Budget-conscious Brits are increasingly swapping Center Parcs for European park breaks that offer considerable savings. But is the travel hassle worth it? One family put it to the test with a stay at Domaine des Ormes in Brittany, France, through Eurocamp.
The Moment They Knew Center Parcs Was Too Expensive
The turning point came when the husband paid five pounds for two Fruit Shoots at a Center Parcs. That moment made the family realise they could no longer justify the prices. After exploring Haven and Parkdean in the UK, they decided to try Eurocamp, inspired by parenting group discussions on Mumsnet and Reddit.
Accommodation and Outdoor Living
They booked a lodge at Domaine des Ormes, a 400-acre resort with a forest, lakes, golf course, and a medieval castle. The lodge had two separate bedrooms for the children, free wifi, and a well-equipped kitchen. While slightly smaller than Center Parcs lodges and lacking a TV, the outdoor living space more than compensated. A large covered decking area with an L-shaped sofa and dining table became the family's favourite spot for meals, card games, and movie nights, aided by temperatures reaching 30°C.
Activities and Costs
The resort's highlight was a huge aquapark with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool, all included in the price. A zip line over the lake cost just 6 euros per person for two goes, far cheaper than Center Parcs activities. Other affordable activities included a 20-foot climbing frame, kids' clubs, archery, horse riding, and a circus (10 euros per adult, 9 per child). The family found the mix of pool, relaxation, and eating out kept everyone entertained without extra costs.
Dining and Local Shopping
On-site dining at Chez Madeline offered stone-baked pizzas from 10 euros and a kids' menu for 10 euros. They also shopped at Carrefour in Dol-de-Bretagne for cheese, smoked meat, and salad. A highlight was discovering the best steak frites they had ever eaten at a restaurant on the way home.
Price Comparison with Center Parcs
A four-night stay in a two-bedroom lodge at Domaine des Ormes starting July 20 costs £975 through Eurocamp. The same dates at Center Parcs Woburn Forest would be £1,449. For October half term, Eurocamp is £289.64 for four nights, compared to £1,699 at Center Parcs. May half term 2027 is £786 for Eurocamp versus £1,599 for Center Parcs. Travel costs include Le Shuttle from £69 or Brittany Ferries from £89.
Final Verdict
The family found driving in France less stressful than feared, with minimal language barriers and many English-speaking families. The children made friends and enjoyed small moments like buying croissants from the resort shop and haggling at a market. The son's confidence grew as he conquered the climbing frame. Overall, the family deemed the trip well worth the effort, with significant savings and idyllic surroundings.
