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The 7 most beautiful camping regions in France

, Feb 13, 2024, Reading time: 30 min
Reading time: 30 min
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In this article, we will present some of the most beautiful regions of France for you. These destinations are perfect for your next camping holiday – because the best part is that you can easily travel to these destinations with a camping vehicle. Let’s say “merci” in advance and head to this diverse country.

1. Corsica

Mediterranean Sea

Corsica is – at least for many of us here at MyCamper – one of our absolute dream travel destinations. Corsica hits you right in the heart every time. It’s appreciated by those who both love to be active while enjoying nature, and to relax and unwind in nice places in silence. Both of these parts are possible in Corsica. Or rather, both are mandatory in Corsica!

The Corsican landscape is simply beautiful and perfect for long walks, biking, or horse rides. At the same time, there are the Corsican beaches, which are truly special. White sand, turquoise water, and fantastic rock formations – basically around the whole island. You shouldn’t be surprised if you find yourself having a beach almost entirely to yourself.

The icing on the cake? The culture and hospitality of the island, as well as the fantastic cuisine. There are many towns and villages to explore, so many specialties to enjoy and so many people to connect with, that you hardly know where to start. When camping in Corsica, many can relate to the feeling of having found their own little home in the Mediterranean. No wonder it’s a big favorite, while still giving the feeling of being a hidden gem.

In Corsica, it's easy to feel at home, but still never stop being captivated by the breathtaking landscape. Copyright: Gontran Isnard, Unsplash.com
In Corsica, it’s easy to feel at home, but still never stop being captivated by the breathtaking landscape. Copyright: Gontran Isnard, Unsplash.com

Best time to visit Corsica as a camper

Let’s get the good news straight away: Corsica is always worth a trip. What time of year you choose to explore the island depends entirely on your preferences and the activities you plan to do. In the spring, the island begins to wake up from its winter slumber. During this time of the year, Corsica is green, and the optimal time for hikes, bike rides, and hikes is underway.

The main season starts in June. This is when the days are warm and long, and the well-known beaches are full, as are the cities. But a summer holiday in Corsica is still fantastic, because the island really comes alive. The island rarely stands still during the summer.

Autumn means that the tourist stream decreases, but not the temperatures. In winter, it slowly but surely gets cold and it can even snow. But if you like peace and quiet, then winter camping in Corsica is wonderful.

Most beautiful campsites in Corsica

In short, Corsica is a camping paradise. And that’s why it’s very difficult to pick the top 3, just because there are so many gems. However, we have attempted, so here are three suggestions for three fine campsites in Corsica.

Popular sights in Corsica

In addition to the many wonderful beaches and fantastic natural areas that you can explore on the island, there are also the Corsican towns. They are dripping with tradition and history. A favorite is Bonifacio. The city sits on white limestone cliffs at the southern tip of the island, guarding the sea in front of it.

Another favorite place in the city – next to the square where the locals play pétanque every morning – is the “Escalier du Roi d’Aragon”. This impressive staircase, with its 187 steps, leads from the old town down to the cliffs. According to legend, the stairs were carved into the rock in a single night in 1420 by the King of Aragon’s troops. Today, the staircase offers you a fascinating view of the coast. But the cities of Ajaccio – the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, Bastia – the Corsican trading center, and Calvi – the picturesque coastal town, are also wonderful.

Unique location, unique city: Bonifacio is nestled on limestone cliffs at the southern tip of the island. Copyright: Hendrik Cornelissen, Unsplash.com
Unique location, unique city: Bonifacio is nestled on limestone cliffs at the southern tip of the island. Copyright: Hendrik Cornelissen, Unsplash.com

Insider tips in Corsica: Hiking in the mountains near Conca

Start your hike in Conca. The village is in the middle of an impressive mountain landscape full of rock formations, ravines, and fine hiking trails. The nearby river Cavu is famous for its crystal clear water and has given rise to many natural pools perfect for swimming. The most famous hiking trail is the GR20 – “Grande Randonnée 20”. The alpine long-distance hiking trail stretches 180 kilometers across the Corsican mountains and is one of the most difficult and demanding tours in Europe. But don’t worry. There are also shorter, easier tours.

Interesting rock formations and forest as far as the eye can see. You’ll see why hiking in Corsica near Conca is something extra. Copyright: Tim Oun, Unsplash.com
Interesting rock formations and forest as far as the eye can see. You’ll see why hiking in Corsica near Conca is something extra. Copyright: Tim Oun, Unsplash.com

2. Elsass

Northeast France

Many people associate camping holidays in France with beach camping. But it doesn’t have to be that way. France also offers many other wonderful inland areas, cities, and villages. An example of a wonderful place in line with this, is Alsace. The region stretches between the Rhine and the Vosges and has both Germany and Switzerland as neighbors.

Alsace is famous for its wines, and the landscape goes along with this. The best way to experience this is on the Alsace Wine Route. Along 170 kilometers, you will be met by picturesque villages with their half-timbered houses and flower-decorated alleys, lined with vineyards. Each more beautiful than the other. The best part? There are plenty of wineries that you can visit and taste the region’s fine wines – from Riesling and Gewürztraminer to Pinot Noir.

And where there is plenty of good wine, there is also overflowing with excellent food. If anything, Alsace proves just that. Or how about Tarte Flambée (flambée), Choucroute (sauerkraut), or Baeckeoffe (a traditional stew)? These are hearty specialties prepared with love in Alsace.

Picturesque villages surrounded by vineyards; the wine landscape of Alsace is excellent to discover with your camping vehicle. Copyright: Julien Verneaut,
Picturesque villages surrounded by vineyards; the wine landscape of Alsace is excellent to discover with your camping vehicle. Copyright: Julien Verneaut,

Best time to visit Alsace as a camper

If you are looking for nice and warm weather, you should consider the summer months of July and August. That’s when the most sunshine hours are measured in Alsace. But that’s also when there are the most tourists there.

In the spring and autumn, it is quieter and very beautiful. At the beginning of the grape harvest, Alsace offers a unique time, especially in September and October. Winter is cool, if not cold. If you don’t mind and you like Christmas markets, Alsace can be recommended even during the winter months.

The most beautiful campsites in Alsace

Alsace is for sure a camping region. It offers many opportunities to live life outdoors, such as cycling, hiking, climbing, and geocaching. Which of the many campsites do you want to stop at? It’s entirely up to you, and why not stop at several? Here are three tips.

Popular sights in Alsace

Strasbourg is the capital of the region and definitely worth a visit. The city is rich in history and culture and offers a bunch of famous attractions. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg is the city’s landmark and a masterpiece when it comes to Gothic architecture. From its tower, you have a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding area. When in Strasbourg, you should also plan a visit to “la petite France”. This is a district full of half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and canals.

Another highlight of an Alsace tour may very well be Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg. This castle is located on Mount Sainte-Odile in the Vosges. From its elevated position, it offers spectacular panoramic views over Alsace and the Rhine Plain to the heights of the Black Forest. The origins of the castle date back to the 12th century, and since then, it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. In the 19th century, the castle was restored by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany and was considered a symbol of imperial power.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg is a feast for the eyes. Copyright: Jonathan Marchal, Unsplash.com
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg is a feast for the eyes. Copyright: Jonathan Marchal, Unsplash.com

Insider tips ins in Alsace: the Tendon waterfalls

In Vosges, you will find the “Grande Cascade de Tendon” in the middle of nature. You can only get to the waterfalls via hiking trails. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be a mountaineer, as there are different levels of difficulty for the trails and you can even reach the waterfall with an easy walk. The area is protected, so it is untouched and quiet. Once there, you will notice that it is a very special energy that characterizes these forests and waters.

Rich green and refreshing blue – the Tendon waterfalls are incredibly beautiful. Copyright: Wijnand Boerma, Unsplash.com
Rich green and refreshing blue – the Tendon waterfalls are incredibly beautiful. Copyright: Wijnand Boerma, Unsplash.com

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3. Brittany

Northwest France

“The year is 50 BC. Gaul is entirely occupied by the Romans. Well, not entirely. One small village of indomitable Gauls still holds out against the invaders.” Sounds familiar? Of course it does! It’s the prologue to one of the most famous comics in the world: Asterix and Obelix. The image accompanying the text is a magnifying glass placed over the French map pointing to Brittany. Having said that, Brittany is a place we highly recommend for your next camping holiday!

If there is one thing that’s associated with Brittany, it’s water. The region spans a peninsula and is surrounded by water on three sides – the English Channel in the north, the Bay of Biscay in the south, and the Atlantic Ocean in the west. It is a wonderful coast, shaped by its Celtic history. Here you will find megaliths, medieval cities, and rugged coastlines, but also a fantastic inland. Not only does Brittany live on its contrasts, but the area can also boast of being the second-largest tidal area in the world. You’ll be blown away by how many places look in the morning at high tide, and how they are almost unrecognizable in the evening at low tide.

Spectacular cliffs, surrounded by the most beautiful blue – there are fascinating landscapes in Brittany. Copyright: J. Ahrndet, Unsplash.com
Spectacular cliffs, surrounded by the most beautiful blue – there are fascinating landscapes in Brittany. Copyright: J. Ahrndet, Unsplash.com

Best time to visit Brittany as a camper

It is not always the easiest to say which is the best time to travel to different places, as it depends on individual preferences. In Brittany, however, this is easy. The best time is undoubtedly the summer. From June to August, you can enjoy mild average temperatures of 20-25 degrees. You can swim in the sea, but keep in mind that we are not in the summer hot Mediterranean here, so water temperatures rarely reach above 20 degrees. Thus, jumping into the water is a way to cool off, rather than offering hours of pleasure.
You can also experience beautiful days in Brittany in spring and autumn, but the nights are cool and rain is common. Winter is cool, wet, and windy, so many campsites are therefore not open at all during this time.

The most beautiful campsites in Brittany

As diverse and marked by differences as the entire region is, are its campsites. You can find many of them along the coast with amazing views of the sea. Many of them are aimed at families and offer a range of activities. If you like peace more, the Breton hinterland is recommended, which has a couple of camping gems to offer.

Popular attractions in Brittany

First, let’s just make this clear; it’s impossible to give you all the tips we have. There are simply too many beautiful sights waiting to be discovered in Brittany. However, the good thing about traveling with your RV is that you can tick off a lot of them. So, off we go!

The first thing you just have to see is Saint-Malo. The historic port city is a tourist magnet, but it is still more than worth a visit. Charming streets, a picturesque harbor, and historic buildings await you. The old town center is surrounded by a city wall (Rempart), and there is also the Château de Saint-Malo.

The second place you must see is Mont-Saint-Michel. Since this geographically belongs to Normandy, it’s also included in the tips for Normandy further down in the article. “Côte de Granit Rose” is also fascinating. The area stretches north of the coast and is known for its pink granite cliffs. The formations are up to 20 meters high, making it a natural sculpture park. And if you like these sculptures, you should visit Carnac too. One of the largest megalithic complexes in the world is located here. It boasts nearly 3,000 stones that are as much as 7,000 years old, standing in hundreds of rows over an area of ​​several square kilometers.

But as we touched upon at the beginning, the best advice you can get is this: get in your RV and drive away. Stop wherever and whenever you want. Explore the coast, try the local specialties, and just enjoy wonderful Brittany and do what you feel like in the very moment.

Who raised the megaliths at Carnac – and why – remains a mystery to this day . Copyright: Bertrand Borie, Unsplash.com
Who raised the megaliths at Carnac – and why – remains a mystery to this day . Copyright: Bertrand Borie, Unsplash.com

Insider tips in Brittany: hiking trail to Pointe du Millier and Moulin de Kériolet

Pointe du Millier is located at Cap Sizun and offers you a wonderful hike to the Moulin de Kériolet. You reach “Phare du Millier” via a cove that has a fantastic little sandy beach at low tide. The lighthouse was built in 1881 and is nestled in the middle of the lighthouse keeper’s former residence.
The hiking trail then follows the coast until it enters the forest, crosses a stream, and takes you to a mill. This dates back to 1868 and operated as a grain mill until the mid-20th century. Then you come back along the coast again, where the view is breathtaking. This is hiking in Brittany at its best.

Memory making awaits at Douarnenez. Copyright: Ram Access, Unsplash.com
Memory making awaits at Douarnenez. Copyright: Ram Access, Unsplash.com

4. Normandy

Northwest France

Normandy is undoubtedly one of the most historic regions in France. It became historic on June 6, 1944, when the beaches of Normandy became famous on the world political stage. On D-Day, the Allied troops landed here and opened a second front against the Third Reich. The day is considered a decisive turning point in World War II and paved the way for Europe’s liberation from the Nazi regime. The anniversary is still celebrated every year and starts already in May.

But the region of northwestern France has much more to offer. Landscape-wise, it’s truly fascinating. It has rivers and picturesque valleys inland, and is equally blessed with impressive cliffs and sandy beaches along the coast. The nature and sights are diverse, making for memorable camping holidays.
By the way, the highlights are also to be found on the plate. The region is known for many specialties. Camembert, for example, comes from Normandy, just like Calvados. Not to mention the abundance of seafood available here, especially oysters. Here, more than 25,000 tons of oysters are fished every year.

Etretat's cliffs are up to 120 meters high. Copyright: Allyson Beaucourt, Unsplash.com
Etretat’s cliffs are up to 120 meters high. Copyright: Allyson Beaucourt, Unsplash.com

Best time to visit Normandy as a camper

The weather in Normandy is quite variable, which means that it can rain at any time of the year. Weatherproof clothing and camping equipment for wet days are therefore mandatory in Normandy. Spring is gorgeous in Normandy, because that’s when the landscape is lush green and the flowers are starting to bloom. The temperatures are ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities and there aren’t many tourists there.

Not unexpectedly, summer is the most visited time of the year. This is when beaches and campsites are full, so if you want to travel in the summer, you should reserve your campsite in advance. Autumn is similar to spring, as it’s both quieter and cooler.

Most beautiful campsites in Normandy

There are many campsites in Normandy, ranging from simple pitches to luxuriously equipped facilities with entertainment and well-developed service. Popular camping areas include, for example, the coastal areas near Éterat. The campsites near Mont-Saint-Michel are also extremely popular, so if you are travelling in high season, be sure to check availability.

Popular sights in Normandy

The landing beaches are for sure worth a visit (or several). With Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword Beach, there is world history to experience. Another tourist magnet is Mont-Saint-Michel. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is one of the most visited attractions in France. And even if you’re not looking for tourist attractions, it’s hard to resist its charm. On the rocky hill of Mont-Saint-Michel stands a medieval monastery founded in the eighth century. Incidentally, the island is only surrounded by water at high tide, but at low tide, it can be reached by foot.

If you are interested in art, we recommend visiting Monet’s gardens. During his lifetime, the painter Claude Monet was inspired by the beauty of the gardens at Giverny. His famous water lily paintings were created because of the large water lily pond created here. If you still haven’t had enough of art, you’d want to travel to Bayeux. Here is a world unique, almost 70-meter-long tapestry, which dates back to the 11th century. Additionally, you’ll experience the traces of the conquest of England in 1066 by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, and be impressed by what people did 1000 years ago.

A must see: Mont-Saint-Michel. Copyright: Tim Rebkavets, Unsplash.com
A must see: Mont-Saint-Michel. Copyright: Tim Rebkavets, Unsplash.com

Insider tips in Normandy: Jumièges Abbey

Jumièges Abbey is considered one of the most beautiful ruins in France. The abbey, built in 654 AD, is near the Seine. It was considered one of the most powerful and important in the country, but also fell victim to many destructions. In the 8th century, it was the Vikings who ravaged here, and during the French Revolution, the monastery even served as a quarry. What’s especially cool about this trip is what you get to experience with the “Jumièges 3D”. Via in iPad, the monastery, with its old splendor and grandeur, is revived. An exciting journey through time!

The 46-meter-high twin towers of the Jumièges Abbey. Copyright: Jugith Girard-Marczak, Unsplash.com
The 46-meter-high twin towers of the Jumièges Abbey. Copyright: Jugith Girard-Marczak, Unsplash.com

Discover the most important camping apps for your next holiday in one of the most popular camping regions in France. Find out more in this article.

5. New Aquitaine

Southwest France

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest region in France. It impresses campers not only with its mild and sunny climate, but also with its fantastic location between the Atlantic, the Pyrenees, and the Massif Central. Thus, the variety of the landscape is something special. Here, you can come in contact with memorable places, such as the vast vineyards of Bordeaux and the fine sandy beaches of the coast, as well as, the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees on the border to Spain. No matter how you want to spend your camping holiday, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the perfect destination.

The locals of Nouvelle-Aquitaine are considered very hospitable and welcoming. Countless local and regional festivals and festivities can be found here and are often celebrated by locals and visitors alike. When you talk to the locals, they are communicative and chatty. Thanks to its tips, you can discover a new restaurant, a hidden beach, or an almost forgotten city – gems that extend beyond the usual travel routes. In short, there is a lot to see in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, so pack up your camping vehicle and head to the south-west of France.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine is known for its many towns worth seeing: here, la Rochelle. Copyright: Karim Manjra, Unsplash.com
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is known for its many towns worth seeing: here, la Rochelle. Copyright: Karim Manjra, Unsplash.com

Best time to visit Nouvelle-Aquitaine as a camper

A favorite time for many to travel to Nouvelle-Aquitaine is autumn. In no other season is the landscape bathed in such wonderful colors as the months of September to November. The temperatures are pleasant, as the area is still warmed up from the summer heat. The many people from the summer have disappeared, but the hospitable locals remain. This also coincides with the beginning of the best time for wine lovers: the grape harvest. You can expect something similar in the spring, only that it is sometimes cooler, especially in the evenings.

High season in Nouvelle-Aquitaine is from June to August. You can be sure of many hours of sunshine on the beach, as well as hustle and bustle on the streets. Winter is also worth mentioning – as winter sports are very popular in the Pyrenees. But be sure to find out which campsites are actually open.

The most beautiful campsites in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

The region is known for sustainability and environmental protection. Bordeaux, for example, is committed to eco-friendly tourism and has produced a manifesto on this subject. Consequently, many campsites in the region are sustainable – a trend we definitely think is worth supporting.

Popular things to do in Nouvelle Aquitaine

There is no way around that this is a must-see: Dune du Pilat. The highest dune in Europe is located near Arcachon and is truly unique. It stretches around 500 meters in width, almost 3 kilometers in length, and reaches a height of 110 meters. Getting there on foot is quite strenuous, but the view up there makes it worth it. A special natural spectacle awaits here, especially in the evenings when the sunsets are amazing.

If you like beautiful and special cities, you will not be disappointed in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This is especially true in Bordeaux, which offers magnificent architecture, a brilliant cultural scene and, of course, fantastic wines. Or La Rochelle, a beautiful, small harbor town with an old harbor and its three iconic towers. Cognac, famous for the cognac of the same name, also offers a charming old town. Or Pau, at the foot of the Pyrenees with a royal castle, historic boulevard, and mountain views. Biarritz – a well-known place along the Atlantic coast – with long beaches, cool surfers, and its casino leaves no one unmoved. This list could go on and on forever – especially with all the small, hidden towns and villages. But the best thing is when you discover your favorite places in the motorhome/caravan yourself.

The highest sand dune in Europe: Dune du Pilat. Copyright: Maxime Courjault, Unsplash.com
The highest sand dune in Europe: Dune du Pilat. Copyright: Maxime Courjault, Unsplash.com

Insider tips in Nouvelle-Aquitaine: the capital of human history

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil is considered the capital of human history. Some of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe can be found here – including many caves. The famous Lascaux caves with their paintings, for example. These were created around 15,000 years ago and offer fascinating insights into the lives of people back then.

You can find out more about human history in The National Museum of Prehistory (Musée National de Prehistoire). It houses an impressive collection of prehistoric artefacts and exhibits and provides insights into human lifestyle and culture – from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age. The village, which is located in a picturesque landscape, is also worth a visit in itself. The statue “L’homme primitif” by Paul Dardé is considered its landmark.

The statue
The statue “L’homme primitif” by Paul Dardé enthrones under the rock. Copyright: Gérald Vigouroux, Unsplash.com

6. Provence

Southern France

Where we are going now is a place that will most likely stay with you for a long time to come. You will certainly be able to look back on you stepping out of the motorhome in Provence, surrounded by the chirping of crickets and the scent of lavender, rosemary, and olive trees, as well as the typical Mistral wind… Sometimes, that’s all it takes to make someone happy.

The region is officially called Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur and consists of six departments (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, Vaucluse, Hautes-Alpes and Alpes-Maritimes). It is characterized by a breathtaking landscape, a Mediterranean climate, and a characteristic culture. The landscape is very varied – from the hinterland with the vast lavender fields, vineyards and olive groves to the mountain ranges to the beautiful beaches and picturesque bays on the coast.

Côte d’Azur is very popular, with famous places such as Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Nice, and also further west, where we find Toulon and Marseille. The highlight for some is clearly the inland. There, you will find small villages with magical charm, warm people with an equally magical dialect, culinary delights, authentic markets, lively squares… Provence, je t’aime très fort.

Lavender blooms in Provence from mid-June to mid-August, bathing the region in a rich purple color. Copyright: Baraa Jalahej, Unsplash.com
Lavender blooms in Provence from mid-June to mid-August, bathing the region in a rich purple color. Copyright: Baraa Jalahej, Unsplash.com

Best time to visit Provence as a camper

If you want to see lavender in bloom, you just have to travel to Provence between mid-June and early/mid-August. But it is also when it is high season here in terms of tourists, and the weather. The sun is shining brightly and it is very hot. There is mainly hustle and bustle in the morning or late afternoon, because in the middle of the hot day, it is time for “la sieste” in Provence.

You should be aware of the coast being very crowded during the summer months. As indicated, Côte d’Azur is an extremely popular place for summer holidays. If you prefer to visit Provence at a slightly quieter time, it is recommended that you avoid the summer holidays – especially the French ones. In the spring and autumn, it is still hot, but considerably calmer. The winter months, which can be relatively mild, are also a good time to explore the region.

The most beautiful campsites in Provence

Provence offers many camping opportunities in the middle of the picturesque landscape. Whether you want to stay at a campsite near the coast, among lavender fields. or near historic villages, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Popular sights in Provence

You could write a whole book about the sights of Provence. It is therefore difficult to limit the tips to just a few favorite places. But, the first Provence tip we would like to give you is very simple. Jump into your camper van and drive off – not on the highway, but on the smaller roads – and stop when and where you want. You will discover magical villages that perhaps never made it into any travel guide, even though they deserved to be.

Let’s take a more specific look at some highlights. Les Baux-de-Provence is a village perched on a cliff with fantastic views. In Avignon there is the “Palais des Papes” and of course the famous “Pont d’Avignon”, and you can visit Roman ruins in Arles and Orange.

If you are fascinated by the Romans, you should visit Vaison-la-Romaine. It is a city with Roman history, including a Roman theater, bridge, and excavations. It’s best to plan your visit on a Tuesday, because then it’s market day in Vaison – and it’s not only big, but really authentic. If you like this market, you should also visit Nyons. The village is famous for its black olives, and the market day here is Thursday.

Another must-see – a little further south – is the Calanques. These fjord-like bays are found along the coast in many places between Marseille and Cassis and offer absolutely fantastic natural spectacles.

Turquoise water and limestone are what the Calanques offer. Copyright: Andreaa, Unsplash.com
Turquoise water and limestone are what the Calanques offer. Copyright: Andreaa, Unsplash.com

Insider tips in Provence: Camargue and les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Now, horse people will be happy, but this tip can also come in handy for others, especially nature lovers. Finding and enjoying these four-legged friends is not difficult in Provence, because this is where the nature reserve Camargue is located. It stretches between the two mouths of the Rhône and is known for its unique flora and fauna. What does that have to do with horses? Well, it is also home to the famous “Camargue horses”, the white beauties of the region. They are one of the oldest breeds in Europe and play an important role in the tradition and culture of the Camargue.

On their backs you can explore the Camargue; roam the Étangs (salt lakes), gallop along the shores, and get closer than ever before to the wild flamingos and bulls. An absolute dream.
After your horse ride, it is recommended that you visit les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. The town is located in the middle of the Camargue by the sea and has a lot of charm. If you like seafood, you should try the Camargue specialty: the “tellines”, a type of clam.

 From the roof of the churchNotre-Dame-de-la-More in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer you have a beautiful view. Copyright: Sarah Steiner
From the roof of the churchNotre-Dame-de-la-More in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer you have a beautiful view. Copyright: Sarah Steiner

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7. Occitanie

Southern France

Many associate Provence with Côte d’Azur when they think of camping in the south of France. But south also means Occitania. It encompasses the regions of Languedoc-Roussillon and Midi-Pyrénées and is characterized by its diverse landscape – from the Pyrenees in the southeast, further southwest to Perpignan. and up the Mediterranean coast to Montpellier. In the middle of this. we find what can be called the very capital of pleasure and cultural monuments; Toulouse. You understand that there is a lot waiting for you here.

The region has a rich cultural history and is a melting pot of different influences. Historically, the Occitan language (Langue d’Oc) was spoken in parts of Occitanie. The language was a strong symbol of identification for the population of the south, and even today streets and squares are often written in two languages. The people here are spontaneous and warm – and very hospitable. You will quickly feel at home, and if you want, you can make contacts very quickly. Stress is unusual in Occitanie, as here, you take everything at your own pace! The region is also known for the many outdoor opportunities offered here in the form of, for example, hiking, climbing, cycling, and various water sports. In other words, adventure during one’s camping holiday is guaranteed.

Toulouse is called
Toulouse is called “the pink City”, not only because of the light, but also (and mainly) because of its many buildings made of red brick. Copyright: Guillaume Groult, Unsplash.com

Best time to visit Occitanie as a camper

Many like spring in Occitanie best. This is when the landscape is green and the plants start to bloom – an ideal time for walks and bike rides. Or to simply enjoy the region’s fantastic campsites, sit in front of the motorhome, and drink a good local wine in the beautiful scenery. You can probably relate to the feeling, right?

By the way, this is also possible in autumn. It’s usually still mild until early November and you’re traveling in the middle of the grape harvest season. Winter is mild on the coast and you can practice winter sports in the Pyrenees – a cool mix. The main season here – especially for camping holidays – is summer. Then, the days are long and warm, and the beaches are full.

By the way, this is also possible in autumn. It’s usually still mild until early November and you’re traveling in the middle of the grape harvest season. Winter is mild on the coast and you can practice winter sports in the Pyrenees – a cool mix. The main season here – especially for camping holidays – is summer. Then, the days are long and warm, and the beaches are full.

The most beautiful campsites in Occitanie

By the sea or by the mountains? As a family or as a solo traveler? Luxury version or simple? In Occitanie you will find almost everything your own camping heart desires. Just keep in mind that during high season – i.e. summer – the campsites are often full, so it’s worth considering reserving in advance.

Popular sights in Occitaine

If you’re fascinated by the Romans, you shouldn’t miss Pont du Gard. The Roman aqueduct is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and it is incredibly cool to experience the engineering skills of the ancient Romans on site. By the way, Pont du Gard is located on the Gardon river, where you can swim in many places – with a view of the bridge. Carcassonne is also a place full of history. Do you know the board game of the same name? Maybe it is a faithful companion on your camping holiday? Then you certainly want to visit the medieval fortress of Carcassonne, which is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Nîmes, Montpellier, and, as already mentioned, Toulouse are of course also safe cards when it comes to beautiful cities with a lot of history and culture. Or Lourdes; the pilgrimage site that attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Notre Dame de Lourdes and the Grotto of Massabielle are important religious sites. If you like smaller villages more, a visit to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is recommended. This picturesque medieval village sits high above the River Lot and is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Pont du Gard was built in the 1st century AD. and impresses. Copyright: Z S, Unsplash.com
Pont du Gard was built in the 1st century AD. and impresses. Copyright: Z S, Unsplash.com

Insider tips in Occitanie: Saint-Gilhem-le-Désert

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a small, medieval village located on the Way of St. James. It is located in the heart of the Hérault Gorges and is known for its famous monastery. Narrow cobbled streets, small craft shops, and lots of charm await here, in this village a good distance from the tourist crowds. For a great view, you should hike up the hills and enjoy the panoramic view. In general, the area is perfect for long hikes surrounded by stunning scenery.

Nestled in forest and hills: Saint-Gilhem-le-Désert. Copyright: Jossuha Théophile, Unsplash.com
Nestled in forest and hills: Saint-Gilhem-le-Désert. Copyright: Jossuha Théophile, Unsplash.com

8. Summary and our recommendations

As you for sure have noticed, it is easy to understand if the heart beats a little extra for France. Sarah, one of our writers and experienced campers here at MyCamper, spent almost all of her childhood holidays in Provence and therefore has a real connection to the area. She never got bored and never asked if the family could go to another region. She felt that even then, it was somehow clear to her: this is part of my DNA. As Sarah got older, she explored the rest of the country – and the country really carved itself into her heart. It becomes clear that France offers much – it is so varied, so complex. Cultural, scenic, culinary… Not a single trip is regretted!

9. Frequently asked questions about camping regions in France

How many regions does France have?

As of 2016, there are 18 regions in France. 13 of them are in France itself, while five are overseas territories.

What are the regions of France called

  1. Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
  2. Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
  3. Bretagne
  4. Centre-Val de Loire
  5. Corsica
  6. Grand Est
  7. Hauts-de-France
  8. Île-de-France
  9. Normandie
  10. Nouvelle-Aquitaine
  11. Occitanie
  12. Pays de la Loire
  13. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
    The five overseas territories are French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, and La Réunion

What is the most beautiful region in France?

For me, the answer is given: Provence (with the motivation that “it is clearly and undoubtedly my number 1. The landscape, the people, the atmosphere, the façon de vivre”). But it’s not sure to be everyone’s favorite, as all 13 European regions in France have their charms and advantages. The best way to decide your favorite is to simply travel through them all and form your own opinion.