Camping Seasonova Étang de la Vallée

The heart of the holiday beats at the lake. Right across from the campground is a large freshwater lake with a wide sandy beach. Lay down your towel, take off your flip-flops and straight into the water: this is the rhythm of the day. In a designated swimming area, children play safely in the clear water, while parents watch, relaxed and take an occasional dip themselves. During the French summer vacations, supervisors keep a watchful eye, a nice idea for families at Camping Etang de la Vallee near Orléans. The French climate invites you to linger for hours by the beach. A little reading by the water's edge, children building dams or sharing shovels, a little picnic in the sand, sometimes that's all a vacation day needs. Those looking for a little more action rent a canoe or pedal boat from the campground and explore the lake from the water. Paddling together along the shore, experiencing the silence in the middle of the lake and then mooring back at the beach: exactly the kind of memories you will make at Camping Étang de la Vallée. Fifteen minutes away is the Loire River, where boat trips and other water sports are also available, for those who want even more water fun.

Because of its location between forest and water, there is a relaxed, natural atmosphere at the campsite. During the day, you can hear the tapping of bocce balls and cheerful shouting from the volleyball court. While parents play a friendly game, children head toward the playground, where new vacation friendships quickly form. It is precisely this casual atmosphere that families love about Camping Seasonova Étang de la Vallée. Those who like to keep moving have plenty of choices. Rent a regular bicycle or mountain bike and ride straight into the forest, on trails that are perfect for short circuits or longer trips. Around the lake, there is also a beautiful trail for mountain bikers; a fun challenge for teenagers and sporty parents. Nature lovers, on the other hand, opt for a quiet walk along the water's edge or through the Orléans woods that border the campsite. At the end of the day, slide into the campsite's restaurant. The small menu features simple dishes, and you can also get a quick, savoury snack for the beach or at your accommodation. For larger groceries or a full meal, just drive to the restaurants and supermarkets in the area.

As soon as you leave the campground, you step directly into the Orleans woods. Here you can wander endlessly along forest trails, find picnic spots and check out viewpoints. A popular stop is the Belvédère des Caillettes, a tall observation tower in the middle of the forest. From the top, you look over a sea of greens and really see how vast this area is around the campground. A short drive away are even more special places. At the Arboretum des Grandes Bruyères, you will discover trees and plants from all over the world in a peaceful park, ideal for a relaxing walk with the whole family. At the Musée de la Marine de Loire, dive into the history of navigation on the river; children will feast their eyes on stories about boats, trade and life along the banks. Lovers of history and castles flock to Fleury Abbey and Sully-sur-Loire Castle. The abbey tells the story of the Benedictines, while the castle, with its towers and moat, seems straight out of a fairy tale. And if you want a day in the city, drive to Orleans for shopping, terraces and the impressive cathedral.