Thomson Al Fresco Holidays – Things You Need to Know

We stayed with Thomson Al Fresco in the middle of May at the La Grande Métairie parc near to Carnac in South Brittany. All the parcs differ but here are some tips before you go.

• You need to take all linens – bathmats and one tea towel were provided. The hire linen packs contained sheets, one pillow case (there were two pillows on the bed), hand towel and bath towel.    Remember to take a swimming towel and extra hand towel for the loo.
• If going at the start or end of the season I really recommend taking your duvet.   Two fleece blankets per bed were provided whch you will not need in the height of the summer, but you might be chilly in May.
• Aside from equipment nothing is provided in the kitchen. (We had a welcome pack of some tea and coffee).  Remember salt & pepper, your favourite knife, sharp peeler, washing up liquid and extra tea towels.  If you do not want to buy new, pack a roll of cling film or foil.
• Some French supermarkets now appear to be open on a Sunday morning, but be prepared for not finding one open, I’d recommend buying essentials for  two days as you drive to the park.  Also check for French public holidays when the shops are closed.
• Given the above a spare loo roll – better safe than sorry!
• There are shops on the parks so you will not starve.
• There are some electric socket adaptors in the chalets, but take extra if you travel with gadgets – phones, sat navs, tablets, cameras all need charging.
• If you are a light sleeper take ear plugs.  La Grande Métairie had strict rules about noise but they cannot control the noise of rain on the roof (we went early season, hopefully in high season you will not have rain)
• You will need a housekeeping deposit which is returned to you at the end of your stay.  You can pay in either Sterling or Euro – EUR60 / £50.
• Wifi access was available for a fee.  Most of the time it was very speedy and we had a good signal in our chalet.  However it is one code for one device – not one device at a time.  At some parks there might only be access in the bar or in certain areas.
• No all pitches are the same – we were situated right at the edge of the park with woodland behind us – ask when booking if you have a preference.
• We were very impressed with the recycling facilities  – each chalet has a basket for your recycling outside – if it rains pop it under the outside dining table.
• Take an extra towel to dry off the outside tables and chairs if it rains.
• Remember sun screen and hats – the Breton sun is hot compared to Britain.

Has anyone any tips to add from these types of chalet holidays?

Read more about our holiday and travels in Brittany with tips for Al Fresco and Brittany Ferries.

Fuss Free Flavours travelled to Brittany on a review trip with Thomson Al Fresco Holidays and Brittany Ferries.