the dorset echo: diarmuid macdonagh and family find everything they could want within easy reach of the siblu parc in domaine de kerlann, brittany

DESPITE having visited many far-flung corners of the world, France still holds a special affection. And Brittany is the most alluring of French destinations with beautiful beaches, unspoilt villages, outstanding food and a laid-back Breton lifestyle. And it’s just a quick hop across the Channel.

We took the ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff and drove to Domaine de Kerlann, a wooded retreat in southern Brittany just a few miles from the dramatic coast with a string of beautiful family-friendly beaches.

The site – like all siblu parcs – is easy to get to. The crossing took six hours, but with only a couple of hours’ drive the other side, there wasn’t even enough time for the children to get tetchy.

Ferry travel has improved beyond recognition in recent years and the trip passes much more quickly thanks to the number of activities on offer. Brittany Ferries has a fleet of outstanding ferries, with great restaurants, comfortable seating, cinemas, pools and entertainment for the kids.

The French have long mastered the art of campsite creation. Here at Domaine de Kerlann the holidaymaker comes first. This Siblu site is well laid out and with plenty of greenery, rocks, borders and small hedges breaking up the mobile homes. It had all the facilities one could want
or need and was a joy to explore.

The Esprit-Plus caravan we called home for the week was all we needed, with two good-sized bedrooms, an excellent shower and a comfortable living area comprising of a good-sized kitchenette, dining area and comfortable seating.

But despite having everything we needed close to hand you simply have to get out and explore this corner of Brittany.

The pretty town of Pont-Aven is situated a few miles away. It became famous as an artist’s retreat after Paul Gauguin moved there is the 1880s. Its narrow streets are lined with galleries and shops selling Breton delicacies. We found ourselves being drawn back most evenings after a day on the beach or exploring the countryside to eat in an old mill on the river.

A little further afield is the fishing port of Concarneau. The medieval, walled part of the town is a maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with shops and restaurants. Although many are tourist traps there are enough interesting and quirky outlets to while away the hours. The fishing museum within the walls tells the history of the town and its importance as a fish canning centre. I was also captivated by a group of musicians playing traditional Breton music. It is reminiscent of traditional Irish music, with haunting ballads and captivating reels.

Also worth a visit is Quimper. Stretching along the banks of the river Odet, Quimper is the ancient capital of la Cornouaille, the name given to this region by the ancient Celts who fled
here from Cornwall. The town is dominated by the cathedral with its distinctive twin spire. Next door is the Breton Museum and the Musée des Beaux Arts is opposite.

Other towns worth visiting are Carnac, the site of France’s version of Stonehenge, and Dinan, dominated by a fabulous castle. To get the best view of this walled town climb the 15th century Tour D’Horloge.

Although the weather was unpredictable during our week’s stay the sun appeared enough times to allow us to spend some time on the beach. There are several within a few
minutes’ drive of the campsite. Much of the coast here is protected by strict planning laws and is not blighted by caravan parks or gaudy tourist attractions that have ruined so much of the British seaside.

Port Manech and Rospico are two of the most popular but never crowded. Indeed, on some days there were no more than a handful of people across miles of golden sand. The children spend hours rock-pooling and soon made friends with other youngsters all eager to catch a tiny fish or crab in their nets.

Lunch of a baguette and some cheese completed a perfect lazy, but inspiring, day.

However, if you are more inclined to stay on the campsite, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained. There is an excellent indoor pool complete with a water chute and fun sprinklers for the younger children. Outside, there is a larger pool and a splash zone, an indoor play and entertainment area, a gym, crazy golf and three free kids’ clubs for youngsters of varying ages.

It is also worthwhile taking your bikes if you can as apart from the park itself there is plenty to explore around the immediate area.

The site shop is well-stocked with food staples, and we made the pilgrimage for fresh bread and croissants every morning.

There is also a good selection of bars and eateries, catering for everything from burgers to wholesome French fare.

Camping may not be on the top of most people’s agendas when planning a summer holiday. But think again. We did and enjoyed every moment of it. The campsite has to be right and Domaine de Kerlann scored highly all round. The attention to detail, welcoming atmosphere and professional attitude made it special.

Factfile

Siblu is France’s leading holidayparc group, comprising 13 of the country’s finest holiday parcs in regions including Brittany, Loire- Atlantique, Loire Valley, Vendée, Charente Maritime, Aquitaine and Languedoc.
A seven-night stay at Domaine de Kerlann from May 24, 2008 starts from just £395 for two adults and up to three children in Esprit accommodation. For more information call 0871 911 7777 or visit www.siblu.com for films, podcasts and 360o tours.
For details of owning a holiday home in France, call 0800 960 512 or go to www.sibluexclusif.com

Brittany Ferries contact information: www.brittanyferries.com Tel: 08705 360 360 Plymouth to Roscoff return with Brittany Ferries would be around £330 on these dates.
For more information and special deals call 08705 360 360 or go to www.brittanyferries.com