The 2012 Swift Bordeaux range of static caravans has been one of the company’s most popular ranges since it was introduced some years ago. It comprises four models starting with the 33ft x 12ft two bedroom caravan, followed by the 35ft x 12ft and 38ft x 12ft two bedroom versions, and finally, the 38ft x 12ft three bedroom caravan. The model we’re reviewing this month is the 38ft x 12ft two bedroom caravan which had the optional ‘Aspect’ patio doors for an additional £495 ex works, in the end wall of the lounge.
The Swift Bordeaux is a single unit with a pitched coated steel pantile roof. Importantly, the chassis is the company’s Fusion chassis which comes with a ‘Zinphos’ painted finish carrying a three year guarantee. This we believe is perfectly satisfactory if the caravan is to be sited inland, but if a beachside location is chosen we would opt for the fully galvanised version which carries a 10 years warranty. Woodgrain textured aluminium cladding is standard with no other option being available, whilst the uPVC windows are single glazed with double glazing and central heating both being two more options.
The Swift Bordeaux lounge takes up about 25 per cent of the floor space of the caravan with standard furniture being a three seat sofa bed and a two seater sofa plus a freestanding coffee table, and a corner unit with TV point. The caravan’s gas fire is mounted on a panel which projects from the back wall. Above the fire is a small alcove suitable for displaying objets d’art, and above that a large framed mirror.
Between the three seat sofa bed and the entrance is the dining area which comes complete with a table and four chairs.
Facing the dining area and the entrance, is the U shaped kitchen. This is reasonably well equipped with a cooker and hob, above which is a stainless steel recirculating fume extractor incorporating a charcoal filter. None of the walls have been tiled but there is a partial splashback behind the hob. There is also room for a microwave and, adjacent to the entrance, space for a tall fridge/freezer. There is also a good number of floor and wall cupboards for storing utensils, crockery and cutlery whilst lighting comprises a circular light bar with three downlights. Lighting in the lounge is from a triple pendant unit and in the dining area from a single pendant above the dining table.
From the kitchen a door leads into a corridor and the shower and bedrooms. In addition to a large shower cubicle and thermostatic shower, the shower room comes complete with a low level toilet and a pedestal washbasin above which is a unit containing shelves and two cabinets for toiletries, the one above the washbasin having a mirror door.
Sadly there is no extractor which we considered to be a major omission in such a small room. There is an opening window but we still feel that an extractor would be preferable for getting rid of the steam from the shower.
Across the hallway from the shower room is the second bedroom which has two single beds with a common headboard, plus a bedside cabinet. Above the headboard is a single wall mounted bedside light and above it two cabinets separated by a shelf. At the foot of the bed on the outside wall is a small wardrobe which also houses the caravan’s consumer unit. We mention this because we were pleased to note that it has been fitted at a height where the various circuit breakers can be reached without the need of a pair of steps. On the wall opposite the beds – adjacent to the wardrobe – is a framed mirror with a 13 amp socket and narrow shelf below it.
Without doubt, in our opinion, the main bedroom at the end of the home is by far, its best feature. It has a double bed with gas strut assisted storage below, two bedside cabinets, plus two cupboards and a shelf above it. To the left of the bed is a large wardrobe whilst opposite its foot is a dressing table which we are sure will prove extremely popular with lady owners.
It has a large 90 degree angled working top with a cupboard and three drawers below it. Above the working top is an open wall unit with shelves and a large rectangular mirror. To the side of the drawers is a further wardrobe, and in the corner next to it, the bedroom’s toilet en suite containing a pedestal washbasin and the toilet.
Verdict
The Swift Bordeaux isn’t going to set the world of holiday statics alight but it does, in our opinion, offer very good value for money.
For further information: Swift Group Ltd., Dunswell Road, Cottingham, E. Yorks., HU16 4JX. Tel: 01482 847332. Fax: 01482 841042. Email: [email protected] Web: www.swiftholidayhomes.co.uk
Get a holiday home insurance quotation today by clicking here.
