Camping-Caravaning St Louis, Autingues, 62610 Ardres, Tel 0321354683
To find site- From A26 junction 2 head north towards Ardres on the N43. Just before you reach Ardres there is a Total Service Station on the right, immediately past turn left into minor road (site well signed from here). This road is narrow but has clear sight of any oncoming traffic. Following signs to campsite. From the N43 coming south through Ardres watch out for a junction with a decorative windmill on the left and turn to the right and take the D224 to Licques, site signed from this junction, in just over a mile turn left onto D227 and site is on right in a few hundred metres. This approach to the site is easier in terms of road width.
Since coming to France via the Dover - Calais route we have always been looking for alternative campsites in the vicinity of Calais. Camping-Caravaning St Louis has been suggested by several people. In August 2005 we had our chance to visit the site for the first time. It might be best to phone ahead to check if there is room. We did this and Madam put our name on the list. The campsite has 84 pitches, 30 tourist and 54 permanent all of which are on grass. We arrived after rain and some of the pitches were a bit muddy but ours whilst damp was OK. Pitches are hedged by shrubs and there are many mature trees around the campsite. Pitch size varies but generally they are of a good size, ours was about 100 sq metres. Electric bollards, 6amps, seem to be some distance apart so an extra long cable might be needed. The toilet block is perfectly serviceable but to my mind has seen better days. You also need tokens to take a shower. (Since our visit the toilet block has been upgraded and showers are now free. The site now also has a WiFi facility.) There is bar which does basic meals and takeaways. There is a large area at the back of the site used as a play area and Boules court.
This is a pleasant little campsite without bells and whistles convenient for as a north/south stopover site as its only 20 miles from Calais. Being open from around 1st April until the end of October makes it useful for the out of season traveller, although best to check the exact dates with their website. If you wanted to spend a few relaxing days before returning to the UK this could be the place for you.
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