Camping le Lac des Varennes

This could be a lovely peaceful campsite but despite their rules saying ’no noise after 11pm” the bad karaoke continued well past this, at a ridiculously loud level. We will definitely not be returning and may not stay for a 2nd night despite booking for two.

+ points Good friendly service bar onsite within walking distance to a village with Tabac and pizza place Lakeside not far from supermarkets good value dog friendly - points food average bar closed on sat toilets needed updating no soap in toilets wouldn’t like to be there at hight of summer lake looked dirty

We made the mistake that thinking Le Loir was La Loire. As it happens that was a happy error for us. The valley of Le Loir is quiet, rural, populated by lovely villages and people- France at its best. The more famous river, we visited Blois and Saumur, was a bit commercial for our The campsite is bigger than we are used to but staff very friendly and facilities good rather than great. Camped next to the river in a very shady pitch which was super during the heatwave. Some unusual noises at night which we think may have been otters and experienced not so much a dawn chorus but the 1812 overture of animal and bird noises. I liked that. Nice lake to swim in but bar area a bit naf. We we were there out of season but suspect would be a bit noisy and busy during school hols. Overall a very good experience - great cycling along quiet roads. Silex restaurant in Chahaignes is awesome- 20 euros for 3 heavenly courses and local wine and cheese to die for as they say.