Center Parcs Les Hauts de Bruyères

Staying in a cottage surrounded by nature was a real chance to recharge, and there’s plenty to do whatever the weather. Aqua Mundo is amazing, and the Action Factory has loads of good activities, so it works for family holidays and all kinds of occasions. The one stressful part was leaving: checkout at 10.00 is early when breakfast at Marché also ends at 10.00. A checkout at 11.00 or 12.00 would make the holiday experience truly perfect.

On this visit to France, after usually staying at Center Parcs resorts in other countries, we chose Les Hauts de Bruyères. I come to Center Parcs often with my children because I value the concept, the welcome, and the quality of service, so what happened at Aqua Mundo was especially upsetting. The stated rules allow swimwear that covers the ankles and wrists, as long as it is suitable for swimming. Several lifeguards nevertheless came over to comment on what I was wearing. Another lifeguard said it complied, provided nothing was loose or extended beyond what was allowed. Being told one thing and then repeatedly questioned and watched by other staff left me uncomfortable and excluded. I eventually stopped swimming for the rest of our stay, even though time at Aqua Mundo is usually one of my favorite things to share with my children. My husband also wore a covering swimsuit for dermatological reasons and was never approached. That difference made me wonder whether my appearance as a Muslim woman had played a part. It’s a personal feeling, and I’ve never experienced this at a Center Parcs before, but it saddened me deeply. I hope the teams can get more awareness and consistency so that guests don’t face situations that could feel discriminatory or like unintentional harassment. I remain attached to the Center Parcs spirit and hope this feedback helps make the experience better for everyone, whatever their appearance or faith.

Aqua Mondo was even better in the evening, when there was no queue for the slides, and everyone was so helpful. We had a fabulous two-night stop at center parcs as a family with three girls aged 5, 7, and 9. Our recently renovated, themed mini woodlands accommodation was amazing and very clean. The staff were lovely, and we were glad to have a Paul boulaungerie on site. Thank you!

We spent seven nights there with family and friends, eight kids aged from 7 to 19, and can’t wait to go back. Mornings started with peacocks outside, and we biked around the park before spending hours having fun on the rapids at aquamundo. It felt like a wholesome holiday, with our phones put away. Paul’s bakery was a treat too, with lovely sweet and savoury things at very reasonable prices.