What to see in France

Unmissable camping destinations in France

Vue aérienne des terres agricoles en Bretagne
Vue aérienne des terres agricoles en Bretagne

 

France, with its diversity of landscapes and protected natural areas, offers many possibilities for camping enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for relaxation by the sea and its golden beaches, adventure in its majestic mountains or discovery in the heart of nature with its peaceful forests, the country is full of perfect places to pitch your tent or park your motorhome. Discover the not-to-be-missed camping destinations in France.

Dordogne, between nature and history

An exceptional natural setting

Dordogne is famous for its varied landscapes including lush green valleys, winding rivers, dense forests and picturesque villages. The River Dordogne itself provides the perfect setting for waterside camping, with sites for canoeing and kayaking. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the many signposted trails through forests and hills offering breathtaking views. The region is also home to several nature parks, such as the Parc Naturel Régional Périgord-Limousin, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.

imag

View of the Dordogne
View of the Dordogne© iStock

A unique historical heritage

World-famous for its prehistoric heritage, the region is home to some of Europe's most important archaeological sites, including the famous Lascaux caves at Montignac. These are decorated with wall paintings dating back over 17,000 years. As well as Lascaux, the region is also home to several other caves and rock shelters containing prehistoric paintings, engravings and objects that bear witness to the lives of our ancestors and their relationship with nature.

Medieval villages

The villages of Dordogne are like pearls of medieval history. Many of them have been classified as among the most beautiful villages in France and are authentic testimonies to the medieval era. Sarlat-la-Canéda: Capital of the Périgord Noir, Sarlat is one of the most emblematic villages in the Dordogne. Other villages include La Roque-Gageac and its troglodyte houses, and Domme, perched on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne valley.

The castles

The castles, forts, bastides and stately homes of this region of south-western France, dating back to the Middle Ages, bear witness to the region's historical, cultural and architectural past. Castelnaud-la-Chapelle dominates the Dordogne valley. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Beynac castle is one of the most beautiful and best preserved in Dordogne. Château de Biron is a spectacular fortified complex. Château de Bourdeilles, a medieval fortress that has seen a variety of architectural styles over the centuries.

Medieval village of Castelnaud and its castle
Medieval village of Castelnaud and its castle© iStock

 

To visit the Dordogne, come and discover the (around) 250 campsites we have selected for you, as well as our selection of beautiful 4 and 5 star campsites.

The Côte d'Azur, Sun and Mediterranean

Breathtaking landscapes

Also known as the French Riviera, it's one of France's most popular destinations for camping enthusiasts, offering the perfect blend of nature, sea and culture. If you're looking for a camping break in the heart of one of France's most emblematic regions, the Côte d'Azur has everything you need. It's also famous for its breathtaking scenery: fine sandy beaches, the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, lush green hills and picturesque villages perched on hilltops. Whether you choose to camp by the sea or in the hinterland, you'll be immersed in a variety of landscapes, ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

View of the Mediterranean Sea
View of the Mediterranean Sea © iStock

Must-see places on the French Riviera

The city of Nice and its Promenade des Anglais, the picturesque district of Vieux-Nice with its narrow streets, lively markets and colourful buildings. The Colline du Château, a park offering spectacular views over the Bay of Angels and the old port of Nice. The Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall: For art lovers, these museums celebrate two of the greatest artists to have lived on the Côte d'Azur.

Cannes is one of the region's most emblematic destinations. It is a city that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year thanks to its Film Festival, which makes it the nerve centre of the film industry for those few weeks. The Croisette runs along the seafront and offers a splendid view over the Bay of Cannes. It's a must-see promenade, lined with palaces, luxury boutiques, restaurants and private beaches.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a small village perched on a hill that attracts thousands of holidaymakers every year for its picturesque charm, rich history and reputation as a living studio for artists.

Jacques Prévert's house in Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Jacques Prévert's house in Saint-Paul-de-Vence© iStock

 

Saint-Tropez is a must-see destination on the Côte d'Azur, attracting visitors from all over the world thanks to its charm, history and unique atmosphere. This Provencal village is a perfect blend of luxury, art de vivre and authenticity, and the Pampelonne beach and Old Port are not to be missed.

Situated on the border with Italy, the old town of Menton is also well worth a visit. With its picturesque narrow streets, colourful houses and small shady squares, it's a great place to stroll around. Finally, the Côte d'Azur would not be what it is without the Corniche d'Or in Estelle, the Mercantour National Park and Hyères and its heavenly islands.

Village of Menton on the Côte d'Azur
Village of Menton on the Côte d'Azur© iStock

Among almost 150 campsites on the Côte d'Azur, you'll find our selection of around twenty very attractive campsites that will give you a peaceful, organised holiday.

 

Brittany, the charm of the Atlantic Ocean

Brittany is one of the most popular camping destinations in France. With its diversity of landscapes, rich cultural heritage and special climate, the region offers unique experiences for campers, whether they're looking for nature, tranquillity or adventure.

Magnificent and varied landscapes

Brittany is famous for its spectacular coastline, with magnificent beaches, impressive cliffs and secluded coves. Camping by the sea, on the Côte de Granit Rose or near the Presqu'île de Crozon, allows you to enjoy the panorama while being as close to nature as possible. Inland, the region also offers a wealth of camping opportunities. The forests of Brocéliande, famous for their Arthurian legend, are ideal for lovers of nature and tranquillity. Islands such as Belle-Île, Ouessant and Groix offer a unique camping experience with island landscapes and a different atmosphere from the mainland.

Ploumamanc'h in Finistère on the pink granite coast
Ploumamanc'h in Finistère on the pink granite coast© iStock

Places not to be missed

Saint-Malo, a town steeped in history, was once a bastion of privateers and a major port for maritime trade. The atmosphere of its narrow streets and fortifications makes it a magical place. In the old, fortified town, the ramparts offer a breathtaking view of the sea, the port and the surrounding islands. Don't miss the Cité d'Aleth and the Intra-Muros beach.

The embankment and beach at Saint-Malo in Brittany
The embankment and beach at Saint-Malo in Brittany© iStock

Mont-Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Brittany's must-see sites, thanks to its famous abbey perched on a rocky islet, accessible at low tide.

Fougères in Ile-et-Vilaine is home to one of the largest medieval castles in France. The centre of Fougères is full of cobbled streets and half-timbered houses that transport you back to an earlier era.

Ploumanac'h in the Côtes d'Armor is famous for its pink granite rocks, which offer stunning panoramas. The contrast between the warm colour of the rocks and the surrounding turquoise sea is striking.

Carnac, famous for its impressive alignments of menhirs, some of the most famous in the world. Situated in the Morbihan department, Carnac is a small town that attracts thousands of visitors every year to admire its unique archaeological heritage, as well as enjoying its beaches and natural surroundings.

The alignments of menhirs at Carnac
The alignments of menhirs at Carnac© iStock

Dinan, in the Côtes d'Armor department, is a small medieval town with an authentic charm and a rich historical heritage. The old town of Dinan is like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and picturesque squares. Walking through Old Dinan is like walking through a fairytale setting.

Discover our selection of over 700 campsites in Brittany. From 3 to 5 stars, you can select according to location, entertainment, number of pitches or budget. You'll be sure to make the right choice for a more relaxing holiday.

 

The mountains, wilderness and authenticity

Offering a unique experience in the heart of nature, the French mountains are a must for camping. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, a nature lover or just looking for some peace and quiet, camping in the mountains means you can enjoy stunning scenery, a variety of activities and moments of relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. France's mountains are among the most beautiful in Europe, with ranges including the Alps, the Pyrenees, the Massif Central and the Vosges. Whether it's snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys or crystal-clear lakes, the beauty of the landscape is a major advantage of mountain camping. You can marvel at breathtaking panoramas while you're camping.

Mountain lake in the Alps
Mountain lake in the Alps© iStock

 

The Alps, between nature, sport and culture

The Alps are France's true natural treasure, this mountainous region offering an exceptional wealth of landscapes, activities and cultural discoveries. Well-equipped to welcome visitors, with a well-developed transport network and modern infrastructure. As well as internationally renowned ski resorts, there are numerous campsites to suit all budgets. The roads are well maintained, and the region also has an extensive network of cable cars, ski lifts and public transport to facilitate access to the various sites. The Alps are great all year round. In winter, there's snowshoeing, snowboarding and even traditional Christmas markets. In spring, the mountains are covered in wildflowers and the weather is ideal for hiking. In summer, the cool altitude attracts hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts, while in autumn the region is ablaze with autumn colours and spectacular scenery.

Breathtaking landscapes

The French Alps are famous for their spectacular scenery. Huge expanses of snow-capped mountains in winter, lush green meadows in summer, and crystal-clear lakes that reflect the majesty of the surrounding peaks. The breathtaking scenery includes Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps (4,808 m), which attracts mountaineers from all over the world. The Aiguilles d'Arve, a group of impressive peaks that dominate the Chamonix valley. The Alpine lakes, natural wonders such as Lac de Sainte-Croix, Lac de Montriond and Lac d'Annecy, are one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.

Picturesque villages and an authentic way of life

The Alps are dotted with small villages with living traditions and warm atmospheres. Some are listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Here are just a few examples:

Megève: A chic resort with traditional architecture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Megève resort in the Alps
Megève resort in the Alps© iStock

Saint-Véran: Situated at an altitude of 2,040 meters, this is the highest village in Europe, with its typical wooden and stone houses.

The village of Saint-Veran in the Alps
The village of Saint-Veran in the Alps© iStock

 

 

Les Contamines-Montjoie: A picturesque mountain village, ideal for those seeking both peace and authenticity.

Some not-to-be-missed highlights in the Alps

Mont Blanc and the Chamonix valley, Parc National de la Vanoise: One of France's oldest national parks, ideal for hiking. Lake Annecy and its old town, Les Gorges du Verdon: One of the most beautiful canyons in Europe. The Grandes Alpes route: A legendary route for road trip enthusiasts, with breathtaking views.

We have selected the best campsites in the 3 different departments of the Alps for you:

The Hautes-Alpes

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

The Alpes-Maritimes

 

The Pyrenees, a spectacular natural setting

Made for lovers of nature, mountains and culture, the Pyrenees stretch over 430 km from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean, this mountain range forms a natural border between France and Spain. The Pyrenees offer breathtaking scenery, from dense forests to deep valleys, glacial lakes and majestic peaks. The listed Pyrenees National Park protects a wide variety of flora and fauna. Here you can spot animals such as bearded vultures, chamois, marmots and even brown bears in certain protected areas.

Outdoor activities all year round

Whether you're a keen hiker, climber, skier or mountain biker, the Pyrenees offer an unrivalled playground like no other.

Hiking. There are numerous hiking trails for all abilities, including the legendary GR10, which crosses the Pyrenees from west to east.

Skiing and snowboarding: In winter, ski resorts such as Saint-Lary, Cauterets and Font-Romeu attract winter sports enthusiasts.

Mountain biking and cycling: It's also a cyclist's paradise; with legendary Tour de France passes such as the Col du Tourmalet and the Aubisque.

Hiking on the Col de Pau path in the Pyrenees
Hiking on the Col de Pau path in the Pyrenees© iStock

Thermal baths and seaside resorts

The Pyrenees are famous for their spas, which offer health and relaxation benefits. Towns such as Bagnères-de-Bigorre, Luchon and Cauterets are renowned for their spas, where you can enjoy hot baths, wellness treatments and even cures.

The Pyrenees is also a region rich in history and culture. You can visit charming villages such as Saint-Lizier, Saint-Bertrand-de-Comminges and Arreau, which are listed as some of the most beautiful villages in France. Traditional architecture, Romanesque churches and châteaux add a medieval touch to your stay.

Historic monuments and religious sites

The Pyrenees are also home to important historic sites, such as the Cité de Carcassonne (although located in the Occitanie region, not far from the Pyrenees), as well as numerous churches and shrines, including the world-famous Lourdes shrine and the Romanesque monastery of Saint-Michel de Cuxa.

Sanctuary of Lourdes
Sanctuary of Lourdes© iStock

The diversity of landscapes

Whether you're attracted by the high mountain scenery, the lush green valleys or the gentler plains, the Pyrenees have it all. The glacial cirques of Gavarnie, Troumouse and Estaubé, for example, are natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here you will find a link to the best campsites in the Hautes-Pyrénées.

Lake in the Pyrenees
Lake in the Pyrenees© iStock

 

Normandy - the charm of a typical, historic region

Normandy boasts a rich diversity of landscapes, from fine sandy beaches to rolling green hills, impressive cliffs and lush forests. Natural sites such as the Parc naturel régional des Boucles de la Seine normande and the cliffs of Etretat are perfect for outdoor breaks. Campervans and tents can be accommodated at campsites offering a variety of landscapes and magnificent views.

The Cliffs of Etretat in Normandy
The Cliffs of Etretat in Normandy© iStock

An exceptional coastline

Normandy is famous for its spectacular coastline, including the D-Day Beaches, a historic landmark not to be missed. As well as history, the beaches offer plenty of opportunities for water sports, seaside walks and relaxation. Many campsites are close to the beaches, so you can enjoy the sea from the comfort of your own home.

A fascinating historical heritage

Normandy is a region steeped in history, with its D-Day sites, Mont-Saint-Michel, and magnificent châteaux and abbeys. The D-Day Museum at Arromanches and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer are essential places to visit, and many campsites offer easy access to these emblematic sites. A camping holiday allows you to combine relaxation with the discovery of this rich heritage.

Outdoor activities

The region offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts: hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, swimming... There are also many cycle paths, particularly around the Seine Valley or the Calvados beaches. What's more, the forests of the Côte d'Albâtre and Basse-Normandie are perfect for hiking and mountain biking.

A calm and authentic atmosphere

Although very picturesque, Normandy is less saturated than other areas, allowing you to enjoy a quieter, more authentic environment. Norman villages, small fishing ports and charming coastal towns offer a peaceful and authentic setting for a camping holiday.

Discover a selection of over 350 campsites in Normandy.

A herd of Norman cows in front of the sea
A herd of Norman cows in front of the sea© iStock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See all my campsites consulted