Jeu de Boules at De Reebok: How to Start Playing and Get the Whole Family Involved

Looking for an easy, social game everyone can enjoy on holiday? Jeu de Boules at De Reebok is the perfect pick. Our campsite in Garderen on the Veluwe features a dedicated Jeu de Boules court with benches, making it simple to play, watch, and cheer together. In this guide, you’ll learn the basic rules, what equipment you need, and fun ways to involve the whole family—plus practical tips for making the most of your stay.

At De Reebok, the relaxed, family-friendly setting—one large, open grass field with a good overview—naturally brings guests together. After a day of exploring the Veluwe or enjoying our play areas, a friendly game on the court is a great way to wind down. The campsite opens on 1 April, and we’re just about 800 meters from the village of Garderen, so you’re always close to local conveniences and scenic walks.

What is Jeu de Boules (and why families love it)?

Jeu de Boules (often known as pétanque) is a simple target game: players throw metal balls (boules) toward a small wooden target ball (the jack). The goal is to finish a round with your team’s boules closer to the jack than your opponent’s. It’s easy to learn, requires minimal equipment, and suits all ages.

Why it works so well at De Reebok:

• Court with benches: Our Jeu de Boules court includes benches so players and supporters can relax between turns and enjoy the social side of the game.
• Family-friendly vibe: The campsite’s open layout helps everyone stay connected and comfortable while playing or watching.
• Plenty to do nearby: Kids can mix playtime between the court and our other play facilities like the 8-person swing, sandpit with climbing tower and slide, and two trampolines. See more under Play facilities.

The basics: How to play Jeu de Boules (quick start)

Here’s the fastest way to get a game going on our court.

1. Form teams.
   • Singles: 1 vs 1 (3 boules each).
   • Doubles: 2 vs 2 (3 boules per player).
   • Triples: 3 vs 3 (2 boules per player).
2. Set the jack. One team tosses the small wooden ball (the jack) onto the court to start the end (round).
3. Throw from a circle. Stand in a marked or imagined circle and throw underhand, aiming to land and roll your boule near the jack.
4. Alternate turns. The team that is not closest throws next, until one team has no boules left; then the other team throws any remaining boules.
5. Score the end. When all boules are thrown, count how many boules the winning team has closer to the jack than the opponent’s nearest boule. That number is the score for the end.
6. Play to win. Start a new end by tossing the jack from near the last scoring spot. Games typically go to 13 points.

Pro tip: If you’re unsure who’s closer, use a small tape measure or a piece of string. It keeps play fair and friendly.

Equipment you need to get started

To enjoy the court at De Reebok, bring a simple set:

• Boules: A standard set of metal boules (enough for your team format).
• Jack (cochonnet): The small target ball.
• Measuring aid: A compact tape measure helps settle close calls.

That’s it. Casual footwear and a bottle of water will keep you comfortable between throws and on the benches.

Simple strategy that makes the game more fun

A few basic tactics can make games closer and more exciting for all ages.

• Point or shoot: Decide if your next throw should "point" (nestle close to the jack) or "shoot" (knock away an opponent’s boule).
• Play the ground: Observe how the surface rolls or stops the boule. Adjust your throw height and landing spot.
• Build with purpose: Early boules can create “guards” that block opponents. Late boules can claim or protect points.
• Communicate: In teams, agree on goals before each throw so everyone learns and stays involved.

Family-friendly ways to keep everyone engaged

General ideas you can try right on our Jeu de Boules court with benches:

• Rotating roles: Let newer or younger players take the first throw of each end so they feel central to the action.
• Mini-challenges: Closest to the jack wins a fun task like picking the music playlist for the evening.
• Short sets: Play to 7 or 9 points for quick, upbeat games before dinner.
• Teach-and-play: Pair an experienced player with a beginner on each team and alternate coaching tips.
• Bench captains: Those relaxing on the benches can be scorekeepers, photographers, or "team cheer leads."

Make it a perfect game day at De Reebok

Round out your Jeu de Boules session with the comforts and conveniences around the campsite:

• Easy spectating: The benches by the court encourage natural pauses, conversation, and cheering between throws.
• Kids’ playtime: Mix matches with the play facilities like the 8-person swing, sandpit, climbing tower and slide, and two trampolines.
• Smart pitch setup: All pitches have artificial grass under the awning or canopy—5 meters wide by 4 meters deep—so you can keep sand and mud away from your outdoor living area. Learn more about our artificial grass setup.
• On-pitch utilities: New 10 amp power pillars with a water tap and drain at every pitch add everyday comfort, and there’s good Wi‑Fi by every caravan. See details on our Camping page.
• Handy layout: The field is neatly square with water and drainage at all places, and there’s a roomy parking area close to the campsite. Explore the map.

FAQ: Quick answers for first-time players

What is the goal in Jeu de Boules?

To finish each end with your team’s boules closer to the jack than your opponent’s. You score the number of boules closer than the opponent’s nearest.

How do teams work?

• Singles: 1 vs 1, 3 boules each.
• Doubles: 2 vs 2, 3 boules per player.
• Triples: 3 vs 3, 2 boules per player.

How long is a typical game?

Casual games often play to 13 points. For quick family rounds, try 7 or 9.

Can kids play?

Absolutely. The throwing motion is simple, and short games keep it lively. Adults can help with measuring and basic tactics.

Practical takeaways and tips

• Start simple: Use singles or doubles to learn the flow before trying triples.
• Stand steady: Keep both feet grounded in the circle for a smooth, consistent throw.
• Aim small: Pick a landing spot a step before the jack for better control on most surfaces.
• Mix roles: Let different family members place the jack, measure distances, and call the next throw.
• Plan your day: Alternate games with time at the play facilities so energy stays high.
• Pack light: A set of boules, a jack, and a pocket tape measure are enough to enjoy the court.

Plan your stay around the court

De Reebok sits on the Veluwe in Garderen, about 800 meters from the village. The campsite opens on 1 April and features a welcoming, family-oriented layout with modern conveniences. You’ll also find a separate parking area right next to the campsite for all cars.

• Check our Rates and current Offers. Offers for 2026 include a 10% discount for September stays, 15% for October stays, and a full October month option at €300 plus €35 tourist tax (for a caravan with 2 persons).
• Browse our Facilities and Map.
• Review camping details like 10A power, water and drainage at all places, and good Wi‑Fi by every caravan on the Camping page.
• See the dedicated Jeu de Boules page.

Conclusion: Meet at the benches, play to 13, and make memories

Jeu de Boules at De Reebok is easy to learn, relaxed to play, and perfect for bringing generations together. With our Jeu de Boules court with benches, family-friendly setting, and handy on-pitch amenities, you have everything you need to turn a casual game into a highlight of your holiday.

Ready to play?

• Book your pitch via Online booking.
• Have questions? Call 06-23 66 13 11 or email info@campingdereebok.nl.
• Prefer to talk in person? Visit us at Sleedoornweg 29, 3886 MS Garderen. We look forward to welcoming you to De Reebok.