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Travel review: Domaine de Kerlann - everything a family needs

There are a lot of boxes to tick when it comes to finding the perfect family holiday.

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Domaine de Kerlann

But parents eager to whisk their little ones away this summer will find everything they need and more in beautiful Brittany.

The cultural region in the north west of France boasts breath-taking beaches as well as a number of quaint towns that are fascinating to explore.

And if you base yourself at the Domaine de Kerlann campsite in the stunning Pont-Aven, you can rest assured the entire family is in for a fantastic break.

My wife and I took our 11-month-old there for our first holiday as a three in May last year.

For us adults, there was plenty to see and do – which I’ll touch on later.

But on a family vacation, it’s the youngsters that first need to be catered for.

And the Domaine de Kerlann resort – run by French firm Siblu – is a child’s paradise.

Throughout our week-long stay we watched as youngsters of all ages cycled around the campsite, jumping between the different play parks and dropping in on new-found friends along the way.

Joe Masi and his daughter Georgie

Fun was to be had at every turn with two swimming pools, football pitches, basketball courts and crazy golf just some of the activities they could enjoy.

Great for us though were the facilities in place for my little girl.

At both the indoor and outdoor pools there were designated baby-friendly areas that my 11-month-old loved splashing around in.

But there was also a little play hut that was bursting with age-appropriate toys which she absolutely adored.

It also had a soft-play area and ball-pit which had her smiling from ear-to-ear.

In many ways, the play hut sums up the Domaine de Kerlann resort – when it comes to children they have thought of everything to keep them entertained day and night.

And for adults, the mobile homes offer a stylish and practical base that are ideal for exploring a region which is bursting with things to do.

For families who enjoy going to the beach, we found two absolute gems.

The sand and glistening blue water in Benodet were spectacular.

And the beach, which was 40 minutes from our base, also has lots for children with a sailing school and other clubs running throughout the summer. There were also ice-cream parlours, cafes and restaurants aplenty to keep you refreshed in the French heat.

For me though, it is often the unexpected that makes a holiday.

And Plage de Tahiti, a beach just 20 minutes or so from the resort, really was a delightful surprise.

Domaine de Kerlann

Now, it’s a big call to name your local beach after one of the most beautiful paradises on Earth but this near-deserted spot pulls it off.

A sweep of fine white sand gives way to crystal-clear waters.

It is simply stunning and an idyllic spot to sit back and forget about the work-based pressures at home.

But make sure you pack plenty of water and a picnic.

Plage de Tahiti is so remote there isn’t even a small tuck shop selling drinks or refreshments.

That though only adds to its charm – with this beach an absolute must for any visitor to the region.

Its coastline may be beautiful but it’s important to point out Brittany is not just a bucket and spade holiday.

There are plenty of character-filled little towns that are immensely enjoyable to explore – with Pont Aven and Concarneau my favourites.

Now I have to admit that when it comes to the world of art, I know absolutely nothing.

So it came as something of a surprise when I found myself stumbling along in the footsteps of greatness

It was only upon my arrival in the centre of Pont Aven – the town in which the Domaine de Kerlann campsite is based – that I find out it was made famous by post-Impressionist Paul Gauguin.

That history means artists from across the world have flocked to the region to open small boutiques.

And we had a fantastic day walking along the winding streets and browsing the shops.

Pont Aven is also dominated by the river Aven which carves right through the town.

And with lots of quaint restaurants and cafes, it’s an ideal place to relax, have a stroll and sample some local produce.

It’s a charming town and well worth a visit.

Yet my favourite day trip took us to Concarneau – a place we actually visited twice.

Domaine de Kerlann

The town is France’s third most important fishing port and also boasts sandy beaches and a lively maritime festival in August.

But the highlight is the medieval Ville Close, a walled town based within the grounds of a castle.

Filled with touristy shops and little cafes, on first glance it reminded me of Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

But after meandering past the chocolatiers and gift shops, you then reach the castle which offers spectacular views of the harbour.

It’s a captivating town, and like all the areas we visited, less than a 45-minute drive from our base.

I’ve had to admit driving around Brittany was something I had felt apprehensive about before our holiday.

My job means I am up and down the country most weekends so I’m fairly relaxed behind the wheel.

But I was nervous about driving abroad and on the right hand side of the road.

Yet I didn’t have to be.

All the roads around the campsite proved incredibly quiet and there were plenty of signposts to ensure us Brits stay on the right side.

It was trouble-free.

And that is the best way to describe this holiday.

Georgie enjoying her holidays

From a simple overnight ferry crossing, to a peaceful week in a stylish and comfortable caravan, everything went to plan.

And whether your family has tiny tots or excitable youngsters, Siblu will make sure they will have a great time and are always entertained.

Throw in some charming towns to explore and scenic beaches and my wife and I had a fabulous time.

Most importantly though so did my little girl on her first-ever holiday.

For me, you can assess any holiday with one simple question. ‘Would you return?”

And our little family can’t wait to go back.

For more information on the Domaine de Kerlann holiday park click here