Camping vacations with Aloa Vacances
Discover the different camping destinations available in the beautiful regions of France and Spain. You’ll also find all the options and tips you need to make the most of your camping vacation.
Camping in France
Camping attracts more and more French people every year, and France is one of the most attractive countries in terms of destinations and locations. From countryside to urban streets, France has everything you could wish for in a place to enjoy your summer vacation.
From classic open-air establishments to 4 and 5-star campsites, the services provided are not all the same, and neither are the types of accommodation. The more starred the campsite, the more comfortable and even unusual you’ll find, such as mobile homes, bungalows or tree houses.
Depending on your destination and campsite, you can choose from a wide range of options: with swimming pool or water park, with or without pets, in the mountains or by the sea, with family or friends, or for a relaxing or sporty vacation.
—
Finding the right campsite to suit your needs can seem an impossible task among the multitude of establishments available in France. At Aloa Vacances, we’ve made it our mission to provide useful information on all these different options, so you can spend less time searching and more time having fun!
The best camping destinations in France and Spain
There are so many beautiful camping destinations to discover, there are places to suit every need. Whether you want to be surrounded by breathtaking nature or enjoy a bit of culture and history, there’s no shortage of amazing destinations.
Discover the holiday destination that’s right for you among the best camping regions in France and Spain.
South Brittany
Brittany is a beautiful place to visit during the summer. It has not only spectacular natural beauty, but also a rich culture and tradition. Between winds and tides, magic and history, Brittany has plenty to charm you.
Brittany boasts many beautiful campsites, particularly in the south. You’ll find lush greenery, abers, beaches, charming harbors and, even further south, the Guérande salt marshes, while enjoying pleasant weather every day.
Read more
On a true seaside vacation, relax to the sound of the waves and gulls and the enchanting words of Morgane and Merlin the Enchanter in the forest of Brocéliande. As these are Celtic lands, you’ll discover some lovely cultural and historical monuments, and then take a gourmet break by indulging in the local cuisine with delicious crêpes accompanied by a good bowl of cider.
Of course, the proximity of the sea also means you can enjoy activities such as diving or boat trips to discover the small peninsulas off the coast of Brittany.
Where can you enjoy an Aloa vacances campsite in South Brittany?
Holidaymakers looking for a pitch or mobile home rental by the sea in Brittany can stay at Ker Yaoulet. This 3-star campsite in Morbihan is ideally located in Ambon, just 300 meters from the beach.
Vendée
The Vendée is one of France’s most popular camping regions, with many lively family campsites.
You can stroll through typical Vendée towns such as La Roche-sur-Yon, Les Sables-d’Olonne or Saint-Hilaire de Riez, or explore the countryside in the marshes, as the department is one of the greenest in France.
Its charm lies above all in the many sporting and aquatic activities available. With its 140 sandy beaches, the Vendée offers a wide range of sports, including :
- water skiing
- the catamaran
- sand yachting
- kitesurfing
- Sailing
Read more
It’s also an opportunity to enjoy the start of the Vendée Globe, or to visit one of the world’s best parks, the Parc du Puy du Fou, which are two of the region’s star attractions.
To make the most of your stay, bring your bicycles and cycle along the Vélodyssée de Vendée, a long freeway totally adapted and created for cyclists and walkers. It’s an easy way to do some eco-tourism, while enjoying time with family and friends amidst the sublime landscapes you’ll encounter. To add variety to your outings, there are numerous mountain bike trails and hiking circuits.
With very pleasant weather, you won’t be bored at any of the many campsites in Vendée offered by Aloa Vacances.
Where can you enjoy an Aloa vacances campsite in Vendée?
Several campsites in Vendée – Aloa vacances open their doors to you during the summer season! Choose from :
- Les Pirons, a 5-star campsite, and Le Nid d’été, a 4-star campsite in Les Sables d’Olonnes,
- Les Flots Bleus, 4-star campsite in La Faute-sur-Mer
- Riez-à-la-Vie, 4-star campsite in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
Charente-Maritime
Charente-Maritime is famous for its coastline and the famous port city of La Rochelle, as well as its proximity to islands such as Ile de Ré and Ile d’Oléron. Ideal for spending peaceful moments close to nature, numerous campsites are available for stays in a mild, oceanic climate.
On the Ile d’Oléron, you can enjoy landscapes of varying degrees of wilderness, with abundant flora and fauna, and the flagship town of Saint-Georges-d’Oléron, where you can sample excellent local oysters and mussels. The preferred means of transport is by bike or on foot, although for the less sporty, cars can easily be driven on accessible roads.
Read more
You can enjoy beautiful sandy beaches and see the famous Fort Boyard not far from the island.
Don’t hesitate to come and discover this department if you want to spend a family vacation in a temperate climate.
Where to enjoy a campsite in Charente-Maritime Aloa vacances?
For a seaside camping holiday in Charente-Maritime, holidaymakers can count on Oléron Loisirs. This 4-star campsite on the Ile d’Oléron boasts a water park with slides and a kids’ club, ideal for family camping vacations.
Dordogne Périgord
When you choose the Dordogne as your destination, you’re choosing one steeped in history, with a local gastronomy that’s sure to delight the taste buds of even the most discerning gourmets.
Enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of this region. Choose from some of France’s most beautiful villages, 15 Unesco World Heritage sites such as the Lascaux caves , and numerous hiking trails.
Read more
Sarlat-la-Canéda is one of the most touristic towns, where you can enjoy Sarlat potatoes accompanied by a good duck breast or local foie gras.
Mostly rural, this destination is more suited to nature lovers who enjoy walking, cycling or horse-riding.
Landes and Basque Country
The Landes and the Basque Country are two departments in the south of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region that are very popular for vacations.
Anglet, Biarritz, Bayonne and St-Jean-de-Luz are highly-rated seaside resorts in south-west France, thanks to their ideal location close to Spain and the Atlantic Ocean, and their famous culinary delights such as Bayonne ham and Espelette chilli pepper. Every year, they hold their own lively festival, attracting many tourists.
Read more
In the Basque Country, the locals love to party and many enjoy board sports:
- Water skiing
- Wakeboard
- Kitesurfing
- Sea kayaking
- Stand Up Paddle
- Hawaiian canoe
- Surf
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with beaches that are often crowded, especially in summer. You’ll probably hear the locals speak Basque, a language they’re very proud of. The Basque country is more than a department or a region, it’s a country in its own right!
The beaches of the Landes region are renowned for their ideal waves, attracting surfers from all over the world. The dunes all along the coast are ideal for nature walks and picnics. Near the Bassin d’Arcachon, there are numerous lakes and ponds for fishing, as well as local farmers’ markets showcasing the region’s fine produce, including Floc de Gascogne, Armagnac and excellent wines.
Languedoc-Roussillon
Many surprises await you in the beautiful Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France. Including architectural and historical treasures such as the city of Carcassonne and the Pont du Gard, the region’s proximity to the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees and Spain offers a wealth of activities.
You can enjoy the warmth of the south on the coast, with its many beaches from Narbonne to Perpignan, or in the city, in the lively metropolises of Toulouse and Montpellier.
Read more
The hinterland is also ideal for hiking and discovering rock caves. You’ll also be able to enjoy the richness of its landscapes, with beautiful panoramic views of the countryside and the chance to spot pink flamingos and real Camargue horses near Le Grau-du-Roi.
Close to Spain, part of this region is also known as “French Catalonia “, whose inhabitants are very proud of their heritage, and some even still speak the local dialect.
Many French people come to rent a mobile home in this pleasant part of France.
Where can you enjoy camping in Languedoc Roussillon with Aloa vacances?
For vacations in the Languedoc Roussillon region, camping Beauséjour in Argelès has everything you need for a seaside vacation. Among its outstanding features is the beach, just 300 metres away.
PACA
Particularly popular with tourists, the Provence Côte d’Azur region is ideally situated between the mountains and the sea, and offers many of France’s most beautiful villages for hiking, as well as beaches and prestigious sites.
In Provence Côte d’Azur, there’s always the possibility of rubbing shoulders with the glitterati and probably bumping into the stars, but it’s also possible to take refuge in small coves and villages more remote from the coast to enjoy more peace and quiet.
Read more
The region has the particularity of very pleasant temperatures all year round, so you can enjoy your camping vacation in summer as well as in winter.
Pétanque and seafood are two of the region’s strongest identities, whether in Saint-Tropez or Nice, as are lavender and Marseille soap, two flagship products you’ll want to pack as souvenirs.
This destination offers mainly mobile-home rentals and is more suited to households with a larger budget.
Corsica
Ah, the Isle of Beauty! Between seas, mountains and typical villages, Corsica is one of France’s favorite destinations. This island between Italy and France is mainly accessible either by ferry or by plane, and once you’re there you can rent a car for easy travel throughout the territory. Corsica’s winding, mountainous roads add to its charm, with uninterrupted, breathtaking panoramic views over the Mediterranean, but also require good tires to avoid breakdowns.
Read more
With beaches along most of its coastline, the sea is warm and transparent with fine sand, allowing you to enjoy a variety of water sports by boat or swim.
Perched high up in the mountains, you’ll find many charming old Corsican villages, set far apart from one another by the rich, ever-present natural environment.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or sporty hiking vacation, this is the ideal destination.
Spain
As well as being a magnificent country with a rich culture, Spain has the advantage of being close to France, with services that are virtually equivalent.
The most popular places to visit to enjoy nature are the Pyrenees and the many beaches on the Mediterranean shores.
Read more
The best time to go camping would be in spring or summer, when you’re more likely to see wildlife in the mountains or enjoy the summer season. It’s also warm enough for activities such as water sports, exploring secret coves and caves and other outdoor pursuits. Catalonia is one of the most culturally and culinarily rich regions in the world, with the Sagrada Familia in particular.
When it comes to Spain, you’ll find great opportunities for camping. You can find cheap and expensive camping options that are perfect for different budgets.
Our tips for becoming a real camper
In this section, we offer a few camping tips to make your trip more enjoyable.
Camping is generally a great experience for family and friends, offering conviviality and a wide range of activities. To make the most of your stay, it’s essential to plan ahead for the type of rentals and destination you want.
Read more
Tent or mobile home
If you’re on a tight budget and enjoy the great outdoors, camping in a tent is probably the best option for you, while renting a mobile home is more suitable for those looking for a comfortable vacation.
Each solution has its own particularities to take into account.
Any seasoned tent camper knows that good equipment is necessary for a good night’s sleep, without having to pack too much stuff. If you want to make a good tortilla or macaroni and cheese, you’ll also need a few essential kitchen tools !
The mobile home means you don’t have to carry so much equipment, but there are still things to bring that are not supplied by the accommodation, such as household linen, household products or food.
It’s therefore important to establish your budget to determine which type of campsite to choose, based on location, number of stars or activities on offer.
Atmosphere is one of the most important things to consider when camping. The size of the pitch will give you more space between you and your camping neighbors for greater peace and quiet, and sleeping in a tent will let you enjoy the daily sounds of nature.
Keeping busy during your stay
If you’re looking for something a little more atmospheric, most campsites offer evening activities such as games or comedy shows. Inviting your neighbors can also be an opportunity to meet new people and share activities together.
During the day, family activities can include swimming, hiking, sightseeing, sports activities or amusement parks close to the campsite. Rain or shine, there’s always something to do.
This makes camping an ideal choice for unforgettable memories with your children. Some campsites are also baby-friendly, with bathrooms equipped with baby kits and play areas. And for your 4-legged friend, you’ll also find campsites that accept dogs.
Whether it’s for relaxation, sport, your children, your teenager or yourself, you’ll always find a camping solution to suit your needs.
The weather
All that’s left is to choose your vacation destination according to your preferences. If you’re looking for warmth, choose the Landes, PACA or Languedoc-Roussillon regions. Brittany and the Vendée will enable you to enjoy the sea while taking part in sporting activities in regions with a strong historical and cultural heritage.
Opt for aquatic spaces for more fun
One of the most popular attractions at campsites, and one that appeals to many families, are aquatic areas such as swimming pools and children’s play parks.
Water parks offer a fun way to enjoy camping while getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Even if your campsite doesn’t have one, many of them are located close to large parks. Suitable for young and old alike, their numerous water sports facilities are sure to satisfy every member of the family. From paddling pools to slides of various sizes, fun is guaranteed!
For the less adventurous, open or closed pools sometimes offer aquagym classes or relaxation areas with steam rooms, saunas and Jacuzzis.
Having access to aquatic areas for your children means you can occupy your days and relax without having to worry about their safety, thanks to regular checks and lifeguards on duty at all times.
It’s usually the more upmarket campsites that offer such services.
Relaxed camping with your children
Going away as a family can often be a tricky business, finding activities that appeal to everyone. Fortunately, the wide range of activities on offer at our campsites means you can simplify the task and make the most of your stay.
Would you like to visit the region with your partner without worrying about your children? Take advantage of kids’ clubs – they let your children play with others their own age while you look after your own. A kids’ club is a type of service that provides resources and services for children that are often not available at home or at school. It usually includes recreational activities, groups for children with similar interests and activities such as art, walks or games. This allows them to have more fun with activities they enjoy on their own, and not get bored.
There are also events and activities to enjoy on your own or with the whole family, outdoors or using the facilities provided by the campsite.
Which beaches to choose to be at the water’s edge?
Since “beach” often rhymes with “vacation”, it’s a popular destination during the summer months for cooling off by the water’s edge and enjoying the many aquatic activities on offer. With so many beaches to choose from, there’s no shortage of places to discover during your stay in France.
A host of Aloa vacances star and non-star campsites offer direct access to the beach, so you can put your feet in the water at any time.
Read more
So which campsite should you choose to make sure you’re in the best place?
- The south of France is known for its beautiful beaches with clear waters and wide stretches of sand. The white sandy beaches of the Côte d’Azur are perfect places to spend your day exploring the beauty of this region.
There are so many different ways to enjoy the French coastline – whether you want to attend the famous Cannes Film Festival or simply take a trip along the coast to explore a few hidden coves along the way.
- On the Atlantic coast, you can get a great tan while enjoying water sports activities. For sports enthusiasts, there are activities such as surfing, water skiing, kayaking and sailing, especially in the Languedoc, Basque and Vendée regions.
The Vendée Globe is a boat race that attracts large numbers of spectators every year, making it a unique experience. You can also go scuba diving or take a boat trip to Brittany’ s many peninsulas.
Or simply enjoy the pleasures of swimming, taking care to choose supervised beaches.
Even if your campsite is located near a beach, many offer a swimming pool or even a water park, where your children can have fun on slides in complete safety, with direct access to toilets and changing cubicles.
The number of stars awarded to a campsite will give you an idea of the quality of the services offered by the establishment, with the help of online reviews left by Internet users.
The different types of campsite to know before you go
The best way to make the most of your camping season is to choose your campsite carefully.
There are different types of campsites offering different types of rentals.
The mobile home
Mobile homes are very popular these days, as they offer more space and comfort, and people renting this type of accommodation only have to “drop their suitcase”.
Equipped with a mini-kitchenette, there are often one or more bedrooms separated from the small living room/kitchen, with outdoor space for settling in and enjoying the weather. Genuine vacation homes, these are temporary accommodations that can be towed to other locations. Take a look at our selection of mobile homes to suit all budgets.
Read more
Unusual accommodation
With the development of mobile homes, other types of accommodation have also appeared, such as caravans, bungalows and tree houses. More suited to people looking for unusual experiences, these rentals are found at more upscale campsites.
Camping by the sea or in the mountains
Depending on location, activities and leisure activities will differ. Some campsites will be closer to nature and local life, while others will focus more on family activities to accommodate all members of the family.
Star campsites
Stars are awarded to campsites for their location, facilities and activities. The more stars a campsite has, the better its facilities: sauna, gym, multilingual reception, more attractive fittings and pitches. A 5-star campsite must have a swimming pool.
1- and 2-star campsites are the most affordable, offering more “bare” pitches for tenting, but very limited services.