Campsite Details

Location Leon, Landes
Capacity 801 Units
Starts 11 April
Ends 21 September

Campsite Overview

Le Col Vert Campsite is a family-friendly Sandaya site in France’s Landes department. The campsite features an attractive pool area and an extensive lake. This campsite has loads to offer. We stayed at the height of the Summer holidays, with bustling life all across the town of Leon. As long-time Sandaya fans, let’s explore what Le Col Vert has to offer.

Like other Sandaya sites, this campsite has lots to offer guests. The lake and facilities really impressed us
Village
Accomodation
Facilities
Activities
Swimming Pool
4.2 Overall
Rating

Campsite Pros & Cons

Pros of Le Col Vert

Lots of things to enjoy with this one…

  • Nice looking pool, overlooked by the bar
  • Located on a beautiful lake
  • Large site with lots of accommodation available
  • Free shuttle to the town and beach
  • Library next to the bar
  • Bike hire
  • Ice cream stand and restaurant open to the public
  • On-site shop and boulangerie (with coffee)
  • Amazing kids park (newly renovated)
  • Bouncy castle
  • Close to the Atlantic coast and a beautiful town

Cons of Le Col Vert

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

  • Pools were cold
  • Our pitch was awful

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Pool complex

pool complex at sandaya le col vert

This pool complex is a really luxurious area. While it doesn’t feature massive slides like Sylvamar or an expansive indoor complex like La Rive, it provides holidaymakers with elegance.

There is a lovely little toddler pool with fun slides for young children, and for Swimmers, there’s a large outdoor pool surrounded by sun loungers, palm trees, and cabanas. 

toddler splash pool at le col vert

The outdoor area also boasts a splash zone and a relaxing jacuzzi pool.

Despite the stunning setting, the outdoor pools were freezing even during the peak of summer. Fortunately, Le Col Vert has an indoor pool, where we spent most of our time.

indoor pool at le col vert

Inside, there are shallow sections, deep sections, and also another toddler pool area. The water inside was much warmer, though it sometimes got busy. Often, part of the shallow pool was used for swimming lessons, which was really frustrating as it made the already small shallow area even smaller.

Swimwear rule

Swimming pools at le col vert campsite

Mike never used the pool on Le Col Vert, so he didn’t test out wearing longer shorts. However, everyone we saw was wearing tight-fitting lycra in the swimming pool. If you want to risk it, Mike always wears his speedos under regular board shorts and takes them off if asked. 

Lake and beach

lac de leon at col vert campsite

The campsite is nestled on one of the largest lakes in the Landes. Le Col Vert offers guests a fantastic waterside experience. You can even book a pitch right next to the lake. 

Playing in the sand at lac de leon

Lac de Leon is a 340-hectare lake that offers amazing activities like watersports, fishing, sunning, and paddling. From the campsite, you can access both a private beach entrance and a public beach entrance.

nanny and toddler at lac de leon in the landes of france

Inside the campsite gates, you have a private section. This is a much quieter area but a beautiful setting. Then, just out the front entrance of the campsite is a public beach. This is busy, but from here, there’s a range of lakeside activities like pedalos and boats. It is also a lifeguard-supervised beach in Summer.

lake beach at le col vert campsite

Campsite Facilities

Like other Sandaya sites, this campsite has lots to offer guests.

Park and play area at le col vert sandaya campsite

Receptions and Check-in

The reception staff were lovely and friendly and spoke multiple languages, including English. We checked in at the main desk with our booking confirmation and number plate for the automatic barrier when we arrived. We were then given a map, wristbands, and information guide and directed to our pitch.

Besides that, we only returned to the reception desk to ask for bus times and locations for the shuttle bus to Leon.

Bus Service:

baby on a bus to leon

The bus departs just outside the campsite and arrives back at the same spot – the reception has leaflets with the exact timings so you can plan your journey (Remember the schedule may change yearly)

Play Areas:

The park area at le col vert

The play areas here are the best feature!

Playpark

new play area at le col vert

The main play park is newly renovated and incredible. It was so clean, well-maintained, and unique. The wooden structures, climbing frames, metal climbing frames, swings, slides, ziplines, and more made it an entertaining children’s area.

Other Play Park

There is another play park further up the campsite. Le Col Vert is a really large campsite, so this smaller play park is a great stop-off point for people staying further away from the main facilities. It’s older than the newly renovated play park but still does the job.

Bouncy Castle

koolaya bouncy castle at sandaya le col vert

The Koolaya Land bouncy castle is near the restaurant, which is a staple Sandaya amenity. This bouncy castle is great for when children have finished eating but when the adults want to continue in peace for 5 minutes whilst still being able to watch their children. It also played a great part in the transition from the lake back to the tent: “Should we stop at the bouncy castle on the way back”.

Running Track

The running track at le col vert campsite

The central area has a running track that circles around the multi-sport courts and tennis area. Our 3-year-old loved trying it out. 

Table Tennis

table tennis table at le col vert

Like all campsites, there are table tennis tables available. You can hire equipment from the reception with a deposit.

Tennis courts

Tennis courts are available from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Equipment can be hired at the reception, and booking a slot on the tennis court costs 5 euros an hour. 

tennis and padel courts at le col vert

Padel

Similar to the tennis courts, there is also a Paddle court. I’m not aware of the sport, so I don’t know much about it, but if you like playing it, you can.

Multi-sports area

multisports court

There is a multi-sports court in the new area of the campsite for those who enjoy basketball, football and netball.

Scooter/BMX circuit

The scooter circuit was an idea we really liked. The track was really cool for young children and not too boring for older children. Just make sure you wear a helmet.

dirt track for scooters and bmx bikes

Beach volley/volleyball

There is beach volley and volleyball available in two different locations on site. One is near the new area, and the other is near the older park area. 

volleyball court at le col vert

Petanque

There is a petanque court located near toilet block number 2. We often found it in use, and the atmosphere was lively and wholesome.

Body weight gym

body weight gym at le col vert

There was a calisthenics style bodyweight area next to the childrens park.

Arcade Room 

Le Col Vert didn’t have a dedicated arcade, but the bar area offered some activities, like table football. 

Kids Clubs & Entertainment Facilities

mini disco at le col vert

The Sandaya Kids Club is available in two age groups: children from 5-7 years old and Juniors from 7-12. However, in low season/quiet times, these age groups tend to get joined together. There are activities like swimming, discos, and sand castle building. The kids club activities take place between 10-12 and 15-17. Parents can enjoy their alone time at the pool, bar, beach, or even the spa!

Animation for kids and adults

The campsite’s entertainment team benefits more than just the kids. After the evening mini disco, the campsite usually arranges some kind of show or quiz evening for the guests.

In Summer, we also experienced a market on the campsite, which sold lots of local produce and postcards. My daughter even got her curly hair braided (yay for no hair brushing for a week). 

Bars, Restaurants and Takeaway

sitting at the restaurant at col vert campsite landes

There are plenty of places to drink, chat, and eat.

Bar

coffee at the pool bar at le col vert

The bar area on the campsite overlooks the pool, and we love the atmosphere here. However, we were really confused about the opening hours. Some mornings, we went early and got hot chocolate and coffee, but then, other mornings, they told us it was closed. We may have been accidentally served early one day, and it wasn’t supposed to be open. The Sandaya app says the bar is open from 10 am until 9.30 pm.

bar area at le col vert campsite

Les Terrasses du Lac Sandaya

The campsite restaurant is open to the public as well as campsite guests.

restaurant at le col vert le terrace du lac

It is a beautiful, clean, modern-looking restaurant. The staff were all friendly, and we really enjoyed the atmosphere here. We made friends with the table next to us who were staying at a different campsite. We all had children of the same age, so it was nice that both of our children made friends and went off to the bouncy castle to play together. The food in the restaurant was ok.

poke bowl at le col vert campsite

It wasn’t anything to write home about, but I was impressed that their menu offered more than the usual campsite menu. 

Takeaway/Snack Bar

The campsite snack bar was in the middle of the campsite, very close to our emplacement. It sold chips, burgers, fried chicken, and more, which was very convenient when we needed a little extra to add to our meal.

Campsite Shops

gift shop at le col vert campsite

The campsite had a gift shop and an epicerie shop.

Gift Shop

gift shop at le col vert campsite

The gift shop was located next to the takeaway and sold things like lake shoes, hats, flip-flops, armbands, souvenirs, newspapers, and more. It was a really convenient shop for anything you may have forgotten to pack. 

Epicerie

campsite shop at le col vert

The epicerie on Le Col Vert was a great size and offered plenty of selection. The refrigerator aisle was fully stocked, and the prices were reasonable. However, we still managed to spend a lot of money in there. 

Other Facilities

Boulangerie

boulangerie queue at le col vert

Next to the two shops was a boulangerie. They sold beautiful baked goods, fresh bread, and even coffee. You could pay by card in the shop, so it was always handy to tie in boulangerie purchases with shop purchases. They also sold takeaway coffee in the morning which came in very handy.

morning coffee on le col vert

WIFI

If you book a premium rental through Sandaya, you get free Wi-Fi for a maximum of three devices. However, if you are booked on a normal emplacement (like us), you will have to pay (or use your phone’s network). The Wi-Fi charges were 5e for one day, rolling to 15 euros for the week and 25 euros for 15 days. This is for one device only.

Bike Hire

Bike hire was available through an outside company that came to the campsite every morning between 10 am and 12 pm. The company is called Velos Albret, and you can view what they have to offer on their website velos-albret.fr

bike hire at le col vert campsite in leon france

Bike paths are here: Le Col Vert bike Paths

Pets

The campsite allows vaccinated pets, and a doggy shower is next to the first toilet block. When booking, make sure you inform the campsite that you plan to bring an animal and check that your chosen accommodation allows pets.

Shower blocks

childrens toilet block ta le col vert

The campsite had 5 different shower blocks of various styles. The one nearest our emplacement was basic and could do with a facelift. The showers were often cold, and the push button lasted a maximum of 5 seconds. However, the next shower block along from us was far better and even had a fantastic children’s shower and toilet room.

Horse riding centre 

horse riding centre at le col vert

The campsite has a horse-riding centre at the back, which I wasn’t aware of when booking. It’s called Les Centaures, and they offer lessons for beginners to advanced. They also have ponies for the smaller children to ride.

Gym

the gym area at le col vert campsite

Le Col Vert has a small gym with rowing machines, spin bikes and some resistance machines. It’s nothing special, but it’s better than some other campsites. 

the gym area at le col vert campsite

spa

There was a small spa building on Le Col Vert offering treatments and massages

spa area at le col vert campsite

Youtube Video From our Stay At Le Col Vert

Available Accommodation

We stayed on a camping emplacement, but unfortunately, our experience wasn’t great. The pitch was poorly maintained, dry, dusty, and covered in holes and random concrete blocks. If we book again, It would have to be in a mobile home or a luxury pitch. 

our camping emplacement at le col vert

The campsite has a wide range of mobile homes to choose from, including: 

  • Chalets
  • Cottages
  • Lodge tents
  • Coco Sweet (small, compact accommodation)
  • And, of course, camping emplacements.

You can even book a camping emplacement on the lakeside.

grassy mobile home area at le col vert

Do You Need A Car To Get Round?

While Mike drove us there, he left for work, so we were left without a car for the week. Le Col Vert is a large campsite with plenty to do on-site, so a car isn’t strictly necessary for your stay. 

The free shuttle bus to Léon and nearby beaches is a massive bonus for guests without a vehicle. However, having a car is highly recommended if you plan to explore the wider region, such as the Landes forest, coastal towns, or natural attractions.

How To Get To The Campsite

If you are flying, Biarritz is your closest airport, with Bordeaux just slightly further away. If you are getting a ferry, it’d actually be easier to sail into Spain and drive upwards—however, these ferry crossings are a lot longer and more costly. Driving through France is a long journey, but taking a stop off halfway will break up the journey nicely.

Should I Hire A Car?

If you’re flying in or planning to explore the surrounding areas, hiring a car is highly recommended. While the shuttle bus is convenient for reaching Léon and nearby beaches, a car allows one to visit off-the-beaten-path attractions such as the Dune du Pilat, Biarritz, or the Basque countryside.

Ferry Port

For UK travellers driving to the campsite, the nearest ferry port is Bilbao, Spain. Alternatively, northern French ports like Caen and Calais are accessible but require longer drives through France.

Driving Directions

Address:

Camping Sandaya Le Col Vert, Route de Soustons, 40550 Vielle-Saint-Girons, France

GPS:

Latitude: 43° 53′ 42.4″ N

Longitude: 1° 19′ 59.7″ W

Day Trips 

base de pop

Biarritz:

A glamorous seaside city with excellent surfing beaches and Basque culture.

Hossegor:

The family at hossegor beach

A charming surf town with great markets and access to more lakes and beaches.

Bayonne:

Known for its half-timbered houses and Basque gastronomy.

Léon Market:

A bustling local market perfect for regional produce and souvenirs.

Dune du Pilat:

Dune du Pilat

The tallest sand dune in Europe, perfect for hiking and incredible views.

Base de pop:

base de pop activity lake

large aquatic park set in a quarry with big slides and inflatable structures.

FAQ’s

Are The Mobiles Close Together?

Some mobile homes and pitches are packed tightly. Premium pitches offer more space and privacy.

Is The Campsite Flat?

Toddler riding scooter around le col vert campsite

Yes, the campsite is mostly flat, making it easy to navigate with pushchairs and bikes.

Are There Mosquitos?

Yes, being near the lake, mosquitoes can be an issue. Bring repellent and candles.

Is It Easy To Get A Sunbed Around The Pool?

We didn’t have much trouble at all. However, I imagine it may have been harder on warmer days.

sunbeds around the pool area

Do You Need To Wear A Wristband?

Yes, the campsite provides a wristband for accessing the pool area and facilities.

Do Men Have To Wear Swim Trunks?

Yes, tight-fitting swimwear is mandatory in the pools.

What’s The Weather Like In Spring/Summer?

campsite scenery at le col vert

Warm and sunny, with average summer temperatures ranging from 25–30°C in Summer.

Can You Take Pets to the Campsite?

Yes, pets are welcome, but check specific accommodations for pet policies.

Is There Disabled Accessibility On The Campsite?

Yes. There are adapted mobile homes, sanitary facilities, ramps and special parking spaces.

Where’s The Nearest Supermarket?

The on-site epicerie is convenient, but there’s an Intermarché in Léon, about 5 km away for larger shops. We accessed this via the bus.

Is It Loud In The Evenings?

stage area at le col vert campsite

Noise levels vary depending on your pitch. The central area near the bar can be livelier than the pitches further away.

What Can We Do If It Rains?

You can use the indoor pool, visit nearby towns like Dax or Bayonne, or enjoy the campsite’s indoor facilities, such as the library.

Can I Use My Transferwise Card On-Site?

Yes, most facilities accept international cards, including Transferwise.

Review Conclusion

Our Thoughts on Le Col Vert

While the lake and facilities impressed us, the cold outdoor pool and disappointing pitch were drawbacks. Le Col Vert is in one of my favourite locations and has great family-friendly amenities. We really enjoyed the cleanliness and upkeep. However, we only wish the upkeep extended to our camping emplacement.
Family Camping Europe
FAMILY CAMPING EUROPE SCORE
Le Col Vert Review rating stars
Le Col Vert Review rating stars
7
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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