This site is built on a hill within a forest of ancient oaks.
It is owned and run by Lizabeth and her husband, a couple from the Netherlands with excellent English.
We were shown round the site on arrival and even though we had asked for 2 large pitches, we were actually told to choose wherever we wanted to be.
Not having children we opted to stay at a distance from the play area and pool, although there are strategically placed table tennis tables with bats and balls throughout the site.
Any holiday is what you make it and we chose to do nothing, or very little. We did basic shopping and had a run to Montlucon in search of an awning, which had been destroyed by hailstones. The storm was unpredicated and Lizabeth and her family were incredibley helpful.
The area is beautiful, very Yorkshire Dales with sunshine! The site was not full, in fact it was very quiet. For our taste it was none the worse for that. Though not alcoholics, we did miss there not being a bar, either on site or within walking distance. The nearest village was not what we would call within walking distance (5km)
A lovely site, it would benefit from terracing (IMO)but maybe that will come, they have already moved mountains to get it to this current state.
The sanitary facilities were adequate and separate areas allocated to men and women. We never did work out when the water was hot enough to wash up but mid afternoon appeared to be the best time for a shower, otherwise it could be a bit chilly.
We would certainly return.
Reviewer: Speedy46 (4)
Date of Visit: July 2009
Unit: Tent
Agree with previous comment, this is a very laid back and peaceful site. We stayed for nine nights and despite the best attempts of our three under sevens we had a fabulously relaxing time. The Dutch owners are v. Friendly and accommodating, we had a level pitch at the top of the site under the trees, were able to choose our spot and consequently had plenty of space to play and shade from the hot sun. So quiet at night that we felt rebellious playing scrabble past ten o'clock! Nice, if simple, swimming pool and useful snack hut for frites etc. Fresh bread and croissants available to order. Washing facilities were plentiful and always clean, separate loos/showers for men and women. Liked the fact that there were plenty of balls, racquets, table tennis tables all provided for free and unlimited use. The surrounding forest is worth at least one visit, some walks take you past natural springs and there's plenty of interesting wildlife - deer and red squirrels were both spotted. There are also lake beaches nearby, as well as charming and very French villages, we liked Herisson for a picnic by the river. The chateau at Ainey is also nice. Used the supermarket and local shops in nearby Ainey le Chateau (not same village which houses the castle) but beware, this is a part of France where everything closes on mondays and for two hours every lunchtime even the Intermarche. However,if you want to get away from the loud, bustling, squeeze-em-in-like-sardines sites, then this is for you.
Reviewer: Arthurdent (7)
Date of Visit: July 2009
Unit: Tent
We spent a pleasant 4 nights here in July. The site has some good facilities, but don't be expecting a large full-on entertainment site. This is best for someone who is looking to escape from the fast life for a few days - it is located in a fairly remote forested area in North Alliers in the Auvergne (the nearest big town is actually in the next department).
There is a convenient frites / ice cream carry out and a small village a few km away for more basic needs, like phone, post office, tourist office and boulangerie. There is an autoroute link in that village, so even though the site is remote you can be down to Puy de Dome in under an hour. There are at least 3 Auberge within a few km too.
Pitches are large, and you can pick from under the trees or without shade. The site is well laid out and compact, and the forest is a few yards walk away on all sides. For some serious walking you will need to buy a detailed map from a supermarket. There is abundant wildlife on show, like birds, lizards, etc. Toilets are adequate and kept clean.
There is a large Dutch presence on site, presumably because the owners are Dutch - which means they speak good English.
Reviewer: Textilebill (1)
Date of Visit: August 2006
Unit: Touring Caravan
Visited this campsite for 2 weeks in August and would recommend it everyone. The site is situated in the Forest of Troncais which, according to the french tourist office is the largest and oldest oak forest left in Europe. It means that you have the choice of shady or sunlit pitches or a mixture of both. Pitch sizes are great - either 100 0r 200 sq. Metres with or without electric hookup and water taps within short distance.
Showers, washrooms, toilets for both male and female are modern, clean, well maintained and there are also dish washing sinks, washing machine and dryer facilities. There is a swimming pool and children's play area together with basic on site shopping and take-away food.
The area of Allier which is in the north of the Auvergne is full of chateaux and churches dating back hundreds of years as well as being a good area for cycling and walking. There are lakes with sailing, canoeing and swimming
If you like holidaying in rural areas but within striking distance of ancient cities and towns then this is for you. It is good value as well and the dutch owners speak fluent english.
Submit your Review for a chance to win Ordnance Survey Maps
Submit a review of any campsite, and have a chance to win a set of 10 Delta Ground Anchor Pegs the fantastic new bit of kit for securing your tent or awning. Far stronger, safer, and much more secure than normal pegs, they are a must for any camper or caravanner.
If you've visited this site, then please submit a review for a chance to win.
23rd - 28th February 2010 Boat & Caravan Show Held at the NEC, Birmingham. Now in its 49th year, the event has significantly grown in size and developed considerably across all outdoor leisure markets Click here for more info
All reviews and comments are the personal opinion of the review author only , and as such do not represent the view of the UK Camp Site.co.uk.
The facilities shown on this website are a guide only, and you should check with the campsite direct before making any booking. The UKCampsite.co.uk will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions
Please note we are not responsible for the content of external sites & any reviews represent the author's personal view only. Please report any error here. You may view our privacy policy here. All copyrights & other intellectual property rights in the design and content of this web site are reserved to the UKCampsite.co.uk
Save to Virtual Brochure
5m 
10m 
5m 
5m
(8)
