Every year we try to spend some holiday time with our daughters and their families. Having become proud grandparents to two lovely grandaughters last year we decided to go somewhere that would be suitable for 2 lively toddlers. Never having had a holiday in a resort like Centerparcs we were not sure how much we would enjoy it but it proved to be a great place to spend a few days, so much so that we are going again next September. We stayed in two Woodland Lodges next door to each other, one with four bedrooms for the 'youngsters' and a two bedroom one for the two of us.
The surroundings are lovely, being set in woodland with squirrels, birds and deer just outside the patio door. The lodges were very well equipped and child friendly and were also spotlessly clean. Although there are several (quite expensive) restaurants on site and a good supermarket, we chose to cater for ourselves most days and prepared meals at home to take with us.
The site is spread over a large area – our lodges were within an easy walk of the Plaza where the main attraction, the tropical swimming pool, and restaurants were although the sports centre was a good 20 minutes walk away, with various play areas en route.
The tropical swimming pool was amazing. Lovely warm water with shallow areas, small slides and safety vests for toddlers as well as a whirlpool river. There is also an outdoor pool which was even warmer with a long lazy river and big slides for adults which were great fun. There are several activities in the rest of the grounds such as zip lining, archery etc. and water sports on the lake.
Even if the weather is bad, there is plenty to do. The Plaza also has a bowling alley and the sports centre offers various activities. We took the babies along for half an hour of 'soft play' which they enjoyed and in the Sports Bar there is another play corner with soft play areas and slides. Plenty to wear them out!
As we went after the schools had gone back in September, the main guests were families with babies and toddlers. I think it would be pretty noisy and crowded during school holidays, not to mention very expensive.
In summary, an ideal place to spend a few days with family provided you avoid school holidays.
