Camping Arkeo – a new little oasis in the Ardennes
What camping De Lievelinge is for Amsterdam residents, Camping Arkeo becomes for Utrecht residents. Mark our words. In the middle of the Ardennes, less than a 3-hour drive from Utrecht, a new little oasis has opened for the kind of people we like to have around us on holiday. Original, easy and free. Nothing at Arkeo feels imposed or contrived. A relief, we think, compared to the campsites where you come across all kinds of hip Amsterdam. And where you secretly feel that you have to do your best not to look too wrinkled. Something we don't want on holiday.
Camping Arkeo has an accessible and simple design. Actually, everything is allowed and possible. From lighting a fire to barbecuing on the BBQ trays that can be rented.
If you fancy a fresh breakfast, you can order it a day in advance at reception. You can order good coffee at the bar all day long. And in the evening, large drinks boards are served. It is not yet possible to order a dinner, but it will be possible in the future.
On a communal field - where you will also find the coffee bar and long tables for general use - there is a yurt that serves as a communal living room. Handy for when it rains. The best thing about this undiscovered place is the wide river, right next to the campsite. Here you can enjoy paddling (bringing water shoes is useful) or go rafting in a rubber boat. We've seen kids do that, but we suspect it's just as fun as an adult.
You sleep on the enormous camping field along the river. Here you will also find a swing and a trampoline. So if you prefer not to have children around you all the time, it is best to pitch your tent on the other side. Would you rather not lug around camping gear? There are also fully equipped teepees and lotus belle tents for rent for 4 people. The general showers are warm and free. The campsite is located in a valley, so you are completely surrounded by green hills. Nice and cool.
If you feel like doing something, there is plenty to do for the active in the fairly touristy area. From walking and horse riding, to climbing and visiting caves. There are cute villages nearby with nice terraces along the water. A nice extra luxurious Carrefour is less than a ten-minute drive away.
Owners Arthur and Tycha and dog Sam have only been the proud owners of Camping Arkeo since February 1, 2020. It's really amazing how they managed to create a cozy and nice place in just a few months. We are proud to have been one of the first guests to stay there. Because this is going to be a place where you will definitely have to book in advance in the future. Although Arthur and Tycha will never make a fuss if you arrive in the evening and need a place to stay for the night.
