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Fancy a "Naked Couple" towel from helen b?

We have five to give away!

 

 

 

“We are Peter and Céline, a couple who have been together for 12 years now and officially tied the knot three years ago. We met through sports, and ever since, we’ve been a strong and complementary team. Peter once “imported” Céline from Wallonia to Flanders—the things love makes people do. Today we live in the Ghent region and continue to build a life together centered on cooperation, respect, and joy.

 

Over the years, we’ve gained a great deal of experience as volunteers, both in the sports world and in other activities. That sense of commitment and desire to contribute is truly in our DNA. In our daily lives, Peter works as an industrial laborer and Céline as an office worker, but we’ve long realized that our true passion lies elsewhere: in connecting with people, in nature, and in a more authentic way of life.

 

Naturism has been a part of our lives for years. We’ve discovered various campsites in Belgium, the Netherlands, and especially France, and every summer we found ourselves thinking the same thing:

What would it be like to run a campground yourself and welcome guests?

The contrast with our current life—spent within four walls and in an industrial setting—became increasingly clear. Gradually, we came to realize that such a lifestyle is much closer to who we truly are and what we value: living in harmony with nature, with respect for people and the environment. Less obligation, more life.

 

Until recently, however, that remained just a dream. Either the right opportunity hadn’t presented itself, or we hadn’t yet dared to take the plunge. That is, until the beginning of this year, when the job opening at Helios appeared. Peter was immediately intrigued, had lots of questions, and started talking to them. Gradually, not only did his enthusiasm grow, but ours as a couple did too. The idea of helping to build Helios’s future began to take shape more and more.

 

Peter will take on the role of manager and dedicate himself wholeheartedly to the day-to-day operations of the campground. Céline is happy to assist him as his right-hand woman, his sounding board, and—when necessary—his “partner in crime.” Although she does not officially hold the title, she will actively contribute on a voluntary basis and help create a warm, open, and welcoming atmosphere.

Together, we hope to make Helios a place where people feel welcome, can be themselves, and can truly relax. »

 

Peter & Céline

Klapkot and Wikkelhouse: sustainable accommodation in the Ardennes

The permis unique has been approved. This marks an important new step for Athena Le Perron: from now on, there is room for modern, sustainable tiny houses on our site. With Klapkot and Wikkelhouse, we are opening the door to a new way of recreation — comfortable, ecological, and completely in harmony with nature.

Both private individuals and future tenants can enjoy this. Currently, there are five locations available for a Klapkot. Water, electricity, and sewer connections are already in place, allowing an idea to quickly develop into a concrete project.

Klapkot: much more than a caravan

Klapkot is a fold-out holiday home on wheels, designed by a small Dutch company that is strongly committed to design meets innovation. Thanks to a clever folding system, Klapkot transforms from a compact, roadworthy format into a surprisingly spacious living environment.

Inside, everything has been carefully designed, with an open layout that allows you to further personalize the interior. An armchair, a small dining table, extra cupboard space—with your own touches, it will soon feel like a compact home surrounded by greenery.

Klapkot is well insulated and designed for year-round use. You have access to:

This makes staying there in early spring, late fall, and even in winter particularly comfortable. This is not a classic camping facility, but a fully-fledged tiny house, ideally located near the High Fens.

Comfort and options

Functionality and living comfort are central to every model:

Optional extras include underfloor heating, a pellet stove, and solar panels.

Because Klapkot is mounted on a trailer, it remains mobile should this ever be necessary.

Why Klapkot is a perfect fit for Athena Le Perron

For Athena, Klapkot is not a random addition, but a conscious and sustainable choice. It fits in seamlessly with what many of our members find important: simplicity, nature, freedom, and tranquility—without compromising on comfort.

What makes Klapkot so suitable?

Practical and businesslike: how does it work?

The annual site rental is approximately 50% higher than for a traditional annual site, due to water, sewerage, and electricity connections and infrastructure.

The Klapkot remains your property. You only rent the annual pitch at Athena Le Perron. This keeps everything transparent and simple, without complex ownership structures or concerns in the event of a move.

Do you have questions about design, technical connections, or options? We are happy to assist you and work with you and the manufacturer to determine the best configuration.

Klapkot is built by a small and dedicated team from Breda. You can visit the workshop by appointment, and there is often a model available for viewing.

In 2026, we will once again be organizing a demonstration event at Athena Le Perron. The date will be announced in our newsletter.

👉 Interested? [Contact us]

Wikkelhouse will also have a place at Athena Le Perron

In addition to Klapkot, it is now also possible to install a Wikkelhouse at Athena Le Perron.

Wikkelhouse is an innovative, modular tiny house concept from Amsterdam. The houses are constructed from 24 layers of sustainable cardboard, combined with wood and high-quality insulation. The result is a light but surprisingly sturdy construction, energy efficient and perfectly suited for year-round use.

A Wikkelhouse consists of separate modules that you can combine as you wish:

For those looking for a more high-end, aesthetic, and future-oriented outdoor retreat, Wikkelhouse is a particularly attractive option.

We would be happy to discuss the possibilities at Le Perron with you. A Wikkelhouse can be viewed at Athena Ossendrecht.

👉 Want to know more? [Contact us]

A new way of staying

With Klapkot and Wikkelhouse, we at Athena Le Perron have consciously chosen an innovative form of recreation. For naturists, nature lovers, those seeking peace and quiet, and anyone who loves light, space, oxygen, and simplicity.

A place in the Ardennes, your own tiny house, comfort within reach—and the freedom to come whenever you want.
Weekends, midweeks, days off, or a whole summer long: Le Perron and its surroundings are beautiful in every season.

👉 Discover your possibilities: [Contact us]

Behind the heather walls

On a sunny day, I was handed a piece of paper at Athena Ossendrecht. It wasn't a bill or a shopping list, but something much more fragile: a yellowed newspaper clipping... (read here)

The donor was a man about my age. As a child, he had spent many summers on the grounds. He found the clipping while cleaning out his parents' house. His father, an Athena member avant la lettre, had recently passed away. He had camped at Ossendrecht for years with his family and caravan.

“My father always kept this. It was lying there among papers, photos, and old bills." A full page from the newspaper De Stem from Saturday, July 6, 1968, with the headline in large letters: "NUDISTS in Ossendrecht." Above it, in small, more poetic letters: "It takes no more courage than for the first waltz on the big dance floor."

The awkward journalist

The journalist opens ironically: "Ossendrecht—they call themselves naturists." You immediately sense where he's coming from: curiosity in one hand, discomfort in the other. The article reads like a curious cocktail of reportage, anthropological fieldwork, and a desperate attempt to act normal.

Here and there are small boxes and subheadings that today seem more touching than shocking:

Henriëtte, 24, shows the journalist around the site. You can sense that he is struggling to comprehend it all: he observes, judges, admires, partially understands, and is simultaneously impressed. He is in a journalistic quandary.

What is this place? A well-organized site with a swimming pool, playgrounds, and volunteers who know each other by name. He seems to frown subtly. You can sense the spirit of the times, the taboo, the confusion of someone who finds themselves behind a mysterious wall. In a place where the strangest rumors circulated: left-wing revolutionary groups, sectarian rituals, and even Nazi reunions. In 1968, people were particularly flexible with their nightmares... In that climate, a naturist site must have been pure science fiction.

In 1968, Athena Ossendrecht was already a phenomenon.

The journalist estimates that there were around 2,000 people on the site. He is impressed by what he calls 'the camp': built by naturists, with their own resources and incredible dedication. Pioneering work by Lambrechts and countless enthusiasts. At the time, Athena was larger than all the naturist associations in the Netherlands and Belgium combined. The journalist's disbelief gradually gives way to respect.

He learns that the nearby military base attracts a steady stream of curious recruits. They are invariably intercepted by the military police in the no man's land between two fences. You can just picture it: binoculars, helmets on, nervous laughter. "You go take a closer look... I don't dare."

Against the all-pervasive taboo

What is particularly striking is how pervasive the taboo still was at that time. Athena Ossendrecht existed for almost fifteen years without a camping permit. Not because the site was not up to standard, but because the Provincial Executive felt that 'nudist camping is contrary to the philosophical beliefs of the vast majority and the moral standards that apply locally'.
In other words: people didn't know what to make of it, so it was blocked.

Only after years of insistence, argumentation, pleading, and undoubtedly a considerable amount of diplomacy did permission finally come. The time had come. So had the minds.

Perhaps the funniest part of the article is this: the journalist predicted that naturism had no future in the Netherlands. Oh well. People also predicted that cassette tapes would last forever.

2025, almost sixty years later

Today, the swimming pool still lies behind the same trees. The sun still shines down on young and mature skin, pale or tanned, firm and soft.

And I feel enormously grateful for the clipping I received. It is a historical document that takes us back to the early years of Athena—to what the site looked like, how it was experienced, and how the outside world looked at it with wide eyes.

So beautiful that it was preserved. Someone thought it was worth keeping. That someone was the father of the man who gave me the clipping. An Athena member, camper, pioneer without calling himself that. His son found it and brought it to the place it refers to. Ossendrecht.

I hope to bump into that kind man again here on the grounds, so that I can thank him properly, ask his name, and reminisce about some cherished memories with him. Until then, he will remain the man who did something small—passing on a found clipping—that has led to a great story being cherished.

The demolition of the wall

I also feel grateful for the quiet interplay of time, memory, and human courage that is necessary for a place like Athena to exist. For the people who swam against the tide in 1968. For the journalist who—hesitantly but bravely—put the history of Ossendrecht down on paper.

And for everyone who, consciously or unconsciously, has since broken down a piece of that wall of prejudice. For every volunteer who ever contributed, for every visitor who overcame their hesitation at the gate, for every camper who thought: let me just be myself here.

It is thanks to all those people—visible and invisible—that Athena still breathes freedom today.

Read the full article from 1968 here

 

Autumn on Athena - a season to cherish

The days are getting shorter and shorter, the evenings cozier and nature is putting on its exuberant autumn outfit. The ideal season to slow down, to enjoy the autumn sun, the warmth of the sauna and the smell of pine needles.

The summer of 2025 is still fresh in our minds. It was a vibrant season with an early start, lots of sunshine and 25% more visitors than last year! The cozy atmosphere and many fun meetings are only possible because of the efforts of our administrators and volunteers. We also faced some tough technical challenges and sincerely thank all the helping hands. In this edition we look back briefly, but most of all we look ahead to what can be experienced this fall and winter.

Athena Ossendrecht is all about wellness. From sauna sessions and steam bath rituals to complete wellness weekends: everything to pamper your body and mind and go into winter with new energy. For horse lovers, we explain the possibilities of exploring the Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide - a unique experience! We also put the spotlight on our volunteer Frans, the ever smiling bartender.

In addition, we share our plans for Athena Le Perron. After a successful summer, with the new playground as an attraction for our youngest guests, we look to the future of this beautiful domain. We give you an insight into the ideas and improvements that are planned to make Le Perron even more attractive for families, rest seekers and lovers of the Ardennes.

On the travel pages, we take you to the south of France. A beautiful road trip past eco-camping Les Étangs de Saint Pancras and the heartwarming Val Drôme Soleil, to arrive at lively Bélézy at the foot of Mont Ventoux.

Also in this issue is Naked Wanderings' column, always a moment of recognition and inspiration. Fela created another great illustration. You'll get tips for going winter camping, the new trend. And we give our critical but hopeful opinion on Libranoo.

Enjoy reading and hopefully see you soon at Athena - for a weekend in nature, an evening of wellness or just a warm reunion. Thank you for your membership, together we make a beautiful community.

 

Stefan & Thomas

As an Athena member you receive quarterly our beautiful magazine about naturism, our parks, lifestyle and travel.

>>LID WORDEN <<

Frans behind the bar

We may not say it often enough, but Athena would never be the same without the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteers. They are the beating heart of the association: people who provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere and make our campsites feel like a little paradise.  

This time we put Frans in the spotlight. With his open heart and warm smile, he has been behind the bar at Athena Ossendrecht for years. Not just as a bartender, but as someone who makes meetings possible, connects people and creates a familiar place for everyone who steps inside. 

Frans is 62 and lives in Eeklo. I meet him on a Thursday afternoon in his "new" caravan at Athena Ossendrecht. "I go home for two days every week to keep up with my paperwork and to see how my stepson is doing," he says. "The rest of the week I'm at Athena." Frans used to work as a truck driver. After an accident, he developed back problems and could no longer do heavy work. That's how he ended up at home more than 20 years ago.

His path to Athena was almost accidental. "I've been a member since 2015, but first went to another campground. That one got too expensive. Then I saw a little caravan for sale on Facebook. I went looking and bought it, which is how I ended up here." Last year, he took over a larger caravan. "The previous one was small, now I'm actually sitting luxuriously, lol!"

In the beginning, Frans came mostly during the week, going home on weekends. "It's actually because of Wendy that I'm here on the weekends now too," he laughs. "She said, 'wouldn't you be better off coming on the weekends and staying home the other days?' I said yes, okay, and that's how I stayed here more often. Only afterwards did I understand why ... to do the bar of course."

Frans always had fun behind the bar. "I used to have a bar in Sleidinge, and also took courses specifically for that. When they were looking for volunteers here at Athena, I volunteered. I wanted to be busy, and it seemed fun to get to know lots of people. Otherwise you sit there all day at your caravan.

Frans is now on call about 10 to 15 hours a week. "Before, sometimes in blocks of five to six hours. That was sometimes tough. Now more volunteers have joined and it's a little lighter. Soon I will also be working 18 to 21 hours behind the bar."

Volunteering goes more smoothly than in the past. "Back then you had to fill out a piece of paper and hope that this or that person would show up. Now everything goes through the app: you see who is doing the bar before and after you. That's convenient."

Frans also enjoys training new volunteers. "Wendy already says, 'Frans will train you.' I like doing that and people like it too, I think, because they come back." He likes it when it's a little busy, but not too busy. "Time goes much faster then, too. If there's nothing to do, it takes a long time. Then I'd rather be busy. And if it gets too much, someone jumps in anyway."

Behind the bar, there is always room for a joke. "I do that with almost everyone, it makes it fun. You shouldn't overdo it of course, but when they say fill them up again, and then fill the glass with water, things like that ... People do appreciate that."

Thank you, Frans, for your years of dedication and your warm smile - without you, Athena would not be the same!

 

Volunteers like Frans make Athena what it is

Our campsites are places of warmth, conviviality and connection. Thanks to the enthusiasm, commitment and care of the volunteers, everyone feels welcome. Have you thought about volunteering yourself? Then let Frans inspire you. Behind the bar or anywhere else on the campsite: there is always room for someone who wants to give a little of their time and heart. 

 

A breath of fresh air in our Ardennes campsite

Good news: Athena Le Perron remains a fixture and will have renovated plumbing by next season. Bright future plans are also forming.

We recently applied for a new camping and environmental permit - the Permis Unique - from the Walloon government. Such a dossier is reviewed every twenty years and immediately means a thorough check-up of the entire site: from fire safety and drainage to structures and future plans.

Le Perron passed this test with flying colors. Only a few points needed to be addressed. That has since been done.

 

Next step: renovation of plumbing

Meanwhile, we're not staying idle. This winter, the sanitary building at the top of the campsite is getting a complete makeover. Not only technically, also in terms of appearance.

This is coming soon:

The renovation of the plumbing is our first, concrete step toward a more modern and comfortable Le Perron.

 

A campground that continues to grow

In recent years we have already made improvements, such as the new playground that was installed this spring and immediately proved to be a success. Both children and (grand)parents visibly enjoy it.

In the longer term, in addition to the sanitary facilities, we also want to give the other buildings and spaces a contemporary, Ardennes look. This will make Athena Le Perron more than ever a warm and authentic place where naturism and the natural environment merge in beauty.

Our long-term vision

The Permis Unique is not just an administrative formality, it is also the time to outline a vision for the future. For example, we included the Wraphouses and the Klapkot project in this dossier. This means that, in time, we can provide modern and pleasant outdoor accommodations - for rental and for members who want to create their own place.

Important to emphasize: this is a long-term plan and requires a solid investment. So it may be a few years before we can offer new rental accommodation. But it is already a wonderful prospect: more comfort, a longer rental period and possibilities to receive guests outside the summer season as well.

Together to a bright future

Athena Le Perron is already a gem. It is often full in the summer and guests praise its unique location - close to home and yet completely away. With today's investments and tomorrow's plans, we want to not only maintain that success, but also extend it to the other seasons.

 

Want to know more? Keep an eye on our newsletters and website. We love to bring you up to date on every new step, big or small.

 

>> ATHENA LE PERRON <<

This autumn and winter are all about wellness at Athena Ossendrecht. From a wonderful day of sauna and steam bath, to an exclusive wellness event with infusion and banner rituals, and even a complete wellness weekend full of pampering.
Discover our new facilities, be surprised by special experiences and allow yourself the rest you deserve.

After a particularly bumpy summer with damage to the technical facilities in late July, replacement of pumps and all sorts of spare parts, we can finally share the good news: the Athena Helios pool has reopened!

We admit: richly late ... but better late than never. Hopefully we will still get a good portion of late summer sunshine so you can still enjoy a refreshing swim and relaxing swimming moments.

2025 was a real disaster year for our pool, but with the great efforts and investments we have made in the meantime, we look ahead with confidence. Our goal? To keep the pool open for many more years, as one of the few campsites and as the only naturist campsite in Flanders that can offer this unique extra.

And meanwhile, in the fall we are already looking ahead to next year ... with renewed energy and even more swimming fun!

Pool update - Aug. 11

Dear all,

Meanwhile, the necessary materials to repair the pool have been ordered. We hope these can be delivered and installed soon. After that, the controls should work correctly so that the values of chlorine and pH are on point. Then the inspection can take place, after which the pool can be put back into use.

For now, a small pool is provided, so that the kids, can already refresh themselves a little.

We all keep our fingers crossed that this can happen soon. Until then: enjoy all the beauty Helios has to offer even now!

Greetings,
The ATHENA team

Pool update - Aug. 9

Dear all,

We were asked about a state of affairs, and frankly, we too don't quite know yet. After the flooding of the technical area, everything must be done in the correct order. The fact that the pool cannot be refilled immediately is at least as frustrating to us as it is to you - and we completely understand your impatience.

Today, Vervolec is coming to survey the damage to the appliances. This is necessary to know what needs to be replaced and for the insurance. For appliances with suspected damage, we have already inquired about delivery times - we are positive for the time being.

Exactly when that will be depends on the final damage, orders, delivery and installation. After today's damage survey, we will take the next steps on Monday and make a preliminary plan of action. We hope to give you a more concrete update during the course of next week.

 

update: July 31, 2025

Important notice - Pool temporarily out of service

Thanks to the tireless efforts of our wonderful volunteers and staff - with special thanks to externals like Martin - and substantial investments, the pool was able to be festively opened two weeks ago. The pool party was a hit, and the season seemed to get off to a promising start.

Unfortunately, heavy rainfall a few days ago led to a malfunction in the technical installation, causing a large amount of water to flow towards the pool and again into the technical room. This caused serious damage. The fire department intervened to pump out the water and prevent further damage. Our thanks go to everyone who offered a helping hand or a warm gesture during these difficult days - kind words, coffee or just a moment of support. We really feel that connection, and it is immensely gratifying.

We are currently in the midst of surveying the damage, the cause and possible solutions. The situation is complex and for now it remains difficult to assess the full impact. As soon as we have more clarity, we will inform you immediately.

That this happened, just after months of intensive work, is particularly wrenching. But we remain hopeful and are doing everything we can to get the pool back into operation as soon as possible.

In the meantime, we are also looking at what alternatives we can offer to still make your stay at Helios as pleasant as possible.

All members who like to swim are of course welcome at our other two Athena campsites in Ossendrecht and Waimes.

Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience, and a warm thank you for your understanding, support and trust.

 

- The ATHENA Team

update: July 3, 2025

 

If all goes according to plan, we will open the pool around July 20.

We'll make that opening an immediate celebration, with free admission and drinks for all who attend!

And on July 26, we are planning a Pool Party!

 

 

 - our sincere apologies - 

For several years thorough work on the pool had been imminent. After a two-year search, a pool builder was finally found with the right technical expertise and enthusiasm to tackle this major renovation. Some time ago, they went to work. Together with the pool builder, the manager and the efforts of the team of motivated volunteers, everything was done to get the pool ready in time.

Unfortunately, due to an unforeseen delay in the delivery of two essential parts, the scheduled opening cannot take place. We deeply regret this and would like to sincerely apologize.

Keeping public outdoor swimming pools open in Flanders is becoming more and more challenging due to the strict regulations that are causing more and more (outdoor) swimming pools to disappear. Athena Helios is therefore exceptional and we remain fully committed to maintaining our pool.

Every effort is being made to open the pool as soon as possible and we will keep you updated on the progress via our website.

Meanwhile, Athena Helios remains a wonderful place to enjoy the cozy terrace, the beautiful surroundings, the sauna and, above all, the nice encounters.
Have you booked a vacation and a pool is really indispensable for you? Then you may cancel free of charge.
Annual guests and premium members are also welcome to swim and hang out at our other Athena parks.

When we open the pool, we would like to invite you all to celebrate this moment together. On that day, you will have free admission, you can come and take a refreshing dip, and we will treat all of you to drinks.

Thanks again for your understanding and trust. We hope to enjoy the pool again with you soon.