Travel: Center Parcs - the ultimate forest retreat for families
Jul 4 2010
There are two things you never forget about Center Parcs. You never forget arriving and you never forget leaving.
Arriving is always a magical experience with you safe in the knowledge that you are leaving the outside world behind you for a week of tranquillity, excitement and more importantly – no cars!
Leaving is unforgettable too as you head for the exit at the same time that scores of families are checking in for the same amazing experience you are just ending. The overwhelming sense of envy and sadness hits you the same every time.
Center Parcs is a special place that has its own vibe and atmosphere that sets it aside from other resorts.
Me and my family recently visited the Nottingham resort set in the heart of the historic Sherwood Forest.
The setting could not be more perfect, trees as far and wide as the eye can see and a landscape teeming with wildlife both up high and down low.
And as if that isn’t enough you also have every sporting and leisure facility imaginable available to enjoy deep in the heart of the forest.
You have the option of being as active or inactive as you like during your stay, everyone hires or brings along the obligatory cycles for their stay but you could just as easy amble around as long as you don’t mind the walk.
Every walk is a pleasure due to the sights and sounds on offer, squirrels, rabbits and birds wait around every corner and the scenery is simply picturesque.
It is testament to the planning of the village that you can feel in the middle of the forest and away from everything despite being so close to a wealth of activity.
The best thing is that you get to choose your holiday, the setting is there for you to enjoy – how you wish to shape it is your choice.
As well as numerous shops, eateries, sports facilities, etc there is also the small matter of over 950 villas for guests to stay in.
We were lucky enough to stay in one of these new executive lodges and they were nothing short of stunning! Have a look for yourself at www.centerparcs.co.uk
The fantastic lodges are kitted out with the latest swish interior designs and hi-tech kitchens they are stylish with oak style flooring and huge nature artwork on the walls.
They also have brand new Sealy beds guaranteed to make sure you sleep like a kitten whilst you are on your break.
Throw in en-suite in all rooms, flat screen TVs and a sauna and it really is impressive.
Despite the luxurious nature of the accommodation you never lose that feeling of being in the heart of the forest, our patio was forever visited by ducks, squirrels and rabbits and much to the delight of my 4-year-old Lily a swan which she was able to hand feed.
