We're spending a week at Ferme Noemie in the Alps to coincide with the Tour de France then moving on for our second week but we're just not sure where to
The main contender for our second week is the Ardeche but we're struggling to choose between les clapas and l'ardechois, I think if les clapas was the other side of the river we would have booked by now.
So any other ideas to add to the mix? Areas to consider?
It's just us and our 13 year old daughter, we prefer lower key campsites but like to have stuff to do when on holiday
Thanks for reading
H
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There's nothing wrong with 'that' side of the river
------------- XVI yes?
As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.
We loved L'Ardechois and went back there many times when my sons were growing up. It is busy, but not brash, has entertainment but not tacky, and when we used to go ran a really good programme of activities for all ages, every day. For us it was ideally situated, just on the edge of town, but walking distance of markets and restaurants. I wouldn't describe it as 'low key' though, but neither is it 'full on'! It has state of the art sanitary facilities, a good restaurant and shop, and a nice pool in a sunny situation.
Le Clapas has lots of supporters, too, and is (was?) in the Cool Camping Book. It's definitely lower key, and very much cheaper. L'Ardechois is expensive - though it was always worth it for us and Le Clapas will cost less than half as much! However, it doesn't have a pool - which for us would definitely be a no no. Even though you have river access on both sites I wouldn't want to be without a pool as we've been there when the river level has been too high for safe swimming. If there are storms in the mountains the level can rise by a huge amount during a few hours. The level soon goes down again, but after storms the river can be somewhat 'murky' and a bit unwelcoming for a day or two.
You'll be there during the busiest time, and you may find that L'Ardechois is booking up - so don't leave it too long - it has many repeat bookers and is always a popular site.
I guess the stumbling block with Les Clapas we'd really like to be able to walk into town of an evening or to fetch breakfast.... Hubby may take some convincing if this isn't the case
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Certainly a trek down to Salavas from Le Clapas, but breakfast is easy, just pick it up from the bar after ordering the night before.
Val how long is it since you stayed at L'Ardechois.
------------- XVI yes?
As well is two words!
How does a sage know everything about everything? or does he? or does he just think he does?
Remember, if you buy something you bought it, not brought it.
BlueExpo: Last time we actually stayed at L'Ardechois was about eight years ago! Long time, I know, but we have friends (Dutch) we met years ago, on the next pitch who still go back there now with their grandchildren. We've been to see them there several times since, the last time in 2011 and it's still very much the same. That's why I feel confident in still recommending it.
Personally, though, I wouldn't want to walk into Vallon just to pick up something for breakfast! Whilst it's not a long walk, it would be nearly coffee time before you were back with the croissants.
We were last in the area in late August 2012 - but further south on the Ceze, though we did go into Vallon twice in ten days as we like some of the restaurants there.
Heifer: there are so many beautiful areas in France and almost anywhere can be recommended, but it really depends on what you want from an area. Some people love chateaux and old buildings, some love vineyards and wine tasting, we love wildlife and wild country, and rivers for canoeing - so these are what we like about the areas I'd recommend, but they may not suit you.
Le Clapas is a great relaxer ... but certainly not a stroll into town ... you have to use your wheels.
When we were there, there was never a problem with river bathing, or launching our boats from site.
As ever ... horses for courses!
Yep, we love the Ardeche, in fact we went back to the same campsite and same pitch! for our fortnight campings in July 2009, 2010 and 2012.
We have looked at loads of 3 Star campsites in the area, Le Clapas is very nice but no swimming pool, which for us is a no no, unless next to the sea.
The campsite we used was "Domaine de Gil" a lovely 4 Star campsite with just 40 or so touring pitch's, price's now in peak I would guess would be 35€ inc EHU. There are a couple of reviews on here.
The spa town of "Vals Les Bains" is just a 1 mile walk from the campsite gates, and from there you can get the bus to the main bustling town of Aubenas for 1€ return!.
Speaking of the TDF, Aubenas was Stage 17 end in 2010 what a day that was, outstanding experience and a first for us.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Ardeche or ?
and your right it is a rather large price difference!
