GLASS of bubbly in hand, I find myself relaxing by the waterside, soaking up the sun next to the hubby, while our two children play happily together in a field full of daisies.
I know what you’re thinking – I must be recounting a dream. Well, you’d be wrong.
This was a real, idyllic and picturesque escape my family and I enjoyed in the French village of Aire-sur-la-Lys – just an hour’s drive from Calais.
Travelling by P&O ferry, so we could take our own car, we enjoyed a pleasant 90-minute crossing in the club lounge. With comfortable window seats, unlimited free drinks, snacks and wi-fi, the Dover to Calais crossing was a doddle.
Our destination in Aire-sur-la-Lys was Lodges de Malbrough, which is run by the lovely Marie-Pierre Robin, who speaks very good English.
This beautifully maintained site boasts two self-catering, open-plan lodges on stilts, each of which comes with its own small pond and free paddling boat to use, and a fully mobile barbecue. The living and catering facilities are top notch and the large balcony which wrapped around the waterside, and was more of an outdoor living area (with hot tub), proved a delightful retreat.
We whiled away many a happy hour, lounging on deckchairs, soaking up the landscape, with glass of fizz in hand, watching our kids play in the sunshine.
From the lodges it was a short drive to the supermarket to stock up on supplies, and a short bike ride to the local patisserie for delicious fresh bread and croissants.
It’s not only an extremely peaceful spot but also a great springboard to explore the best the area has to offer.
Whether it’s the arts, history, striking architecture, food, wine, or outdoor pursuits that float your boat, you’ll be spoiled for choice – and all within an easy drive of the UK, and about 2.5 hours from Paris.