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:
- a modern shower room and toilets
- a compact winter section that can be closed separately
- outdoor showers overlooking the valley - an extra fine experience!
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.
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A magical family adventure in the forest!
Finally the time has come
Starting May 29, you can explore the Mystery of the Devil's Stones - an exciting and magical adventure for young and old.
Hidden among the summer greenery, right next to the campsite, are the mysterious Devil's Stones. A natural formation of rocks that not only invites you to climb, clamber and discover, but also carries with it an ancient story....
Because yes, there is a legend - one that you can discover together, in your own way.
Our tip? Visit this place at dusk. When the forest shrouds itself in dim light, the sounds become more intense and your imagination is running at full speed... That's when the magic really comes alive.
Turn to the bar
to borrow a picnic blanket and the accompanying story. This way you will turn your outing into an unforgettable experience.
Combine it with a cozy picnic in the forest and experience together an adventure full of wonder.
By day a cozy resting place, by nightfall an enchanting setting full of mystery.
Do you dare?
@Athena Le Perron - Waimes
We have great news that will make many children (and parents!) happy: the brand new playground at Athena Le Perron has officially opened! Today we got the green light from the inspection: the risk analysis was completed, everything was found to be safe - and so the fun of play can begin.
Playing in and with nature
This playground is not a standard place on a bare lawn. No, here everything is about natural play, the play equipment invites children to let their imagination run wild.
"Our equipment is made of sustainable Robinia wood, sourced from plantation forests with replanting obligations. This way we provide hours of playtime fun and contribute to a healthy planet." - Playmate
What can you discover?
- Nest swing: Enjoy swinging together, rocking gently or wildly back and forth! Who dares to really get the nest moving?
- Spring rocker & slide: Classics that never get boring.
- Climbing course: for the tough daredevils! Scrambling, hanging, swinging, balancing ... Do you dare to go to the end?
- The Forest Cottage: The absolute eye-catcher! Imagine yourself a forest ranger on an adventure. Spot animals and invent your own.
Will you come and play too?
This adventure playground makes every vacation at Athena Le Perron even more fun.
See you soon at the playground - and have fun!
We have great news! Joeri and An, our groundskeepers and certified beekeepers, have brought their bees to Athena Helios! 🐝💛
A few days ago the bees arrived at the campsite early in the morning, and they immediately felt at home in our green oasis. Our littlest winged friends are now busy, enthusiastically collecting nectar and pollen.
We can't wait to harvest and share the fruits of their hard work! Stay tuned for the first harvest - we are sure it will be a sweet surprise! 🍯
After thirty years of faithful service, it was time for renewal! The technical installation of our outdoor pool in Ossendrecht received a thorough upgrade. And that was badly needed! Not only to meet the stricter regulations around swimming water that will be in force in the Netherlands from 2025, but also to offer you an even better swimming experience.
What has changed?
We completely replaced and upgraded the filters, pumps and control systems. This means our pool is now functioning optimally and fully compliant with the new requirements, including a mandatory risk analysis, legionella prevention, and strict hygiene measures. Water quality is also now even better monitored, tested and reported, so you can enjoy the swimming water with peace of mind.
New and improved
In addition to the technical upgrades, we took the opportunity to give the pool itself a major refresh! The lighting was updated, the tiles were cleaned and impregnated, the coping stones were repointed and the silicone joints replaced. The shower walls and the shoe wall also received a new coat of paint. Everything looks radiant again, ready for summer!
Back in the water!
After the renovation, the pool has been refilled and the water quality checked again. A fresh dip is possible again! 🌞 In addition, the aquagym sessions will start again soon, so be sure to stop by to join or relax in the water.
With these renovations, we are ready for more water and swimming fun.
Whether you come for the wellness or just to swim a few laps, we hope to welcome you to our renovated pool soon!
See you soon in Ossendrecht! 🏊♀️💦
Yes, they are here!
We are very proud to introduce you to An and Joeri, our new caretakers. Their enthusiasm and passion for naturism should ensure a warm welcome and a great atmosphere at Athena Helios.
The new guardians of Athena Helios
We are two young fifty-somethings, from the Kempen region and East Flanders. We met as twenty-somethings, in Leuven. We lost touch for a while, until our paths crossed again in 2020. Yes, in that corona period where we were forced to fold back on ourselves and outdoor activities.
We both nurture a deep love of nature. We have been practicing ecological gardening for several years, in our own permaculture garden and in a communal bio-picking garden. In addition, we have recently become proud certified beekeepers and harvest our own honey.
Our philosophy: simplicity and nature
We have a special interest in all that nature produces and love spending time outdoors. Pure enjoyment, to the rhythm of the seasons and all that they offer us. This is our source of inspiration and energy. Hence naturism as a lifestyle - with an emphasis on simplicity, freedom and connection with nature.
Naturism lets us live in harmony with nature and makes us aware of the beauty and tranquility found in simplicity. It works to relieve stress. For us, it means a liberating way of life in which we can be ourselves, without masks. It invites respect, both for ourselves and for the world around us. Values we stand behind.
Helios, a great new challenge
We had been looking for a new joint challenge for some time. Something we could put our tons of energy and passion into, something we could do together. Athena Helios is a project that suits us and that we both put our shoulders to. We each wish to contribute in our own way to make Helios even more enjoyable, into a place where you feel at home carefree.
A powerful and committed team
An is the energetic side of the duo. She loves sports and adventure challenges such as the Oxfam Trailwalker, the 100 km run for Come on Against Cancer and other running races, and she loves zumba and salsa. She likes to roll up her sleeves and is socially engaged. Joeri is more the philosophical and quieter type. He takes a patient approach, making things fall into the fold in a calm manner, yet correctly and quickly. So An and Joeri complement each other perfectly and that is exactly what makes their cooperation strong.
Come meet us!
Sunday, April 13 - 1 p.m.
Clubhouse Athena Helios
We cordially invite you to meet Joeri and An over a drink. We would like to share, together with Joeri and An, our plans for this spring and summer, and tell you how you yourselves can contribute.
They are already greatly looking forward to meeting you!