non-UK Villages

Specialist Reports Holiday by Accommodation Holiday Villages non-UK Villages Perfect Places 

	Perfect Places
Greenbank Lane, Hartford Manor, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 1HW			MAP
tel: (0870) 366 7562

Part of the Holidaybreak group (which includes Eurocamp), known originally as Eurovillages. Offers self-drive, self-catering family holidays to 78 self-catering holiday villages and residences operated by Pierre & Vacances, Center Parcs, Maeva, Odalys Vacances and independent owners.
While the core programme is to France, there is now a choice of 24 holiday options in Italy including three villages in northern Sardinia and country apartments in Tuscany. Eleven resorts in France, Holland, Germany and Belgium operate year-round.

Where

France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Belgium and Germany.

Accommodation

In studios, apartments and houses (from 250 to 1400 per site) which tend to be designed for families with children. The brochure gives square metres of space - helpful if doubtful about personal comfort levels. The company is increasing the proportion of luxury accommodation.
The main option, Pierre & Vacances villages, are three to four-star.

Facilities

Around half the holiday villages and residences have an on site restaurant. All accommodation is fully equipped though usually with mini ovens. Central heating is usual. TV, normally with English language programmes may be available at a supplement.

Activities

Include golf course, horse riding, squash courts, fishing, tennis, 10-pin bowling, water sports, some heated pools, and courses ranging from fencing and tennis to synchronised swimming and magic.

For Children

Playgrounds and children's farms.

Equipment

At Pierre & Vacances cots including linen, table top high chairs can be prebooked for £9.50 per stay.

Childcare

There are creches for babies 3-36 months 9am-7pm at all P&V villages except Lancanau and Cap Coudalere.

Children's Activities

Pierre & Vacances children's clubs run late March to mid September except for teens, who are catered to only in school holidays. There are predominantly French staff but English speaking guaranteed. Pre-booking is advised though you can choose specific sessions on arrival.
3-5 years The Poolpy Club offers painting, handicrafts, walks, sports and games.
6-8 years Le Kids Club has kite flying, music workshop, and sports instruction. Some Circus Schools.
8-12 years Le Club Junior as for 6-8 years.
13-18 years Le Club Jeune offers some independence but also sports competitions and instructions, plus evening entertainment, discos and beach parties.

Center Parcs 4-7 years, 8-12 years and 13-17 years Action Company in Holland and Belgium provides a variety of activities ranging from pirate days to abseiling and scuba diving (see also separate entry).

Sample Price

£2,142 for two weeks in July at flagship Cap Esterel in the south of France in a studio sleeping up to five, including short sea crossing.