Les Castels, the group of premier four and five star camping sites in France has recently completed its 2015 customer survey with some ‘topical’ results as far as the British guests are concerned. As the British make up the largest number of guests to Les Castels, even more visitors than the French, the results are always closely scrutinised and the participation of more than 1,000 respondees this year, much appreciated. British, French, Dutch and German clients were questioned and the response rate was 70%.
It is clear to note that for the majority of clients of all nationalities the profile of Les Castels sites is just what they are looking for – a minimum four star rating, not too big a site – 250 pitches tops, and a lovely setting. Of course budget plays a part but the clients tend to expect paying the sort of rate Les Castels propose and therefore this is not an issue. Nearly all received their information about Les Castels form friends or via the Internet.
The Brits love glamping and the majority use their own tents for this, whereas if they decide to rent somewhere they plump for a mobile home or a chalet – in contrast to the Germans and French who prefer to ‘glamp’ in a mobile home.
The Brits, not surprisingly, prefer to holiday in the summer but they do take a number of holidays annually – on average three a year, like the Germans, which is high compared to the French and Dutch. Brits also book well in advance so that they are not disappointed.
The other big difference for the Brits, they love their own space but also like to have a mixture of nationalities on site. In contrast the French prefer to pitch their tent or caravan next other French people
What are the clients looking for on a site? Only the French think that entertainment for adults or children is essential – it was not a motive to book for a Brit – facilities are - yes, but not the shows and games put on by the on-site staff. Even then the Brits were more concerned with the shower blocks etc than other services whereas essential for the Dutch and Germans is fresh baked bread every day and for the French – free WIFi!
And where do the Brits prefer to go to in France for their Les Castels holiday? Well, first choice is the Loire, closely followed by Aquitaine and Brittany.
This contrasts with the French, Germans and Dutch who plump for the southern regions first and foremost – Provence and the Riviera, Languedoc – Roussillon with the Germans the most adventurous in wanting to try a different site each year.
And best of all 99% of respondees of ALL nationalities say they will stay with Les Castels again.