2016 was our 6th visit to Le Pas Opton and it won't be our last as our offspring don't want to go anywhere else (and neither do I). After the 750 mile drive from home all our cares of the previous 12 months drop off as we drive through the gates and we are reunited with friends from previous years.

The site is run by a Christian organisation and there is a weekly programme of bible studies but that is all optional; we have known families there who have completely ignored that side of things and have enjoyed being on a campsite where curfews are strictly enforced and teenagers aren't out of control. There are morning activities for youngsters aged up to 18 (we gave up on Eurocamp when our eldest reached 10 and was too old for their activities). Teenagers are catered for with late night evening activities (containing them and keeping them from disturbing younger children who are trying to sleep) and there are activities most evenings to cater for all ages, e.g. quiz night, karaoke/open mic, wine tasting at the same time as a film suitable for children. In the afternoons there are more active events such as bike rides, football and other sports; again all of this is optional.

The surrounding area has wonderful beaches (the local one is great for surfers) and plenty of places for short trips out (we tend not to leave the site much because we enjoy what is happening onsite so much). Puy de Fou is the main attraction worth a day out.

We have stayed in mobile homes and tents and have found both to be well equipped and comfortable. Any maintenance issues have always been dealt with swiftly (heavy rain on one holiday left us with a sagging tent but that was quickly sorted) and cheerfully. Unfortunately local law prevents the use of charcoal barbecues on campsites so the compromise is a gas barbecue/wok which can be hired on site.

LPO is a few minutes drive inland from St Gilles-Croix-de-Vie which has a couple of hypermarkets plus smaller shops and markets and plenty of places to eat. It is situated on the banks of the River Vie (the river is fenced off for child safety) and the sunsets at the river are fantastic if you can draw yourself away from the activity around the bar. There is also little light pollution at many places on site for star gazing.

For us, the highlight of the week is the street party on a Sunday. At lunchtime the campsite gates are closed to allow the road to be filled with tables, chairs and gas barbecues. Everyone gathers with their own food and cooks it on the barbecues, enjoying a meal together.