If you enjoy a good pun and are seeking a campsite that feels
rustic, has an element of luxury, and is close to Paris, then Huttopia
Versailles might be just the ticket. Despite being one outlet of many and owned
by an internationally expanding company, the overall experience is far from
cult-like or corporate. In fact – I’m lovin’ it.
Developed within a fringe of woodland, Huttopia Versailles has a peaceful vibe. Only 20
minutes from the Eiffel Tower and with the Palace of Versailles even closer –
an easy 3 km walk – Huttopia is still enjoyable for more than location alone.
The site has a number of subtle touches, adding to the ambience of comfort. One
of the shower blocks, bedecked in hotel-quality fittings, has a wood-burner
wafting a fragrant aroma of pine into the air. Much more appealing than, say,
damp feet. And a family shower room with basins and plenty of space to hold
three makes life easier for parents. There’s also a nice compact play area next
to the terrace, which is beside the restaurant and pool, creating a useful
family base, as the kids can be seen from the terrace wherever they chose to
wander. No surprise, then, that it’s families who most adore this place.
The
beautifully designed huts that give the site its name are actually beautifully
designed cabanes, sleeping up to six
people. They also have roulottes,
snug affairs accommodating up to four in a double and a couple of bunks. But
if you just can’t sleep without the sound of rippling canvas above your head,
there are plenty of regular tent pitches too, open and high at the rear of the
camp. Mature trees shade much of the area, which means the ground can feel a little
uneven due to tree roots. It’s easy enough to find a level spot, though, and
besides – nature is lumpy.
Off-site
activities need little introduction. You don’t camp on the edge of Paris
without spending most of your time exploring the city, but went you want to
return to your little pocket of nature, Utopia is always here. Huttopia we mean…
though, for some, the two are much the same.