Sand Villa Stays, Lancaster, Lancashire

What's the deal with Sand Villa Stays for motorhomes? 

Looking for somewhere to park up that isn't just another soulless hardstanding? Sand Villa Stays has sorted proper touring pitches with views that'll make you forget you're only six miles from the M6. We're talking front-row seats to Morecambe Bay, with alpacas for neighbours. Yes, actual alpacas.

What's the parking setup? 

Three premium hard-standing gravel pitches, each carefully positioned to make the most of those bay views. They're Camping & Caravanning Club members-only (keeps the riff-raff out), and there's enough space to get even chunky motorhomes situated without performing a 47-point turn. The approach is decent too - no scratched paintwork from overhanging hedges here.

Sounds good, but what about facilities? 

Here's the thing - it's properly off-grid here. No shared facilities, no queuing for showers, and crucially, no Elsan point (so make sure that cassette's empty before you arrive). But don't panic - you've got electrical hookups to keep the lights on, fresh water for brewing up, and somewhere to dump the grey waste that isn't a hedge. It's for proper self-contained units only, which means you need your own bathroom setup. The payoff? It's properly peaceful - no midnight torch parades to the toilet block, and you're not sharing your morning coffee view with someone's awning practically in your lap.

Can I stay in something else if the motorhome's in for service? 

Actually, yes. They've got a few options that might temp you out of the van. The Alpaca Pod's got a private garden (fancy), there's a Grill Hut hidden in the woods with its own BBQ setup, and a Family Pod that'll sleep six if you're traveling with a tribe. All solid backup plans if you fancy a break from van life.

What's nearby? 

You're laughing here - six miles from the M6 means easy access, but far enough away that you're not getting truck noise all night. The beach is five minutes' drive away, and there's a field on-site where you can stretch your legs or gather round the fire pit in the evening. Perfect for those "just one more beer" conversations.

Any gotchas? 

Just the usual countryside stuff - keep dogs on leads when the livestock's about (November to March), and remember you're self-sufficient here. But that's what motorhome life is all about, isn't it? Oh, and you might want to book ahead - three premium pitches don't last long.

The verdict? 

If you're after a proper touring spot that doesn't involve being packed in like sardines, Sand Villa Stays delivers. The pitches are spot on, the views are proper, and you've got enough space to actually enjoy being in your motorhome. Plus, how many sites can say they've got alpacas?

Worth noting...

• Easy access from M6
• Hard-standing pitches with views
• Self-sufficient setup (bring your own facilities)
• Camping & Caravanning Club members welcomed
• Alternative accommodation available if needed (pre-book)
• Fire pit for evening gatherings
• Blackpool beaches nearby for day trips
• Did we mention the alpacas?