The MagicBreaks Blog

Center Parcs Europe, Park De Haan trip report

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 10:17:41 Z

I recently travelled to Center Parcs Europe, Park De Haan in Belgium. I travelled via Eurostar from London St Pancras with a through ticket covering all Belgium stations via local train. Although this service is an excellent way to travel to Belgium especially if visiting Bruges for the Christmas markets I would suggest travelling by car as the drive is a short 1 hour and 30 minutes from Calais.

Day 1

On arrival to Park De Haan we were welcomed at the gate in the taxi from the station (Blankenberge) and handed our wrist bands. The wristbands gave us access to our accommodation, we also loaded activities to them and they access the lockers in the pool changing rooms in the Aqua Mundo. We arrived late afternoon and headed to Frites for a quick service meal and booked in our activities. This can be done online by logging in via or at the booths near reception. Last stop for the evening was the supermarket to stock up on essentials for our VIP Cottage.

The VIP Cottage came with a welcome pack with kitchen amenities, tea towels and bath towel package which is great to avoid bringing too much from home. Our VIP cottage was private with outdoor decking, BBQ, pizza oven, indoor full kitchen facilities and 2 bedrooms. One highlight is the infrared sauna after a long day of exploring. We were a short walk away from the Market Dome, however for those further away you can hire bikes and golf carts.

Day 2

The next morning we took full advantage of the facilities starting with the Aqua Mundo, a beautiful lagoon style pool setting with 2 water slides, an outside body water rapids (this was brilliant fun), jacuzzi and lazy river, plus an area for little ones to splash around. After lunch we had our 1st activity 16 euros for 1 hour hire of the badminton court which can accommodate up to 4 people. We also had a game of bowling for 35 euros, this can be for up to 8 people and and as many games you can fit within the hour. For the 2 of us this meant 3 games of bowling. We finished the day with an Italian Il Giardino restaurant which is best to be booked in advance as it is very popular, this can be done online or at the restaurant. There is also a buffet restaurant serving breakfast and dinner available.

Day 3

The next day we hopped on the tram approximately 10 minutes walk from the park entrance with a further 10 minutes on the tram into Blankenberge. From Blankenberge you can catch the train to Bruges again within 10 minutes, overall a short journey if wishing to avoid taking the car to Bruges. Park De Haan is on the coast with the beach less than 800m away, excellent for a summer stay. During our time in Bruges we hopped on a boat trip for 15 euros per person to see some of the local historical sites. We also sampled Belgian hot chocolate and of course Belgian waffles with more Belgian chocolate sauce! We we a little early for the Christmas markets but they were setting up ready to open on 22nd November. They do however have a few Christmas shops open close to the main square. After a long day in Bruges we headed back to Park De Haan, exploring the outside area with the farm, park and Autumn colours on the lakeside beach. Finally we took another dip in the Aqua Mundo which was now magical with the outside being dark. The body rapids (Wild Water Rapids) was so much fun lit up under the dark sky and the steaming warm outdoor pool twinkling under the evening sky. It was quieter in the evening and more relaxing, I would definitely recommend an evening dip.

Day 4

Our final day was to head home, this is when the car would have been easier to hop in and head to Calais. We did have the pleasure of travelling 1st class from Blankenberge back to Brussels for our Eurostar journey due to having Standard Plus on the Eurostar. Standard Plus on the Eurostar includes extra space and a light meal and drinks for the journey home (previously called Standard Premier).

I cannot wait to explore more of the Center Parcs Europe collection. This is my second park after visiting Villages Nature Paris a few times previously. If you like a mix of adventure, relaxation and exploring new destinations then Center Parcs Europe bookable with us at MagicBreaks is definitely for you. My son who travelled with me and theme park mad loved Villages Nature for being close to Disney, he also informed me we have to go back to Belgium for Plopsaland and De Kempervennan to explore Efteling resort. https://magicbreaks.co.uk/center-parcs-europe/

The Ultimate Guide to Activities at Center Parcs Europe

Wed, 15 May 2024 08:00:00 Z

Hidden away amongst some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes lie the spectacular resorts of Center Parcs Europe, where adventure and relaxation combine to create unforgettable holiday experiences in the very heart of nature.

In our latest blog post, we’ll explore in detail the incredible amount of activities awaiting guests at Center Parcs Europe, from outdoor adventures to family-friendly fun and even moments of ultimate relaxation and wellness.

Outdoor Adventures

One of the best aspects of staying at a Center Parcs Europe resort is their location, each has been handpicked for its stunning natural beauty. Lace up your hiking boots and set out on a journey to explore the gorgeous nature trails and forested pathways that wind their way through the resort and surrounding forests. If you’re worried about the little ones, there are usually trails suited to every skill level and age, so nobody is ever left out. Don’t forget it’s not only you that will be in the forest! Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife.

For the explorers who prefer life on two wheels, Center Parcs Europe resorts also feature an extensive network of cycling routes that wind through the resort and stunning surrounding countryside. Rent your bike and head out into the unknown, exploring the quiet winding roads and paths, wide-open fields, and quaint local villages.

Or if you’ll be visiting during the summer months, why not head out onto one of the lakes for a variety of water sports and activities? Grab your paddles and explore the lake on a kayak, or rent a paddleboard. For something more thrilling, some resorts even offer wakeboarding and windsurfing, allowing you to really pump up your adrenaline.

Family-Friendly Fun

At a Center Parcs Europe resort there are so many different options when it comes to family-friendly fun.

Let the kids run riot in one of the adventure playgrounds and recreational areas, from towering jungle gyms to giant sandboxes, there is certainly no shortage of opportunities to tire the kids out. Head out into the forest and join a friendly, knowledgeable guide as they walk you through the resort, learning all about the local plants and wildlife that call the resort and surrounding areas home. If you’d like the family to get up close and personal with animals, you can even head over to the resorts animal farm where you can feed and pet goats, rabbits and if you’re lucky, birds of prey!

After a day’s exploring, the sun going down doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! Treat the family to an evening of wonderful entertainment, with a huge range of family activities to choose from. See spectacular live performances featuring music, dance and theatre, head into the cinema for a family movie night, try your best to get a strike at ten-pin bowling, or even grab the microphone and sing your heart out to your favourite karaoke song!

Relaxation and Wellness

A holiday is not just about adventure and activities 24/7. Holidays are a time to recharge and relax, and at a Center Parcs Europe, that’s no different. Indulge your senses at the resort’s luxurious spa and wellness facilities, where you can enjoy the sauna and steam rooms before expert therapists strip the stresses from your body using premium products. All of this combines to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated ready for the day ahead. It’s not just the spa facilities that will relax you, why not book a yoga session,beginning your day in the most calming of ways.

Sports and Recreation

For individuals and families with a passion for sports, there’s a huge range of sporting-related activities you can experience at Center Parcs Europe. One of the highlights of any visit is a trip to the Aqua Mundo water park. They’re the center piece of every resort and are filled with endless amounts of water-based fun. Race down the high-speed water slides, float along the lazy river surrounded by tropical plants, or soak up the sun’s rays on the loungers by the heated outdoor pool, there’s no shortage of ways to make a splash!

If you’re feeling like the next Andy Murray, grab your racket and head over to the tennis and badminton courts where friendly competition meets intense rivalry all whilst surrounded by the resorts gorgeous natural beauty. Some resorts even have on-site golf courses, where beautifully kept fairways and challenging pins reward even the highest level of golfer.

And for those seeking a thrill, channel your inner Robin Hood with a session or two of archery, where precision and focus is the key to hitting the all important bullseye. Or strap yourself in and climb to new heights with the resorts climbing wall. Not only will you feel accomplished for reaching the top, but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views across the resort. If you’re wanting to feel the wind through your hair, you can even have a go at the zip-line propelling you across the treetops.

How To Book Activities

So, as you can probably tell then, there is an incredible number of activities and fun to be had at Center Parcs Europe. But you may be wondering how you can book these activities.

Luckily, Center Parcs Europe have made it a straightforward process, designed to make it easy for guests to customise their stay and truly make the most of their time at the resort.

Prior to booking your stay, you’ll find a list of all of the activities available at your chosen resort. It’s here where you can browse which activities you like the look of and then perhaps make a list of the ones you want to do. Once you’ve booked your holiday, you can login to My Center Parcs where you’ll find the activities for your resort. Click on the activity and the number of people and then simply pay. It really is that simple.

If you’ve forgotten about booking any activities and are already at your resort, or on your way, don’t worry as most activities can be booked from the front desk at your resort’s main reception.

Center Parcs Europe offers lucky visitors a mind-blowing array of activities to suit every taste and preference, from outdoor adventures, to family-friendly fun surrounded by incredible nature, all easily bookable via the My Center Parcs portal or by simply ringing MagicBreaks. Start planning your own adventure today and visit the Center Parcs Europe page on our website.

What is Center Parcs Europe?

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 08:00:00 Z

If you’re looking for something well and truly different, then look no further than the spectacular resorts of Center Parcs Europe. Leave behind the ordinary and prepare yourself and your family for an unforgettable adventure deep into the heart of nature!

For those unfamiliar, Center Parcs Europe offers an incredible holiday experience across the continent, boasting resorts in all corners of Western Europe’s stunning countryside.

Ideal for friends and families looking for an idyllic escape in nature. Our Center Parcs Europe offerings promise exciting adventures and an endless amount of fun thanks to the abundance of activities guests can experience together.

The Center Parcs Europe concept

Unlike many other traditional holiday experiences and destinations, Center Parcs Europe offers its guests a complete self-contained environment staying in your very own cosy cottage, lodge, or apartment surrounded by nature.

Enjoy mountain biking through the dense forests of France, follow rewarding hiking trails in the Alpine hills of Germany, or stay in the resort itself and splash around in the famous Aqua Mundo waterpark, their waterparks are some of the biggest in Europe and guests of all ages will have a ‘splashing good time’!

That’s not all, all resorts come with a variety of on-site restaurants and a supermarket meaning you have everything you need on your doorstep. You aren’t just limited to one or two resorts either. A whopping 17 resorts are available to book through MagicBreaks, with 7 being in France, 6 in the Netherlands, 3 in Belgium, and 1 in Germany meaning whichever resort you choose, you’ll have a completely unique experience.

If you’re interested in finding out the best ways on how to get to some of our favourite resorts, check out our other blog post.

What about the accommodation?

The fun doesn’t stop with the activities either. Center Parcs Europe’s range of accommodation is one of its biggest selling points, with its main offering of cosy cottages providing a charming home away from home. In most resorts, you have the option of varying degrees of luxury, ranging from Comfort, Premium, and VIP cottages.

Whichever level you choose, all cottages come fully equipped with a kitchen, comfortable living area with fireplace, and private outdoor terraces perfect for relaxing in the evening sun with a barbecue enjoying the scenery.

If you’d like a place that’s a little smaller and less-maintenance, some resorts like Het Heijderbos offer hotel rooms for ultimate convenience. They provide you with a comfortable base for you to explore the resort and come with access to hotel amenities like a daily breakfast buffet and room cleaning.

For something a little more memorable, how does staying in your very own boathouse floating on the tranquil resort lake sound? In addition to the novelty of staying directly on the water, you’ll have your own private decking where you can sit back, relax and take in the view alongside all of the home comforts of one of the resorts cottages.

If that doesn’t appeal, how about staying in a luxury treehouse suspended in the middle of a forest? You’ll have large bedrooms and two stunning bathrooms, in addition to a huge flat-screen TV with Chromecast. It’s the perfect family hideaway, quite literally, in the middle of nature!

Great. So what can we do there?

The majority of resorts have upwards of 60 different activities for you and your family to enjoy, ranging from a leisurely round of minigolf, family laser battle, archery, kid’s safari, climbing walls, and more, including the all-important Aqua Mundo.

Here, you can whizz down the variety of water slides, float along the lazy river, and in some resorts, even go snorkelling with exotic fish! For the adults, there are on-site spa services where you can receive a selection of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.

Now I’m hungry. What about the dining options?

All resorts have several mouth-wateringly tasty restaurants for you to enjoy. Fancy traditional home-cooked Italian dishes including a range of pastas and pizzas? Nonna’s has you covered.

Or perhaps you might want a hearty and juicy steak fresh off of the grill, ideal after a hard day of exploration. Fuego Adventure Grill has also got you covered. Lighter bites and lunch are also ticked off the menu too in the Grand Café and Grabber Joe’s Laguna Café.

In short, you’ll never go hungry at Center Parcs Europe. And if you do, there’s always a fully-stocked supermarket on hand for all of life’s essentials.

What about the scenery?

Speaking of life’s essentials, here at MagicBreaks we think it’s incredibly important to spend as much time as you can doing what you love. And for us, that’s being on holiday. Even better if it’s completely surrounded by picturesque landscapes and countryside, which is one of the unique benefits of a Center Parcs Europe holiday.

A great example is the fantastic resort of Center Parcs Europe De Eemhof, perfectly located along the sandy shores of Eemmeer Lake in the Netherlands. In addition to the tranquil lake (and the fun water-based activities that come with it), you’ll also be surrounded by the stunning Horsterwold forest. This is just one specific example, but each and every resort has something special about it’s location.

So, there we have it. A complete run-down of Center Parcs Europe and what it’s all about. A relaxing retreat where we can reconnect with family and friends in the peace and quiet of Europe’s countryside is just what we all need.

Sustainable Travel with MagicBreaks

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 08:00:00 Z

In a world where our travel choices have a profound impact on our planet, it’s important to travel responsibly, and where possible, sustainably. In this blog, we’re highlighting how you can do your bit for the environment, whilst still enjoying your hard-earned holiday of a lifetime.

Did you know that flying is the single-most carbon-intensive forms of transportation, and on average, a round-trip flight from London to New York generates approximately 1.2 metric tons of CO2 per passenger? To put that into some perspective, that is the equivalent to the annual carbon emissions of driving a car for six months straight. On one flight!

We think that choosing a self-driving holiday once in a while is an excellent way of travelling sustainably. Not only does it bring environmental benefits, but you also gain flexibility and freedom with your itinerary too so wherever you choose to travel, you aren’t at the mercy of public transportation or taxis.

Eco-Friendly Escapes at Center Parcs Europe

If you’re looking for a self-driving holiday where nature is at the very heart of the trip, look no further than our brand-new selection of Center Parcs Europe resorts. Pack up the car, cross the channel via Ferry or LeShuttle, and within a few hours of driving through Europe you’ll find yourself in your very own cottage surrounded by the dense woodlands of France, the beaches of Belgium, or the lakes of the Netherlands.

Center Parcs Europe resorts are renowned for being the perfect alternative holiday destination for all of the family, partly due to the incredible facilities you’ll find at each resort. You’ll have the choice between upwards of 70 activities to take part in including archery, bowling, mountain biking and even escape rooms, in addition to several on-site restaurants, a supermarket, and of course, the Aqua Mundo. Here, you’ll discover water slides, lazy rivers, a wave pool, and a heated outdoor pool. What’s more, is that you’ll also have your car enabling you to visit any nearby town, city or attraction making it a seriously diverse holiday within nature.

All Center Parcs Europe resorts are eco-resorts too, meaning that they are semi-pedestrian with guests only being able to get around either on foot, by bike, or in an e-cart. They don’t use pesticides or chemical fertilizers on the resort’s foliage, and water consumption is limited and monitored in the Aqua Mundo.

Alternative Transportation to Disneyland® Paris

Here at MagicBreaks, it’s no secret that Disneyland® Paris is the beating heart of what we do. So naturally, it only makes sense to mention the environmentally-friendly ways of getting to the Disney® Parks.

Instead of flying, you may want to consider travelling by coach. It’s even more environmentally friendly than self-driving due to the much higher occupancy rates of the coach. More passengers are transported using less fuel per person therefore massively reducing the carbon emissions per passenger compared to driving alone or in a family. If travelling by coach is not an option for you, then self-driving to Disneyland® Paris is still an excellent sustainable means of transport, especially if you own an electric car. In fact, that is the most sustainable way of getting to the Parks, unless there’s such thing as electric coaches these days!

Exploring the UK

Our final way of keeping things sustainable on a MagicBreaks holiday is to explore the many options available to you on our very own island. Being our home, the UK is often completely forgotten about when it comes to a holiday which we think is a real shame. We’re blessed with some of the most beautiful surroundings anywhere in the world, which you can find up in the Lake District, or down southwest in Cornwall for example.

We’re pleased to offer a selection of incredible cottages and log cabins in some of the UK’s best locations from just £159pp. Enjoy 7 nights bordering the Lake District National Park, the North Cornwall/North Devon border, Somerset countryside, or even on the small island of the Isle of Wight. All of our UK breaks are self-driving and being based in the UK, perfect for a sustainable holiday!

So, there we have it. If you’re trying to be a little more eco-conscious, MagicBreaks have got you covered with several amazing options for sustainable travel. From self-driving to the eco-resorts of Center Parcs Europe, to environmentally-friendly transport to Disneyland® Paris, right through to keeping things local with breaks away in the UK.

MagicBreaks Welcomes Center Parcs Europe to its Portfolio of Magical Holidays

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:00:00 Z

Close your eyes and imagine waking up in your very own cosy cottage, surrounded by the beautiful countryside of some of Europe’s best countries. Open your curtains and be greeted by a stunning panorama of tall swaying trees, chirping birds and tranquil lakes covered in fresh morning mist.

Well, get ready to turn this dream into a reality because MagicBreaks are thrilled to announce our latest offering: unforgettable getaways deep into the heart of nature at several fantastic European resorts, all thanks to our friends over at Center Parcs Europe! We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring you these stunning resorts, making sure that your escape to nature is not only unforgettable but also affordable.

We’ve handpicked some of our favourite resorts below, each offering their own unique charm and appeal. Plus, we’ve also detailed the easiest way to reach them by car, train or air!

Driving

If you’re all about the freedom of the open road, then Le Lac d’Ailette is perfect for road-trippers. Located in the picturesque Champagne-Ardenne region of north eastern France, this tucked away gem of a resort is just a 2-and-a-half-hour drive from the Port of Calais. It’s incredibly easy to get to as you simply cruise along the A26 motorway practically the entire way. Choose from a range of beautiful, newly-renovated cottages in the woods or by the lake, and experience the famous Aqua Mundo waterpark with 13 slides, water activities or the thrilling adventure playground. For the adults, you’ll also be nearby to several quaint French villages ready for you to discover and the great Champagne houses of the region. It’s no wonder this spot is a firm family favourite!

If you fancy visiting Belgium, Park De Haan is also an excellent choice, just an hour and 15 minutes’ drive away from Calais. You’ll be located right along the stunning Belgian coastline, offering guests a magical blend of seaside fun and natural beauty with endless kilometres of sand dunes and charming coastal villages. Guests can choose between snug cottages complete with your own terrace and garden by the beach, or even a private sauna ensuring the ultimate in holiday relaxation. Famous for its historical architecture, canals, and of course, delicious Belgian chocolate, the gorgeous city of Bruges is also just a 25-minute drive away, making for the perfect day trip.

For a nearby option to the Port of Dieppe, the lovely Les Bois-Francs resort is just 2-hours’ drive away into the spotless Normandy countryside. You’ll have the luxury of modern, contemporary and spacious cottages with bay windows letting in all of the light, looking out onto gorgeous surroundings of a lake and forest. You can even stay in a Pony Cottage and have your very own four-legged friend to trot around with – talk about a magical experience!

Train

Travelling from the UK and fancy the ease and simplicity of going by train? Simply jump on a Eurostar from London St. Pancras, whizz through the scenic French countryside at break-neck speeds, and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying the incredible facilities of Les Villages Nature Paris resort.

Here, you’ll have an unforgettable holiday experience within nature, making the most of Center Parcs’ Aqua Mundo water park to indulging in delicious meals at several on-site restaurants and even a huge range of fun activities to take part in like archery, bowling, and laser battle. If you want to explore the busy streets of Paris, that’s just a short train-ride away too and if that wasn’t enough fun and excitement, the magic of Disneyland® Paris is just a 10-minute shuttle bus away. It’s the ultimate all-in-one holiday.

Flight

Choosing to fly to one of the wonderful Center Parcs Europe resorts naturally opens up a whole new world of options, including magnificent resorts in the Netherlands. Located just a 25-minute drive away from Eindhoven Airport, the southern Dutch resort of De Kempervennen is ideal if you want to be surrounded by thriving forests, several picturesque lakes, and miles of wide-open, wonderful countryside.

The accommodation options at De Kempervennen are some of the best that Center Parcs has to offer, with elegantly furnished Wellness Cottages providing a relaxing stay with your very own outdoor Jacuzzi, a series of Adventure Cottages for those that like things a little more exciting, and even several Boathouses enabling you to actually stay directly on the lake.

Park Zandvoort is another excellent option if you’ll be flying as its located just 24km away from Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport. With the resort being just over half an hour away from the airport, you can head through passport control and be unpacking your bags in your beachside cottage in a little over an hour. After you’ve soaked up the sun and splashed around in the sea, why not hop in the car and soak up the atmosphere along the famous canals of Amsterdam? Just a 40-minute drive away, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience a taste of city life before retreating back to your coastal hideaway.

From family-friendly getaways on the beaches of the Netherlands to having Disneyland® Paris on your doorstep, there’s a perfect resort in the very heart of nature for everyone. It’s the sheer diversity on offer that really makes a Center Parcs Europe holiday special. So, what are you waiting for, let the magic of the great outdoors ignite your spirit of adventure and embark on your Center Parcs Europe holiday with MagicBreaks today!