Contents:
- Which indoor swimming pool should you choose to suit your preferences?
- What facilities should you look for in an indoor swimming pool?
- Indoor swimming pool or heated indoor swimming pool?
- When can you enjoy an indoor swimming pool at a campsite?
Which indoor swimming pool should you choose to suit your needs?
There are several types of indoor swimming pools at campsites, ranging from pools housed in a dedicated building to domed aquatic areas and retractable roofs. Here are the main types of facilities you’re likely to find amongst our selection of campsites with indoor swimming pools.
The indoor swimming pool: for swimming in the shelter
At many campsites, the indoor swimming pool is situated in a dedicated area, enclosed by fixed walls and a roof. It may, for example, be housed in a building purpose-built for this purpose.
The retractable pool: enjoy both indoor and outdoor swimming
A retractable swimming pool is fitted with movable panels that allow all or part of the swimming area to be opened or closed. Depending on the design, either the walls open, the roof can be moved, or both.
However, the systems vary from one campsite to another. Some allow for partial opening, whilst others can be opened almost entirely to the outside. This is therefore something to bear in mind when choosing your campsite.
The domed swimming pool: a water park in its own right
The dome offers a different way to enjoy an indoor swimming pool. This large roof, often transparent or translucent, encloses all or part of the aquatic area and can house much more than just a swimming pool.
At some campsites, the dome covers not only several swimming pools or paddling pools, but also water play areas, a paddling pool or water slides. This provides a truly sheltered aquatic area, which remains enjoyable even when the weather outside is less favourable.
This solution is particularly well-suited to families looking for an indoor aquatic area with a range of activities all in one place.
What facilities should you look for in an indoor swimming pool?
Beyond the type of roof, the appeal of an indoor swimming pool also depends on what you want to do during your holiday. Some campsites offer a simple covered pool, suitable for swimming and relaxation. Others have a fully-fledged aquatic centre with several pools and various facilities.
If you’re travelling with your family, the presence of a paddling pool or an area reserved for young children can be an important factor. For a more fun-filled holiday, water games and slides can make all the difference. Relaxation facilities, such as hot tubs or massage jets, can complement the swimming area. You can then enjoy a proper, sheltered aquatic area, almost like at an Aquaboulevard or a Center Parcs, but without leaving the campsite.
The choice therefore depends above all on your expectations: an indoor swimming pool with a simple pool for a peaceful swim, an area suitable for young children, or an indoor water park offering a wide range of family activities.
Indoor swimming pool or heated indoor swimming pool?
An indoor swimming pool isn’t necessarily heated. The roof protects the pool and swimmers from the weather, but it doesn’t in itself guarantee a high water temperature.
If you’re planning to go camping in spring, early summer or late in the season, pool heating may therefore be an additional factor to consider. There are also heated outdoor pools, which allow you to enjoy a pleasant water temperature whilst still being outdoors.
If water temperature is a key factor for you, do remember to check whether the indoor pool is also heated.
When is the best time to enjoy an indoor swimming pool at a campsite?
The appeal of an indoor swimming pool isn’t limited to rainy days in the height of summer. It can be particularly enjoyable in spring and in September, when temperatures are sometimes too cool to make the most of an outdoor pool. In July and August, it’s also useful on less sunny days or for taking a break in the shelter between activities.
When choosing your campsite, so bear in mind your holiday habits and the time of year you’ll be staying: an indoor swimming pool can offer greater flexibility and allow you to enjoy a swim over a longer period.