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quoteIn this weekly series experienced caravan journalist Liz King reviews some of the best touring caravan sites across the UK and Europe. Keep checking back or subscribe to our newsfeed using the Facebook, Twitter or RSS icons on the right of the page – that way you’ll never miss a trick!
Recommended by Liz
Castel Les Gorges du Chambon
Montbron
Poitou-Charentes
France
http://www.gorgesduchambon.fr/
http://www.les-castels.com/en
If you are looking for a rural haven in the countryside, unsuitable for teenagers, then this is it. A member of the Castel campsite group, it has a strong ecology ethos and the owner has a passion for nature. English is spoken and there is a motorhome service point. Access to water points is good and there are some fully serviced pitches as well as the luxurious Castel Premium pitches. The amperage is only 6amps, so watch the use of kettles, microwaves and electric BBQs. Evening entertainment is limited to high season. Guided local walks are arranged, free of charge. Facilities include a bar and restaurant, a small shop, swimming pool, tennis and crazy golf. There is access to the river but it’s unguarded. No pets are allowed at all. Limited Wi-Fi is now available.
Opening times; 24 April to 18 September
Costs;
From €18.30 per night for two people, outfit and awning with 6 amps mains hook-up in low season.
Accepts Camping Cheques in low season.
Children 1-7 years; from €1.75
Extra person over 7 years; from €4.30
Eat and drink;
The site restaurant is recommended to you although it has limited opening times in low season. I had a fabulous birthday meal there. Reception has a list of places to eat, but none are within walking distance.
Local attractions;
Free fishing, guided local walks are arranged, free of charge.Wine cellars at St Sornin, cellars at Cognac, Pineau de Charante producers, all nearby. In the Dordogne, the local products include strawberries, duck products, foie gras. If you like chocolate, visit Chocolaterie Letuffe near Angoulême.
Directions;
In Montbron take the D6 towards Piégut, turn left in La Tricherie on to D163 and the site is some distance down this road. The entrance will be on your right.
The original farmhouse has been restored and is the owners family home
Open spacious pitches
Reception and M Petit the owner
Plenty of room for large units
A well sized swimming pool onsite
The lovely courtyard and restaurant
A small beach has been created for paddling in the river
France is truly incredible for camping and caravanning