Campsite Details

Location Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Capacity Unsure Units
Starts April 1st
Ends September 30th

Campsite Overview

Marvilla Parks Domaine du Clarys, also known as Clarys Plage, is a 5-star holiday resort in the Vendée region of France. Domaine du Clarys was our first camping holiday of the year, and honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. We stayed during the April Easter holidays, knowing the weather could go either way—but thankfully, the sun made an appearance!

The site exceeded our expectations Despite some bad reviews
Village
Accomodation
Facilities
Activities
Swimming Pool
3.8 Overall
Rating

Campsite Pros & Cons

Pros of Domaie du clarys

Lots of things to enjoy with this one…

  • Multiple children’s play areas
  • Walking distance to the beach
  • Clean and well-maintained
  • Lots of greenery and nature
  • Comfortable bar area with multiple terraces
  • Indoor pool—great for colder weather
  • Mini farm for kids

Cons of Domaie du clarys

Every family prefers certain things about a campsite, so our “cons” could be on your “pros” list!

  • Campsite is split across a road

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Pool complex

domaine du clarys pool area

We were fortunate to find the pools open during our stay at Clarys plage. The Eurocamp website listed the pool’s opening date as May 1st, so it was a pleasant surprise that they were already operating in April.

I was also surprised to find an indoor pool—how did I miss this in my research? 

indoor pool at clarys

The pool area at Domaine du Clarys is excellent and has something for everyone. 

As you enter, you are greeted with lots of sun loungers and a large pool with slides (big and small). Clarys Plage has some great slides for all ages. There are little ones for toddlers, which our 2-year-old loved, and bigger ones for older children, which our 4-year-old loved. She even embraced the giant space bowl slide that even I was too frightened to go on.

pool area clarys plage

Also outdoors, you’ll find a lazy river and a Romanesque, dragon-themed splash area. It looks as though a lot of effort has gone into making this pool area as good as it is, and it really does have something for everyone, especially on a hot day when the splash area is perfect for cooling down. However, we didn’t have many of those days in April.

pool area at clarys plage

Instead, we spent much of our time in the warmer indoor pool. It’s a relatively small area with a little jacuzzi area, which is good for escaping the outdoors. However, it is very noisy here.

The pool occasionally had lifeguards, but they weren’t always there, so stay responsible.

pool area at domaine du clarys

It looks like the pool has been updated since we wrote this review. We already thought the pool area was great, so if they’ve made improvements to it, surely it can only get better!

screenshot of eurocamp website

Swimwear rule

No one questioned our swimwear choices, but French regulations require fitted swimwear (e.g., Speedos or Jammers for men), so bring a pair just in case.

Beach 

The beach near clarys plage

The beach here is fantastic. It’s so close to the campsite. The Atlantic beach is lovely and sandy and has some of the most incredible sunsets. We were so grateful for the weather on our holiday because it meant we could enjoy the beach entirely. We swam, built sand castles, dug trenches, paddled, and wave-jumped. Unfortunately, the only disappointment we found was there was no nice promenade to walk along—although I often find this is the case for beaches away from the Mediterranean. 

beach at mouettes vendee

The beach is reasonably easy to reach from the campsite. You can either leave through the main gate or, if your accommodation is closer, through the secret gate in the Super U car park. Once you’re out, the beach is a short walk uphill, then downhill to the water. There are a few roads to cross, but nothing unusual. 

sunset on the beach at clarys plage

Campsite Facilities

This campsite had far more than we expected.

campsite facilities at domaine du clarys high nets course

Receptions, Customer Services and Check-in

We checked in on a Monday afternoon and were greeted by a lovely French girl who spoke perfect English at reception. She gave us a map and plenty of paper information (which I love) and handed us a key. I asked if we could have a baby kit as we forgot to preorder, and she arranged it immediately for free.

We paid a cleaning deposit, which was just a 1e hold on our debit card, but it could be up to 250e at other campsites.

Once I checked into our mobile home, I read through the information she had given us: market days, animation schedules, kids’ club schedules, and all the information about the facilities, our mobile home, and the area. I was very impressed.

clarys plage reception area

However, I was confused about our mobile home. We were upgraded from a classic to a classic XL, yet our mobile was really modern and kind of tiny. It seemed to be a mistake. I queried it at reception, and she informed me there was no mistake—it was, in fact, a classic XL that I was in. Bizarre. But if you watch our video or keep reading the description below, you’ll understand why I was so confused. 

Other than this, we didn’t have much to do with the reception during our stay. However, we did notice that on Saturday, it was a massive arrival day, and there were queues of people trying to check-in. Take this into consideration when deciding what day to arrive.

domaine du clarys reception building

Play Areas

zipline at clarys plage play area

There were more play areas than we first thought.

Play park (near the entrance)

Domaine du clarys sanded play area

The first play park follows the Roman theme. It’s located near the bar and stage area and has structures for various ages. Our 4-year-old loved everything, and our 2-year-old had lots of fun on the smaller slides and climbing frames.

clarys play area

The park is sandy, so it’s a nice soft landing from the monkey bars, as our 4-year-old discovered. And it has one of those strange slides with nowhere to sit. I had to see how it works. Be prepared for the most ungraceful video at the end of this review.

play area at clarys plage

Other Play Parks

Sandy play area at domaine du clarys

But that wasn’t the only park. We later discovered that Domaine Du Clarys has more parks dotted around. Admittedly, one of these parks was just a tyre swing, but the other park we found was fantastic and had a zipline and climbing frames.

Domaine du clarys play area seesaw

High nets

Then, just round the corner from that was the high nets park. I don’t know if this is the name for them, but that’s what I’m going with. These high nets are popping up on campsites everywhere at the moment. They are a mix of soft play and high ropes. It’s basically a fun circuit for children, and it’s something different from the usual.

high nets course at clarys plage

Table tennis

Situated near the high nets, the area had a few table tennis tables and communal BBQs, making it a very nice communal play area.

Mini Farm

Also, around this part of the campsite, there’s a mini farm. The mini farm was surrounded by electric fences. Some children were unsupervised and touched them, so I’m guessing they were switched off this time. However, I guess they might come back on at some point, so don’t let your kids touch them. There were chickens, goats, ducks, and sheep. 

Gym

Gym area at domaine du clarys campsite

Domaine du Clarys has a small gym area with resistance machines and cardio equipment.

Multi-sports area

Located close to the high nets, the multi-sports area offers football, basketball, and netball, as well as tennis courts. Racket hire is available from reception.

Arcade Room 

arcade at clarys plage campsite

There was a small arcade area off of the bar, which we used on our last day. The equipment took coins, and there was a change machine nearby. Our 4-year-old loved air hockey.

Animation and entertainment for kids and adults

Homy mascott at marvilla parks domaine du clarys

We loved getting involved with the animation at Domaine du Clarys. The mini disco was nice and early, around 5.30 pm, which we loved as it was before bedtime. The animation team was really lovely, and our daughter, who used to be scared of the Homy mascot, was now in love with it. 

Homy mascot cuddle at marvilla parks domaine du clarys plage campsite

Our daughter was gutted when we left, and Homy didn’t go with us. 

But the animation isn’t just for the children. The entertainment team organises numerous activities throughout the day. From dance games to stretching, boxing to karaoke, there is plenty to keep all families entertained.   

entertainment schedule at domaine du clarys

Kids Clubs & Facilities

The campsite has a great kids’ club that welcomes children of all ages. We didn’t get around to using the kids’ club this time, but we often saw them walking around the campsite. As it was low season during our stay, there was only one kids’ club, whereas in high season, they were separated by age groups.

Bars, Restaurants and Takeaway

drinking outside the bar at clarys plage

This campsite has no restaurant, but it has a takeaway and a fantastic bar.

Bar

The bar area at domaine du clarys

We enjoyed the bar here. It felt modern and classy without feeling soulless. Around the outside, there were different terraces: one next to the pool, which got the sun in the evenings:

bar area near the pool at domaine du clarys

and one to the side, which was perfect for the stage and entertainment.

evening drinks seating area at clarys plage

Drinks were reasonably priced for a French campsite. A pint of Heineken Silver was 6.90e. They also had Magners available which is very rare to find in France. However, Magners was expensive at 8e50 a pint. A small glass of wine is 2e50, a can of Coke is 3e60, and a black coffee is 1e60.

The bar area inside at domaine du clarys

Takeaway/Snack Bar

The takeaway sold various foods, from Pizzas and burgers to salads and tapas. Prices were relatively standard, at 11e90 for a chicken burger and chips. Some vegetarian options were available.

The snack bar at domaine du clarys

Campsite Shop

Clarys Plage doesn’t have a shop because it backs on to the local supermarket. There’s a “secret” gate on the campsite that leads directly into the Super U carpark, so a campsite shop would be unnecessary. However, this Super U is still quite expensive compared to other supermarkets further afield. A large Hyper U in Saint Hillaire du Riez will provide a lot more choice and much better prices. 

supermarket next to domaine du clarys campsite

WIFI

The campsite has paid for Wi-Fi. A connection on one device for 24 hours will cost 5 euros, while a week’s connection will cost 18 euros. We had great mobile reception, so thankfully, we didn’t have to pay the campsite Wi-Fi costs.

Bike Hire

There wasn’t bike hire on-site, but there was a bike hire shop just outside the campsite gates, close to the Super U. 

Pets

Dogs are allowed to stay at Domaine du Clarys, provided there is only one dog per mobile home and all vaccinations are up to date. However, there is an extra charge for bringing a pet.

Shower blocks & Laundry

washing machines at clarys plage

The campsite has laundry facilities that you pay for using a card machine. This was often temperamental, and we had to try many times and different cards to finally get the machines to work. There are no shower blocks as the campsite is now a mobile home-only holiday park and, therefore, has no requirements for separate shower blocks. 

drying machines at clarys plage

Accessibility

Clarys Plage features several PMR mobile homes, the campsite is flat, and the facilities are easily accessible.

Our Youtube Video of our stay at Domaine du Clarys

Day Trips 

Puy du Fou:

the shows at Puy du Fou with fire and people climbing walls

A world-renowned historical theme park around 90 km away.

Île de Noirmoutier:

A stunning island accessible by bridge or causeway, offering beaches, quaint villages, and local seafood.

Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie:

A picturesque fishing port with shops, markets, and a beautiful beach.

Atlantic Toboggan:

A fun nearby water park for families with kids.

Nantes: A vibrant city with cultural attractions like Château des Ducs de Bretagne and Les Machines de l’Île.

Available Accommodation

our decking at clarys plage

Domaine du Clarys is a mobile-home-only park offering:

Classic and Classic XL Mobile Homes: Basic and budget-friendly.

Comfort and Comfort XL Mobile Homes: More spacious and modern, with upgraded amenities and outdoor terraces.

mobile homes at clarys plage

Premium Mobile Homes: High-end options with private terraces, better locations, and additional luxuries like air conditioning.

Accessible Mobile Homes: Designed for people with reduced mobility, featuring access ramps and careful layouts.

We stayed in a classic XL, and although it was clean and modern, I wouldn’t overrate it. Next time, I would look to book a more premium mobile home. For more information on Eurocamp mobile homes, check out our accommodation guide.

Should I Book Direct Through The Campsite Or Through And Operator? (How To Book)

clarys plage entrance at night time

Domaine du Clarys is a Marvilla Parks resort, meaning there generally won’t be any difference in prices and variation with who you book. Marvilla Parks is owned by the European Camping Group, which also owns Eurocamp, Homair, Roan and Canvas. Therefore, whoever you book with tends to yield similar results. However, the benefit of booking with Eurocamp is the English-speaking customer service office, should you require any help or amendments to your booking.

Do You Need A Car To Get Round?

coffee shop and restaurant off of the campsite near clarys plage

A car is not strictly necessary for a stay at Domaine du Clarys, as the beach, local shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. However, having a car is beneficial for exploring the wider Vendée region and nearby attractions.

How To Get To The Campsite

By Air: Nantes Atlantique Airport is about 70 km from the campsite and offers car rental options.

By Car: Clarys Plage is an easy drive from all French ports via the motorways.

By Train: Our family took a train to Saint Hillaire de Riez, and we picked them up. Taxis are few and far between, but if you can pre-book one, the train is a decent option.

Should I Hire A Car?

The beach near clarys plage

Hiring a car is highly recommended if you plan to explore beyond the campsite and local beach. Many attractions, like Puy du Fou and Île de Noirmoutier, can only be accessed by car.

Ferry Port

Most people from the UK will travel to Domaine Du Clarys via ferry. The closest ferry port is Saint-Malo, around 260km away, while Calais is around 690km away. Dover to Calais may have the shortest ferry crossing, but it isn’t always the most convenient for time travel in France. It’s also worth budgeting the extra you may spend on toll roads.

Driving Directions

Address: Domaine du Clarys – Les Clarys Plage, 63 Avenue des Epines, 85160 Saint-Jean-de-Monts, France

GPS: 46.752702, -2.014791

Cleanliness and Maintenance

entrance to the bar area at domaine du clarys campsite

Our mobile home was spotless, and we have no complaints about the cleanliness of our accommodation or the campsite itself. Everything was well maintained, and we felt very content. However, throughout the season, many customers started to notice the pool area deteriorating, which is why they have decided to renovate it for the new year.

Family Friendliness

eatiing a picnic at domaine du clarys

We found the resort perfect for our young children, aged 1 and 4. They were able to use the parks and pools, and the site was easy to walk around. The slides in the pool would be good for older children, as would the beach and local activities. Therefore, I would recommend this campsite to families with children of all ages, but mostly to those aged 3-12.

Pricing and Value for Money

Domaine du clarys sign

We booked Domaine du Clarys through a promotion that cost us £97 for one week during the April school holidays. We definitely can’t complain about that. Clarys Plage has some fantastic deals with Eurocamp for the May half-term holidays, which are definitely worth looking at. You can find more information here.

FAQ’s

Are The Mobiles Close Together?

Some of the accommodations were close together, while we found some others had large gardens and plenty of space. It seems to be luck of the draw, not overly related to accommodation types.

walking around domaine du clarys campsite

Is The Campsite Flat?

The campsite is very flat.

Are There Mosquitos?

We didn’t notice any during our stay. However, we stayed early in the year, and I would pack some repellent as a precaution.

Is It Easy To Get A Sunbed Around The Pool?

sunbeds around the pool at clarys plage

Yes, in low season, it’s easy to find a sunbed. High season may require arriving early.

What will happen if I arrive at the campsite late?

There is a phone number on the reception door in case of a late arrival. I assume a security guard or late worker will hand you your information and keys.

Do You Need To Wear A Wristband?

Yes, wristbands are required to access pools and other facilities.

Do Men Have To Wear Swim Trunks?

No. We didn’t have any issues with swimwear, but French regulations often require fitted swimwear like Speedos.

sunbeds around the pool at clarys plage

Are There BBQs On-Site?

Communal BBQs are available near the play areas, and we also had a gas BBQ at our accommodation.

What’s The Weather Like In Spring/Summer?

Spring can be unpredictable, but summer is warm and sunny, averaging 25–30°C. We stayed in Spring and had around 3 degrees at night and 18 degrees in the day.

Can You Park On Your Pitch/Emplacement?

Yes, parking is available next to most accommodations. However, spaces can be tight, especially for larger cars.

Can You Take Pets to the Campsite?

Yes, but it is limited to one dog per mobile home with an extra fee.

Is There Disabled Accessibility On The Campsite?

children walking down wheelchair ramp at clarys plage campsite

Yes, with PMR mobile homes and accessible facilities available.

Where’s The Nearest Supermarket?

Super U is located just outside the campsite and is accessible via a private gate.

Is It Loud In The Evenings?

The campsite is lively near the bar and stage area but quieter further away.

What Can We Do If It Rains?

You can use the indoor pool, visit the arcade, or explore local attractions like museums. We actually visited Puy du Fou in the rain, and shows still took place.

Review Conclusion & Our Experience

Our Thoughts On Clarys plage

We enjoyed our stay at Domaine du Clarys, and the site exceeded our expectations. Having heard mixed reviews about this campsite in the past, I wasn't sure what to expect, and I'm glad we decided to book. Clary's Plage is a well-maintained campsite with fun swimming pools, alternative play areas, a great animation team, a kids' disco, and a nice bar area. Having a beach close by and the option for a few drinks and meals off the campsite was also a definite bonus for us. I'm unsure I would return as it's a bit of a "been there, done it" kind of campsite, but I would recommend it to other holidaymakers.
Family Camping Europe
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Domaine Du Clarys review rating stars
Domaine Du Clarys review rating stars
8
Avatar of Breanne Lovatt

Reviewed by Breanne Lovatt

Reviewed by Breanne Lovatt

I’ve been a camping fanatic since a young age. Growing up in the New Forest meant regular camping trips with friends and family to a range of different campsites. In my early twenties I worked on a host of family focused campsites in Spain, Italy and France. Now that we're starting our own family, camping has become an even bigger focus in my life.

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