Le Château de Monfréville

A thousand years ago, the cling clang of armour and haughty laughter of French aristocracy reverberated from the walls of this picturesque little château. Its grey stones and romantic round tower were as attractive then as they are today – if these walls could talk.... Since its commission by William the Conqueror, Château Monfréville has housed all sorts, from the family of Walt Disney to the invading German soldiers during World War II. Today, this scenic abode offers accommodation to those who venture into its beautiful gardens. Here, in the most quintessentially French surroundings, a thoughtfully-run campsite provides the perfect family getaway.

From the second you arrive at Le Château de Monfréville the quaint rusticity of the place is overwhelming. Parked beside the leafy apple orchard you are met by the rumble of a vintage tractor, your transport around the chateau to the vehicle-free pitches beyond. Bobbling along in the wooden trailer, a spacious site is revealed, limited to just 25 tents so customers are guaranteed to never feel crowded. There is ample room for children to play, open spaces where Bert the donkey can graze, and a natural swimming pond perfect for an authentic camping dip!

The greenery of the château gardens are unmarred by sanitary blocks. Instead campers head into the cellars of the castle where immaculately kept ablutions are accompanied by power sockets, fridge freezers and a washing machine. Those who wish such luxury to continue can forego the tent to stay in one of the two gypsy caravans – small but well equipped, and furnished with an eye for detail. A double bed and bunk-bed allow space for up to four, while ample storage space, two gas hobs, tables, chairs and every kitchen utensil required mean all you’ll need to bring is your toothbrush.

Overlooking a stunning national park, Le Château de Monfréville is the perfect place to grab a bike (free-to-borrow onsite) and head into the trees, discovering migrating storks, hooting owls or gregarious bullfrogs that offer a dawn chorus each morning. A longer cycle ride also takes you to the coast, a 15 minute journey in the car. Here the historic sandy beaches of D-Day are backed by fascinating museums, while sites like the famous Bayeux Tapestry are also close at hand.

At its heart, however, it is not just the pleasant countryside and rich history of Normandy that make the site so special but the real thoughtfulness that goes into how it is run. Owners Zoe and Paul are attentive and welcoming, while their smallholding of animals and tiny onsite honesty shop reflect the easy-going, rural atmosphere of the site. Children can socialise with fellow campers, parents can relax beneath the shady trees and everyone can leave vowing to return the following year.