Center Parcs introduces strict new swimming rules across Europe and families are fuming after being caught out
Guests have been told that swimwear must now be tight-fitting, which in theory means men should no longer wear loose shorts and ladies can't wear swimdresses.
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The change has been brought in due to increasingly 'inappropriate swimwear' by holidaymakers, which goes against the company's strict hygiene and safety rules.
It's understood the company was concerned that too many men were turning up in their boxer shorts or ordinary clothes to swim.
Another concern was that ruffles and frills in ladies' costume could be caught in the swimming pool mechanisms.
According to the new regulations, anything worn in the sites' Aqua Mundo areas must be specifically designed for swimming, tight-fitting and made from appropriate materials, like Lycra.
Swimming shorts are permitted if they are above the knee, and any head covering is forbidden, except for tight-fitting swim caps.
Even people who are just watching their friends or family must put on swimming gear, regardless of whether they go in the water.
The new rules have sparked panic among modest Brits who were planning to travel with loose trunks or swimdresses in their suitcase.
One said on a Facebook page for Village Natures, a resort near Paris, said: 'Bit frustrating about the swim dresses, it's all I wear. Now having to find fitted swimwear I find comfortable in.'
Another added: 'Please be aware before you travel to pack a swimsuit with no 'frilly bits'. They have turned away lots of women today with the swim dress style with no reason given.'
A third told how she had to cut off the net skirt off her bikini in order to be allowed in the pool.
The new Center Parcs holiday resort that has opened in Europe
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Although Center Parcs confirmed men's swimwear should be tight-fitting, numerous posts online said that ordinary swimming trunks were still being permitted.
Center Parcs said: 'This unified rule ensures safety and hygiene for Center Parcs Europe guests in the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, and Denmark.
"The goal is to support guests through this change by clearly communicating the new guidelines.
'Our top priority remains ensuring the safety and hygiene of aquatic spaces while maintaining a respectful and welcoming environment.'
These rules do not seem to apply in the Center Parcs resorts across the UK.
On their website, information for this simply states: "Swimwear must be worn by all."
Another rule that has been implemented since April 2025 is the Challenge 25 scheme.
This requires guests purchasing alcohol to provide photo ID (driving license, passport, or PASS card) if they appear to be under 25.
Online check-in is also mandatory for all guests, requiring them to log in to My Center Parcs or the app to generate an e-ticket which is used on arrival.
Plus, the Center Parcs boss reveals what to expect from brand new holiday park in the UK – and future village locations.
Plus, here are UK holiday parks that one writer believes are better and cheaper than Center Parcs.
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