The history of a 5-star family campsite
The story started 56 years ago, when a young Dutch couple, the Kusters, set off for an adventure in the Périgord Noir. Far from their homeland, they could see that this pastoral setting would be the perfect place for holidays spent in complete freedom and companionship. For the past 20 years, Gé and Ellen Kusters have continued to give soul to this campsite; and make it just like a small riverside Dordogne village.
The spirit of “Le Paradis”: the art of outdoor living
Since its creation in 1967, our aim has been conviviality and sharing. We love to explain our work, talk about the region and chat with everyone we meet. We believe in the Dordogne, its gentle way of life, its shining heritage and in the team which works with us to offer you unforgettable memories.
We are an independent and outward looking campsite
An independent campsite? For us, Ellen and Gé Kusters, this is important because we own our campsite, and manage it in total autonomy. That might seem banal, but we are one of the last remaining 5-star campsites in France to continue to work in this way.
However, it is in our genes to work with with others in tourism. Literally, because from 1974 onwards, Wim and then Gé Kusters have participated in the development of the Departmental Campsite Syndicate. Our commitment to the Syndicate means we are always ready to face any future challenges to our sector.
A tight-knit team, a family ambience
The reputation of the campsite is based on prioritising client satisfaction, and offering extremely high quality services and facilities. The family atmosphere is also important to its success;
Every year it is a pleasure for us all to welcome back familiar faces and smiles.
Twenty employees work here all year. Seasonal workers join us to complete the team in the spring.
The development of the campsite in a few dates
1967: Fien and Wim Kusters arrive from the Netherlands, and set up home on virgin soil with three walnut trees. They brought up their two sons, Gé and Christphe in a place they named Le Paradis.
1973: With strong ambitions, Fien and Wim built their first swmming pool. Visitor numbers began to take off. Its growing success marked the development of tourism in Dordogne.
1986: Le Paradis was awarded 4 stars, the highest category at that time. Bar, restaurant, shop, activities … it continued to grow, to the delight of holidaymakers.
1991: The new decade marked a change in the campsite. Gé and his wife Ellen took over the business. They share the same values as Gé’s parents: a warm welcome, generosity, dynamism and maintaining excellence of service for your holidays.
1999: The Green Attitude is officially launched at the campsite: it was awarded a Green Key label.
2010: Le Paradis was awarded 5-stars and the European Ecolabel: it continued to aim for excellence while developing its ecological initiatives.
2017: Souvenir provider for 50 years!
2022: In the age of connected holidays, our innovation continues in the pursuit of a sustainable management of resources, thanks to new technologies, such as electric cars, solar panels, telecommunications and digital formats…
We are considering new projects, new ideas to improve your holiday at Le Paradis. The next chapter in our story, is one you will soon be able to discover.
