever you feel like it. The fresh air and the smell of resin and pine trees give you a real outdoor feeling.

Further on, in the open spaces, you can smell the freshly cut grass in summer. The park is vast enough to walk and explore as much as you like, without running into other people all the time, not even during the main season. This is because of the park plan, with its many forest areas and substantial distances between the accommodations creating a sense of

The fresh air and the smell of resin and pine trees give you a real outdoor feeling space and freedom. Every bungalow is on quite a large plot.

It gives you all the space you need for an active afternoon of badminton or football or some lazy lying in the grass. From your comfortable chair on the porch of a Finnish lodge you can see all kinds of forest dwellers. While you are reading a book under the oaks, beech trees and pine trees, the

HIG HLIGHTS psite in • The child-friendliest cam Europe • Inside the forest

ily trips • Per fectly situated for fam of nature • Camping in the middle

squirrels are busy looking for some nuts. They are used to the presence of guests, so sometimes they come and have a look.

Deer show themselves less often, but you might get lucky.

NATURAL CAMPSITE Going for that ultimate camping experience? Find it at natural camp site De Wildenberg, wooded land with open spaces where there is free camping. You can set up your tent wherever you like. To maintain the idyllic atmosphere, no caravans or campers are allowed in this camping area. In the

7

middle of the green grass is a small mere with two cableways and a fossil field, where kids get to dig up a Tyrannosaurus

‘BURGUNDIAN’ AND HOSPITABLE BRABANT

rex. In the evening you can gather around the joint campfire.

“The atmosphere at RCN de Flaasbloem is unique. This is largely due to the hospitality the Dutch province of

FEELGOOD FINNISH STYLE

Brabant is known for. Almost all of our employees are

De Wildenberg also has three Kota’s, wooden Finnish style

locals and you can feel it. Outside the park you are right

cabins, each with its own function, apart from being a

at the heart of Brabant’s country life. You find nothing

meeting place for camping guests. There is one Kota for

but friendly and hospitable people. It’s an essential part

cooking, equipped with several cooking appliances, a sink for

of this region. The further south you go, the more you

washing the vegetables and tables and chairs. In one of the

get that sense of a warm welcome. We’re close to the

other Kota’s you can roast meet or fish over a fire or prepare

Belgian border, too. I suppose it’s because of the so-

some homemade pizzas. This way, you can cook your

called Burgundian way of life. The people here take the

own meal and enjoy it together with your fellow-camping

time to enjoy life and it’s what they want for their guests

guests. The third Kota is a Finnish sauna. You can make your

just as well. And that is what hospitality is all about.

reservation at the reception desk. One of our employees will

The woody surroundings are also vital to the park’s

then heat it up for you.

atmosphere. Sometimes guests cannot believe the lovely spots they find on these grounds. Most Dutchmen

FROM SLOW TRAIN TO DANCING HOURS

have no idea how beautiful our country is.”

There is entertainment for everyone at the park, such as

Edward Nederend, RCN de Flaasbloem Park Manager

game nights for adults as well as children. Playing cards, Settlers of Catan, the Werewolves of Wakkerdam or Rummikub, the guests play a different game every night.

friendliest campsite. Kids investigated all kinds of holiday

There is also lots to do for kids: from arts and crafts to

parks and camping sites all over Europe. De Flaasbloem

football and dancing hours and from shuffle boarding to

came first because of its wide-ranging entertainment

listening to evening stories. All the more reason in 2013 the

program, the wonderful indoor pool, the wooden tree houses

Dutch ANWB named RCN de Flaasbloem Europe’s child-

and the Flaasbloem slow train.

At De Wildenberg there is free camping. You can set up your tent wherever you like

8

de Flaasbloem FACILITIES • Aquatic park • Small indoor swimming pool • Fishing mere with a pier • Fossil field and T-rex • Playgrounds, sports field, beach volleyball field, tennis courts, boules-field • Flaas slow train • Animal meadow • Online supermarket with delivery service • Karting and cycling rental • Library, games and videos • Second-hand shop • Adapted sanitary blocks and bungalows for wheelchair users

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/FLAASBLOEM FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

USEFUL ENTERTAINMENT

more luxury than in a tent or caravan? There is a range of

Because of the park’s dimensions it can be quite a walk

luxurious accommodations as well. You can choose from

to the activities organised, especially for our little guests.

chalets and bungalows, all equipped with kitchen appliances,

Fortunately, our Flaas slow train takes you everywhere.

heating and television and some also have a dishwasher. Do

Outside the main season it’s in use during school holidays.

you wish to enjoy an affordable, comfortable and authentic

The slow train is useful as well as entertaining. The green,

holiday in a wonderful atmosphere? Then the Finnish lodge

yellow and red train passes several stops twice a day in July

is the perfect accommodation for you. The lodges all have

and August to pick up children for some sort of inviting

a living with an open plan kitchen, two bedrooms with two

activity. Members of the recreation team look after their

single beds each, a toilet, washbasin, electrical heating and a

safety during the ride, so parents can easily sit back and relax

spacious porch.

for a couple of hours.

TOP ACCOMMODATIONS You can relax anywhere at de Flaasbloem, but what about some more comfort? Perhaps you want to experience the warmth and natural atmosphere of the park, but with some

BEST CHILDREN’S CAMPSITE Your son or daughter gets to co-decide which is the 2015 best children’s campsite! Register at anwbinspectiekids.anwbcamping.nl. As ANWB member your entry is free. During their stay at the RCN holiday parks, the kids get a box including an inspection form, a badge and a free magazine. RCN De Flaasbloem was named the 2013 best children’s camping site, based on the kids’ thorough research. For the 2014 title other kids visited the parks last summer.

No.01 2015

9

WHAT’S MORE AT DE FLAASBLOEM • Do you want to experience the Burgundian feeling of the south? RCN de Flaasbloem hosts a lot of activities, ranging from large pciknicks for kids to visits to the nearby brewery.

• Dogs are allowed throughout the park, but you can OVERWINTERING

also book a pitch at a petfree field. We also have petfree bungalows.

You are also welcome to come to RCN de Flaasbloem during winter. Some chalets are by the mere and have their own

• Has RCN de Flaasbloem captured your heart? For only

pier over the water. In winter the mere is also perfect for

6,50 euros a year you and your family can become a

ice-skating. And there is another advantage: there is even

Friends of De Flaasbloem member. This association

more room for strolling, playing and building snowmen, as

promotes the interests of the park’s regular guests

the camping fields are not in use. Afterwards you can warm

and organises lots of activities.

• RCN de Flaasbloem’s restaurant with its internal

up inside over a nice cup of hot chocolate. Some chalets have a comfortable fireplace. You can also visit our park with your

garden is nicely decorated. The interior – with its

own mobile home. You register for a year pitch and choose a

comfortable chairs and folding doors – has a deluxe

wonderful spot in the forest. Subsequently, RCN handles the

finish, yet the atmosphere is warm and informal and

pick up, transportation as well as placement of your mobile

kids are more than welcome.

home. This service goes for all Dutch RCN parks, with the exception of RCN het Grote Bos in Doorn.

HIGH AND DRY What is camping in the forest without a real wooden tree house? High up in the trees, so you can see miles around you.

With enough space to play, inside and outside, because they come with a terrace of course. You can rent them at your camping site. Prices range from 7,50 to 9,50 euros a day, depending on the season.

Dorst

Breda

RCN de Flaasbloem

Rijsbergen A16

A58 A27

www.rcn.nl/en/flaasbloem

2

Gilze

N260

N268

Alphen

Meerle

Meer

Goirle

RCN de Flaasbloem Chaam

Meer

Tilburg

Riel

Ulvenhout

Hazeldonk

A1

N28

Gilze

60

flaasbloem@rcn.nl

Bavel

N2

Bavel

Galder

NL-4861 RC Chaam, Netherlands

0031 161 491 654

A27

Ulvenhout

Flaasdijk 1

Rijen

Molenschot

A58

Adress

Breda

Ulicoten

8

N26

N260

Baarle-Nassau Baarle-Hertog

Poppel N12

► FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE SEE THE TARIFF GUIDE ATTACHED OR WWW.RCN.NL/EN/ 10

Text: Nicole van Hoof Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

RCN Summer Specials The Dutch RCN parks have special theme weeks during the summer holidays. Every week the recreation activities are coloured by eight different adventures. This summer you’ll be playing at a farm, do as a pirate does or become a Hollywood celebrity.

AT THE FARM On his farm, the farmer has several animals in his care that he has to

WORLDWISE

look after, such as pigs, cows, dogs and rabbits. There are also cute

Ancient Egypt, China, Africa; there are

little nestlings pottering around the farmyard. It’s a wild caboodle

interesting places and remarkable cultures

during the RCN farm theme week.

all around the globe. At the park you will see a pharaoh, a Chinese man, an African Masai and an Eskimo. Discover the world’s beautiful places and meet its exceptional inhabitants!

HOLLYWOOD GLITTER AND GLAMOUR Wonder what it feels like to always be in the spotlights? A real celebrity has to deal with fans, photographers and parties loaded with glitter and glamour. Hollywood is the place to be. Experience what it’s like to be world-famous for a day!

Other themes are fairy-tales, survival, pirates, circus and the Olympic Games.

No.01 2015

11

A family

water sport

paradise

Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

de Schotsman

RCN de Schotsman is situated by the magnificent Veerse Meer in the Dutch HIG HLIGHTS

province of Zeeland. With all

rse s • Sur f sch ool , sail ing cou

the aquatic sports at hand

skii ng, • Wa ke boa rdin g, water fly boa rding

ervision

sup • Kids building rafts under

de Schotsman is the ideal location for a wonderful



holiday filled with sunshine and water fun.

Looking around you in this holiday park you see playground equipment for kids everywhere. De Schotsman is the holiday park for families with children of all ages.

Kids can go look for real remnants and minerals in the fossil field or let off some steam on one of the sport fields on the grounds, such as a beach volleyball field, table tennis tables and a midget golf course. There is also bike and kart rental. “In summer we often welcome groups of fifteen to twenty kids who can build rafts under the supervision of our recreation team. They assist and help tying the knots, so the children can go out on the water with their rafts safely. We then go out on the Veerse Meer to see who is fastest!” says Nelienke Knuivers, Head of the Recreation Team. She feels these surroundings abounding in water have a lot more to offer. “We sometimes take the children crab fishing. Then we’re on the pier with some fifty people and the children love it.”

“In summer groups of fifteen to twenty kids get to build rafts under our supervision” SUMMER BEAUTY SALON Two years ago the summer beauty salon came into existence. In the main season, park guests can make daily use of the services provided by Nail/Beauty Hellevoetsluis.

Instigator Erika Schraven takes care of the park’s guests with a team of four. “People can come to us for all kinds of treatments, such as manicure, pedicure, facials or even a hair cut by one of our hair dressers, at a reduced price. We gladly contribute to an even more relaxing holiday.”

13

Tekst: Fotografie:

de Schotsman

SURF SCHOOL

water.” Surfing is not difficult at all: “My guess is that about

RCN De Schotsman has its own wide-ranging windsurf centre

98% of our learners go out on the Veerse Meer within three

with a surf school, surf boutique, surfboard lockers as well as

hours. It’s not difficult at all and so much fun to do.” The surf

surfboard rental. You will find Surfschool Thijs by the park’s

school offers several courses, such as a day course, a kids

waterside. Every year countless bright flags take to the water

course and a family course.

to learn how to wind surf under the instructor’s supervision.

More information: www.thijs-surfschool.nl

Holiday park guests can enter into several (day) courses to learn the ins and outs of wind surfing. What can you expect?

SAIL AWAY

“You first meet the special simulator. On this fixed surfboard

Next to the surf school you will find the Sail College. Guests

you learn how to steer and turn. After about three hours

from the age of seven can take part in a sailing course and

most people are ready to put on the wetsuit and head for the

go out on the water supervised. “The course consists of five

RAFT BUILDING TIP When building a raft, pay special attention to the buoyancy. A raft using four so-called floaters works the best. For these floaters you can use oil drums, barrels or even plastic bottles or even Styrofoam. Make sure you spread the floaters evenly under your raft for a stable journey.

For the raft itself you can use poles or a pallet.

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de Schotsman FACILITEITEN • Recreation team and recreation building • Restaurant, snack counter and croissant shop • Heated outdoor swimming pool • Fossil field with T-Rex • Indoor playground • Sports field, beach volleyball field • Tennis courts and table tennis • Midget golf course • Windsurf school and sailing school • Cable tow water skiing track (bordering the park) • Bike, kart, sail boat, canoe, surfboard, kayak and surfboard locker rental PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/SCHOTSMAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

• Surf boutique • Trailer slope • Boat pier and boat hauling

half days with the so-called switching program. This means

boat called the Optimist, but adults can also take part in

that one day we’re in the water mornings and the other in

Sail College courses. De Vries: “We sometimes have whole

the afternoon. At the end of the course everybody gets a

families enjoying themselves in the water. That’s really special

diploma”, instructor Annelien de Vries explains. Children

and lots of fun.” The sailing courses take place in July and

at the age of seven to eleven take to the water in a small

August, during the holidays in May, Easter and Whitsun. For

The surf school offers several courses, such as a day course, a kid’s course and a family course No.01 2015

15

Foto: Robert Hoetink

WATER CHALLENGE Next to our holiday park by the Veerse Meer you will find De Schotsman Water Sport Centre, for the more adventurous aquatic sports such as wake boarding, water skiing and fly boarding. With wake boarding and water skiing you’re pulled across the water at high speed by a boat or a cable tow. In 2011, fly boarding was introduced. It allows you to ‘fly’ as much as fifteen metres above the water. Your fly board is propelled by a powerful engine that catapults you up with a water stream. Perhaps this is a bit too adventurous for you.

Don’t worry. The water sport centre has a spacious lawn next to the water, where you can sunbathe or play beach volleyball. Dogs are welcome here. The water sport centre has two water skiing cable tows, a wind surf school and a counter where you can rent windsurfing gear. You can also rent kayaks, do some stand up paddle boarding (SUP) or go for the inflatable banana tow.

more information, please see www.sailcollege.nl. Do you prefer staying on the park grounds? There is plenty of water fun there as well. Our heated outdoor swimming pool has a long jet stream slide and three high water slides next to

Franeker

09

Scharnegoutum

Ysbrechtum

Sneek

0031 113 371 751

Veere N57

Walcheren

Miniatuur Walcheren

Sneekermeer

Offingawier

RCN de Potten

Middelburg

IJlst

schotsman@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/schotsman Hommerts

Arnemuiden

54

N2

N354

Heereveen A

Vaassen

Nijbroek

Terherne

N354

N7

Epe

Vaassen

Akkrum

Bolsward

er

N3

Bolsward

Serooskerke

54

NL-4493 CX Kamperland

Welsum

A50

Domburg

Grou

Kamperland 7

N28

Grou Rauwerd (Raerd) N3

Me

Oene

Epe

Schotsmanweg 1

e ers Ve

Heerde-Zuid

CN de Jagerstee

Veessen

Oostkapelle

7

arde

RCN de Schotsman

Vrouwenpolder

RCN de Schotsman

N57

Heeg

Joure-West

5

Adress

Oosterschelde

A27

8

A2

Hattem

schorsman

N25

potten

each other.

Joure

Knooppunt Joure

Middelburg N288

Vlissingen

E312

rstee

Heinkenszand Arnestein

N25

4

Ritthem

Havengebied Vlissingen-Oost

Apeldoorn-Noord

Deventer

Zeewolde

Apeldoorn

16

► F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E A S E S E E T H E TA R I F F G U I D E AT TAC H E D O R W W W. R C N . N L / E N / Rockanje

Lelystad Hellevoetsluis Haringvlietdam N

puzzle

HORIZONTAL 1 step closer to the top 5 schemer 11 unemotional type 15 poultry cage 17 imminent husband 18 healthy soil 19 Spider-man’s girl 21 alliance of countries 23 Formula One manufacturer 24 rank indicator, in judo 25 US hip city 26 mist 28 ragged 30 projecting edge 31 Stiller or Affleck 32 high-pitched cry 34 reckless 37 group of kids 38 three feet 40 awakening 41 dry and barren 43 capital of Belarus 45 dietician’s table 46 Tyrolean song 49 metal prev. used

Win

a bungalow weekend This is your chance to win a bungalow weekend. Solve this puzzle, send your answer to samen@bcm.nl and who knows…

You might just win this wonderful prize!

in coins 51 took a chair 52 skewered meat 54 pop-artist Lichtenstein 55 carry out 56 Australian rock band 57 biblical figure 58 kids do it with fingers 59 tow 60 machine for an individual 61 wrath 63 style of interiors 67 planet-friendly prefix 69 opens diablo or dorado 70 Roman goddess of flowers 72 party sauce 73 assemble 75 French composer 76 ragtime (anag) 79 exclusively 81 Andean bean 82 re-using discards 84 outstanding obligations 86 un or ein 87 crazy 88 money in Munich 90 UK’s Isle of ___ 91 plural of thou 92 invalid 93 one peak in a range 95 emblem 97 Egyptian sun god 98 patch up 99 aside 101 tiny brown bird 103 title fit for a lord 104 upgrade 105 filter.

VERTICAL 1 snug 2 chip tech. 3 crowd 4 run away, suddenly 6 Korean electronics corp.

7 type of light 8 tiny English folklore character 9 pull 10 Dorothy’s auntie 11 single 12 make lace 13 Hindu chant 14 metallic bang 16 vanishing sound 18 tax, for example 20 baby wallaby 22 froggy rasp 24 poorly 25 loan 27 glitz 29 also not 30 distinct period 31 empty a boat of water 33 ___ Presley 35 brain unit 36 largest of the land masses 37 racing dog 39 kind of test 41 fuss 42 not appropriate 44 take the helm 47 secret society 48 foolishness 50 Hague-based tribunal 52 tot 53 musical measure 55 impending 62 Piglet’s pal 64 ahead of a trend 65 distributed notice 66 many-hued gemstone 68 murmur softly 70 prestige 71 revise 73 taxonomic group 74 dark stonefruit 75 stripe 77 really unfriendly 78 cause for a breaker 80 full round of seasons 81 true 82 blitz 83 increased 85 trap 87 particular area 89 regatta equipment 92 totally relax 93 mobile program 94 authority 96 Hawaiian garland 98 boaster’s pronoun 99 before noon 100 small screen 102 compass pt.

No.01 2015

17

Nostalgic

camping by the sea

HIG HLIGHTS in the • On the bro ade st bea ch Net her lan ds

atic spo rts • Lot s of bea ch and aqu Zee • Clo se to Oud dor p aan

Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks, Wouter Kooken

Toppershoedje

RCN Toppershoedje Holiday Park is in a unique location, only one dune crossing away from the magnificent North Sea beach. “With us you get that nostalgic camping feeling.”



RCN Toppershoedje is characterised by the casual placement of bungalows and tents. The camping pitches are equally casually spread over the grounds. “It adds to our inviting atmosphere. With us you get that nostalgic camping feeling”, Park Manager Roland Hoogwerf says, enthusiastically. “We are a real family camping site. You can see the parents getting acquainted and meeting up in front of the tent while their children are playing.” Another unique park feature is the fact that the bungalows are situated in an old orchard. The several bungalow types are whimsically placed, surrounded by fruit trees and with an actual vegetable garden in their midst.

CITY WALKS RCN Toppershoedje is close to a number of beautiful old towns, such as Zierikzee, Hellevoetsluis and Brielle. The holiday park organises city walks on a regular basis. “We walk to one of the neighbouring towns while a city guide tells us about its history. We finish the afternoon with coffee and pie”, Roland says. During the summer season you can also use the Goeree bus to visit several tourist attractions across the island. The (half) open tourist bus drives around Goeree-Overflakkee and Schouwen-Duiveland in July and August. Cyclists can also make use of this bus, as it is equipped with a bicycle rack or trailer. All our guests may use this bus free of charge.

DOGS Dogs are more than welcome at our holiday park for only a small fee. Dogs are allowed on the beaches for most of the year, so many guests bring their loyal pet.

Roland Hoogwerf: “We’re in a perfect location for walks on the beach.”

19

Tekst: Fotografie:

Put on your walking boots Toppershoedje and explore the dunes

TYPICALLY DUTCH SCENES

autumn lady’s tresses, a protected kind of orchid, and several

RCN Toppershoedje has theme nights on a regular basis,

uncommon animals such as the ringed plover, the root vole

among which you’ll find the typically Dutch evenings with

and the water shrew. Fortunately, the unique flora and fauna

traditional costumes. This year, the park closed the season with

developing in this area are an important item on the local

a traditional Ouddorp ‘poter’ night, during which Toppershoedje

political agenda.

prepared a classic local dish with jacket potatoes, bacon and onions, followed by a pub quiz and a prize lottery.

THE SLOW TRAIN Impressed by the magnificent Delta Works in the area? An old-

20

AMAZING NATURE

fashioned train takes you to every one of them in this region.

If you happen to be a nature and wildlife lover, then the RCN

The slow train (‘boemeltrein’) is a train designed especially

Toppershoedje surroundings are your place to be. Put on

for tourists, using car tyres instead of traditional train wheels.

your walking boots and explore the dunes and the afforested

During the roundtrip from Port Zélande to the North Sea beach

reserve bordering them. There is plenty to enjoy along the way.

you’ll find out everything about these parts of the Netherlands.

The green Grevelingen surroundings and the Brouwersdam

It’s about a half an hour ride and you can buy your tickets at

offer a variety of rare flora and fauna. Here you’ll find the

the driver’s.

Toppershoedje FACILITIES • Recreation team and recreation building • Beach and aquatic sports • Fossil field • Sports and play grounds • Bicycle, kart and pull along wagon rental • Restaurant, snack counter and croissant shop • Trendy beach pavilion within walking distance • Adapted sanitary blocks for wheelchair users • Adapted bungalows for wheelchair users

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/TOPPERSHOEDJE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

FROM BEACH YOGA TO WATER JUMP

the kite buggy. While controlling the kite with your hands,

The North Sea beach, the Grevelingenmeer (a lake) and

your feet steer the buggy across the beach at high speed.

the Brouwersdam are the perfect spots for exploring

If you prefer going into the water, you can have a go at

adventurous sports. There is an endless list of possibilities.

Beachclub Natural High. Apart from surfing, windsurfing,

You can go blokarten (beach sailing), which will take you

sailing, kayaking and rafting you can also try some power

“flying” across the beach in a three-wheel kart with a sail.

kiting on your surfboard. These kites pull you along the water

Perhaps you are more into kites? Then you might want to try

high speed using the wind. If this is all a bit too fast for you,

No.01 2015

21

DID YOU KNOW THAT… … A number of our holiday park bungalows have a real don’t worry. Natural High has plenty more to offer. Start your

pizza oven? So you and your family can easily enjoy a

day relaxing with beach yoga. A professional instructor helps

homemade pizza. There is also a range of bungalows

you practise yoga on the beach. Ideal during summer, when

with terrace heating and a porch. ... In 2013, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima

you can feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face.

Beach golfing is always big fun for the whole family. You

visited the Brouwersdam and the beach near RCN

learn some basic techniques first, such as swing, putting and

Toppershoedje? They were impressed by the beach

chipping. You can also take part in the Beach Golf Trophy, a

and the beautiful surroundings.

competition for novice as well as advanced level players. The

... The beach near RCN Toppershoedje has been in the

Brouwersdam Water Jump always attracts lots of youngsters.

top ten of the cleanest beaches in the Netherlands

It consists of two jumps, one five and the other one eight

for years now? The beach is also one of the broadest

metres high, allowing you to take a spectacular dive into the

beaches in the country.

(Source: www.nederlandschoon.nl)

Grevelingenmeer. In July and August you can even enter the Sunset Water Jump clinic every Tuesday. In this one and a half-hour long clinic you will learn the coolest flips and tricks on the water jumps. For a more tranquil encounter with the water you can always go North Sea fishing. You can take the Sirius that departs at Stellendam. With this boat tourists can go wreck fishing or try and catch actual fish known to the North Sea, such as mackerel and flatfish.

Rockanje

Adress

Hellevoetsluis Haringvlietdam N

57

RCN Toppershoedje Strandweg 2-4

NL-3253 LR Ouddorp

0031 187 682 600

toppershoedje@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/toppershoedje

Goedereede

Ouddorp RCN Toppershoedje

Stellendam

Middelharnis

Goeree

15

N2 p

N57

Brouwersdam

gers

Die

Melissant

rin Sp

Grevelingen

Overflakkee

Scharendijke

Renesse

Brouwershaven

Oosterscheldekering

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balk

No.01 2015

23

Adventurous

and slopey

Text: Rutger Snijder Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

het Grote Bos

HIG HLIGHTS velrug • Afforested Utrechtse Heu surroundings

sterdam, • Close to cities such as Am Utrecht and Amersfoort area • Per fect hiking and cycling

At only cycling distance from Utrecht and Amersfoort the Netherlands offer a unique piece of nature: de Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Apart from exceptional animals, plants and villages this slopey terrain also accommodates a large campsite with the appropriate name RCN het Grote Bos (The Big Forrest). You want to walk, cycle, shop or relax by



the swimming pool? This historic campsite has it all.

Apart from the twitter of a bird and the sound of your footsteps on the forest path, you do not hear a sound at RCN het Grote Bos. Traffic noise is far away and muffled by the dense line of trees. The smell of pine trees is in the air. “It’s always like this, even when we have 5,000 guests staying with us,” Park Manager Anneke Kuipers says proudly. “This eighty-hectare park is so spacious you always feel as if you’re on a small campsite.” The eighty hectares offer plenty of accommodations and exquisite camping pitches to choose from. The more luxurious accommodations even have their own pizza oven on the terrace. You can get your flour, charcoal and even a home pizza baking DVD at the parks’ reception desk.

SMELL OF PINE TREES The park plan looks and feels very natural because of the sloping character of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. The charming paths covered in fir needles meander up and down alongside ancient beech trees and pine trees. “It’s a pity people often walk with their head down. There are so many beautiful

RCN het Grote Bos is the ideal starting point for a lively holiday full of exciting trips things to see up there!” Anneke says, pointing at a winding Scots pine. “When I see the sun shining through the trees against a clear blue sky, I always feel as if I were in the south of France. Just north of Utrecht!”

25

HANG-ON As beautiful as the surroundings may be, you don’t have to actually leave the park for action and entertainment.

Hang-On Survival Association happens to have a training site on the RCN het Grote Bos grounds. Their members are focussed on finishing survival runs and they are a consistent supplier of Dutch youth champions in this area. So forget about two car tyres on a rope and one small climb. This is a serious training track!

Young and old can have a go and build up some sweat.

The wooden track goes up quite a bit and crosses the water. There is a smaller and lower track for the little adventurers. The large survival track totally fits its afforested surroundings. It feels completely natural to encounter this course here amidst bungalows and tents.

Park guests may use the survival track about twice a week under the supervision of an instructor only. If you want to have a go, make sure you register in advance.

The landscape also tells a lot about the campsite’s history.

Every now and then the paths are interrupted by a majestic beech lane. “They are remnants of the times when this used to be an estate,” Anneke explains. Hydepark Estate was established in 1815, followed by the founding of the Stichting Recreatiecentrum Hydeparklaan in 1852. That recreation

26

het Grote Bos FACILITIES • Heated outdoor swimming pool with super water slide (from the May holidays to MidSeptember) • Hang-On survival track • Restaurant and snack counter, both with a terrace • Bike and kart rental • Fossils field • Camping shop • BMX crossing track • Sports field and playgrounds • Tennis court and midget golf

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/HETGROTEBOS FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

centre developed into this campsite. The estate and the

tavern from 1690, Amerongen, with its famous castle as well

campsite are now two separate entities, but the lane network

as many relics from the Eighty Years’ War, and Driebergen,

has been preserved.” Children can play all they want between

always worth a visit for its cosy restaurants, shops and old

the tall trees, in the leaves and clean sands, while adults can go for a walk, cycle, visit a nearby town of simply enjoy the chalet’s or tent’s peaceful surroundings.

RCN het Grote Bos is

SURROUNDINGS

surrounded by significant

Situated in the green heart of the Netherlands, at less than an hour drive from for example Amsterdam, RCN het Grote

estates

Bos is the ideal starting point for a lively holiday full of exciting trips. Apart from the nearby city centres, you can also choose to visit other, less prominent yet appealing

buildings. This region, even in immediate vicinity of the park,

towns in the area. There is Leersum, with the old Hervormde

offers all the family entertainment you want. There is the

Kerk, a church dating back to 1500, and the King William

Austerlitz Pyramid (a remnant from the Napoleon era and

ACTIVITIES There is also lots for everyone to do on the campsite grounds. You can have a look in the small library, go and find some archaeological treasures in the fossils field, have a swing at the midget golf course or challenge each other in a game of bowling. Perhaps you’d like to let off some steam at the football or basketball field, the all weather tennis court or in the heated outdoor swimming pool. The recreation team organises fun entertainment for all ages the whole season, from bingo to searches by night.

No.01 2015

27

het Grote Bos the highest point in the Utrechtse Heuvelrug) at a quarter

HUIS DOORN

of an hour drive, and Ouwehands Dierenpark in Rhenen, the

From 1920 to 1941, Huis Doorn was the home of the German

zoo at a half an hour drive. Kids can have non-stop fun at the

emperor in exile Wilhelm II. The house still has its original

indoor playgrounds of Monkey Town, KidZCity and Ballorig

interior and the park surrounding the castle is in English

Speelparadijs, all within a half an hour drive.

landscape style. If you’re in the Doorn area, this house really is a must-see. It appears the emperor himself was also quite

ESTATES

taken with Doorn. As much as eight years before he died he

The RCN het Grote Bos surroundings are filled with history. A

recorded his wish to be buried here. His mausoleum can be

tour passed the many castles and old towers in the Kromme

seen at Huis Doorn.

Rijn valley takes you far back in time. The exhibition at the Austerlitz Pyramid introduces you to the French occupation

SLOT ZEIST

under Napoleon. Many other regional museums, such as the

Slot Ziest was built in the seventeenth century for Willem

ones in Utrecht, also exhibit interesting collections all year.

Adriaan, count of Nassau-Odijk. It was important that

The park itself oozes estate history. You can still reach the

his power and prosperity be evident to everyone, so the

Hydepark Estate through a small tunnel. “As of next year we’ll

aristocratic house is really bursting with status, from

be taking people through the tunnel again for guided walks,”

the majestic driveway to the classic interiors of the style

says Anneke. “Then we can tell them about the wonderful

halls. Everything is lusciously baroque. Slot Zeist hosts

history and nature of this estate.” Apart from Hydepark you

many cultural festivities, such as an array of exhibitions,

can visit several other significant estates:

performances and concerts. The castle is surrounded by beautiful English gardens with a large carp pond, perfect for a pleasant stroll.

KASTEEL AMERONGEN This monument’s name seems questionable, as on the outside Kasteel Amerongen does not look like a castle at all.

It is however called a castle, as it is built on the remnants of a burrow from 1286. The castle was taken down and rebuilt again several times. The stone castle-moat that provides access to the castle has two levels. On the inside you can enjoy a drink at the castle cafe, have a guided tour around the castle or gaze at the many wonderful paintings.

71

NL-3941 ZK Doorn

0031 343 513 644

hetgrotebos@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/hetgotebos

A28

Zeist Bunnik

Hooggraven

Houten

A27

Austerlitz

Maarn

Driebergen

Doorn

Odijk

Maarsbergen

RCN het Grote Bos Werkhoven Langbroek Cothen

5

Utrecht

N22

Huis ter Heide

De Bilt

N224

Hydeparklaan 24

Bilthoven

A12

RCN het Grote Bos

Leusden

N3

Address

Wijk bij Duurstede

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Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Friendly-priced indulging All RCN Holiday Parks have a restaurant snack counter and croissanterie, where our employees offer service and quality against friendly prices. Kids will also have lots of fun eating out at our park restaurants.

Our new menus offer meat and fish dishes, pizzas and

DID YOU KNOW THAT…

seasonal favourites, and also dishes for our vegetarian

…Y ou receive welcome coupons on your arrival? You

guests. All our food is friendly priced, and our daily menus are especially pleasingly priced.

Kids up to the age of twelve eat with their family for free

can use them for all kinds of restaurant discounts. …Y ou can order freshly made buns at every Dutch park croissanterie? A lovely bite for lunch or a picknick. …Y ou can use your RCN tokens in every park restaurant? …W e have a special restaurant brochure in case you’re celebrating a family party or a kid’s birthday. We also

Kids up to the age of twelve even eat with their family for

welcome larger groups. You can discuss your special

free.* They can choose from a variety of dishes on our menu.

wishes with the Restaurant Manager.

You can order your free kids meal using your Funcard, which is handed to all kids arriving at the park. * With the exception of July and August at RCN le Moulin de la Pique and during cycling races at RCN Belledonne.

No.01 2015

29

Zeewolde

Pure relaxation

between the canes

30

Text: Kirsten Dorrestijn Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Zeewolde

A unique combination of water and forest as well as a variety of possibilities for overnight stays, that’s what RCN Zeewolde has to offer. From luxurious safari tents to unembanked camping and stylish chalets to a port where



you can anchor.

RCN Zeewolde is guaranteed relaxation for every guest. On arrival all you hear is the sounds of twittering birds and the hustling of leaves in the wind. The atmosphere is pure and peaceful. RCN Zeewolde is situated in the southern tip of the Dutch province of Flevoland, bordering one of Europe’s vastest deciduous forests: the Horsterwold, covering as much as 3,500 hectares. “Most people think the Flevopolder is just one giant stretch of flat terrain,” says Desiree Schulz, Head of Reception and Administration at RCN Zeewolde. “But this part of Flevoland is different. The

“Here you can go both to the beach and into the forest” forest is perfect for long walks, cycling and horse riding.”

The combination of forest and water makes RCN Zeewolde a unique location. “Here you can go both to the beach and into the forest.” In 2015, another eighty 150 square metre camping pitches are added, available to seasonal guests as well as occasional camping guests.

MOST BEAUTIFUL SPOT The dike with its splendid view of the side lake is one of the

HIG HLIGHTS t and forest • Combination of beach, por the water • Unembanked camping by , • Close to Walibi, Dolfinarium

such as Bataviastad and scenic villages burg Harderwijk, Elburg and Spaken

• Natural surroundings

most beautiful spots on the park’s grounds. No wonder you can find the restaurant here. On sultry summer evenings the terraces are filled while the port lights add extra atmosphere. The parents do some chatting and their kids enjoy themselves in the wooden pirate ship that’s in the sand box next to the terrace.

BUILDING SAND CASTLES RCN Zeewolde has its own private beach. It’s safe for kids to play on as the water here is always shallow. It’s only a small distance from here to the ‘old land’: the horizon

No.01 2015

31

shows the outlines of Harderwijk. The beach is perfect for

Bunschoten-Spakenburg. You can also do some fishing

building sand castles and for splashing about in the water.

from the port’s piers.

Adults will enjoy themselves here likewise. The beach is also used as a starter for surfing lessons.

NATURAL CAMPING PITCHES Choose and idyllic camping pitch on the unembanked land

MARINA AWAKENINGS

at RCN Zeewolde for the ultimate blending with nature.

The RCN Zeewolde marina offers a special overnight stay.

This part of the campsite directly borders the water and is

Guests anchoring their boats here can stay overnight with

separated from the rest of the park. Here you set up your

the sound of the whispering water surrounding them. They

tent between the canes. In the morning you’ll see the water

may use all the park’s facilities. The Veluwemeer is a great

reflecting the sun light. The view of the vast lake only adds

starting point for boat trips to Harderwijk, Elburg and

to your holiday feeling. The verdant pitches have extra facilities such as a private tap and cable.

GLAMPING RCN Zeewolde has a number of safari tents deluxe for that special glamping feeling: the adventure of camping provided with all your usual amenities. Desiree zips open one of the tents. Inside we find a roomy, atmospheric living room. “All the furniture is made out of scaffold board. So

32

Zeewolde FACILITIES • Beach • Port • Small indoor swimming pool • Aquatic paradise • Sports field with tennis courts, volleyball field, boules-field and panna field • Restaurant, snack counter, bar • Supermarket during the camping season • Fossils field

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/ZEEWOLDE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

on the inside it feels as if you are in a luxurious bungalow

theme. Next to the RCN Zeewolde indoor swimming pool

rather than a tent. The large wooden dining table,

is the aquatic paradise, guaranteed fun for the little ones.

comfortable couch and modern kitchen make you feel right

You’ll also find the sports fields here: volleyball, tennis

at home. The wooden double bed has been turned into a

courts and soon also a boules-field and a panna field.

romantic four-poster bed. The children sleep in their bunk bed in a separate bedroom and for the little ones there is

KCK FAIR

a cupboard bed with a small door. As these safari tents do

Good to know: Each year in the first weekend of October

not have bathrooms, they’re close to the sanitary building.

it’s KCK Fair for used caravans at RCN Zeewolde. Last year it has as much as four thousand visitors and eighty percent

LOVELY LAZY HOLIDAY

of the second-hand caravans were sold.

All the camping fields at RCN Zeewolde are pedestrian areas, so kids can play safely all day. The dike bungalows

IN THE HEART

are painted in cheerful colours. In another part of the park

Another one of RCN Zeewolde’s advantages is its central

you’ll find ten stylish chalets on a grass pitch surrounded

location in the Netherlands. Foreign guests can easily

by forest. They have comfortable furniture, a master

make trips to several other Dutch provinces. Close to the

bedroom and two separate bedrooms for kids. Children

park you will find Walibi, the Dolfinarium and Bataviastad.

will enjoy themselves for hours on end on the playground

Zeewolde has a nice shopping centre with supermarkets,

equipment in the centre of the field. So all you have to do

fashion shops and boutiques. Pancake restaurant Hans en

is sit back in your reclining chair and relax!

Grietje is also a must. This ‘witchy’ house brings the Hansel and Gretel fairy-tale to life, which is great for kids.

KICKBOXING AND HANDICRAFTS In summer the recreation team entertains the kids staying

CYCLING NETWORK INTERSECTION

at RCN Zeewolde, from fossil hunting to playing bingo and

For a year now the municipality of Zeewolde has had its

trying arching and kickboxing. The main season theme

own cycling network intersection: seventy kilometres of

weeks (knights, circus) present kids with an exciting,

cycling routes linked by means of numbers. Planning your

ongoing story every morning. During the day there are

own route has never been easier. You can simply plan a

handicrafts clubs and sports and games related to the

cycling trip to the Veluwe from RCN Zeewolde. There is

No.01 2015

33

“Stride through the gorgeous film set with its canes, coarse grasslands and vast waters”

a ferry taking you to the ‘old land’ near Harderwijk. Park WALKING ON A FILM SET

Manager Wout Sleurink: “The beach and the port make the

Another tourist attraction close to RCN Zeewolde are

park unique. The beauty of RCN Zeewolde is you can have

the magnificent Oostvaardersplassen, where the film De

both: in the adjoining forest you can walk and cycle. We

Nieuwe Wildernis was filmed. The waters were used as

offer lovely, spacious mobile home pitches in a peaceful

a set for two years for this Dutch wildlife film. You can

setting. A pitch is usually ten times fifteen metres, but with

stride through the canes, coarse grasslands and vast

us it’s much larger. And it’s good to know we still have

waters. Pick up your car router at the RCN Zeewolde

some pitches available!”

reception to see all the marvellous viewpoints in this area. The route ends at the Forestry Commission’s visitors centre.

Lelystad Biddinghuizen

Adress

02

N3

RCN Zeewolde

N3

05

Dasselaarweg 1

Harderwijk

Officiersweg 86

3896 LT Zeewolde

0031 365 221 246

zeewolde@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/zeewolde

er

me

we

lu Ve

Lelystad

Zeewolde

Ermelo

RCN Zeewolde

N303

Strand Horst A28

N301

Ermelo

Strand Nulde

Putten Nijkerk

Nijkerk

N303

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Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Camping

glamour style You can book a luxurious safari tent at several RCN parks. It’s that real camping feeling, with all the luxury and comfort you need.

RCN has a number of these tents and lodges on three locations: Zeewolde, les Collines de Castellane and le Moulin de la Pique. The French tents come in different types and interiors. In France the tents have a kitchen as well as sanitary facilities such as a shower and toilet. The two tents in Zeewolde do not have these amenities, but they’re situated close to a sanitary building.

The le Moulin de la Pique tents even have TV, a DVD player and a dishwasher. Special attention was paid to their interior design. All furniture and decorations are made of scaffold board that has been lying outside for three years. This way, the wood is re-used and the safari tents have a sustainable character. Through the synthetic canvas you are in close contact with nature, with the luxury that makes you feel like you’re at home.

No.01 2015

35

Nature’s

finest

Text: Inger Waling Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

de Jagerstee

De Jagerstee is situated in nature reserve the Veluwe, which means you’ll find nature’s HIG HLIGHTS dering the • Gen uin e fore st par k, bor Veluwe’s nor th rim

sibi litie s in • Cou ntle ss day trip pos the reg ion

ts here • Your cycling network star

finest in flora and fauna in and around the park. You can also enjoy the environment in many sporty ways. This year, the park’s fiftieth



birthday adds even more shine to the holiday park.

“De Jagerstee is a genuine forest park. We’re bordering the Veluwe and we are surrounded by nature. You can tell everywhere you go”, says Park Manager Wouter van Reeven.

Walking across the park you can easily run into the same wildlife that inhabit the Veluwe. “We did not always have a fence around the park, but at night our camping guests walked into wildlife a little too often”, Wouter adds. You can frequently see deer and roes browsing through the park looking for food. “We also have wild boar outside the park, but guests regularly spot them.” Countless birds and squirrels can be found in the trees and every now and then the squirrels can be tempted to come a little closer to humans. Far less frequently spotted is the badger. Wouter: “No one knows where he is at exactly, but we’re sometimes told he was been seen again. You can’t control wildlife, that’s for sure. That makes it all the more fun when you do see them.”

“We also have wild boar outside the park, but guests regularly spot them” AWAY FROM IT ALL The park has camping pitches and bungalows. Recently seven tree houses were built for the youngest camping guests to enjoy themselves high up in the trees. “When walking across the camp site you can hear nothing but an occasional tent being zipped.” De Jagerstee’s unique location allows for a lot of tranquillity. “There is a lot of peace and quiet here and loads of space, creating the perfect balance for everyone.”

37

THE SPORTS HEART Apart from all this space and tranquillity you will find a lot more at de Jagerstee. “Don’t forget our park’s big sports heart!” Wouter says. The many possibilities immediately catch your eye at the park’s entrance. “There are always people playing some ball, children participating in the recreation team’s activities and guests exploring the cycling routes through the forests. There is a cycling route intersection directly outside the park, leading you in whichever direction you wish to go. Feel like having a nice cup of coffee with some pie? No problem. De Jagerstee is

HOLIDAYS ARE FOR SHARING! YOUR TRIP TOP THREE De Jagerstee is close to a number of fine (amusement)

your place to be. “Drinking your cup of coffee in the middle

parks. Looking for some excitement and adventure? Try:

of nature, while you’re watching your kids playing from the

Dolfinarium, Harderwijk

terrace. That’s as good as it gets!”

Dolphins are curious animals that love to play. Let them entertain you in a show or watch the large aquarium in

FIFTY YEARS

amazement.

In 2015, de Jagerstee celebrates its fiftieth anniversary. This

Apenheul, Apeldoorn

jubilee will be on the agenda all year. “We’re planning on

Monkeys climbing over your head and suddenly hanging

composing a small museum to share memories from the

in front of your face. Let these frisky animals surprise

past. We will use the stories our older guests tell us as well

you at the Apenheul.

as the memories they share with us”, Wouter says. And they

Koningin Juliana Toren From the Turning Pirat to the Tumbling Mouse and the horseracing track: young kids will have a wonderful day at the Koningin Juliana Toren.

38

de Jagerstee FACILITIES • Heated outdoor swimming pool and young children’s pool (open end of April to beginning of September) • Fossil field with T-rex • Playground equipment across the grounds • Sports field • Beach volleyball field • Panna field • Table tennis • Midget golf course • Bike and kart rental

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/JAGERSTEE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

must be full of memories, as some people have come here “NEVER MISSED A YEAR”

for thirty, forty or even fifty years. Wouter: “It’s wonderful

Ad Andeweg has been visiting de Jagerstee since

to hear how things used to be, when the park was smaller,

1980. Over the last 34 years he has spent many

without the swimming pool, without electricity everywhere.

weekends and holidays at this holiday park. “I like

Now they bring their children and they bring theirs to our

getting away with my wife”, he says. “Now we have a real swimming pool, but it used to be a small splashing pool. I remember how we used to wait in line for the telephone booth to call our family! A lot has changed over the years, but our purpose of being here is still the same: getting away from it all for a while. It’s ‘Hello’ or ‘Goodmorning’ at the sanitary block, some talking about the weather. This has really grown to be ‘our’ park. It has become a piece of us over the years.” Ad and his wife came to De Jagerstee for the first time when the kids were big enough to stay at home. “We’re from Dronten so we don’t have to spend hours in the car to get here.

When we come here we enjoy the landscape and the surroundings the most. We love the change of scenery. It is mainly polder where we live, so the Veluwe is pleasant change of countryside to us for camping. O well, camping. We have everything we need in the caravan. We can manage just fine and as long as we do, we’ll just keep coming back.”

No.01 2015

39

THE EXOTIC VELUWE The Veluwe is known for its vast, stretched landscapes, with sands and dense pine forests. But the Veluwe is also the place to spot wildlife. To this purpose, the Forestry Commission has installed special wild spotting screens in the area.

Behind these screens visitors can see the animals from a protected point of view.

- For example, the herd of wild sheep. Forest ranger Erik JAZZ AND WINE

de Bruijn: “Some time ago a group of wild sheep was

Did you know Epe organises jazz nights on a regular

introduced to this area. These sheep do not originally

basis? Think swinging beats, loose improvisations and

belong here, but they still wander around the Veluwe.

soft saxophone sounds. National and international solo

There are about thirty of them. We never know where

musicians and jazz ensembles are invited to come and

they are exactly, but it is fun to go and look for them.”

fill the streets with music.

- “Perhaps you can spot some wild boar as well. We

You can also go for some wine tasting. Be inspired by

have a number of those at the Veluwe. They are active

wine from Veluwe soil and Veluwe regional products.

early in the morning and in the evening. There is a good

Please visit the Epe Tourist Information Centre for

chance you’ll see them in autumn while driving down a

more information.

subsidiary road.”

- You can also enter one of the wildlife tours starting in Nunspeet, a twenty-minute drive from De Jagerstee. A

park. Whole families build childhood memories here.” Wouter

forest ranger takes you onto the moor in his Land Rover,

has found out that the park used to be a horseracing track.

looking for deer, roes and wild boar.

If you’re feeling a little less adventurous, try cycling

“There is still so much to be discovered! We plan to exhibit it

down the Veluwe’s rims. “You’ll see all kinds of

all in our 2015 jubilee year.” You can still ride horses in the area if you want, as de Jagerstee has collaboration with

wonderful flowers and plants bordering the

the Epe Equestrian Centre. Here you can take riding

lakes and meres. Discover how exotic the

lessons during summer. De Jagerstee also wonderful

Veluwe really is!”

cycling routes as well, as the Veluwe is a also superb area to discover by bike.

Elburg

8

A2

Hattem

‘t Harde

Epe

Officiersweg 86

Elspeet

jagerstee@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/jagerstee

Veessen

Oene

Epe

Welsum

Epe

NL-8162 NR Epe

0031 578 613 330

Heerde-Zuid

RCN de Jagerstee 09

RCN de Jagerstee

‘t Harde

Nunspeet

N3

Address

A50

N268 Elspeet

Molenschot

Vaassen

Vaassen

Nijbroek

Apeldoorn-Noord

Deventer Apeldoorn

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Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Cycle your own route

Everywhere in the Netherlands you’ll find cycling network signs. Planning your own route with these is easy.

At every network intersection cyclists will find an information

bikes. RCN parks also have bike repair points to help out

panel showing the route numbers and an overview of the

cycling fans. The paid version of the app gives you access to

cycling route network in the area. Next to the panel is a sign

intersection planning so you can plan your own routes and

displaying the distance to the next intersection. This way

twenty extra ANWB cycling routes.

you can easily determine distances while you’re on your way and plan your route instantly. On the Dutch ANWB website (www.anwb.nl) you can buy several intersection maps. These maps show every cycling network in the Netherlands at a

TIP

glance and give you an overview of all the route points in

RCN de Flaasbloem’s natural surroundings are ideal

the area. Do you want to explore forests, sea or dunes? All

for a day of cycling. You can take the beautiful forest

Dutch RCN parks offer perfect cycling opportunities in their

and creek route between Alphen and Chaam. This

surroundings.

42-kilometre tour takes you through the area’s diverse nature, such as Sint-Annabos, the Prinsenbos and the

APP

Chaambos. These forests are linked, so you can cycle

There is also the ANWB cycling app for iPhone, iPad and

through nature for kilometres on end. Make sure you

Android. The free version offrs twenty ANWB routes

have a look at the fine buildings along the way, such

with information on tourist attractions, restaurants, route

as the Ledevaert Church in Chaam, or simply enjoy the

guidance as well as cycling repair locations. These service

peace and quiet of the Bouvigne Castle gardens.

points have a toolbox and a recharging point for electric

No.01 2015

41

Green and

adventurous

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

de Roggeberg

Sporty and stimulating outdoor activities are among the many



ingredients of an unbeaten holiday at RCN de Roggeberg.

Put on your walking boots and start by exploring the park itself.

The park is surprisingly spacious behind its modest entrance.

The holiday park comprises a total of seventy hectares.

Crossing it from one end to the supermarket or the reception desk is much like a forest walk. RCN de Roggeberg is situated in the Friesian town of Appelscha, one of the favourite areas in the Netherlands for hiking and cycling. Strolling through the deciduous trees while watching the many skittering squirrels, you come across several green fields with a number of camping pitches. Some can be reached by a scenic wooden bridge. In these open fields with their majestic trees you can set up your tent or park your caravan. You can nonetheless feel the warmth of the sun touching your skin, and as your walk progresses, it’s as if you are in a forest where people just happened to have set up their tents. Then suddenly you come across toilets or a midget golf course.

The whimsical layout gives the park a natural look, adding to your outdoor living experience.

A PARK WITHIN A PARK RCN de Roggeberg is situated in Drents-Friese Wold National Park, one of the largest nature reserves in the Netherlands.

Nature here is very diverse. Apart from relaxing in the magnificent forests, with their changing appearance each

The whimsical layout gives the park a natural look HIG HLIGHTS six- and

e-, • Adventure track with thre

nine-metre high obstacles area • Perfect cycling and hiking

ld National

Wo • Bordering Drents-Friese Park

season, you can also get a pleasant dose of fresh air at Aekingerzand (locally known as the ‘Kale Duinen’), made of wind-blown sand. It’s also the perfect spot for sleighing downhill in winter. Because of the landscape’s alternating looks, a substantial range of animals live here closely together.

During your walk you might run into some Spanish Sayaguesas cattle with their impressive horns that run free in this area. If you want to go for a bigger walk, there is also one around the reserve. This route is up to seventeen kilometres long.

43

THREE QUESTIONS FOR… ...Wim van Riezen, instructor at Appelscha Outdoor.

Wim tells us about safety in the climbing track.

In what way do you embed safety?

“The obstacles in the track are three, six and nine metres high. The idea is that you secure yourself during your sequence, so it is vital that you get comprehensive and clear information. That’s our job. The climbing tower as well as all other materials must be well maintained. We’re a VeBON member, the Society of Outdoor Enterprises in the Netherlands, as well as a member of TÜV (Technischer Überwachungsverein).

They periodically inspect and test our materials and our instructors. Are they up-to-date on the latest THRILLING HEIGHTS

developments, do they give the right information? All

The surroundings here are ideal for all sorts of sporty

these elements are crucial.”

activities. Outdoor sports organisation Appelscha-Outdoor adds another dimension to all this. At de Roggeberg they

How do you secure yourself?

have built the highest climbing pole track in Europe: a fifteen-

“There are ropes with obstacles between the wooden

metre high wooden tower in the middle of a large field with

poles, so you’re climbing from pole to pole. When you

viewing points at several heights. From the tower you can

have arrived at the new pole, you move one carabiner

reach the high poles by means of large ropes leading to all

to the new rope before the other. So you never unlock

kinds of obstacles. You walk across beams and your feet

both of them at the same time, as this might be

manoeuvre in straps. Then you zip slide down from the zip

dangerous. If you stick to this, it’s always safe.”

line. The obstacle height is between three and twelve metres.

For the little adventurers there is a special track somewhat

What if you’re up there and suddenly lose your nerve?

lower to the ground.

“We will try and stimulate you to move on. You can do more than you think. If this is really not an option then we arrange for another rope and help you descend.”

44

de Roggeberg FACILITIES • Aquatic park • Free entry to the outdoor pool next to the park • Panna field, multifunctional sports fieldk • Beach volleyball field, tennis court and table tennis • Climbing tower and climbing track • 9-Hole golf course bordering the park • Outdoor laser game

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/ROGGEBERG FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

FOREST POOL Do you prefer being active in the water? For our smallest guests there is an aquatic park for them to play in all they want. Others may enjoy themselves in the large outdoor swimming pool between the trees next to the holiday park.

Forest pool Appelscha has plenty of water slides, a diving board, a snack counter and lots of space for some sunbathing.

All de Roggeberg guests have free entry. You can also go for a swim outside the main season at the Oosterwolde indoor pool, just a few car minutes from Appelscha.

DID YOU KNOW THAT… …There are balloon flights at the de Roggeberg during the summer season? A unique experience that gives you the chance to see the beautiful surroundings from above. …People already wanted to camp in Appelscha before de Roggeberg existed? Probably because of the wonderful surroundings. At the Boerestreek, in the very heart of the village, people regularly set up tents and caravans.

Every morning a baker would sell his bread to the people camping. That’s how RCN learned Appelscha would be the perfect spot for a holiday park. RCN de Roggeberg opened in 1963. …De Roggeberg has camping pitches, pitches for private mobile homes and accommodations for rent? You can also have your mobile home put at a beautiful spot. …You come across all kinds of entertainment during your forest walk at the park, such as a midget golf course and a laser game site?

No.01 2015

45

CYCLING FUN Drents-Friese Wold National Park is the second largest forest and moor reserve in the Netherlands, just behind Hoge Veluwe National Park. With its many meres and peat, sloping dunes and vast forests it’s the perfect place for a wonderful walk or cycling tour. Just outside Appelscha you find Aekingerzand, locally known as the

PANNA CAGE

‘Kale Duinen’, an enormous stretch of wind-blown sand.

If you’re not a fan of big heights, but you do like to

You can buy maps and leaflets with cycling routes at the

exercise, then the Omnistadium is your place to be. It’s a

National Park Visitors Centre. Want some more? There

multifunctional sports field where you can play football,

is an annual four-day cycling tour in Appelscha as well

panna, basketball as well as tennis. The Omnistadium also

as the nearby Diever.

offers you the opportunity to meet new people in sports and games. You can either rally up your own team or join in with the recreation team’s football hours.

Appelscha

RCN de Roggeberg

Adress

Assen

RCN de Roggeberg

1

1

Hijken Westerbork

Westerbork

Beilen

Wapse Diever

 roggeberg@rcn.nl

Beilen

Dwingeloo

 www.rcn.nl/en/roggeberg

A28

5

 0031 516 431 441

N85

NL-8426 GK Appelscha

N38

N37

 De Roggeberg 1

Oranje

Hoogersmilde

Wijster Dwingeloo

N37

1

Uffelte Havelte

Nationaal park Dwingelderveld

Ruinen Ruinen

Pesse

► FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE SEE THE TARIFF GUIDE ATTACHED OR WWW.RCN.NL/EN/ 46 Hoogeveen

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Digging for

history

Would you like to become a real archaeologist and discover something unique? All Dutch RCN parks have fossil fields, where you can browse, look and dig for the most wondrous fossils.

When animals and plants die, they are absorbed by nature again. Small animals and bacteria feed off the remains. Sometimes hard pieces are left, such as bones or the shell the animal used to live in. If these are covered by clay or sand, it leaves a wonderful impression. Fossils help scientists learn about ancient species. Collecting fossils is an educating and fun hobby, especially at RCN’s. You can go and look for the best pieces with other kids. When you find one, you can keep it. You also get an information card about your fossil. Your first find is rewarded with a free ticket to Natuurhistorisch Museum Naturalis, perfect for an educating and fun day.

DID YOU KNOW THAT… … T-Rex skeletons have been found at several parks? Kids under the age of ten can help look for the dinosaur skeletons. … RCN le Moulin de la Pique is the only French park to also have a fossils field? RCN la Bastide en Ardèche does organise fossil activities. … Special RCN tokens are hidden in the fossils fields? If you find one, you can go and get yourself an ice cream at one of the restaurants.

No.01 2015

THE EST FOS SILS IN TH Foss E W ils co O R LD me in Strom all sh atoli apes tes a in th re am and e wo sizes ong rld. T . the o shap h e ing m ldest y we re m f a o t s s sils fossi that ade by b ls ow held acte mud e the and r ia a i r nam nd c chalk halk. e to . ‘Str this b Thes oma blan e lanke ’ is th ket ’.

The e Gre t of m olde e u k d st str word oma for ‘s as 3, tolite t o 5 n b e s are illion Sour as m ce: N year uch s old atuu . rinfo rmat iecen Natu trum ralis OLD

47

Peace and quiet

and an endless horizon

48

Text: Inger Waling Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

de Noordster

De Noordster Holiday Park is in the middle of nature: set one foot outside the park and you’re in the magnificent Dwingelderveld nature reserve. It’s all around you. “Here deer, rabbits and squirrels just pass your tent and bungalow. When it’s very quiet, some shy foxes might



also come and have a look”, says Hannie Willems, the park’s Restaurant Manager.

The park is situated in the heart of the Dutch region of Drenthe as well as right in the middle of Dwingelderveld National Park. Wherever you go leave the park, you’re right in the middle of a forest or moorland. Everything about de Noordster Holiday Park is as natural as possible. There are no man-made fields, just some natural camping fields and individual forest pitches. “Because of the afforested grounds, the many trees and the authentic look you don’t notice when there are many people around the park. Everyone has a sense of tranquillity and space”, Hannie explains. Guests can pick one of the individual forest pitches for their tent or caravan or they can go for the open space of one of the natural fields.

You can also enjoy a holiday in one of our bungalows, which are visited by curious squirrels, deer and rabbits just as much.

ENJOYING YOURSELF As the Restaurant Manager Hannie Willems often witnesses de Noordster’s many inviting and cosy afternoons and evenings. She notices how guests enjoy the surroundings as well as each other’s company. She has a pretty good idea why people keep coming back to this park. Hannie: “Some families have been coming to our park for decades now. They’re now bringing their children and grandchildren.

They’re here for the peaceful nature, the park’s warm feel and our welcoming atmosphere.”

HIG HLIGHTS erveld • At the heart of Dwingeld Nationaal Park • Group accommodation

the animal • Feeding the animals at farm

VENTURING What else makes de Noordster so special? The tree houses, for example! Choose one of the camping pitches with a tree house and you’ll feel as if you’re actually in the wild. Climbing and scrambling your way up is completely worth it. From your secret hiding place you have a splendid view of the park.

“The tree houses are perfect play grounds for kids. Each tree house is linked to a camping pitch and about ten square

49

“The woodpecker, the hawk and the verdin can be seen well from the bird watching cabin at the Davidsplassen near de Noordster”

HOLIDAYS ARE FOR SHARING! YOUR TRIP TOP FIVE There is plenty to see and do at the holiday park, but you may also want to take a closer look at other parts of metres in size”, Hannie explains. With their small railing and

Drenthe. What about:

stairs and a rope for lifting up stuff they’re the ideal place for

1. Emmen Zoo

young adventurers at the campsite.

Bono the giraffe, Zulu the lion and Uca the gorilla are worth a visit.

BARE FEET PATH

2. Exloo Goblin Land

Have you ever heard of the bare feet path? It’s about five

Even the smallest kids feel big here!

kilometres from the holiday park, where you take off your

3. Tree crown path

shoes and walk into nature barefoot. Opende has the

There are several walking and cycling routes through

Netherlands’ oldest bare feet path. Forest ranger Nico Boele

this infinite area.

has been involved in the development of the path from the

4. Rosinkhof Leggeloo

start. He’s been walking around there for years barefoot. “It

Come and enjoy authentic eggnog and homemade

started out as a joke really, and now it has become a hype.

snacks.

You can see bare feet paths emerging everywhere, but we’re

5. Hunebed centre

proud to say we are the first!” The forest ranger feels the

Go back in time with this interesting museum in the

path is such a success because walking barefoot awakes

town of Borger.

something in people. “This is what usually happens when people walk our path. First, the kids are immediately covered in mud and the parents want to stay clean. But then there is a turning point and the parents let down their hair. You can see them thinking: o, what the heck. That’s when I know they have had a really good time”, Nico says, radiant. The one-kilometre path is on the border of open moorland and enclosed land. At the car park you can rinse your feet and collect your shoes.

WILDLIFE SPOTTING A hundred years ago, all of Drenthe used to be large moorland. Covering as much as 3,700 hectares of moorland, Dwingelderveld is now the largest wet moorland area in the southern parts of Western Europe. “Dwingelderveld’s open landscape has an almost endless horizon without any buildings.

Such a view is quite rare in the Netherlands”, says forest ranger Albert Henckel. He walks through the reserve on a daily basis

50

de Noordster FACILITIES - Aquatic park -F ree entry to the heated outdoor pool next to the park - Animal farm - Recreation team - Multifunctional sports field -B oules-field and midget golf course - Bike and kart rental - Fossil field with T-rex Please see www.rcn.nl/noordster for a comprehensive overview of all our facilities

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/NOORDSTER FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

and knows it like the back of his hand. “If you want to see

children can help feed the ponies Debbie and Ovita,

wildlife, you’d best be on the lookout for deer, although they

Mientje the goat, Wollie the sheep and the rabbits. If

keep a bit more quiet during winter because of the cold.” You

you want, you can also help grooming and brushing the

can see a lot of geese, duck and many bird species such as the

animals. During main season there is a cuddle moment,

woodpecker, the hawk and the verdin in winter. “They can be

when you can come and give the ponies a hug or run your

seen well from the bird watching cabin at the Davidsplassen

fingers through their mane before you go to sleep. Wollie,

near de Noordster.” So bring your binoculars!

Mientje, Debbie and Ovita simply love all the affection and attention. “Many children shed a tear when they go

WOLLIE THE SHEEP AND OTHER ANIMALS

home again, because they’ve grown so fond of the animals.

De Noordster has an animal farm that has captured

Families even return to our park, especially for our animals.

the hearts of many kids. Every morning at half past ten

They have become an inseparable part of our park.”

PLANETRON: DISCOVER THE MAGIC STARS Close to Dwingeloo you will find the Planetron Cinedome. Here you’ll learn everything there is to know about what goes on in space. A dome-shaped 350 square-metre projection screen (the biggest in its kind in the north of the Netherlands) shows you breathtaking images that take you right into space. Did you know that, for example, you can see as much as 10,000 stars on such a screen? You will witness a lunar eclipse as well as the bright shine of the Milky Way. And don’t miss the special star gazing nights, when you can have a look through the largest professional optical telescope in the country. Get to know the planets and constellations and earn your own star gazing medal!

No.01 2015

51

de Noordster

ALL ABOUT MUSHROOMS Jan Meijvogel (77) feels happiest when summer is coming to an end, because then it’s time to spot countless mushrooms. He loves to share his experience in lectures at de Noordster.

After his retirement at Leiden University Jan took an interest in nature photography, especially mushrooms.

Years ago, when he was on his way to give a lecture at one of the other RCN parks, Jan accidently ended up at De Noordster. “They immediately asked me if I could come and give a lecture at their park”, Jan recalls with a smile. And the rest is history. Jan has been sharing his passion for and knowledge of mushrooms with young and old at RCN De Noordster for over twenty years now. His lectures consist of two parts. On the first day Jan shares his knowledge using his photographs. On the second day he takes the guests to the forest to see for themselves.

DID YOU KNOW THAT… … A mushroom is connected to the ground by threads? … These threads can have as much as three times the volume of a whale? … There is a mushroom the size of a football?

It’s called the giant puffball. … The giant puffball was first spotted in England during the Second World War GROUPS

and that it was assumed to be a new

De Noordster also offers group accommodation for up

German weapon?

to 32 guests. An ideal place to stay for school children and families or during company trips. You can make use of the eight rooms with four beds each, the living and a private kitchen. Enjoy your stay on the terrace with its original pizza oven, or perhaps you prefer an all-inclusive catering offer.

“You can also use the group accommodation as a hotel”, Hannie adds. “You can book a room for one night if, for example, you want to visit an event in the area.”

Assen Oranje N38

1

Hoogersmilde

N37

1

Address

Wapse Diever

NL-7991 PB Dwingeloo

0031 521 597 238

noordster@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/noordster

Beilen

Wijster

RCN de Noordster

N37

1

Uffelte

A28

5

Dwingeloo

N85

De Noordster 105

Westerbork

Beilen

RCN de Noordster

Hijken Westerbork

Dwingeloo

Nationaal park Dwingelderveld

Ruinen

Havelte

Ruinen

Pesse

Hoogeveen Meppel

► F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E A S E S E E T H E TA R I F F G U I D E AT TAC H E D O R W W W. R C N . N L / E N / 52

Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Playing in the trees RCN Holiday Parks are surprisingly spacious and offer a large

RCN has chosen not to equip the tree houses with

variety of nature recreation, such as forests and playing

toys. This way, the kids are stimulated to use their own

fields. Special attention is paid to the small kids, as RCN

imagination. A branch becomes a sword, a fishing rod

wants every child to feel comfortable and have all the space

or a magic wand. These campsites offer you the unique

it needs to play. In this afforested fantasy world there is

experience of playing in your own robust tree house. It’s

plenty of room for them to play and enjoy themselves. What

what every child wants. At these five RCN parks you can

better way to seek some adventure than in a tree house? Kids

rent a total of seven tree houses with a camping pitch:

run their own private little place where they can climb and

RCN de Jagerstee, de Roggeberg, de Flaasbloem, de

scramble up the tree with their friends, brothers and sisters.

Noordster and de Schotsman.

The tree house is the perfect place to do a little hiding from your parents for fun. With a bucket and a line you get to tow up your favourite candy anyway.

No.01 2015

53

Friesian

water sports paradise

Text: Teun van Rooij Photography:,RCN Holiday Parks

de Potten

HIG HLIGHTS

Situated by the Sneekermeer, a well-known

• Wa ters ide vill as del uxe

lake in the Dutch province of Friesland,

ram p for • Mar ina wit h lau nch ing you r own boa t

ng and old • Sai ling cou rse s for you

RCN de Potten is a true water sports paradise. From comfortable



camping pitches to spacious villas; there is a wonderful holiday waiting for every guest at this holiday park.

RCN de Potten has its own recreation beach for guests to enjoy themselves by the water. They can engage in recreation, play beach ball, sunbathe and of course go swimming. There is a safe shallow section for the little ones, so their parents can relax and have a good time by the waterside as well. There are also plenty of wonderful holiday ingredients awaiting our guests when they’re not in the water.

You can go trampolining, play basketball, beach volleyball, tennis, table tennis and midget golf. Or perhaps you want to exercise the mind in a game of chess or checkers on the giant board. In summer, the recreation team organises all kinds of fun activities for kids. “We basically offer the same entertainment the other parks do, but with us the emphasis lies on water activities. Every child has a good time here,” says Park Manager Benny Graafsma.

VILLAS DE LUXE At RCN de Potten you’ll find a number of luxurious waterside villas. Depending on the villa of your choice you’ll be enjoying a sauna, whirlpool, and even your own boat pier. All villas have their own WiFi connection for extra comfort. Do you own a boat? Then you might want to use the boat ramp and crane in the marina. They’re suitable for boats up to 750 kilograms.

SAILING CERTIFICATE On the de Potten grounds you’ll find the De Grote Potten sailing school. Kids from the age of eight years old can join in with the various day classes. “We’re a daytime sailing school.

This means parents can leave their kids with us during the day and come pick them up in the evening,” says instructor Elmer Blom. The lessons take place on the Sneekermeer. Kids go out on the water all day from a raft. Elmer: “Some kids find this a bit intimidating at first, but that’s only temporary.

You can see them blossoming as their course progresses.”

The lessons given are all CWO-certified (Dutch water sports instruction authority). In an official ceremony, all participants receive their very own certificate. “We use colours to define the distinctive course elements. The parts that went well are

55

all marked green. If there’s room for improvement we use

over the Netherlands meet at the Sneekermeer to indulge

blue. This way the kids know what to work on the following

in their favourite hobby. It’s a wonderful site to see from the

year, as many of them gladly return.”

banks as well. Benny: “There is a special atmosphere on and around the water.” In 2015, Sneekweek takes place from 1 to

PIZZA HEAVEN

6 August.

At a large part of the park’s bungalows you’ll find your own private pizza oven. At the reception desk you can get flour

ELEVEN CITY RACE

and charcoal for your brick-kiln, and also a pizza baking

You don’t necessarily need skates to experience the infamous

instruction DVD for the best result. Enjoy!

Eleven City Skating Race. Every year there are many alternative events surrounding the legendary route. You can

SNEEKWEEK

take a bike, for example. The annual cycling race has been

During the annual Sneekweek water sports lovers from all

there since 1912 and in 2015, everyone can join in 25 May.

KAMELEON Sietse and Hielke Klinkmaker are the Friesian twins from the famous Dutch “De Kameleon” book series. They simply love sailing the Friesian waters. At RCN you can book boot trips leading you to the special places mentioned in the book. For information and bookings, please see www.zeilschooldegrotepotten.nl.

56

de Potten FACILITIES • Waterside restaurant, snack counter and croissanterie • Recreation team • Water sports paradise • Pirate ship • Sports field • Giant chess and checkers game board • Rowing, sailing and motor boat as well as canoe and pedal boat rental • Boat quays • Boat launching ramps • Crane for boats up to 750 kilograms • Waterside bungalows, villas and camping

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/POTTEN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

Please see www.fietselfstedentocht.nl for further information.

With all its historic buildings Sneek truly is a sight for sore

You can also follow the route by barge, the perfect way to

eyes. Wander the many marvellous streets and explore the

explore the wonderful towns. All Friesian lakes are connected

countless restaurants downtown. The city’s roots are on a

and the route will take you past little towns such as Ylst,

tenth-century peninsula and Sneek has officially been a city

Sloten, Heeg and Woudsend. You can rent a barge that

since the thirteenth century. It flourished as a town of trade

doesn’t require a ship’s passport at the park’s reception desk.

for a good deal of time. At the end of the fifteenth century, the people started building the city wall. You can still see its

SNEEK

remains downtown, such as the Watertoren and the Bolwerk.

Sneek’s scenic city heart has many historic buildings, with the Martinikerk standing out. The tuff church consists of

MUSEUMS

three separate towers. According to tradition, the remains of

In the town of Sneek you will find the National Model-

national hero “Grutte Pier” are within these walls. The city’s

Railway Museum, with model-railway trains and tracks

most famous building is the Waterpoort. The world-famous

from all parts of the world, from Swiss locomotives to

monument was built in 1613 and served as town gates. Later

German cargo trains from the 1930s.

on, it represented the town’s prosperity. The Waterpoort clock is always five minutes ahead. It’s the gatekeeper’s old

DID YOU KNOW THAT…

habit, as he wanted to give everyone the opportunity to be in

…The well-known Dutch author Appie Baantjes used to

town on time.

frequently visit the museum? After his passing he left his entire private collection to the museum.

BOLSWARD

…As the province of Friesland is abounding in water,

The many historic buildings and magnificent gardens make

there was also significant shipping? In Sneek you’ll find

Bolsward one of the treasures in the Friesian lakes region.

the Friesian Shipping Museum. Here visitors can witness

The city has quite a patriotic history and is home to the

seventeenth through twentieth-century shipping

well-known Sonnema jenever brand. The Hanseatic City

history. The museum also offers an insight into the

of Bolsward has officially been a city since 1455. The town

regional water sports as well as the Sneek skippers’ life

consists of many old buildings. In 1980, the oldest, the

and times.

Broerekerk, was burned down completely. The ruins can still be seen. As a town of trade, the Hanseatic City of Bolsward

No.01 2015

57

Tekst: Fotografie:

de Potten

by the fine rococo city hall. The town centre has many other

of the eleven ones involved. It used to be a shipping centre

buildings worth visiting, too. The annual Eleven City Cycling

owing to its location by the Wymerts, a former waterway

Race on Whit Monday starts and finishes here. Although

between the Zuiderzee and the Friesian inland lakes. Jopie

not immediately apparent, Bolsward is also a town of

Huisman, born and raised in Workumis widely known,

pilgrimage. Mary’s statue of grace in the Sint Franciscuskerk

especially for his detailed paintings of various objects. In

is called Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Sevenwouden (Our Lady

Workum you’ll find the Jopie Huisman Museum with a large

of Sevenwouden). The story goes the statue remained

part of his work on exhibit as well as work by painters who

unharmed when muting soldiers raided the chapel it was

match Huisman’s ideas

WORKUM Workum is the city of pottery and rags, and of course the artist Jopie Huisman, one of the best-known Friesian painters.

potten The city discloses ajagerstee rich cultural history. Workum has had city

schorsman

Appelscha

Oosterschelde

Hijken

RCN de Potten

Dwingeloo

Nationaal park Dwingelderveld

Ruinen Ruinen

Pesse

potten@rcn.nl

09

58

Akkrum

Middelburg

IJlst

Nijbroek

Arnemuiden

54

N2

Hommerts

Heereveen

Heeg Joure-West

5

Miniatuur Walcheren

Sneekermeer

RCN de Potten

N354

Vaassen

N57

Walcheren

Terherne

N354

Offingawier

Joure

Knooppunt Joure

Middelburg N288

Vlissingen

Heinkenszand Arnestein

N25

4

Ritthem

Havengebied Vlissingen-Oost

Apeldoorn-Noord

Deventer Hoogeveen

Sneek N7

Vaassen

www.rcn.nl/en/potten Molenschot

Ysbrechtum

A50

N268

Elspeet

Welsum

Epe

Wijster

Veere

54

Scharnegoutum

A

5 N85

0031-515 415 205

N3

Bolsward Bolsward

Oene

Serooskerke

er Me

A28

Elspeet

Domburg

Grou

se

Dwingeloo

Heerde-Zuid

RCN de Jagerstee

NL-8626 GD Offingawier Epe

Beilen

Rauwerd (Raerd)

Veessen

Kamperland 7

N28

Grou

Nunspeet

Epe

RCN de Schotsman

er Ve

De Potten 2-38

Diever

Beilen

7

Westerbork

Westerbork

N57

Oostkapelle

‘t Harde

N3

1

Vrouwenpolder

‘t Harde

1 N38

N37

Franeker

A27

Address

Hoogersmilde

Hattem

E312

Assen

Oranje

N25

Elburg

RCN de Roggeberg

8 A2

l

rights since 1399, which makes it one of the younger cities

originally in. It has been worshipped ever since.

oggeberg

371

had quite a thriving seventeenth century, represented best

Apeldoorn

Zeewolde

► F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E A S E S E E T H E TA R I F F G U I D E AT TAC H E D O R W W W. R C N . N L / E N / Rockanje Lelystad Hellevoetsluis Haringvlietdam N

57

Text: Susanne Buijze, Sandra Koopmans Photography: RCN Holiday Parks, Eric Waterschoot

Pizza for you can make a pizza

Happy mini pizza’s

exactly the way you like it.

8 to 10 pieces

Everybody loves pizza. Naturally,

Nearly all Dutch RCN parks have

Ingredients:

Decoration suggestions:

300 grams of flour

Pepper

7 grams of instant yeast

Mushrooms

1/2 teaspoon of salt

Ham slices

240 millilitres of water (not hot)

Canned corn

on a large table with an array of

2 spoons of olive oil

Zucchini

toppings is big fun!

200 millilitres of tomato sauce

Small tomatoes

accommodations deluxe with their own pizza oven on the terrace. Preparing them together

50 grams of grated cheese Add the yeast to the water. Sift the flour over a large bowl and add the water with yeast, the salt and the olive oil. Knead the dough until it’s only slightly sticky. This may take about ten minutes. Form 8 to 10 small dough balls and put them under a piece of household foil or

TIP!

a damp tea towel. Let the dough rise at room temperature for

You c an chunks of buy your ption at th e rece fi rewood all 5 . Th e sm for just € ly rn easi , pieces bu t to eat so you ge soon e r!

about 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees.

Roll the balls out with a rolling pin or with your bare hands.

Press a bit harder in the centre so the sides will rise slightly. Put a thin layer of tomato sauce on the mini pizzas as well as some grated cheese. Then add the toppings you want, for example in the shape of funny faces. Put them in the oven

TIP!

At mo st

RC N p a rk s y ou c an simply sh o p a ll your pizza ingred ients a t the su p e rm a rket.

No.01 2015

for about 5 minutes until the cheese has melted. Enjoy!

59

Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Villa park Sneekermeer

Calm, comfort and

glamour

Enjoy a wonderful water sport holiday

full of relaxation and comfort at Villa park Sneekermeer. Anchor at your own private pier for an everlasting holiday!

This villa park is part of RCN de Potten. The villas have all the comfort of amenities you need. They are spread out over three necks of land amidst the Friesian waters, with all the water sports this region has to offer at hand, such as sailing and surfing. The villas are privately owned so their interiors differ. Most villas have free WiFi. There are three different

60

types, named after birds: Smient, Rietzanger and Goudplevier.

SMIENT

More information? Check the villas’ floor plans on www.

Type ‘Smient’ (wigeon) has a luxurious and spacious living

villaparksneekermeer.nl and book the villa of your choice.

room with an open kitchen. The folding doors give access to

the platform terrace and its furniture deluxe, where you can

GOUDPLEVIER

enjoy the lovely water. Are you taking small kids with you? A

All villas have an exclusive feel because of their detailed and

number of Smient villas have a child-friendly fence, so you

refined interiors. The ‘Goudplevier’ (golden plover) type has

can rest assured. On the first floor you’ll find three double

a luxurious and spacious living room with an open kitchen,

rooms and a bathroom with a bathtub and a second toilet.

one double room with an attached bathroom and a separate toilet, all on the ground floor. On the first floor you’ll find three double rooms and a second bathroom with a toilet.

A number of these villas have a sauna and whirlpool. The Goudplevier villas are suitable for eight guests, but there are villas of this type for six or ten people.

RIETZANGER In type ‘Rietzanger’ (sedge warbler) special attention has been paid to the interior. This villa has a grand, L shaped living room with an open kitchen and also a comfortable wooden platform terrace. On the first floor are three double rooms, a bathroom with a shower and a second toilet.

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Hot, sultry summers

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Text: Helen Albada Photography: Jan Sluijter

Domaine de la Noguière

RCN Domaine de la Noguière is only sixteen kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea. The Provence in the south of France is known for its long sandy beaches and old fishing villages. You’ll also find the mundane cities of Cannes, Nice and Monaco here. Looking for some peace and quiet? Have a walk in one of the inland nature reserves, where the pleasant lavender smell welcomes you and you can be amazed about the many vineyards.



According to Park Manager Judith Gilibert-Geerdink, it’s RCN’s most French campsite. “We have many French guests at our campsite, adding to the authentic French atmosphere.

Guests have an aperitif together and mingle perfectly, especially during dancing nights.”

For those who appreciate a little more comfort, there are fully decorated quad or six-person mobile homes with a terrace

On the beach you can sunbathe, swim and snorkel in the many bays as much as you want and lots of space, and even luxurious quad mobile homes with a roof terrace. This sunny terrace offers a breathtaking view of the well-known Roquebrune, the most beautiful

HIG HLIGHTS ean Sea • Close to the Mediterran

resorts such • Near mundane sea-side as Saint Tropez and Monaco ing” • The possibility of “glamp

mountain in the Provence. “It’s how we meet today’s socalled “glamping” trend, as in camping with a bit of glamour,” Judith says proudly. “These interior design mobile homes have a washing machine and climate control as extra luxury.”

BOULES-FIELDS Young and old enjoy themselves in a variety of campsite activities. There are two wonderful swimming pools with water slides, a football field, tennis courts, table tennis tables and boules-fields. “Jeu de boules is very popular among our guests,” says Judith. “The boules-field is a true

63

Domaine de la Noguière

meeting point for French and Dutch boules players alike.

SKY BLUE

And it’s also a lot of fun to watch the other guests play

Sun, sea and beach. That’s pretty much all you need to enjoy

the game.” Jeu de boules may seem slow, but the game

a well-deserved holiday. The sky-blue Mediterranean Sea with

requires lots of concentration and skill. Meanwhile there

its long sandy beaches is only sixteen kilometres from the

is no reason why you cannot meet up with some fellow-

campsite. Judith recommends the Fréjus beach in particular:

players for a drink.

“It’s an excellent sandy beach where you can sunbathe, swim and snorkel in the many bays as much as you want.” Enjoy

DINING PROVENCE STYLE This close to the Mediterranean Sea the nights are often mild and sultry, the ideal temperature to sit down at the campsite’s welcoming village square. Here dinner is served against the backdrop of the fountain’s splashing water.

“It’s the perfect atmosphere for some relaxed wining and dining,” says Judith. “The rosé is especially appreciated by our guests.” Next to the restaurant you will also find a bar on this French square. Perhaps you’d rather enjoy the swimming pool a little longer? Have yourself a drink or a snack at the tastefully decorated lounge bar, offering a sublime view of the Roquebrune mountains.

FISHING For our park guests looking for peace and quiet there is a fresh water lake where you can fish. You can find all the fishing gear you need at the reception desk. You can also take a little boat out on the lake. “We put back whatever fish we catch,” Judith explains. “There is no fishing for the barbecue.” The fishing lake mainly contains grouper, pike and perch. Sitting by the waterside quietly you can also see turtles swimming by.

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Domaine de la Noguière

FACILITEITEN • 2 swimming pools with a quadruple and triple water slide • Recreation forest • Fishing lake • Tennis court and football field • Boules-field • Restaurant with terrace and bar • Lounge bar

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/DOMAINEDELANOGUIRE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

a freshly made French lunch or a cool drink at one of the Saint-Tropez

various shaded beach terraces.

Originally a fishing village, this town with its luxurious marina is the jet set summer meeting spot. Go there in

HIKING

the morning when it’s not so warm yet, blend in with

Novice as well as advanced hikers can indulge themselves

the locals and do some shopping at the Place des Lices

here. Young and old can put on their walking boots for a

market.

beautiful walk. Every Sunday morning there is a walk to Le Muy, a quiet village surrounded by vast forests and vineyards.

Port Grimaud

Le Muy is widely known for its two-weekly Provence market.

A boat takes you from Saint-Tropez to the small port

On Sundays, more than 200 stands are filled in the village

town of Port Grimaud, also known as the Venice of the

centre, around the church. “It’s one of the biggest markets in

Provence. Nowadays small canals meander along the

this region, at the heart of the village. You can find clothes,

pastel houses, linked by bridges. Take a seat at one of the cosy terraces and admire the local shops and beautiful yachts.

Cannes Cannes immediately brings to mind glitter and glamour, grand yachts and celebrities, but this seaside resort has a lot more to offer. Visit Le Suquet, the town’s oldest quarter with the Place de la Castre castle from the Middle Ages as its highlight.

Nice The biggest city at the French Rivièra is also known as “La Bella Nizza”. It’s France’s second largest city – behind Paris – when it comes to musea and art galleries.

A must-see!

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65

Domaine de la Noguière

GHOST HUNTING The Domaine de la Noguière campsite organises all kinds of activities for all ages, from moonlight swimming vegetables, fruit, flowers, fish, all kinds of flavours, colours

to tropical pool parties to ghost hunting. An old witch

and smells. It’s a great atmosphere,” Judith explains.

tells a thrilling story of a child disappearing near the

The more advanced hiker can take part in the campsite

fishing lake. Afterwards the small children go to the

recreation team walks through mountains and forests in the

lake when it’s twilight. The older kids don’t go until

area, such as climbing the Roquebrune (373 metres). “It’s

it’s completely dark. “The lake is the “haunted” by the

about three hours to the top and back, with a great view of

mothers and fathers with make-up on,” Park Manager

the sea and the campsite as your reward.” Sydny, a member

Judith says, smiling.

Le Muy is widely known for its

before? That’s no problem, Judith explains. “You start

two-weekly Provence market

instructor takes you to the Mediterranean Sea!”

with trial lessons in the campsite pool. In the afternoon an You can also go canyoning in the spectacular Verdon gorges. A guide takes you gorge walking, which involves walking, climbing, jumping, swimming and abseiling. It’s an exciting activity for the whole family, suitable for kids from

of the recreation team, is very enthusiastic about his favourite

the age of twelve. You can take the kids rafting, following

walk to the Malpasset Dam, a former dam on the river Reyran

a wild river in a special boat, from the age of eight. If you

near Fréjus: “There is a very interesting story there. In 1959,

prefer taking it a bit easier, you can also take the canoe

the dam collapsed, allowing an enormous wave to run into

downstream the river Argens.

the valley. You can still see the enormous rocks that were taken for four hundred metres. During this walk I tell the hikers everything about this fascinating history.”

EXCITING SPORTS Besides walking the campsite organises some more challenging activities such as diving. Have you never dived

Address RCN Domaine de la Noguière 1617 Route de Fréjus

DN7 F-83490 Le Muy

0033 494 451 378

noguiere@rcn.fr

www.rcn.fr/en/domainedelanoguiere

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Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Your personal French

holiday spot e l a s r o F

Owning a luxurious mobile home at RCN Domaine de la Noguière means indulging in that wonderful French holiday feeling with the amenities you need, whenever you want.

These superb new accommodations were all built on at least two hundred square metres of land in the campsite’s bungalow section. With all the room you need to relax and play, the sunny Côte d’Azur is the ideal region for your mobile home. And if you want to explore the surroundings for a day or so, there are plenty of possibilities. From RCN Domaine de la Noguière it’s only a half an hour drive to the sea for a calm day at the beach, lovely strolls or sightseeing in one of the scenic villages.

A RCN DOMAINE DE LA NOGUIÈRE MOBILE HOME: - Sunny living room - Suitable for a minimum of four guests - With 2 or 3 bedrooms - Fully equipped kitchen including dishwasher - Bathroom - Separate toilet For more information please contact Judith Gilibert at RCN Domaine de la Noguière: 0033 494 451 378 or refer to www.rcn.nl/en/prl.

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67

Where excitement

and romance meet

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: Jan Sluijter, RCN Holiday Parks

les Collines de Castellane

Nature and sporty activity are the two key ingredients of a holiday at RCN les Collines de Castellane near the Gorges du Verdon. The varied landscapes are an invitation to an energetic holiday for all ages.



The mountainous landscape around the park consists of rock formations, grassy fields and forests. The colours are like a painting. It is, also literally, where Provence romance and the exciting atmosphere of the Alps meet. Sun lovers as well as mountaineers love to come to this region. RCN les Collines de Castellane is situated in an afforested area. Park Manager Arie Kuijl is proud of his park’s unique location, and not just because of the beautiful surroundings: the park is terraced.

The park’s entrance, the reception and the restaurant form the highest section. All the way down the park is divided into several levels, allowing every guest to look over his neighbours. Arie: “This way the view is equally gorgeous from any camping pitch.”

ADVENTURE PARK Want to go on a survival, hiking or canoeing tour? The mountainous area offers all the opportunity you need for outdoor sports. At the park itself outdoor sports are also key. Hidden between the trees you’ll find the climbing forest, an obstacle trail made of wooden poles, ropes and other materials. Outdoor sports organisation Bureau des Guides de Canyon explains the track. You are to secure yourself during your run, as the obstacles are three to seven metres high. The exciting climbing forest is a fun activity for the whole family.

CANYONING FOR YOUNG AND OLD Mountaineering in this setting is something different. The Gorges du Verdon is Europe’s biggest canyon. One of the

HIG HLIGHTS outdoor • Per fec t surrou ndings for n sports, also for small childre ry cam • Gorgeous view from eve ping pitch • Adventure park

most exhilarating ways of mountaineering is canyoning, in which nature is your track. You follow the river passing the rocks and through the landscape. You hike, climb and abseil and the rivers work as natural slides. Wetsuit and a helmet are compulsory. Canyoning is suitable for adults and children from the age of nine. To meet the smallest kids, RCN les Collines de Castellane invented kids’ canyoning, through small, shallow waterfalls. Arie: “The parents can almost walk through the water, but the impressive nature makes everything here worthwhile. When they return with the kids their smile is usually just as big.”

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WILD WATER ADVENTURES The French inlands are known for the wild water sports.

Rafting, canoeing and kayaking are everywhere here. Rafting especially guarantees a thrilling and adventurous day. Groups of four to eight people and a guide use a robust rafting boat and paddles to get passed the rocks and through rapids. It’s the perfect way to create team spirit. You can also go rafting with your family. The minimum age is six years and the tours come in several distances. You can book almost all of your water activities at les Collines.

COMFORT AS IT SHOULD BE After such an exciting day you might want to do a bit of relaxing. That’s why Arie feels that comfort is key at les Collines. The pitches are at the basis of a comfortable camping experience. Sun or rather shade, just grass or a bit of forest, there is plenty of space to choose from. All pitches come with a private electricity and water point and some even have their own drainage. If you’d rather not stay in tent or caravan, then you just as easily rent a comfortable mobile home or chalet with a wooden porch. The safari tents also offer luxury, as well as that real camping feeling.

Arie: “Everything is within reach and meanwhile you can hear the birds whistling outside your tent.” The tents have a bathroom, kitchen and terrace and are equipped with scaffold board furniture.

NAPOLÉON The historic Route Napoléon passes les Collines, so you can easily pick it up there. The route offers fabulous landscapes

70

“Everything is within reach and meanwhile you can hear the birds whistling outside your tent”

les Collines de Castellane FACILITIES • Swimming pool with triple slides and waterfall • Playground equipment •T ennis court and table tennis tables • Football, basketball and volleyball fields • Restaurant and terrace • Boules-field • Pizza corner • Adventure park • Recreation team • Open air fitness area • Shop PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/COLLINESDECASTELLANE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

• Library • Camping refrigerator rental

and mountain views. In 2015, it has been 200 years since the French emperor Napoléon Bonaparte followed this route himself in an attempt to regain power. There will be festivities to commemorate this throughout the year. The Allies successfully invaded in 1814 and forced Napoleon to abdicate. He was then exiled to the island of Elba, near the Italian border. Despite his beautiful mansion and luxurious island life he escaped. In the spring of 1815, Napoléon and his crew members arrived by boat in the well-known Golfe-Juan seaside resort at the Côte d’Azur. They began their march to Lyon to regain power. They marched for days on end. In 1932, their route was opened as Route Napoléon. It starts in Cannes and via several well-known towns and villages, it

HISTORY AND JET SET If you’re willing to do an hour drive, then there are loads of old towns and villages to see, such as the medieval fortress town of Entrevaux, by the river Var. The small streets and the aged houses tell the story of how people lived in the old days. The citadel city has a French as well as an Italian gate and six draw bridges. The fortress, dungeons and subterranean corridors make this an interesting and adventurous trip. You can also go for a day at the beach jet set style. Arie: “Here you can easily mix your active holiday with some glamour. The Côte d’Azur is just an hour’s drive away.” Along the French Rivièra you’ll find famous luxury seaside resorts such as Saint Tropez, Cannes and Nice.

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71

DID YOU KNOW THAT… …T he RCN les Collines de Castellane swimming pool was inspired by its environment? The bridge is a Castellane bridge replica. …Y ou can run into many forest animals on a twilight leads to Genoble and Lyon. For more information, please see

stroll? Our guests often spot rabbits, wild boar and

the RCN les Collines de Castellane website. In 2015, the Tour

deer.

de France will pass through Castellane and cover part of the

…T here are two big lakes close to les Collines? Lac

Route Napoléon.

du Castillon and Lac de Sainte-Croix have lovely strands to relax.

HIKING The Castellane surroundings are perfect for walking and hiking owing to the region’s interesting history and breathtaking landscapes. Get your routes and information at

Lyon

le Grenob

the reception desk.

A7

Address RCN les Collines de Castellane Route de Grasse

Nîmes A9

04120 La Garde/Castellane

A51

Côte d’ Azur

Toulon

www.rcn.nl/en/collinesdecastellane

85

40

Draguignan

Le Muy

Marseille

collines@rcn.nl

Digne RD

Entrevaux Gorges du Verdon Grasse

les Collines de Castellane Aix-en-Provence

0033 492 836 896

Sisteron

Avignon

Monaco Nice FréjusCannes

St-Tropez

Middellandse zee

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Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

A holiday full of

survival fun

Are you the adventurous kind? The French RCN parks offer loads of opportunity for a

sporty day in the wild. Holiday! makes a couple of suggestions.

The natural surroundings of the French parks are ideal for

as you’re forced to make quite a few choices along the

a variety of survival sports. If you’re a fan of heights you

way. Make sure you only engage in canyoning under the

can do all the abseiling you want in the mountains. Do you

professional supervision of an instructor and if possible,

prefer staying closer to the ground? Try and tame some wild

follow a canyoning course first. This prepares you for a

rivers by canoe or rafting boat. Or you combine the two in

variety of defying canyons.

canyoning, in which you defy the mountains as well as the water.

ABSEILING Abseiling, also known as rappelling, means you safely

CANYONING

descend down steep rock faces with a rope. Nowadays it’s

Canyoning is one of the more spectacular outdoor sports.

one of the most popular forms of mountaineering. You lower

The aim is to follow a river through a canyon. You descend

yourself with a static rope while being attached to a static

into the canyon wearing professional equipment, preparing

rope as well, allowing you to come down at your own pace,

you for the challenging route along high gorges, natural

reducing speed whenever you want. This way you reach the

slides and roped descents. Apart from a bit of bravery

ground in a controlled and safe manner.

canyoning takes careful preparation and knowledge, RAFTING Rafting has become more and more popular since the eighties. Rafting means going down a wild river on a rafting boat at high speed. A rafting boat contains four to twelve people, so it’s the perfect option for an exciting adventure with family or friends. Please note that many outdoor sports have to comply with strict guidelines with regard to the integrity and protection of nature. At some rivers special environmental regulations apply. Sometimes the amount of rafting expeditions per day is limited.

SURVIVAL SPORTS AT OR NEAR AN RCN CAMPSITE Les Collines de Castellane: Canyoning, abseiling, rafting Val de Cantobre: Canyoning, abseiling, rafting (no rafting during the main season, as the river is too calm then) La Bastide en Ardèche: Canyoning, abseiling Domaine de la Noguière: Canyoning, abseiling, rafting Belledonne: Canyoning, rafting

No.01 2015

73

High altitude

enjoyment

Text: Helen Albada Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Belledonne

RCN campsite Belledone is situated at 700 metres, at the base of the French Alps in the department of Isère. The small-scale park in a five-hectare, flat and sunny terrain offers magnificent views of the famous Alpe d’Huez as well as the Grandes Rousses massif. The surroundings are a sight for sore eyes with their deep valleys, afforested slopes, waterfalls, lakes and glaciers.



“The name Grandes Rousses derives from the mountains being coloured red by the setting sun in summer,” says Park Manager Jasper Cloosterman, who is very passionate about his campsite. “I’m a Dutch boy living in the mountains. I have the most beautiful office there is!”

The Belledonne campsite attracts an array of guests. “Our campsite is located at the heart of a popular hiking region as well as close to the mountains made famous by the Tour de France. A lot of active and sporty people come and visit us, wanting to explore the surroundings on foot or cycling. We also offer a wide range of ways to relax at the park itself,” Jasper explains.

HIKING PARADISE Belledonne is at the rim of the protected unspoiled Parc Nationale des Écrins nature reserve. “If you get up early, you can even spot deer on the grounds,” Jasper says. The setting is an open invitation to put on your walking boots. The reception desk offers no less than forty hiking routes for all levels, from novice to experienced walkers, from an afternoon stroll to a Grand Randonnée. You can even walk from one mountain cabin to the other.

ADVENTUROUS Are you looking for something more challenging? Go rafting near the campsite! A special boat takes you through glacier melt water at full speed. You can go for some family rafting at the Vénéon or take somewhat older kids to the rough

HIG HLIGHTS

Romanche near La Grave. Perhaps you’d rather go canyoning in the Alps. A guide takes you gorge walking, which involves

• At the base of Alpe d’Huez

walking, climbing, jumping, swimming and abseiling. The

• Mountain sun plateau • Summer skiing • Perfect hiking and cycling

Via Ferreta is also close to the park. It’s a rock ledge track

opportunities

marked by steel cables that you follow while safely secured to a line.

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Belledonne

CYCLING

were competing in the Tour de France.” From Belledonne you

Apart from hiking, the Belledonne campsite is also a cycling

might want to climb the mountain itself (1,860 metres) or ride

paradise. What about conquering the slopes of Alpe d’Huez,

the Queen’s stage with a total of 21 hairpin bends. “Sometimes

Croix de Fer or Glandon? Or other famous Tour de France peaks

the Tour de France passes our campsite. That’s always such an

such as Col de Lautaret or Galibier? “Cycling lovers can indulge

amazing event,” Jasper reminisces. To add to all this cycling fun

themselves in the many possibilities around RCN Belledonne,”

the campsite even has a bike workshop where you can hang up,

says Jasper. “It’s only a half an hour ride to get to the foot of

repair and clean your bike. Tools are available at the reception

Alpe d’Huez. You can do some wonderful climbs there, as if you

desk. Please see bike-oisans.com for cycling routes.

“It’s only a half an hour ride from here to the foot of the Alpe d’Huez”

Belledonne FACILITIES • 2 Swimming pools, 1 heated • Sauna • Hammam • Bike workshop • Tennis court • Volleyball field • Running track

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/BELLEDONNE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

RELAXING

ICE CAVE

After all these activities what better way is there to relax

At the end of the La Meije glacier ski lift is a snow path

than in one of the campsite’s swimming pools? To top it

leading to an ice cave. The cave is some thirty metres

all off you can treat yourself to a sauna and hammam visit

beneath the snow, covered in thick layers of ice. Ice

for just ten euros per hour. Afterwards you might want to

sculptures were created here the shape of tigers, kangaroos,

indulge in a good glass of wine, some fine food and inspiring

lizards and horses. They continuously change form, as the

conversation at the welcoming restaurant with its marvellous

summer sun melts the figures during daytime.

mountain top view.

WONDERFUL NATURE SKI LIFT

From glacier buttercups to trumpet gentians, the Alps offer

In July and August several ski lifts to the Alps’ highest

a huge variety of plants and flowers. The low valleys as well

peaks and glaciers are open to visitors. You may take one

as the high alpine pastures create an isolated area for many

from Alpe d’Huez, Vaujany, Les Deux Alpes or La Grave la

species that cannot survive outside these regions. Want to

Meije. The lift takes you to a 3,200-metre altitude between

admire the Alps’ flora? Visit the Bourg d’Oisans Alps flora

majestic mountains, where you will enjoy wonderful views

and mountain minerals museum. Or pay a visit to the Col de

of valleys and picturesque villages. At the mountaintop you

Lautaret botanic garden with all kinds of alpine flowers at

walk through the glacier’s eternal snow while taking in a spectacular view from the top of the world.

SKIING Taking your skis to a summer campsite? It’s an everyday sight at the Belledonne campsite. The nearby Les Deux Alpes ski area offers snow in summer at an altitude of 2,900 to 3,600 metres. Jasper explains that skiing in summer is different from skiing in winter. “There is sun between six in the morning and one in the afternoon. In those few hours you make short turns, as you can only use part of the area in summer. When the sun creeps behind the mountain, it’s time to join it again by the campsite’s swimming pool.”

You can easily rent skiing equipment on site at reduced prices. A skiing pass is around 35 euros per day.

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Grenoble is a lively city full

GROUNDHOGS At an altitude of 1,530 metres you will find Lac Lauvitel,

of culture, sun and mountain

Parc Nationale des Écrins’ largest mountain lake. Take a short stroll beside the lake or take your family to the you of their own accord.

views

DID YOU KNOW…

you’ll find a narrow street labyrinth with all kinds of enticing

...Groundhogs whistle to each other when someone is

shops, lively cafes and numerous restaurants. The Bastille

approaching or if there is danger?

fort towers above it all. The Les Bulles cable car takes you

groundhog colony. Here, these wild animals come to

to 498 metres, and a breathtaking view of the city and the mountains. Beneath you is the Isère river and the old town with its red tiles and long boulevards.

an altitude of 2,100 metres, offering a wonderful view of the La Meije glacier. You will also find an alpine pasture museum in the small town of Besse en Oisans, with its old stone and wooden houses. The local museum highlights alpine pasture life and the sheepherder profession.

GRENOBLE At only a fifty-kilometre drive from the Belledonne campsite is Grenoble. It’s a vivacious city full of culture, sun and mountain views. In the Notre Dame quarter in the old town

Adres

Lyon

RCN Holiday Parks Belledonne Rochetaillée

A43

38520 Le Bourg-d’Oisans

0033 476 800 718

belledonne@rcn.fr

www.rcn.nl/en/belledonne

A48

Grenoble

Belledonne Rochetaillée

St. Marcellin

N91

L’Alpe-d’Huez Col de Lautaret

Le Bourg d’Oisans

N91

Les Deux Alpes

Lac Lauvitel

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Versatile river campsite

Text: Inger Waling Photography: Jan Sluiter, RCN Holiday Parks

la Bastide en Ardèche Twice already RCN la Bastide en Ardèche found itself in the top ten of Europe’s best campsites for children. Playing on the unique sandy beach or canoeing down the Ardèche: young and

HIG HLIGHTS • Unique sandy beach on the

banks of

the river Ardèche positions in • Two consecutive top-ten e Europe’s best children’s campsit • Close to Pont d’Arc

old have a wonderful time on a la Bastide holiday.



The la Bastide en Ardèche campsite lies next to the wonderful Ardèche river. Surrounded by impressive rocks, groups of pine trees and of course that wonderful Mediterranean climate, this campsite surely is one of RCN’s finest. The riverbanks originally consist of rocks and stones.

In an effort to do everything he can for the guests, the campsite manager came up with an idea. “Every year in June some twenty sand trucks come here to shape this wonderful riverside beach,” says Park Manager Inge Duterloo. The sand lies there for a few months and as the river gets wider by the end of summer, the river takes the sand again. With its deep as well as shallow parts the river is suitable for children (and grown-ups) of all ages to swim and play in. “Underneath the big bridge it’s deep enough to swim. Other parts of the river are more shallow and used for building small dams in summer, doing a bit of floating on an air mattress or reading a book while your feet are in the water,” Inge explains.

DISCOVER THE SURROUNDINGS You might want to get away from the beach for a while and discover the splendid surroundings. Like all RCN campsites, la Bastide en Ardèche has a reception desk with an information

81

la Bastide en Ardèche

TOP TEN OF CHILD-FRIENDLY CAMPSITES In 2013, la Bastide en Ardèche made it to the top ten of Europe’s child-friendliest campsites, according to the Dutch ANWB. “We’re so proud of that,” says Inge, radiating. What makes la Bastide so child-friendly?

“ANWB mentioned our sympathetic colleagues, the wide-ranging recreation program and the special kids program,” she explains. “We go ghost hunting, foxhunting and organise an exciting competition in which kids build their own boats and try and get upstream to sound a bell.” That sounds like fun and an excellent opportunity for kids to get to know each other. The

worth it. You have a different and wonderful view of this

older children gladly retreat to their own hangout,

beautiful region. Rowing down the Ardèche by canoe is a real

especially for adolescents.

highlight.” La Bastide en Ardèche has an alliance with two canoeing schools that organise several river tours. These are suitable for guests from the age of seven. You can start at

point with all kinds of information about the region. Inge: “We

the campsite or at another location and then row back to the

help plan routes for walking and cycling, make reservations

campsite. “Some of the tours even take you underneath the

for activities, organise a daytrip. We do the best we can to

world-famous Pont d’Arc. You have a marvellous view on the

help make the most out of our guests’ holiday.”

ROWING DOWN THE ARDÈCHE

EXTRA FESTIVE

Your la Bastide en Ardèche stay is not complete without

Twice a week la Bastide organises a ‘soirée’. ‘Soirée’

a little river sightseeing tour. A canoe tour is an excellent

is the French word for evening show. There is artist

choice for the more adventurous holidaymakers, Inge

entertainment, live music and sometimes karaoke. Inge:

explains. “The Ardèche is not exactly a calm creek. It has a

“We also have talent shows, playback shows and theatre

lot of rapids, rocks and challenging passages. But it’s really

and dancing. ‘La Bastide’s got talent’ is especially popular. Kids perform on the terrace, the parents video it all and the judges choose a winner.”

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la Bastide en Ardèche

FACILITIES • Heated swimming pool • Ardèche beach • Recreation team and recreation building • Tennis court and boules-fields • Football and volleyball field • Pool and table tennis • Licensed fishing • Toddlers playground • Bike rental, canoeing, horse riding, quad driving, canyoning • Camping shop • Launderette

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/BASTIDENARDECHE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

• Library • Barbecue and refrigerator rental • Snack counter and restaurant

bridge from beneath.” The tours have no time limits, so you

swimming pool is turned upside down in just a few minutes

can have a picnic on the riverbanks, go for a swim when you

time. Inge: “At first new guests don’t know what to think when

feel like it or have lunch at Pont d’Arc.

our recreation team members go wild on famous songs. You can see them thinking! But their enthusiasm and fun are so

BY BOAT

contagious that in no time at all the entire pool is game. It’s a

If you are feeling really sporty and adventurous: row down

fantastic atmosphere kids look forward to all day.”

part of the fifty-kilometre long river Ardèche and set up your tent on one of the river campsites. “If you want, you can explore the Ardèche in a day, but some guests arrive here by boat and leave only after a couple of nights. It’s a great way to spend your holiday,” says Inge.

FUN2DANCE One of la Bastide’s highlights is the daily Fun2Dance.

Everything goes in this recreation team act and so the whole

LIKE A COWBOY Another great way to explore the Ardèche is on horseback. “A two-hour trail takes you alongside the river and other Ardèche highlights,” says Inge. For a few years now the campsite has been working together with the nearby riding school, which picks up the campsite guests in a van and takes them back again. “Everyone from the age of ten can go horse riding here, even if you don’t have any experience. Each ride is led by two guides, one for the novices and one for the advanced riders. The younger children may ride ponies,” Inge explains.

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THREE TIPS IN THE AREA 1. Canyoning at Base Canyon de la Besorgues Go canyoning in the north of the Ardèche. Put on your wetsuit and swim down the river, dive from the rocks, scramble up the walls or simply float in the water. www.canyon-besorgues.com 2. La Fermeaux Crocodiles In this gigantic garden you’ll find over four hundred different types of crocodiles, giant tortoises and exotic

LANE SWIMMING

birds. www.lafermeauxcrocodiles.com

The swimming pool is a place of fun and games, but if you

3. Grospierres Adventure Camp

want you can also go there for your daily portion of lane

Zip-lines, suspension bridges, climbing nets, lianas and

swimming. Every morning and every evening there is half an

other obstacles: if you’re up for a challenge, this is the

hour of lane swimming for the more serious swimmers.

place to be. www.adventurecamp.fr

INFLATABLE CROCODILE Because of safety regulations no toys or playing equipment are allowed in the swimming pool, except for the daily half hour of water fun. Anything goes. Inge: “Boats, crocodiles and even inflatable castles are brought into the pool. It’s a wonderful sight. For half an hour everything is allowed.”

Address RCN la Bastide en Ardèche 1, Route d’Ales-D111

Ruoms-07120-Sampzon

0033 475 396 472

bastide@rcn.fr

www.rcn.nl/en/bastideenardeche

► FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE SEE THE TARIFF GUIDE ATTACHED OR WWW.RCN.NL/EN/ 84

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Fun2dance

Keep on

moving

Dancing is fun, especially when you’re doing it together with other people. And in addition, a bit of moving is good for you! If you’re a music and dancing lover you’ve come to the right place at Fun2Dance, one of RCN’s most fun activities.

The recreation team gathers as much kids as possible and makes sure

TOP FIVE OF BEST SUMMER SONGS

everyone has a ball. Swaying and swinging outside in the warm sun, inside the

1. Kinderen Voor Kinderen – Klaar Voor

cosy recreation building or even in the swimming pool, anything is possible.

De Start

Parents are gladly invited to join in for some dancing. This festive dancing

2. Gustavo Lima – Balada

calls for some sunny music. The RCN recreation team members prefer sunny

3. Soca Boys – Follow The Leader

summertime songs, so the holiday sun feels even better. Join us at Fun2Dance

4 Michel Télo – Ai Se Eu Te Pego

and start practising the top five of summer songs on this page, so you can

5 Riverside – Pick A Bale Of Cotton

sing along later on!

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A breathtaking

part of France

Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Val de Cantobre In the steppe-like landscape and the valleys HIG HLIGHTS • Spl end id view s • Advent uro us and spo rty

sur rou ndi ngs s • His tori c citi es and vill age • Pan ora mic cam p site s • Ple nty of hik ing opt ion

abounding in water of Les Grands Causses it’s always a good idea to seek some height for excellent



views. In this region you’ll find RCN Val de Cantobre.

The Causses region has been shaped by the area’s herders over thousands of years. The natural scenery served as a templar’s fortress during the Middle Ages. With its unique flora and fauna and beautiful historic villages Val de Cantobre serves as one of RCN’s flagships.

Grands Causses offers challenging surroundings for sports On park’s grounds guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the afforested mountains. Alongside Val de Cantobre runs the river Dourbie, a quiet river for kids to safely play in and enjoy themselves. Not just the surroundings are worthwhile here; the park also has plenty to offer for young and old. For kids there is all the entertainment you can think of. For example, the park has a forty-metre long wild-water rapid as well as a triple water

87

Val de Cantobre

SPOT THE VULTURES Vultures had completely disappeared from Grands Causses nature reserve, but after successful reintroduction of these endangered birds of prey now hundreds of them can be seen flying over the territory.

Vultures build their nests against the rocks, far away from humans. These birds can nonetheless be seen on a regular basis. There are four different kinds of vultures here: Griffon vulture The griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) has distinctively broad wings. They are called fingered wings, because of the finger-like ends on each side. The griffon vulture is brownish in colour, with a white head and neck.

Bearded vulture The bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) has one distinguishing characteristic: unlike most vultures, the bearded vulture does not have a bald head. Perhaps that is why it’s called the bearded vulture. This vulture feeds mainly on bone marrow instead of meat.

Black vulture

slide and a multifunctional sports field where you can play

Not surprisingly, the black

football, basketball and volleyball. From May to September

vulture (Coragyps Atratus)

the recreation team organises all kinds of fun activities,

has a predominantly black

such as searches, water games and evening shows.

exterior. This bird has what you might call classic vulture appearance, as most people would probably describe it. The head and neck are featherless and the skin is dark gray and wrinkled.

ADVENTUROUS AND SPORTY With the different altitude levels Grands Causses offers challenging surroundings for sports. The wind and air pressure conditions make it an ideal area for aviation. No wonder Millau has become Europe’s number one capital when it comes to hang gliding and paragliding. Guests who prefer to enjoy the mountains in a more calmly manner, can

Egyptian vulture

go for endless walks starting at the campsite. In spring a

The Eqyptian vulture (Neophron

guide will take you to explore the magnificent plateaux. But

percnopterus) is related to another

it’s not just the varying altitudes that make this into such a

bird of prey: the goshawk. Its most striking features are the wedgeshaped tail, slender bill and yellow facial skin round the eyes. This vulture changes

special nature reserve. The various rivers running through it provide the perfect onset for an array of water sports. Guests can rent a canoe to go down the river Tarn or Dourbie.

Another way to discover the river is by canyoning. You follow

colour as it grows older. In five years time, the colour

the river by climbing, abseiling and using natural slides. This

slowly fades from black to white with only a bit of black.

region is also known as a cyclists’ paradise, with the Mont Aigoual ascent as the piece de la resistance.

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Val de Cantobre

FACILITIES • Recreation team • Restaurant and shop • Swimming pool with two toddler pools • Triple water slides • 40-metre long wild-water rapid • Multifunctional sports field • Guided nature walk (23 May - 20 June) • Luxury mobile homes with roof terrace • Playground equipment • Tennis court, table tennis and midget golf

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/VALDECANTOBRE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST

and Durzon rivers together. The name derives from nantos,

In 2011, Unesco added Grands Causses nature reserve to

the Celtic word for valley. Cantobre is on a rock overseeing

the World Heritage List. With this earmark Unesco hopes

the Dourbie and Trevezel rivers. After a serious 550-metre

to maintain the region’s unique agriculture. Grands Causses

climb from the rock plateau you will be rewarded by splendid

holds a number of sheepherders that still herd their sheep in

views. Both villages can easily be reached on foot from the

the traditional way.

campsite.

HISTORIC SIGHTS

ROQUEFORT-SUR-SOULZON

Around Val de Cantobre there are countless authentic

Roquefort-sur-Soulzon owes its location to the collapse of part

villages, among which you’ll find five historic templar’s

of the Combalou, a rock formation south of the village, about

settlements. Enjoy the inviting markets, the Micropolis

a million years ago. The world-famous Roquefort cheese has

museum of insects or the Mediterranean beaches, all just a

its roots here, in the Roquefort-sur-Soulzon village. The blue

car drive away. There is something here for everyone.

cheese is made from milk from sheep that roam the Causses

Nant is at the heart of a green valley that brings the Dourbie

slopes. Many cheese makers’ cellars are open to visitors.

GORGES There are three remarkable gorges in the vicinity of Val de Cantobre. The park is near the Gorges de la Dourbie.

Gorges du Tarn you’ll find in the Cevennes region, close to Cevennes National Park. Gorges du Tarn was named after the river Tarn that runs right through the gorge.

A bit further in the same area you can see the Gorges de la Jonte, named after the river Jonte. The gorge has several uniquely shaped rock formations, known as the Chinese Vase, the Sèvres Vase and Capluc Rock.

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89

The wind and air pressure conditions

MILLAU

make it an ideal area

capital of the arrondissement. Millau is situated in Grands

for aviation

from the small town of Nant. There is an eye-catching

Millau is the region’s largest city by far and also the Causses National Park at a little over thirty kilometres viaduct stretching over the river Nant valley. The vivacious town centre with its numerous restaurants and cafes is really worth a visit.

LA CAVALERIE Close to Millau is La Cavalerie. This twelfth-century village was founded by the Larzac templars. Later on, in the fifteenth century, Hospital Knights used the fortress.

You can still see the fortified castle tower serving as an intimidating entrance as well as the eighteenth-century church that holds many templar documents.

LA COUVERTOIRADE The small fortress town of La Couvertoirade was built somewhere between the twelfth and thirteenth century.

Over the years the village has been completely restored and transformed from old and run-down to scenic and authentic. The templars’ traces are clearly visible in the fifteenth-century wall, the cemetery with its special round crosses serving as tomb stones (stèles) and the church built by Hospital Knights.

Address RCN Val de Cantobre

 12230 Nant  0033 565 584 300  cantobre@rcn.fr  www.rcn.nl/en/valdecantobre

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Colourful fairy-tale castle

92

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

le Moulin de la Pique

The Dordogne is perfect for a comfortable and luxurious holiday, especially when you’re headed for an old French estate such as RCN le Moulin de la Pique. It’s a unique and luxurious setting, at the backdrop of



authentic French history.

The grounds used to be an estate with a paper mill. Many significant and prosperous people have lived here. Nowadays Eelco and Else-Marieke Stienstra run the dream park for RCN. History is still present in the old, sand-coloured buildings.

The constructions dating back to around 1800 are still in use as the holiday park’s main buildings. The old mill serves as luxurious rental apartment. The manor and the well-cared for gardens surrounding it call to mind a prosperous residence from the Middle Ages. The magnolias give away the thriving history. The trees need so much care from a gardener that only the wealthy people could afford to have them. ElseMarieke: “A little girl once asked me if I lived in that beautiful castle. The estate obviously leaves quite an impression on our visitors.” At night the impact is even bigger because of the numerous small lights illuminating the rough stone walls, adding to the warm, majestic atmosphere. In the evening you feel like a queen on your own terrace.

DORDOGNE GLAMOUR For a glamorous outdoor holiday you’ve come to the right place at “le Moulin”. Eelco and Else-Marieke focus on “glamping” with well-equipped, luxurious mobile homes, spacious pitches and a range of facilities. As of this year guests can stay in a two-bathroom mobile home. There is also a completely new sanitary building. Else-Marieke: “There

“A little girl once asked me if I HIG HLIGHTS tic • At the backdrop of authen

lived in that beautiful castle”

French history

able and • A wide range of comfort

is quite some competition, but as far as luxury is concerned

luxurious accommodations environ• European Eco Label for

We’re one of the few five-star accommodations.” Le Moulin

mentally friendly operation

we stand out compared to the many other French campsites. de la Pique has four swimming pools with multiple water slides and an open-air fitness area with six different types of fitness appliances. Staying in shape during the holidays has never been this easy. “The park has three holiday houses.

93

le Moulin de la Pique clean park and nature. For this environmentally friendly way of ZIMBABWEAN SCULPTURES

working the park received the European Eco Label.

The “le Moulin” gardens are decorated with lovely trees and plants and also special sculptures. These art pieces

RUNNING TO THE TOP

are made by Zimbabwean artists. They regularly replace

RCN le Moulin de la Pique has won the 2013 Runner-up Alan

them by new sculptures. Would you like to develop as

Rogers Family Campsite Award. It means the campsite was

an artist or do you enjoy being creative on your holiday?

named second best family campsite in the whole of Europe.

The artists also give several workshops for holiday

Else-Marieke feels this is largely due to the park’s hospitality

park guests during the summer holidays. The beautiful surroundings are an endless source of inspiration.

One is in the old mill. The other two are in another part of the estate. They have been refurbished in the old French style of the main buildings.” The safari tents, decorated with trendy scaffold board furniture, add to that special camping experience, completed by a beautiful bathroom and kitchen.

The glamorous model even has a four-poster bed. When it comes to comfort it’s also the details that matter. For some years now the campsite has had a heated terrace.

ECOLABEL The wonderful Dordogne nature deserves to be treated and maintained well, which is why le Moulin de la Pique pays a lot of attention to sustainability on the grounds. The park fully operates on green energy and water-saving measures prevent the overuse of water as much as possible. These savings do not conflict with luxury and comfort in any way.

They’re all in the background. Guests are requested to separate their waste. This way everybody contributes to a beautiful and

le Moulin de la Pique

FACILITEITEN • 4 Swimming pools, quadruple water slide • 45-metre long water slide • Playground and play attic • Sports field and volleyball field • Table tennis tables and tennis court • Midget golf • Boules-field • Fitness area • 9 -Hole and 18-hole golf course at just 7 kilometres • Horse riding at just 5 kilometres • Library • Train station at 2 kilometres (Belvès) and 7 kilometres (Siorac)

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/MOULINDELAPIQUE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

and the ease with which guests can make use of service.

“When our guests have visitors, their children can participate in the recreation programme free of charge. You don’t need wristbands here for our swimming pools or park barriers. The park oozes a laid-back atmosphere in which almost anything is possible, but nothing is compulsory.” There is also the family-friendly park plan. All activities are in the centre, so everything is closely together. Eelco: “So it’s okay to go for a relaxed cup of coffee while your kids are playing in the pool.

You’re always around.”

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95

le Moulin de la Pique

Le Moulin de la Pique was also an inspirational place for a number of artists

Pique as their country house. The notary was responsible DID YOU KNOW THAT…

for the railway construction between Agen and Paris. As the

…le Moulin de la Pique served as regional headquarters

railway’s managing director he had a comfortable private

for the French resistance during World War II? It was

wagon built for him and his family to travel between Paris

used as shelter for people in hiding.

and their country home festivities. The wagon’s shelter, a

…in 1979, a family bought the estate and turned it into a

carved out rock at Belvès railway station, can still be seen

holiday residence?

today. Le Moulin de la Pique was also an inspirational place

…le Moulin de la Pique also has a small library? If you

for a number of artists. One of these creative minds was the

climb up the stairs behind the reception desk, you can

well-known composer Louis Aubert, known for his orchestra

leave old books and magazines and take other ones.

piece La Habanera, among others. From 1931 to 1939 he lived

…the Dordogne is also known as the Périgord?

in the estate’s residence.

EXCEPTIONAL RESIDENTS In 1839, notary and former mayor Dejean van Belvès bought the estate and the mill. He turned the paper mill into a smithy and had two melting furnaces built in the courtyard.

When work came to an end in 1870, the wealthy Dejean family moved to Paris. They started using le Moulin de la

Address RCN le Moulin de la Pique F-24170 Belvès

France

0033 553 290 115

moulin@rcn.nl

www.rcn.nl/en/moulindelapique

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Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Handicrafts

Make your own

knitting spool The RCN recreation team is into handicrafts.

Join our handicrafts club on your holiday and craft your own creations. You can start now by making this at home.

A lot of the stuff we throw way is excellent for handicrafts.

What about toilet paper rolls? Get yourself some of those and with these tips you tinker up a knitting spool in no time. And once your knitting spool is finished, you can bring it on your holiday and use it for making bracelets and puppets.

MATERIALS

toilet paper roll. Make sure they stick out two or three

-

Toilet paper roll

centimetres. Don’t put any glue there. Leave it to dry.

-

Eight ice cream sticks

The more sticks you use, the tighter you’ll be able to knit

-

A piece of sandpaper

later on.

-

Paint in different colours

-

Tape (in fun colours if possible)

- Glue -

3. Put the tape over the ice cream sticks top and bottom, so they stick to the roll well.

Other decorations 4. Now glue the other three of four ice cream sticks to the

For spool knitting:

roll in the same way. Leave it to dry and put on the tape.

-

Wool in several colours

Tip: use a different colour this time and don’t put the tape

-

Spool knitting peg or knitting pin

over the first layer. This gives a nice colour effect.

1. Use the sandpaper to sand the surface of the ice cream

5. Your knitting spool is finished. Tip: you can decorate the

sticks and paint the sticks and the roll in cheerful colours.

spool with paillettes, stickers, markers or other fun things.

2. Put glue on three or four sticks and put them on the

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97

Full of nature and

sunshine

Text: Susanne Buijze Photography: Jan Sluijter, RCN Holiday Parks

la Ferme du Latois

Experience a genuine family holiday at RCN la Ferme du Latois in the French Vendée.

The country is an ideal place for adults as well as kids to relax. Park Manager Yolanda den Ridder: “Here it’s all about room for



relaxation.”

At the entrance, it’s immediately apparent where RCN la Ferme du Latois gets its name. ‘La Ferme’ means ‘the farm’ and the former farm is still in use as the main building. The wooden beams and pointed roofs are exactly the way they were designed in the nineteenth century. These elements add extra atmosphere to the park. The reception, the shop, the restaurant as well as the recreation area are all gathered in the first building. It dates back to 1800 and used to serve as the cattle’s stables. The recreation area now offers plenty of activities for the kids. The old house next to it dates back to 1861 and nowadays serves as Yolanda and Emile den Ridder’s residence, la Ferme’s managers as well as hosts.

The wooden beams and pointed roofs are exactly the way they were designed in the nineteenth century VIEW OF THE WATER Between the reception and the campsite you’ll find

HIG HLIGHTS t for • Pea ce and spa ce, per fec fam ilies to • Pas sag e du Goi s lead ing Noi rmo utie r

trampolines kids love to show their tricks on. Further along are the especially spacious and grassy camping pitches.

Guests can experience the countryside’s peace and quiet at their very own spot. Yolanda: “The pitches are between 100 and 250 square metres in size. Enough space for a game of football or badminton.” The park oozes an intimate atmosphere. The grounds are filled with all kinds of trees

hes • Extra larg e cam pin g pitc

and plants and the many copses allow for more privacy.

Fou • Enterta inm ent at Puy du

The most wanted pitches for camping guests as well as our

the me park

mobile home guests offer a view of one the two lakes. Out on the water you can do some fishing from a small boat. The

99

PUY DU FOU THEME PARK Puy du Foy Theme Park is a real crowd pleaser in the area. In 2012, the park won the Oscar for world’s best theme park. A visit means a series of impressing moments. You can watch the large-scale, professional shows with themes such as birds, knights, Vikings, musketeers and Romans. The shows have overwhelming music and breathtaking light shows the actors are all beautifully dressed. “We always recommend our guests to visit Puy du Fou,” says Yolanda. “It’s not just fun for kids. It’s a real experience for us adults as well.” (www.puydufou.com)

park is extra child-friendly because of its gated grounds. The recreations waters are not for swimming, but the park has a versatile swimming pool. You can cool off and have great fun at the high and winding water slide and the double slide.

Noirmoutier is a special place. The passage to the island disappears with every flood-tide. With the ebb-tide you can reach Noirmoutier through Passage du Gois, while looking

Out on the water you can do some fishing from a small boat 100

la Ferme du Latois FACILITIES • Heated outdoor swimming pool (300m2) with water slides • Lakes for fishing and sailing • Trampolines and other playground equipment • Tennis tables • Survival track and paintball (at 8 kilometres) • Boules-field • Football and volleyball field • Horse riding (at 8 kilometres) • Adapted sanitary blocks for wheelchair users

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/FERMEDULATOIS FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

Noirmoutier is a special place.

The passage to the island disappears with every flood-tide for clams and shells to prepare for a lovely supper. At high tide the road and all its road signs disappear into the rising seawater. Don’t worry. Ever since 1971, you can always return using the bridge. With the ebb-tide make sure you start your Passage du Gois walk in time. Despite the warning signs the flood always comes quicker than you think. More than once people were forced to use the refuge posts. ÎLE DE NOIRMOUTIER France has many faces. In summer temperatures are often high and during winter it’s a great country to go skiing. So it makes sense the French often go on holiday in their own country. One of their most popular holiday destinations is at only an hour drive from la Ferme. The Noirmoutier peninsula is surrounded by the sea. On the island you’ll find oyster farms and a castle.

The cute white houses with their blue shutters seem to come from a book. No wonder the latest book by the successful French author Tatiana de Rosnay partly plays in the island.

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The Vendée has the most hours of sunshine in the whole of France

CYCLING FOR EVERYBODY Almost all of the Vendée cycling routes are off the main roads. They’re mostly rural paths made of gravel and tarmac and that’s quite unique in France. You can rent a bike at RCN la Ferme du Latois. We also have cycling routes available for experienced as well as less experiences cyclists. The routes are different in length and level. Families with kids can also easily enjoy these routes. If you find out along the way your choice has been a bit too ambitious, you can always take a short cut on several occasions.

HOURS OF SUNSHINE The Vendée has the most hours of sunshine in the whole of France. And La Ferme du Latois is right in this sunny region. The campsite is situated only ten kilometres from the wonderful Atlantic beaches. The broad, fine sandy beaches have a gradual slant, making them safe for kids. In July and August the swimming waters can be as much as 22 degrees Celsius, so instant indulging in the lovely water without accustoming is guaranteed.

Adres RCN la Ferme du Latois

 le Latoi

85220 Coëx

 0033 251 546 730  ferme@rcn.fr  www.rcn.nl/en/fermedulatois

► F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E A S E S E E T H E TA R I F F G U I D E AT TAC H E D O R W W W. R C N . N L / E N / 102

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Spacious

coastal camping

Text: Rutger Snijder Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Port l’Epine

The wonderful campsite belonging to RCN Port l’Epine lies on a small neck of land in Bretagne. There is lots of verdant landscape to enjoy, a historical area with untamed nature and remarkable



flora and fauna, only footsteps away from the Atlantic Ocean.

Park Manager Roy Terhorst and his girlfriend Nicky de Wilde run the park. “The small-scale character of the campsite makes staying here really special,” says Nicky. “When you’re in the middle of the park you can see the entire campsite. All camping pitches are spacious – approximately one hundred square metres – and situated on a fine section of grass. You can choose from roomy chalets or several kinds of mobile homes. The park feels natural and wide, while the hedges and trees provide enough privacy for our guests. Because we’re so small, guests get acquainted quite quickly and it’s easy for kids to find their way.” So it’s small in size, huge in potential?

Nicky: “Absolutely. And our location is so beautiful, on this neck of land. When we have guests arriving they’re often a bit fatigued from the trip, but as soon as they set foot on our campsite and in these surroundings, they relax and feel full of energy again.” No wonder, as RCN Port l’Epine is beautifully

“The sea is just footsteps away from your tent or caravan” located, adjoining the Atlantic Ocean, where the warm Gulf Stream ensures a mild climate. The pink granite coastline even has an almost subtropical climate. It guarantees spectacular views, fresh salty sea air, lusciously flowering hydrangea and

HIG HLIGHTS Atla ntic • Dire ctly bor dering the Oce an

spo rts • Lot s of bea ch and water pos sibi litie s

an array of activities. “The sea is just footsteps away from your tent or caravan. That’s quite unique. There is a pebble beach as well as a sandy beach, where you can sit and relax or sunbathe. The sea offers plenty of other options such as swimming, fishing, canoeing and boating.”

DES MARÉES

na • Exc eption al flor a and fau

The ocean is a lot of fun during the flood, but even more so

hes • Sea view cam pin g pitc

with the ebb-tide. “The Bretagne ebb and flood system is famous, because the water retreats some sixteen metres,”

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youngsters walking to the water line with their surf board to surf or kite surf.” The ebb-tide is also perfect for shell searching. Suddenly oysters, cockles, Venus clams, razor clams, periwinkles and hermit crabs are lying at your feet.

The recreation team often takes groups of children to the beach to look for shells and crabs.

KIDS PARADISE There is also plenty to do if you prefer staying on the campsite. You can freshen up in the pool, while the little ones safely enjoy themselves in the heated pool for toddlers. RCN was nominated ‘2013 Kids’ Holiday Maker’ and it shows at Port l’Epine. Young and older children can have fun with the recreation team. They offer sports, games and entertainment,

PINK ROCKS Another impressive natural phenomenon is the Côte de Granit Rose, the pink rocks of Ploumanach. These granite rock formation between the Trestraou and SaintGuirec beaches are world-famous. Nicky feels it’s one of the region’s most beautiful tourist attractions. “The rocks come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and stand upright, oblique or crooked even. What you see in them depends entirely on your own imagination. If you take the boat to Les Sept-Iles, you can also see the rocks.”

Nicky explains. It’s called ‘des marees’. It’s an attraction in

The Côte de Granit Rose is as much as three hundred

itself and many people come to see it. Every six to eight

million years old and covers more than 25 hectares.

hours the tide changes and you can walk all the way across

The rocks in this part of the Côtes d’Armor have taken

the bay.” With the low tide kids as well as adults find their

bizarre shapes. The sea has piled them into a sheer

way to the beach. “When the water is gone, you can see

impossible balance, which creates a spectacular view.

Depending on the light these rocks (which you’ll only find outside France on Corsica and in China) are pink, red, white or even black. The Côte de Granit Rose and its private bays, light blue water and clean beaches, has been earmarked as National Heritage. Over a million visitors per year discover the coastline on foot, by bike or in a boat.

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Port l’Epine FACILITIES • Recreation team • Guided hiking routes (early and late seasons) • Children’s playground • Trampolines • Heated swimming pool • Heated pool for toddlers • Table tennis and table football • Pebble beach • Sandy beach (at 200 metres) • Fishing

PLEASE SEE WWW.RCN.NL/EN/PORTLEPINE FOR A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF ALL OUR FACILITIES.

from handicrafts and the bedtime story to ghost hunting,

sea birds. The tour takes you past the isle of Rouzic, where a

playback shows and sports tournaments. Young and old

colony of very rare birds is located: boobies. These slender

can enjoy themselves at the ping-pong and table football

birds have an impressive wingspan of almost two metres and

tables and on the sports field. To older and leaner kids the

dive into the sea from as much as thirty metres of height.

trampolines pose a real challenge.

“There is always a big white mark on that island,” says Nicky.

“At first you’re not sure what it is, and then suddenly you

LES SEPT-ILES

realise you’re looking at birds!” You have a great view of the

Just of Bretagne’s northern shore, north of Perros Guirec

birds from the boat, where you’ll be surrounded by feathers

seaside resort and not far from the campsite, are seven

and chirping. The islands are also inhabited by common

small islands. In as early as 1912, les Sept-Iles were marked as

guillemot, razorbill, cormorant and many different kinds of

protected land. Three times a day a boat tour for the islands

gull. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the grey seals or the

leaves for Perros Guirec. The islands are a haven for many

small population of exotic puffins.

THE GAULS The Port l‘Epine surroundings are beautiful to see and in addition carry historical significance. The well-known Gauls used to live in Bretagne. These people, now mostly known from the comic book Asterix & Obelix, are seen as the first French people, even before France as such existed. The stereotype image of the Gaul is that of a born fighter, warriors with sturdy beards and moustaches. This image, copied from the old Roman scripts by historians in the nineteenth century, thus made its way into popular culture. Besides the comic books the Parc Astérix amusement park, just north of Paris, keeps the Gaul heritage alive. Near Port l’Epine you’ll find the old Gaul town of Pleumeur-Bodou, where there is also an adventure park for all ages.

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LOCAL CULTURE

commemorating the Holy Tugdual. Saint-Brieuc is also really

Bretagne has a rich cultural heritage. It has the second most

worth a visit. This wonderful capital of the Côtes d’Armor

registered historical monuments in France: as much as 2,900.

region was plundered during the Wars of Religion in the late sixteenth century. Nowadays it’s a dynamic town with several

Bretagne has a rich cultural heritage and as much as 2,900 registered historical

cultural organisations and festivities. You can go shop, eat or enjoy Saint-Brieuc bay, known for its cliffs, dunes and strands. From Paimpol, it’s only ten minutes by boat to get to the Ile de Bréhat, known as Bretagne’s flower island. Here you can enjoy the amazing nature surrounded by pink granite rocks and exotic plants. If you take an interest in marine life you may want to visit Perros-Guirec. This lively port city is

monuments

right across Port l’Epine. With the ebb-tide you can even walk over! Walk along the quayside, between the colourful houses and past the yachts, that remain afloat in a special

In the direct vicinity of Port l’Epine you’ll find several towns

basin during the low tide.

for some cultural indulgence, such as Paimpol (where you can get by steam train) and the old bishop’s village of Tréguir, a must-see for everyone who’s interested in religious history.

On the town square you’ll see Saint-Tugdual cathedral,

Address RCN Port l’Epine

 10 Venelle de Pors Garo

22660 Trélévern

 0033 296 237 194  portlepine@rcn.fr  www.rcn.nl/en/portlepine

► F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N P L E A S E S E E T H E TA R I F F G U I D E AT TAC H E D O R W W W. R C N . N L / E N / 108

Text: Teun van Rooij

Fabulous fishing

Going for the popular pike or rather for the smaller carp and bream? The RCN Holiday Parks fishing waters – canals, rivulets, lakes, meres, sea – offer all the occasion you need to go for some fishing.

NETHERLANDS

FRANCE

The Sneekermeer near RCN de Potten offers a true angling

The French RCN parks offer plenty of angling possibilities

paradise. You best go out on the water by boat to reach

as well. Port l’Epine is surrounded by the sea and with the

popular fishes such as pike and carp. At RCN parks de

ebb-tide you can even go fishing on foot. It’s not the only sea

Noordster and de Roggeberg you can go line-fishing on

fishing park. Ferme du Latois and Domaine de la Noguière

the Drentsche Hoofdvaart, a 45-kilometre long channel,

are at little driving distance from the sea. And what about

with all the space you need to find a quiet spot. At RCN de

RCN Moulin de la Pique? The park has a 5,500 square-metre

Flaasbloem you’ll find a special kind of fish, as African catfish

recreation and fishing mere!

have been introduced in the park’s mere. There are also many charming fishing rivulets in the area, such as the Mark and the Aa of Weerijs.

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Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

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Holidays all season

RCN Holiday Parks gladly welcome you year-round. With a seasonal pitch our caravan guests enjoy the full camping season from March to the end of October.

You can also apply for a seasonal pitch for a shorter period of time, for example spring and autumn. For more information on our seasonal pitches and tariffs please refer to our tariff guide or to www.rcn.nl/seizoenplaats

A seasonal pitch means unlimited holidays at your favourite campsite!

100-EURO DISCOUNT Do you know someone that’s is looking for a seasonal or annual pitch for 2015? And have they not had a regular pitch at any RCN park for the past two years? There are still some seasonal and annual pitches available at a number of RCN parks. If you as our regular guest introduce a new guest to one of the RCN parks, you receive a 100-euro discount on your own pitch in 2015.

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Text: Teun van Rooij Photography: RCN Holiday Parks

Service

TOKENS With any reservation at RCN Holiday Parks you can order a set of one hundred RCN tokens. The set equals € 150, but you pay just € 120. On the first day of your holiday the tokens await you at the reception. You can use them, for example, for renting a bike, a drink on the terrace, breakfast croissants, WiFi or a complete dinner in one of our restaurants.

GRANDMOTHER AND GRANDFATHER WEEKEND RCN Holiday Parks have Grandmother & Grandfather Weekends especially for grandparents and their grandchildren. The weekend is on offer throughout the year, with the exception of school holidays and 13 to 26 May 2015. The Grandmother & Grandfather Weekend means you get a 25-percent discount on a maximum of two bungalows, mobile homes or chalets. On Sunday, the grandparents as well as their grandchildren get to eat a free pancake in one of our restaurants. The weekend also adds a stamp to your stamp card, so you can keep saving for discounts on RCN overnight stays. Naturally, this package holiday is only valid when the grandchildren are also present.

DISCOUNT PASS When you’re fifty plus the RCN discount pass has some interesting advantages to offer. What about a camping pitch discount or extra discount on all RCN Holiday Parks rental accommodations?

You get as much as a 25-percent discount! Also, you can collect stamps for ADAPTED BUNGALOWS RCN has a number of accommodations with facilities for disabled guests. We also offer special bungalows for people suffering from asthma or COPD. Each Dutch park has one or several bungalows suitable for wheelchair users.

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a free holiday.

Recreational church services For over sixty years now recreational church services are being held at the RCN parks during the summer holidays. Some Dutch RCN Holiday Parks even offer a morning service every Sunday from Easter to the end of October.

In 2015, the theme is ‘Verbs in de Bible’. This theme is blend

Are you staying at one of the French RCN Holiday Parks

into the services in a creative manner. Recreational church

this summer, do you play an instrument and are you

services at RCN are ecumenical and very accessible, with lots

taking it with you? Then we’d like you to contribute to

of room for music. That’s why we invite guests that play an

our recreational church service and reward you for it.

instrument to bring it and play it. There is a special place in

As for the holiday park’s manager when you makes your

our recreational church services for children.

reservation.

FT I G THE

TH E RC N H O LI DAY

RCN

PAR KS MAGA ZI N E

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THE PA R K M AG A Z I NE O S IN F R FR NETH ANCE AN CN ERLA D TH E NDS

T PA H E M A RK GA S I ZIN N NE FRAN E OF TH ER CE AN RCN LA D T ND HE S

Give this magazine to one of your friends DISC

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All 17 OVER Nethe RCN Holid rlandD ay Par s IS ks and rance in the All COFV VACA N t 17 RCNER her Lots o TIONe2 Ho la 0 destinaf inspiratio15nds anliday P tioV ns Aan n for supderFranarks in the b ce Lot CAdTw onder TIPS s of IO N 2 ful getaw ReK stID Tree huFOd ays in t inspira 015 io tio Fun2D t, fossil fiaS eldns,s and n for s anT ceIPan S u w d ond perb FO Tre more erfu Fune hut, R KID l ge 2Da foss S taw nce il fie ays and lds, more

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Go to www.rcn.nl/en/magazine and fill in your details.

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Adresses Colophon NETHERLANDS RCN de Flaasbloem Flaasdijk 1 4861 RC Chaam 0031 161 491 654 flaasbloem@rcn.nl RCN de Schotsman Schotsmanweg 1 4493 CX Kamperland 0031 113 371 751 schotsman@rcn.nl RCN Toppershoedje Strandweg 2-4 3253 LR Ouddorp 0031 187 682 600 toppershoedje@rcn.nl RCN het Grote Bos Hydeparklaan 24 3941 ZK Doorn 0031 343 513 644 hetgrotebos@rcn.nl RCN Zeewolde Dasselaarweg 1 3896 LT Zeewolde 0031 365 221 246 zeewolde@rcn.nl RCN de Jagerstee Officiersweg 86 8162 NR Epe 0031 578 613 330 jagerstee@rcn.nl RCN de Noordster Noordster 105 7991 PB Dwingeloo 0031 521 597 238 noordster@rcn.nl RCN de Roggeberg De Roggeberg 1 8426 GK Appelscha 0031 516 431 441 roggeberg@rcn.nl RCN de Potten De Potten 2-38 8626 GD Offingawier 0031 515 415 205 potten@rcn.nl

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FRANCE RCN Domaine de la Noguière Route de Fréjus 1617 Route de Fréjus, DN7 83490 Le Muy 0033 494 451 378 noguiere@rcn.fr RCN les Collines de Castellane Route de Grasse 04120 La Garde/Castellane 0033 492 836 896 collines@rcn.fr RCN Belledonne Rochetaillée 38520 Bourg d’Oisans 0033 476 800 718 belledonne@rcn.fr RCN la Bastide en Ardèche 1, Route d’Alès-D111 Ruoms- 07120- Sampzon 0033 475 396 472 bastide@rcn.fr RCN Val de Cantobre 12230 Nant 0033 565 584 300 cantobre@rcn.fr RCN le Moulin de la Pique 24170 Belvès 0033 553 290 115 moulin@rcn.fr RCN la Ferme du Latois Le Latoi 85220 Coëx 0033 251 546 730 ferme@rcn.fr RCN Port l’Epine 10 Venelle de Pors Garo 22660 Trélévern 0033 296 237 194 portlepine@rcn.fr

RCN Holiday Parks P.O. Box 217 NL-3940 AE Doorn info@rcn.nl 0031 343 513 547 Chief Editor Ina Steenbeek Coordination & Final Editing Nicole van Hoof Editorial Team Nicole van Hoof, Wiebe van Leeuwen, Petra Nederend, Ina Steenbeek Contributors Nadia Althof, Kirsten van Maanen, Lida Olijslagers, Lieke Roos, Laura Voskuilen Texts Helen Albada, Kirsten Dorrestijn, Susanne Buijze, Nicole van Hoof, Sandra Koopmans, Teun van Rooij, Rutger Snijder, Ina Steenbeek, Inger Waling Images BCFotografie, Leen Kuiper, Wouter Kooken, Shutterstock, Strips Op Maat, Jan Sluijter, Eric Waterschoot, RCN Vakantieparken Lay-out Daniëlle Bouman, Marcha van Deurzen, Patrick Hoogduin, Sandra Koopmans, Nicole Lennards, Eric Waterschoot, Marjanne Gielen Advertisements Jeroen van der Linden jeroen.vanderlinden@bcm.nl Suggestions for Holiday!?

Please send us your email on samen@rcn.nl.

Uitgever

Eric Bruger

BCM BV

P.O. Box 1392

NL-5602 BJ Eindhoven

0031 408 447 644 samen@bcm.nl Translation: Lilianne van den Brekel Disclaimer: In no event will the publisher or RCN Holiday Parks be liable for any damage whatsoever arising from erroneous information in this magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Come to RCN Holiday Parks

and enjoy our versatile recreation programs!

RECREATION TEAM

SPORTS AND GAMES

WATER SPORTS

BEACH

FOREST

SWIMMING POOL

ADVENTURE

FISHING

RCN HOLIDAY PARKS NETHERLANDS 9

8

1 de Flaasbloem

7

5

2 de Schotsman

6

3 Toppershoedje

4

4 het Grote Bos 5 Zeewolde

3 2

6 de Jagerstee

1

7 de Noordster 8 de Roggeberg 9 de Potten

RCN HOLIDAY PARKS FRANCE 8

1 Domaine de la Noguière 2 les Collines de Castellane 7

3 Belledonne 4 la Bastide en Ardèche 6

4 5

5 Val de Cantobre

3 2 1

6 le Moulin de la Pique 7 la Ferme du Latois 8 Port l’Epine

Please see www.rcn.nl/en for a comprehensive overview of our recreation programs.

RCN Holiday Parks consist of 9 holiday parks in the Netherlands and 8 in France. The natural surroundings are an invitation to all kinds of activities. In the overview above you’ll find the most popular activities at and around the parks.

Stay tuned for our latest offers, helpful tips and news items on www.facebook.com/rcnvakantieparken. Are you not on Facebook but do you want to stay up-to-date? Download our free RCN Holiday app for your smartphone!

You’ll find all the parks addresses on page 114 of this Holiday!

TREE HOUSE