Camping in France
Sometimes, there’s nothing greater than pitching a tent under the stars and enjoying a holiday in the great outdoors, and with its varied terrain and optimum weather conditions, France could be the perfect place for your next camping trip. You can find plenty of great campsites across France – with many of the best ones located on the country’s perimeter. The area around Cheverny in the Loire Valley is a particular favourite for families, as well as Le Touquet, which is perfectly positioned for a quick coastal getaway. Le Ranolien in Brittany is a dog-friendly spot with plenty of wild beaches that four-legged friends will love, while adventure seekers will find some breath-taking spots to set up camp in Chamonix, which is nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc by the meeting point of France, Switzerland and Italy, and offers remarkable views in every direction. Read on to find out more about camping in France.
Camping in Brittany, France
Sitting pretty on the western edge of continental Europe, Brittany is easily one of the most intriguing regions of France. Centuries ago, a wave of people from south-west England settled here after escaping the invasion of the Anglo-Saxons, and as such, Brittany is home to lots of medieval towns and mysterious forests, with plenty of museums charting the area’s interesting past. But history isn’t the only thing you’ll find here. The region’s wild coastline boasts some of the most beautiful untamed beaches in France, and its fresh lobster, oysters and scallops are among the best in the world – perfect served up with a glass of the locals’ favourite drink: cider. World-famous locations include the nearby Mont Saint-Michel (a UNESCO-approved site) and the walled port city of Saint-Malo. Regal Dinard and the tiny town of Dinan are also essential stops when visiting this captivating area, and you’ll find ideal camping locations in each town.
Camping in Chamonix, France
One of France’s oldest and most-respected ski resorts, Chamonix is found close to the base of the famous Mont Blanc – the highest mountain in Western Europe. Something of an alpine wonderland, its beautiful vistas and challenging terrain attracts skiers and snowboarders in abundance. But those not keen on snow sports will still enjoy Chamonix village, where they can spend time in its picturesque riverside cafes, shops, galleries, museums, and speciality food stores. Although winter is its most popular month, summer is also an ideal time to visit Chamonix, as it offers milder conditions and a greater opportunity for camping in the fresh alpine air. Found close to the region’s hiking trails, Camping de la Mer de Glace offers outstanding views across Mont-Blanc and Les Drus, while the nearby Plaine Saint Jean campsite is particularly suited to families with children.
Camping in The Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is best-known for its spectacular castles, exquisite banquet halls, and extravagant gardens, and camping here is a great way to soak up France’s pristine culture. A lush green region boasting winding rivers and plenty of flora and fauna, it’s especially ideal for those looking to explore the great outdoors, and there’s loads of cycling, fishing, and swimming opportunities available. History buffs will also feel particularly at home – it’s here that Henry II, his wife Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, and their son Richard the Lionheart are buried, while there are also plenty of architectural wonders in the form of magnificent chateaux to explore. The campsite of La Mignardière is the perfect base for discovering the surrounding stately homes, while l’Orangerie de Beauregard is housed in 53 hectares of privately owned woodland which is perfect for all ages to explore in.
Camping in Le Touquet, France
Looking for camping near Calais, France? Conveniently placed less than an hour’s drive from the port of Calais, the fashionable Le Touquet is a chic seaside resort in the Nord-Pad-de-Calais region. Visit here and you’ll soon find yourself taking in the fresh sea air as you discover endless sands courtesy of the town’s splendid beach coast. Nearby, there’s a huge forest just waiting to be explored, as well as the Canche Bay Nature Park – where walking trails will allow you to discover a rich variety of wildlife. For family fun, the Aqualud waterpark is located right on the beach and has numerous waterslides to choose from, and for a more indulgent treat, you can visit a luxury spa. Better yet, there are plenty of campsites that are placed in close proximity to Le Touquet’s action.
Find more things to do in France with our travel guide.