Les Valedes - surrounding area

[hillbilly]

After much deliberation I think we are going to book Las Valedes. In fact it was after seeing such rave reviews on here. Can anyone tell me what the surrounding area is like? Is it good for cycling, esp with small children, are there dedicated cycle paths? What else is there to do in the area?

Thanks in advance!

Hi hillbilly. We're not cyclists so I'm afraid I don't know about cycle paths at all though I do know the area surrounding the campsite is quite hilly. Regarding things to do in the area, it's easy to get to the river and spend the day paddling or going on an organised canoe trip. There are loads of amazing chateaux to visit and medieval towns etc. However, maybe we aren't as active as you sound but we thoroughly enjoy staying around the campsite as it is just so lovely around the lake and pools! Younger children will love the small sandy beach next to the lake and the playgrounds and huge green areas to roam. It really is a special campsite and I thoroughly recommend it!

Thanks Sunny, did you find that there were a nice mix of nationalities?

We found there were lots of Dutch, also lots of French with just a handful of Brits. However, haven't been for a couple of years and I think I saw it mentioned that more Brits know about the site now (Mumsnet?!), so perhaps you'll find more Brits there this year.

Sunnymum, did you stay in one of the pitches with facilities or basic?

I don't understand from the site, do they provide tents or do we?

They have cabins or you can take your own tents.

Hi hillbilly. We were in the normal pitches, not the ones with own facilities. They do sound great, but we prefer the shady pitches down by the lake. Never had a problem with the shared shower block, always scrupulously clean and not overcrowded.

I don't want to seem all pedant-y about spelling but is this the place people are talking about? Spelling is slightly different? It looks lovely!

Well spotted chipmonkey! Yes it's the very same place.

Oh, that's grand, then! Had visions of myself turning up at Les Valades when all the fun was to be had at Les Valedes!