When it comes to planning a brilliant family holiday in France, the sheer number of options can feel a bit overwhelming. Holiday villages have become a popular choice for British families seeking a relaxed, value-packed getaway, combining accommodation, meals, activities, and entertainment all under one roof. Azureva is one of the big names in this arena, but how does it stack up against the likes of Villages Clubs du Soleil, Pierre & Vacances, Belambra Clubs, and Cap'vacances? This guide delves into each brand, highlighting what they offer, where they shine, and how they cater to different holiday styles, so you can make an informed decision for your 2026 escape.
| Comparison Point | Azureva | Villages Clubs du Soleil | Pierre & Vacances (Cap Esterel) | Belambra Clubs | Cap'vacances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience & Atmosphere | Families, couples, groups, and pensioners seeking comprehensive all-inclusive stays with flexibility | Families looking for a convivial, sociable atmosphere with a strong sense of community | Families and couples seeking an upmarket, sophisticated seaside experience with polished service | Broad audience including families, active couples, and groups; emphasis on well-being and conviviality | Families with young children seeking affordable, accessible, and warm, welcoming all-inclusive breaks |
| Accommodation Types | Hotel-style rooms, self-catering apartments, camping pitches across 36 destinations | Hotel-style rooms, self-catering apartments, occasional camping; focus on structured stays | Modern apartments to spacious villas with terrace, sea views, air conditioning, and WiFi | Hotel-style rooms, self-catering apartments, camping pitches; basic to upscale options | Hotel-style rooms, self-catering apartments, occasional camping; terrace, air conditioning, WiFi |
| Dining Options | Full board, half board, or self-catered; buffet meals with traditional cuisine and local specialities | Full board, half board; buffet-style with lively, communal dining experience and local focus | Buffet meals showcasing fresh ingredients and regional flavours; step up in quality | Full board, half board, self-catered; buffet meals highlighting traditional and local cuisine | Full board, half board, self-catered; informal buffet with traditional cuisine and local specialities |
| Kids' Clubs & Family Facilities | Ages 3-18 with baby clubs, playground facilities, and teens clubs; age-appropriate activities | Baby clubs, playground facilities, teens clubs; activities incorporate local culture and nature | Ages 3+ with baby clubs, playground facilities, teens clubs; well-staffed varied programmes | Baby clubs, playground facilities, teens clubs; sports, creative workshops, themed events | Baby clubs, playground facilities, teens clubs; trained animators, varied age-appropriate activities |
| Sports & Wellness Facilities | Heated and outdoor pools, tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, mini golf, petanque, wellness facilities, spa services, fitness facilities, water activities, bike hire | Heated and outdoor pools, tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, petanque, mini golf, wellness facilities, spa services at select locations, fitness facilities | Multiple heated and outdoor pools, tennis courts, multi-sports pitch, mini golf, petanque, wellness facilities, spa services, water activities, fitness facilities | Heated and outdoor pools, tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, mini golf, petanque, water activities, wellness facilities, spa services, fitness facilities, bike hire | Heated and outdoor pools, tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, mini golf, petanque, water activities, wellness facilities, spa services, fitness facilities, bike hire |
| Value & Affordability | Payment instalments, early booking discounts, loyalty programmes, referral discounts, ANCV vouchers, VACAF holidays, flexible cancellation, guaranteed best price | Payment instalments, early booking discounts, loyalty programmes, flexible cancellation, ANCV vouchers, VACAF holidays, guaranteed best price, competitive cheaper domestic holidays | Payment instalments, early booking discounts, loyalty programmes, flexible cancellation, ANCV vouchers, VACAF holidays, guaranteed best price; premium pricing for upmarket experience | Payment instalments, early booking discounts, loyalty programmes, flexible cancellation, ANCV vouchers, VACAF holidays, guaranteed best price, good value for money | Payment instalments, early booking discounts, loyalty programmes, flexible cancellation, ANCV vouchers, VACAF holidays, guaranteed best price; excellent value and affordability focus |
Azureva
Azureva operates a network of holiday villages scattered across France, offering all-inclusive stays in diverse settings from sun-drenched coastlines to snow-capped mountains. The brand targets families, couples, groups, and pensioners, providing a comprehensive package that includes accommodation, meals, a wide range of activities, and well-structured kids' clubs. Unlike traditional hotels, Azureva integrates entertainment and facilities such as swimming pools and sports courts directly into the resort experience, creating a family-friendly atmosphere where parents can unwind whilst children are kept busy.
The flexibility in packages is a standout feature. Guests can opt for full board, half board, or self-catered arrangements, with accommodation types ranging from hotel-style rooms to camping pitches spread across 36 destinations. This variety ensures that whether you're after a beachside retreat along the Mediterranean coast or Atlantic coast, a countryside escape, or a ski holiday in the Alps or Pyrenees destinations, Azureva has something to suit. The proximity to beaches, ski resorts, and natural parks makes it easy to combine relaxation with outdoor pursuits.
Azureva's kids' clubs cater to ages three to eighteen, offering age-appropriate activities that keep youngsters entertained throughout the day. Baby clubs, playground facilities, and teens clubs ensure that every age group has a tailored experience. Meanwhile, adults can take advantage of wellness facilities, spa services, fitness facilities, and a variety of sports facilities including tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, mini golf, and petanque. Water activities, hiking trails, and bike hire give guests plenty of options for staying active, whilst heated pools and outdoor pools provide a place to cool off after a day of adventure.
Dining at Azureva typically involves buffet meals that showcase traditional cuisine and local specialities, with options for packed lunches for those planning day trips. The all-inclusive packages mean you can keep a tight grip on your budget, with payment instalments and early booking discounts helping to spread the cost. Loyalty programmes and referral discounts reward repeat visitors, and the acceptance of ANCV holiday vouchers and support for VACAF holidays make Azureva accessible to a broader range of families. Flexible cancellation policies add peace of mind, particularly when booking well in advance.
Accommodation at Azureva ranges from terraced units with sea views to garden facilities and air-conditioned rooms, with many sites offering accessible accommodation for guests with reduced mobility. Private parking, WiFi access, and electric car charging points are standard, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly holidays. The brand has earned Green Key certification at several locations, and many coastal sites boast Blue Flag beaches nearby, whilst the Famille Plus label underscores Azureva's dedication to family-friendly services.
Evening shows and daytime activities form the backbone of the entertainment programme, ensuring that there's always something happening. From theme parks nearby and water parks to UNESCO sites, vineyards visits, and medieval towns, the surrounding areas offer countless opportunities for cultural attractions and tourist attractions nearby. Train stations nearby and airport proximity make travel straightforward, with manageable travel distances from the UK. Seasonal opening patterns mean Azureva caters to summer holidays deals, winter holidays discounts, and shoulder season breaks, aligning with school holiday dates and public holidays to maximise convenience for families.
Customer satisfaction ratings consistently highlight the stress-free holidays that Azureva delivers, with many praising the guaranteed best price and the overall value for money. The ability to book cheaper domestic holidays without sacrificing quality makes Azureva a compelling option for 2026, particularly for those seeking a hassle-free experience where everything from catering services to sports facilities is taken care of.
Villages clubs du soleil
Villages Clubs du Soleil is another heavyweight in the French holiday village market, with a strong presence in both seaside holidays and mountain holidays. The brand operates resorts along the Mediterranean coast and Atlantic coast, as well as in the Alps and Pyrenees, offering a similar all-inclusive package to Azureva but with its own distinct flavour. The emphasis here is on creating a convivial, sociable atmosphere where guests can mingle over meals, join group activities, and enjoy a sense of community that's sometimes harder to find in larger, more impersonal resorts.
Accommodation types at Villages Clubs du Soleil include hotel-style rooms, self-catering apartments, and occasionally camping options, though the focus is more on structured stays with full board or half board arrangements. The resorts are typically well-integrated into their surroundings, with many located in close proximity to beaches, ski passes included for winter resorts, and equipment rental available on-site. This makes them ideal for families who want to dive straight into activities without the faff of sourcing gear elsewhere.
Kids' clubs are a core part of the Villages Clubs du Soleil offering, with baby clubs for the little ones, playground facilities, and teens clubs ensuring that children of all ages have a memorable stay. The clubs often incorporate local culture and nature into their activities, whether that's beach games, hiking trails, or creative workshops. For adults, the range of sports facilities includes tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, petanque, and mini golf, with wellness facilities and spa services available at select locations. Heated pools and outdoor pools are standard, and some resorts also feature fitness facilities and cycle paths access for those keen on exploring the local area by bike.
Dining at Villages Clubs du Soleil is typically buffet-style, with a focus on traditional cuisine and local specialities. The restaurants aim to create a lively, communal dining experience, with evening shows and daytime activities often centred around shared meals. Packed lunches can be arranged for day trips, and the all-inclusive packages mean you can budget with confidence. Payment instalments and early booking discounts are available, along with loyalty programmes that reward returning guests. Flexible cancellation policies and acceptance of ANCV holiday vouchers and VACAF holidays make the brand accessible to a wide range of families.
The brand's commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in its Green Key certification at several sites, and many coastal resorts are situated near Blue Flag beaches. The Famille Plus label is proudly displayed, reflecting a strong focus on family-friendly services. Accommodation options include air-conditioned rooms, terrace accommodation with sea views, and accessible accommodation for guests with reduced mobility. Private parking, WiFi access, and electric car charging points are standard, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Villages Clubs du Soleil excels in locations that combine natural beauty with easy access to tourist attractions nearby. Whether it's theme parks nearby, water parks, natural parks, or UNESCO sites, the resorts are well-positioned for exploring the best of France. Cultural attractions such as vineyards visits and medieval towns are often within a short drive, and the proximity to train stations nearby and airports makes travel straightforward. The brand operates year-round in some locations, with seasonal opening at others, aligning with school holiday dates and public holidays to maximise convenience.
Customer satisfaction ratings for Villages Clubs du Soleil are generally strong, with guests praising the sociable atmosphere, the quality of the kids' clubs, and the overall value for money. The guaranteed best price promise and the availability of cheaper domestic holidays make it a competitive option for families seeking a stress-free holiday in 2026. The brand's focus on creating a sense of community sets it apart from more anonymous resorts, making it a great choice for those who enjoy meeting new people and joining in with group activities.
Pierre & Vacances is a household name in the French holiday market, and the Village Cap Esterel on the Mediterranean coast is one of its flagship properties. Situated in a stunning natural setting between red rock cliffs and the azure sea, this resort offers a more upmarket experience compared to some of its rivals, with a strong emphasis on location, facilities, and a polished service. The resort is particularly well-suited to families and couples seeking a seaside holiday with a touch of sophistication, combining the convenience of an all-inclusive package with the ambience of a high-quality resort.
Accommodation at Village Cap Esterel ranges from comfortable apartments to more spacious villas, many with terrace accommodation offering sea views. The interiors are modern and well-appointed, with air conditioning, WiFi access, and private parking as standard. Accessible accommodation is available for guests with reduced mobility, and electric car charging points reflect a commitment to sustainable tourism. The resort has earned Green Key certification, and the nearby beaches hold Blue Flag status, underscoring the environmental credentials of the site.
The resort's facilities are extensive. Multiple swimming pools, including heated pools and outdoor pools, provide plenty of space to cool off, whilst wellness facilities and spa services offer a chance to truly unwind. Sports facilities include tennis courts, a multi-sports pitch, mini golf, and petanque, with water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding available at the beach. Hiking trails and cycle paths access make it easy to explore the surrounding natural parks and coastal locations, and bike hire is available on-site. Fitness facilities cater to those who want to maintain their exercise routine, and the overall emphasis is on active leisure.
Kids' clubs at Village Cap Esterel are comprehensive, covering ages from three upwards with baby clubs, playground facilities, and teens clubs. The clubs are well-staffed and offer a varied programme that includes sports, creative activities, and excursions. Parents can drop off their children with confidence, knowing they'll be entertained and safe, whilst they enjoy some well-earned downtime. Evening shows and daytime activities ensure there's always something happening, with entertainment geared towards families and designed to bring guests together.
Dining at the resort is a highlight, with restaurants offering buffet meals that showcase traditional cuisine and local specialities. The quality of the food is generally a step up from some of the more budget-focused holiday villages, with a focus on fresh ingredients and regional flavours. Packed lunches are available for those planning day trips, and the all-inclusive packages mean you can enjoy your meals without worrying about the bill. Payment instalments and early booking discounts help spread the cost, and loyalty programmes reward repeat guests. Flexible cancellation policies and acceptance of ANCV holiday vouchers and VACAF holidays add to the accessibility.
The location of Village Cap Esterel is one of its greatest assets. Proximity to beaches, tourist attractions nearby, and cultural attractions such as medieval towns and vineyards visits make it easy to combine resort-based relaxation with exploration. Theme parks nearby and water parks offer additional entertainment for families, and the natural parks surrounding the resort are perfect for hiking and cycling. Train stations nearby and airport proximity ensure that travel distances are manageable, with good connections to major UK airports.
The resort operates primarily during the summer season, aligning with school holiday dates and public holidays to cater to families. Summer holidays deals are available, and the guaranteed best price promise ensures competitive rates. Customer satisfaction ratings for Village Cap Esterel are consistently high, with guests praising the location, the quality of the facilities, and the professional service. The resort delivers a stress-free holiday experience that combines the convenience of an all-inclusive package with the ambience of a premium resort, making it a top choice for those seeking a more refined seaside escape in 2026.
Belambra clubs
Belambra Clubs operates a diverse portfolio of holiday villages across France, covering seaside holidays, mountain holidays, and countryside holidays. The brand is known for its flexibility, offering a range of accommodation types from hotel-style rooms to self-catering apartments and even camping pitches at select locations. This versatility makes Belambra appealing to a broad audience, from families with young children to active couples and groups of friends. The brand's tagline, which emphasises well-being and conviviality, is reflected in the design and atmosphere of its resorts.
Belambra's resorts are strategically located to make the most of their surroundings. Coastal properties along the Mediterranean coast and Atlantic coast offer proximity to beaches, with many sites featuring Blue Flag beaches nearby. Mountain resorts in the Alps destinations and Pyrenees destinations cater to ski holidays in winter and hiking trails in summer, with ski passes included and equipment rental available on-site. Countryside locations provide a tranquil escape, with access to natural parks, vineyards visits, and medieval towns. The variety of holiday destinations France that Belambra covers ensures that there's something for every taste.
Accommodation at Belambra ranges from basic to more upscale, with options for full board, half board, and self-catered arrangements. Many units feature terrace accommodation, air conditioning, and WiFi access, with accessible accommodation available for guests with reduced mobility. Private parking and electric car charging points are standard at most sites, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly holidays. Some resorts have earned Green Key certification, and the Famille Plus label is displayed at several family-focused properties.
Kids' clubs are a cornerstone of the Belambra experience, with baby clubs, playground facilities, and teens clubs ensuring that children are well catered for. The clubs offer a varied programme of activities, from sports and creative workshops to excursions and themed events. Evening shows and daytime activities provide entertainment for the whole family, with a focus on creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Parents can relax knowing their children are in safe hands, whilst they take advantage of the wellness facilities, spa services, and fitness facilities available at many resorts.
Dining at Belambra typically involves buffet meals that highlight traditional cuisine and local specialities. The restaurants aim to create a convivial atmosphere, with communal dining spaces that encourage guests to mingle. Packed lunches are available for those planning day trips, and the all-inclusive packages ensure you can keep a close eye on your budget. Payment instalments and early booking discounts help spread the cost, and loyalty programmes reward repeat visitors. Flexible cancellation policies and acceptance of ANCV holiday vouchers and VACAF holidays make Belambra accessible to a wide range of families.
Sports facilities at Belambra resorts include swimming pools (both heated pools and outdoor pools), tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, mini golf, and petanque. Water activities are available at coastal locations, whilst hiking trails and cycle paths access make it easy to explore the surrounding countryside or mountains. Bike hire is offered at many sites, and some resorts feature fitness facilities and wellness facilities for those who want to stay active or unwind. The emphasis is on providing a well-rounded holiday experience that combines relaxation with opportunities for activity and exploration.
Belambra's locations are chosen to maximise access to tourist attractions nearby and cultural attractions. Whether it's theme parks nearby, water parks, UNESCO sites, or natural parks, the resorts are well-positioned for day trips and excursions. Train stations nearby and airport proximity ensure that travel distances are manageable, with good connections to major transport hubs. The brand operates year-round at some locations, with seasonal opening at others, aligning with school holiday dates and public holidays to cater to families. Summer holidays deals and winter holidays discounts are available, and the guaranteed best price promise ensures competitive rates.
Customer satisfaction ratings for Belambra are generally positive, with guests praising the variety of locations, the quality of the kids' clubs, and the value for money. The brand's flexibility in terms of accommodation types and catering services appeals to a broad audience, making it a versatile choice for families seeking a stress-free holiday in 2026. The focus on well-being and conviviality creates a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to relax, make new friends, and enjoy all that France has to offer.
Cap'vacances
Cap'vacances rounds out the field with a strong focus on family-friendly services and all-inclusive packages that deliver excellent value for money. Operating across France, the brand offers holiday villages in seaside holidays, mountain holidays, and countryside holidays, with a particular emphasis on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families with young children. The resorts are designed to be accessible and affordable, with a range of accommodation types and catering services that cater to different budgets and preferences.
Accommodation at Cap'vacances includes hotel-style rooms, self-catering apartments, and occasionally camping options, with full board, half board, and self-catered arrangements available. Many units feature terrace accommodation, air conditioning, and WiFi access, with accessible accommodation for guests with reduced mobility. Private parking and electric car charging points are standard, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism. Some resorts have earned Green Key certification, and the Famille Plus label is proudly displayed, underscoring the brand's dedication to family-friendly services.
Kids' clubs are a highlight at Cap'vacances, with baby clubs, playground facilities, and teens clubs offering a varied programme of activities tailored to different age groups. The clubs are staffed by trained animators who ensure that children are safe, entertained, and engaged. Evening shows and daytime activities provide entertainment for the whole family, with a focus on creating a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Parents can relax knowing their children are having a brilliant time, whilst they take advantage of the wellness facilities, spa services, and fitness facilities available at many resorts.
Dining at Cap'vacances typically involves buffet meals that showcase traditional cuisine and local specialities. The restaurants are designed to be welcoming and informal, with communal dining spaces that encourage guests to mingle. Packed lunches are available for those planning day trips, and the all-inclusive packages ensure you can budget with confidence. Payment instalments and early booking discounts help spread the cost, and loyalty programmes reward repeat visitors. Flexible cancellation policies and acceptance of ANCV holiday vouchers and VACAF holidays make Cap'vacances accessible to a wide range of families.
Sports facilities at Cap'vacances resorts include swimming pools (both heated pools and outdoor pools), tennis courts, multi-sports pitches, mini golf, and petanque. Water activities are available at coastal locations, whilst hiking trails and cycle paths access make it easy to explore the surrounding area. Bike hire is offered at many sites, and some resorts feature fitness facilities and wellness facilities for those who want to stay active or unwind. The emphasis is on providing a well-rounded holiday experience that combines relaxation with opportunities for activity and exploration.
Cap'vacances resorts are strategically located to maximise access to tourist attractions nearby and cultural attractions. Whether it's theme parks nearby, water parks, UNESCO sites, or natural parks, the resorts are well-positioned for day trips and excursions. Proximity to beaches, ski resorts, and train stations nearby ensures that travel distances are manageable, with good connections to major transport hubs. The brand operates year-round at some locations, with seasonal opening at others, aligning with school holiday dates and public holidays to cater to families. Summer holidays deals and winter holidays discounts are available, and the guaranteed best price promise ensures competitive rates.
Customer satisfaction ratings for Cap'vacances are consistently positive, with guests praising the family-friendly atmosphere, the quality of the kids' clubs, and the value for money. The brand's focus on affordability and accessibility makes it a popular choice for families seeking a stress-free holiday in 2026, particularly those looking for cheaper domestic holidays without compromising on quality. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and comprehensive all-inclusive packages ensure that guests can relax, have fun, and create lasting memories.
In conclusion, choosing between Azureva, Villages Clubs du Soleil, Pierre & Vacances, Belambra Clubs, and Cap'vacances depends on your priorities. If you value flexibility, a wide range of destinations, and strong family services, Azureva is an excellent choice. For a sociable, community-focused atmosphere, Villages Clubs du Soleil stands out. If you're after a more upmarket experience with top-notch facilities, Village Cap Esterel Pierre & Vacances delivers. Belambra Clubs offers versatility and a well-being focus, whilst Cap'vacances excels in affordability and family-friendly services. Each brand has its strengths, ensuring that whatever your holiday style, you'll find the perfect all-inclusive French holiday village for 2026.
