Camping Kanôpée Village

Riverside or waterpark? Both are at one’s disposal here at Camping Kanôpée Village, a well-appointed park on the banks of the Saône river in the splendidly scenic Ain department.

Lots of water-based tomfoolery can be had at the site's lifeguarded outdoor pool and waterpark, with a bank of big waterslides for slip sliding and splashing down, should that so tickle one’s fancy. A huge lush and shaded grassy area lies alongside too, so in the event grownups might prefer to laze around out of the water with a good on-hol blockbuster, they can also keep half an eye on their offsprings’ splashtime while they’re at it. Guests have free access to the pool and waterpark from Monday to Saturday during July and August (surcharges apply on Sundays and public holidays), accessible through gate that’s open between 10am and 7pm. As is the case at many a French pool, male swimmers are required wear speedo-style swimming togs, as board shorts aren’t permitted in the water around here.

When they’re not swimming and bombing around in the water, you’ll probably find the kids clambering around the playground or playing rounds of ping pong; also splendidly, in July and August the park’s lively entertainment team run a daily program of activities for junior guests such as arts and crafts, treasure hunts and sports tournaments to keep them amply entertained – and, of course, adults amply relaxed.

Speaking of which, other on-site facilities for grownups to fill their leisure time with come in the form of a pétanque pitch plus entertainment such as bingo nights and weekly themed evenings during high season, and if you’re a fishing fan, grab yourself a licence (and hire some basic fishing kit if you haven’t brought your own) from reception and set yourself up on the banks of the Saône – catfish are abundant in the waters here, with some hauls having measured a mighty two metres. If fishing’s not your thing – or you ever tire of all the fun watery stuff to do on site – you can also hire a bike to live it up local-style and tour the côté Saône à vélo.

Having worked up an appetite – and a sweat – at the waterpark or on the bike and want to freshen up before dinner, you can do so at one of three well-maintained sanitary blocks across the site. If you’re an avid email checker, then the site’s wifi service will see to it that your inbox remains in good order.