Full review

The Antares Luxe 425 is one of a range of six Caravelair models imported into Britain by Freedom Caravans at Stafford.

They’re made in France and, as is typical of continental caravans, their defining feature is light weight combined with solid build quality. They’re simple, they keep the spec level down to a minimum – and they have style.

Step inside an Antares and look down at the floor. This is surely the most stylish floor covering in the business; small squares of wood-effect, each with a pattern of silver dots. Now take a look around and you realise the minimalist styling creates a surprisingly cosy ambiance. That’s because of clever use of colour and texture. Suede-effect seat bases, striped seat backs, plain curtains – stunning in its simplicity.

The layout gives you two eating and lounging areas. That’s what makes it such a practical caravan for a family.

Equipment level is low by comparison with many caravans – but don’t criticise it for that. Just keep in mind that this caravan will cost you only £9125. You do get a spare wheel as standard, though – so Caravelair has got the basics right. No oven, no grill, gas-only no mains heating and the water heater is mains-only.

You do get a good-sized (150 litre) fridge,  and, because there’s no oven, you get space to store kitchen items. That comes in the form of a deep drawer with a small cupboard beneath it. And you do get a couple of things you wouldn’t expect in a budget caravan. The more surprising of the two is a television bracket. You’ll have to buy an aerial. But you don’t have to buy a water container – that comes free.

There’s something else amazing about this caravan for its price: its construction. There’s a solidity to the side sandwich side construction which gives a rather built-like-a-tank impression typical of continental caravans. And the gas bottle lid is a rigid, heavy construction. It’s also huge, giving exceptionally easy access to the contents.

The washing department lives up to expectations and beyond – there’s style as well as practicality in the shower area.
Kitchen practicalities would be your only challenge in this model. Do all your food preparation with the hob and sink lids closed, then start to cook and you’ll cope amazingly well with no designated kitchen surface space. Cooking for four would necessitate skilful juggling. That apart, for the price this model is nothing short of wonderful.