Hi there, we're new to the site (but not to camping!). We have children of 8 and 10 and are looking for a family friendly campsite in the Vendee with a decent pool. My son would like to practise his french there but my daughter would like some English children to play with! We'd like to be close to the beaches but dint mind having a shortish drive.
I know you're experts and will have great advice. Thank you!
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We went to Jard sur mer several times when our children were around that age. We used Camping les ecureuils but there are several others around the town. There are sandy beaches, and rocks at low tide to go crabbing. The pine trees in the surrounding forests produce huge pine cones to collect. Jard has a huge market. Les Sables d'Olonne is definitely worth a visit. Huge beach, lots to see and do. We loved the area and the children always wanted to go back. Area is popular with Brits.
Our kids loved Jard sur Mer and les Ecureuils when we used to Trailer tent.
Rocky beaches across road but fantastic sandy beaches within a few minutes driven.
Also consider camping international on the Ile de Re - may look a bit further but drive time is similar.
------------- It's only an expensive hobby when it's parked on your Drive....use it, love it , live it.
you will be spoilt for choice around the Vendee. there are so many sites in the area that you really can take your pick. from British orientated sites to mainly French sites, so work out what you ideally want from a site then pick one to match, it really is that simple. just be aware that French high season starts mid july to mid/late august - on the site we have our van on it tends to quieten down the last two weeks of august - so pick a time that suits what youre looking for.
PS, I would have suggested the site we have our van on in Le Ragis, Challans, its probably got everything you want, but its a bit hit and miss as to whether there would be other English speaking children on site. we'll be there throughout the summer.
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
There are a few good ones in St Julien Des Landes which is about a 20 minute drive to the beach. We have stayed at La Garangeoire which is predominantly English with a lot going on and more recently we stayed at La Bretonniere which we preferred. It was quieter and more relaxed with a good mix of French, English and Dutch kids.