Spotlight on Domaine de la Bien-Assise campsite
If you had to describe your campsite in three words, what would they be?
Peaceful, loyal and a stopping place.
What are three things people don't realise about running a campsite?
The first is that you have to be available virtually 24 hours a day throughout the season.
The second is the pleasure of welcoming guests back at the start of the season and then the satisfaction of seeing another successful season come to an end.
Finally, many people think we simply run a campsite, when in reality we manage several different businesses and are responsible for the well-being of both our guests and our team.
What is the most memorable personality you have welcomed?
We once welcomed Margaret Beckett, the former British Foreign Secretary. She travelled with her bodyguards, which was quite an unforgettable experience.
What has been your best season?
In terms of figures, 2017 was undoubtedly our best season.
But when it comes to memories and emotions, 2007 holds a special place. The atmosphere among the Rocamp team and all the staff that year was truly exceptional.
What is your next big project?
We would like to develop a new water park with more fun features, water jets and family-friendly attractions.
And then there is another project slowly approaching on the horizon: retirement!
What is your greatest fear?
Being so close to the coast, strong storms and high winds are always a concern for us.
What are you most proud of?
Without hesitation, our daughter.
We are also proud of having received something valuable that we hope to pass on in turn: the spirit of the estate, the relationship with our guests and the story that continues from one generation to the next.
What is your greatest achievement?
Successfully preserving the campsite and passing it on while remaining true to its identity.
What is the most unusual story you've experienced at the campsite?
A baby was born during one of our guests' holidays!
The birth took place at Calais Hospital rather than on the campsite itself, but it remains a very special memory for all of us.
What are your passions outside of the campsite?
For Sophie, it is Nordic walking and long walks, particularly around Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, as well as spending time with friends.
For Frédéric, cars were once a major passion. Today, he devotes much more of his time and energy to maintaining and enhancing the beautiful grounds of the estate.
In your opinion, what does it mean to be a Castels campsite?
Above all, it means taking pleasure in welcoming people.
After the Covid years, seeing our guests return with smiles on their faces and enjoying the peace and tranquillity beneath the estate's mature trees was incredibly rewarding.
Being a Castels campsite means offering a place where people can relax, take their time, discover a beautiful property and simply enjoy nature and the peaceful surroundings.
