Campsite Details

Location Bidart
Capacity 480 Units
Starts 01/05/25
Ends 21/09/25

Campsite Overview

Camping Le Ruisseau is a Sunêlia campsite in the stunning French Basque Country. Just outside Bidart, it’s only 20 minutes from Biarritz and 30 minutes from Spain, making it a fantastic base for exploring the Atlantic coast. We stayed during the first week of the school holidays, booking a Eurocamp Comfort mobile home for under €500. This was exceptional value for the quality of facilities and location. The main reasons we chose this campsite were the family-friendly activities, fantastic water complex and amazing price deal.

We loved our stay Would recommend this campsite to our friends and family
Village
Accomodation
Facilities
Activities
Swimming Pool
4 Overall
Rating

Campsite Pros & Cons

Pros of Le Ruisseau

Lots of things to enjoy with this one…

  • Rustic, traditional campsite
  • Friendly, international campers
  • Impressive water complex with slides, splash area, and toddler pools
  • Spa-style adult-only pool
  • Friendly animation team and engaging kids’ club from 4+
  • Small soft play area in the kids’ club
  • Great on-site shop with fresh bread and pastries
  • Beautiful Basque scenery and proximity to beaches
  • Plenty of family-friendly facilities, including treetop climbing and mini farm
  • Numerous play parks

Cons of Le Ruisseau

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

  • No bouncy castle
  • Toilets and shower blocks could be cleaner
  • Coin-operated washing machines with no ATM on-site
  • Tight parking spaces for car
  • Strict height rules for slides, inconsistently enforced by lifeguards
  • Lots of potholes around the campsite
  • Accessibility issues due to uneven terrain

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Pool complex

The pool complex at le ruisseau

As the campsite is split across a main road, you’ll find the large pool area on the main side of the campsite and a smaller, adults-only spa pool and indoor pool on the quieter side of the campsite.

The spa pool at ruisseau

The main Aquatic area at Le Ruisseau was our favourite feature. With a lagoon pool, slides, splash areas, and toddler pools, there’s something for everyone. 

The main swimming pool at ruisseau

The pools are heated, and our daughter loved the slides, especially the fast-drop slide and space bowl. However, the lifeguards were fairly strict, and she was told she was too small to use them.

space bowl slide at ruisseau

Thankfully, the campsite also had some more age- and size-appropriate slides in the pirate ship pool. This pool was shallow and aimed at toddlers and young children. A pirate ship structure was in the centre with 2 slides coming off of it.

pirate shop pool at ruisseau

Also, a small connecting slide from this pool to another shallow toddler area with even more slides.

Le Ruisseau also has a large splash area, which is especially good for hot Summer days.

splash pool at ruisseau campsite bidart

While the pool area was great fun, we felt it was a little rough around the edges and could have used a little sprucing up. The maintenance team must have thought the same, and we did see them painting the shallow toddler pool floor on one of the mornings.

The kids paddling pool at ruisseau campsite

Regarding the pools over the road, the indoor pool seemed free for everyone to use during the opening hours; however, the nice spa pool was for adults only in the afternoons. Unfortunately, the spa pool hours were relatively short, but the hours at the larger main pool were really good. 

The spa pool at ruisseau

The spa pool hours (adults only) are 2pm—6pm, and the main pool area is open from 10 am to 7pm.

the spa pool entrance at ruisseau

Swimwear rule

Loose swim shorts are allowed at this campsite, unlike many other campsites in France. However, as it’s French regulation to wear tight-fitting shorts, the rules at this campsite may change. 

photos around the pool area at le ruisseau campsite

Beach & water activities

The beach at Bidart Uhabia

Bidart’s beach is a short drive or (as we discovered) a long walk from the campsite. It’s ideal for bodyboarding, swimming, and relaxing. Uhabia Beach, our favourite, offers soft sand, clear water, and a lively surf culture. The walk to the beach is easily accessible from the La Voie Verte, a walking and cycle path that runs through the campsites. 

the voie verte sign post

Campsite Facilities

Multisports court at le ruisseau

The campsite has loads of family-friendly facilities for holidaymakers.

Receptions, Customer Services and Check-in

The reception building at le ruisseau

As we had booked through Eurocamp, we checked in at their reception area. We arrived early, but we had to wait until the 4 p.m. check-in time. We were still able to wander around and check out the campsite, but as we didn’t have wristbands yet, we didn’t want to risk the pool.

On check-in, we were provided with maps, information, and wristbands. The staff we met were friendly, multilingual, and helpful. We loved using the reception for handy information about days out and for item exchange.

items left at eurocamp reception
more items left at eurocamp reception

Many previous customers had left sauces, drinks, nappies, toys, etc., for new customers, which was really handy for customers who chose to fly to Le Ruisseau and couldn’t easily access Supermarkets.

Play Areas & Sports Field

large play area at le ruisseau

The play areas at Le Ruisseau were a definite hit with our children.

Playpark

play area at le ruisseau

The main children’s play area was located near the bar area. It was a lovely sandy area with activities like swings, trampolines, roundabouts, and other structures. It was a fenced area, so it was great for younger children. There is also another park for older children. 

The main play area at le ruisseau

Other Play Park

On the main sports field, there was also a second play area. This contained a large climbing structure with slides. Our 4-year-old loved this, but it was definitely too big for our 2-year-old.

Other play area at le ruisseau campsite

Park on the other side

Over on the other side of the campsite, there was also another play area. This was just a small area with a small slide and structure. It was enough to keep children occupied for a short while, but it wasn’t enough alone.

small play area at le ruisseau

Tree Top Climbing

In the centre of the campsite is a treetop climbing area. This is run by trained staff and consists of climbing apparatus, zip lines, and more. There’s even the opportunity to zipline right over the swimming pool area. One day, the kids club spent a whole day at the treetop climbing area with picnics. Our daughter absolutely loved it.

tree top climbing at le ruisseau

Mini Farm

donkey at mini farm on le ruisseau campsite

We were surprised to discover wallabies on the campsite, although I was convinced they were kangaroos. The campsite’s mini farm is an amazing treat. There are pigs, goats, horses, donkeys, and more. You can feed them your leftover fruits and vegetables, which the 4-year-old really enjoyed. 

wallabys at mini farm on le ruisseau

Table tennis

We found 2 ping-pong tables on the other side of the campsite, inside a laundry block. It was a strange place to find them, I thought, and I didn’t notice any others around the campsite. 

Body weight gym

body weight gym equipment around the spa pool

There was lots of bodyweight gym equipment around the outside of the adults-only spa pool. I didn’t see this in use, and it seemed like a strange place to have it.

Mini Golf

mini golf at le ruisseau

We discovered a small mini-golf area on the sports field. The equipment can be borrowed from the main reception, and it is excellent for both children and adults.

Football field

sports field at le ruisseau

There was a large green in the centre of the campsite. There was a football pitch at one end of the green; however, it was pretty bumpy ground.

Rugby

rugby poles at ruisseau campsite

The rugby pitch was much more prioritised here. Popular with Basque residents, Rugby is massive here, and that’s obvious from these large rugby goalposts.

Volleyball

Next to the Rugby was a volleyball court. This was sanded, and we often saw teenagers playing there.

Multisports court

multisports court at le ruisseau

Amongst the green park areas is also a large multi-sports court, perfect for football, basketball, netball, and the like.

Arcade

arcade equipment at bar restaurant of le ruisseau

The arcade here is tiny. Just next to the main bar and restaurant, there is a small room with around four different machines and a few ride-on cars and pinball games on the outside. It’s nothing special, but if you are eating at the restaurant, it makes a good distraction for children.

Soft play

soft play area at kids club of le ruisseau

Inside the children’s club room, there is a soft play structure. It’s fairly small but has slides and ball pits and looks like great fun for a small group. I’m unsure if this is free to use or if it’s only for the children’s club.

Animation and entertainment for kids and adults

kids club building at le ruisseau campsite

Our daughter signed straight up for the action-packed kids club here.

Kids Clubs & Facilities

5 year old with animation horse mascot at le ruisseau campsite

Le Ruisseau had different children’s clubs: 4-7 year olds and 8-11 year olds. There was also a “Club Ado” for teenagers. There was a wide range of activities suited to each age group, and all activities (except the day they went treetop climbing, which cost 5 euros) were free. 

club ado kids club schedule at le ruisseau

The hours for the kids’ club were 9.30am till 12 and then 3pm till 5pm, except for treetop climbing, which was 10-5 continuous with a picnic lunch break.

kids club schedule at le ruisseau

The staff were amazing. Our daughter came away telling me she was going to marry them. On her first visit, she felt slightly overwhelmed, and the staff members picked up on it straight away. They took her to a quiet corner and made her feel comfortable by talking to her and playing games. I’m not surprised she was overwhelmed, though, as the drop-off time was quite chaotic, with bigger kids playing in the soft play area. 

mini disco at le ruisseau campsite

Evening entertainment

Every evening except Saturday, something was going on, from foam parties and Tahiti dancers to hypnotists and football tournaments. There was something for everyone. The main event starts at 9 p.m. at the stage; however, other events are earlier, like the apero quiz at the snack bar from 6.30 p.m.

foam party at le ruisseau campsite

Children were also entertained by a mini disco on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 8.30 p.m. Both our children loved the mini disco. Our 4-year-old even went to the foam party with our neighbours one night.

animation schedule at le ruisseau campsite

Day activities

Not only do the animation staff run the kid’s clubs and evening entertainment, but they’re also in charge of the daytime sports activities. From yoga to aqua dance and everything in between, the staff here were fabulous at ensuring every customer had an entertaining holiday.

Bars, Restaurants and Takeaway

The bar area information

What are the options for a bite to eat?

Snack bar

ice cream at the snack bar of ruisseau campsite

We mostly spent time at the snack bar. Here we could get ice creams, paninis, nuggets, drinks and relax. Located just outside the pool area, we people-watched and enjoyed some comfy sofas and a pleasant atmosphere. The system here for ordering food was mildly frustrating. Orders were made at the snack bar and written on a sheet. Then, you had to queue and pay at the main bar and return your stamped receipt to the snack bar to get your food. A little faffy when you can order everything in one place and stop the back and forward. 

beer at the park near the snack bar

Restaurant and Bar

Restaurant area at le ruisseau campsite
coffee and croissant at main bar restaurant area at le ruisseau

Besides the snack bar, another lovely-looking bar/restaurant area was at the campsite’s front entrance. This had fantastic sunset views and a great-looking menu. We only stopped here once or twice for a coffee and an ice cream, but we loved how clean, modern, and classy the area looked. 

inside the bar area at ruisseau
ice creams available at le ruisseau main restauarant

Campsite Shop

campsite shop at le ruisseau

The shop stocks fresh bread, pastries, and essentials but has limited vegetable options. For a wider selection, we visited the Intermarché in Bidart.

Spa

The spa area at le ruisseau campsite

Le Ruisseau has a small spa area near the Balneo pool on the other side of the campsite. Other than massages, I’m not sure quite what they offer, as the room is fairly small. However, I did see leaflets for Reiki treatments available.

WIFI

The WIFI here was rubbish. My phone ran out of data, forcing me to purchase Wi-Fi for the week. I later got a refund from PayPal as it did not work at all. I complained at the reception, and she seemed unsurprised. I paid 20 euros for 1 week. I was given a code that could be used on one device at a time.

Bike Hire

riding bikes at le ruisseau campsite

Bike hire is available on Le Ruisseau, and you can pre-order your bikes online using this link: https://camping-le-ruisseau.lokki.rent/en. A standard bike for a week in June will cost 76 euros.

Pets

Dogs are allowed at this campsite, but you will incur a charge. Make sure all vaccinations are up to date.

Shower blocks & Laundry

toilet block at le ruisseau

The Laundry and toilet block was located near the swimming pools. We regularly found the toilets blocked up and in a bad state. The washing machines take coins, which can be hard to come by, so make sure you carry change. There were also irons and ironing boards available in the laundry area.

washing machines at le ruisseau

Accessibility

While there are ramps and accessible facilities, the uneven terrain and hills may make it challenging for wheelchair users.

Youtube Video tour From our Stay At Le Ruisseau

Nature walks 

greenery at le ruisseau campsite

The campsite offers direct access to scenic walking trails, including the Voie Verte and paths leading to local beaches and villages.

Day Trips 

saint jean de luz

Saint-Jean-de-Luz:

the beach at saint jean de luz

Beautiful beach and charming town centre.

Espelette:

espelette

Known for its chilli peppers and local produce.

chillis in espelette
house in espelette

Col d’Ibardind’Ibardin:

Stunning views and tax-free shopping in Spain.

Bidart Square:

bidart centre

Great restaurants and panoramic views.

bidart centre
bidart centre ville

Bayonne:

Gorgeous architecture and a must-visit cathedral.

Rhune Mountain Train:

Scenic views of the Basque countryside.

Available Accommodation

seating area and outdoor lounge on a eurocamp mobile home

We stayed in a Eurocamp Comfort mobile home, which included shaded decking and essential amenities. However, there were lots of other options. 

Eurocamp

Eurocamp logo on a mobile home at le ruisseau

Eurocamp has a wide range of mobile homes available on le Ruisseau, from the comfort range to premiums and even an Ultimate Plus. The Ultimate Plus mobile homes look amazing with large lounge deckings, dishwashers, and TVs, but they do come with a larger price hike compared to the comfort mobile homes. Don’t forget to have a look at our Eurocamp Accommodation Guide for more advice.

swing chair on eurocamp mobile home

Euroresorts

Another company we love, Euroresorts, is also present at Le Ruisseau. They have a range of modern, clean, and spacious mobile homes, from the budget-friendly classique to the luxurious Elite mobile home. You’re sure to find something in your price range.

Direct With campsite

beautiful sunset over the lake

The final option is to book with the campsite. This Sunelia campsite has mobile homes, canvas tents, and camping emplacements. They even have mobile homes with jacuzzis on the decking. 

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

mike cooking a bbq outside our mobile home

Booking directly offers a wider range of accommodation options and is the only way to book a camping emplacement. However, operators like Eurocamp and Euroresorts offer a UK head office with English-speaking advisors, which may simplify your holiday planning and help should you need to make any amendments. They can also sometimes offer discounts on things like transport and car hire.

Do You Need A Car To Get Round?

campsite views near camping emplacements on le ruisseau

Maybe. While the campsite is well-connected via bus routes, a car makes it much easier to explore local attractions, nearby beaches, and shopping areas. Eurocamp suggests that a car isn’t necessary, but after seeing the hills around the local area, most humans will struggle to walk or bike around the area. Hiring a car from Biarritz Airport is probably your best option.

How To Get To The Campsite

lottie on uhabia beach in bidart

BY AIR:

The closest airport is Biarritz, which is just a 10-minute drive away. You can get a taxi from the airport or the Line 3 bus and walk to the site in 20 minutes. But as I mentioned, it is a very hilly area. I recommend car hire to those flying in.

BY CAR/SEA:

The closest ferry port is Bilbao. However, this is a long sea crossing. You can also cross at any French port and drive through France. It depends on whether you’d rather spend more time at sea or more time on the road. 

Should I Hire A Car?

walking around espelette

Hiring a car is a good idea, especially if you want to explore Bidart, Biarritz, Hossegor, or head into Spain. It also makes trips to supermarkets and beaches more convenient.

Ferry Port

The nearest ferry port is Bilbao, in Spain, approximately 160 km away. To reach the campsite, you can drive along the scenic coastal route.

Driving Directions

Address: 900 Rue Burruntz, 64210 Bidart

GPS coordinates 43.436806, -1.567630

What 3 Words: ///tortoise.silkworm.revisions

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pgMG7NpGCkNEkfjg7

Cleanliness and Maintenance

entrance to the pool area of le ruisseau

We found the campsite reasonably clean except for the toilets, which were not always left well. Maintenance-wise, there are definitely some areas that need tidying up, but this did not impact our holiday whatsoever. 

Family Friendliness

lottie feeding animals at the mini farm

This campsite is perfect for all ages, and I think there is something for everyone. There is a kids’ club and teen clubs, day and evening entertainment, walking routes, cycle paths, and beaches. Culturally, the area is impressive, and I think this site is suitable for babies to old ladies.

Pricing and Value for Money

chilling in the pool at camping le ruisseau

We booked Le Ruisseau for a fantastic offer of £409 a week during the school holidays; however, this is not the norm. Prices during school holidays are usually at least 1000 euros for a mobile home. Visiting out of season is a great way to save money, but some of the amenities may not be available or functioning at reduced hours. 

FAQ’s

the stage area at le ruisseau

Are The Mobiles Close Together?

Yes, we found our mobile home quite crammed in. However, there was plenty of green space around the campsite.

Available mobile ho9mes at le ruisseau campsite

Is The Campsite Flat?

The campsite is slightly hilly, which may be challenging for wheelchairs or pushchairs in some areas.

Are There Mosquitos?

fishing lake at le ruisseau

Yes, as the campsite has multiple lakes and streams. However, we didn’t find them overly problematic. Bringing insect repellent is recommended.

Is It Easy To Get A Sunbed Around The Pool?

Yes and no. We had to lap the pool a few times to find a sunbed, but we never went without.

sun loungers around the spa pool at le ruisseau

Do You Need To Wear A Wristband?

Yes, wristbands are required for pool access and campsite security.

Do Men Have To Wear Swim Trunks?

While traditional swim trunks are not strictly enforced here, tight-fitting swimwear like Speedos or Jammers is generally required across France.

spa pool area at le ruisseau campsite

Are There BBQs On-Site?

Yes, designated BBQ areas and mobile home-specific BBQs are available.

communal bbq area at le ruisseau

Can You Use Inflatables at the Pool?

Inflatables are allowed in designated areas, but lifeguards may restrict their use if the pool is busy.

What’s The Weather Like In Spring/Summer?

Spring weather is mild with occasional rain. Summer is warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities.

Can You Park On Your Pitch/Emplacement?

Yes, most pitches allow parking near your tent or mobile home, but spaces can be tight.

Can You Take Pets to the Campsite?

Yes, pets are allowed, but specific accommodations may have restrictions.

Is There Disabled Accessibility On The Campsite?

While ramps are available, the hilly terrain may pose challenges for wheelchair users.

Where’s The Nearest Supermarket?

the shop at le ruisseau campsite

A large Intermarché in Bidart is just a short drive away, and there’s a small shop on-site for essentials.

Is It Loud In The Evenings?

Generally, the campsite is quiet by 11 pm, though some noise may occur near the bar or entertainment areas.

What Can We Do If It Rains?

Indoor pools, soft play areas, and local towns like Espelette or Bayonne are great options for rainy days.

Review Conclusion & Our Experience

Our thoughts On Le Ruisseau

We loved our stay and would recommend this campsite to our friends and family. However, we would forewarn them that this is still a campsite and not an all-bells-and-whistles holiday resort. Some of the edges are scruffy, the toilet blocks aren't great, and the area is hilly in nature. That being said – these problems did not impact our holiday. We had a functional mobile home, which had its own toilets, and none of the ""scruffiness"" of the campsite impacted us. If anything, it added to the quaint, shabby chic character. The overall atmosphere, amenities and kids facilities made this campsite worthwhile. I'm so glad we booked to stay here.
Family Camping Europe
FAMILY CAMPING EUROPE SCORE
Sunelia Le Ruisseau Review rating stars
Sunelia Le Ruisseau 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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