road trip camper frankrijk

Met de camper naar Frankrijk: 11 x mooiste camperroutes per regio + campings

Roadtrip door frankrijk met de camper: mooiste route per regio met de mobilhome + tips, inhoud artikel, camperroute door normandië, gebruik onze autoroutes door normandië, waar overnachten met de camper in normandië, camping aux pommiers, camping sainte-mère-eglise boeken, met de camper door de provence, gebruik onze routes door de provence, mooiste campings in de provence, camping bij gorges du verdon boeken, staanplaats bij camping les hauts de rosans boeken, route napoléon, roadtrip met de camper door bretagne, gebruik onze uitgestippelde routes door bretagne, waar overnachten met de camper in bretagne, kasteelcamping castel l'orangerie de lanniron boeken, gezinsvriendelijke camping ar kleguer boeken, een camperreis door de bourgogne-streek, gebruik onze mooie routes door de bourgognestreek, mooiste kampeerplekken in de bourgogne, camping au bois joli boeken, op rondreis door de franse pyreneeën, kamperen in de franse pyreneeën, yelloh village les 3 vallées met zwembadcomplex boeken, camping la plage argelès boeken, camperroute door de ardèche & drôme, waar overnachten met een camper in de ardèche, huttopia le moulin boeken, camping l’ardéchois boeken, langs de côte d'azur met de mobilhome, waar kamperen aan de côte d'azur, la plage du dramont met uizicht boeken, camping sites et paysages les pinèdes boeken, met de camper door elzas en vogezen.

Vergeet ook vooral niet te genieten van de lokale gastronomie die bekend staat voor zijn choucroute, kougelhopf, baeckeoffe, de Munsterkaas en uiteraard de lokale wijnen.

Overnachten op een camping in de Elzas en Vogezen

Camping de riquewihr boeken, stadscamping bij camping de strasbourg boeken, verken de champagnestreek met de camper, gebruik een van onze routes door de champagnestreek, camperplaatsen in de champagnestreek, vijfsterrencamping la forge de sainte marie boeken, kampeerplaats boeken aan het meer bij camping le lac d'orient., met de camper door de loirevallei, waar overnachten met de camper in de loirestreek, huttopia saumur camping bij de wijngaarden van saumur boeken, camping domaine de l’oiselière boeken, op vakantie met de camper naar de dordogne en lot, waar kamperen in de dordogne & lot, camping le capeyrou boeken, rcn vakantiepark le moulin de la pique boeken, mag je wildkamperen in frankrijk, in frankrijk is wildkamperen in principe niet toegestaan, info & tips voor je rondreis met de camper door frankrijk, download onze gratis reisgidsen frankrijk.

Op reis naar Frankrijk ? Ben je nog op zoek naar inspiratie voor je autovakantie? Download dan ook zeker onze rondreizen en uitgestippelde wandelingen, zo mis je niets van het prachtige land. Bekijk ons volledige aanbod rondreizen in Frankrijk .

Gratis reisgids Bretagne downloaden Geef je e-mail adres in, we sturen de reisgids naar je mailbox. Ik schrijf in op de reisnieuwsbrief en aanvaard de gebruiksvoorwaarden

Gerelateerde blogs

Vakantie in de Charente-Maritime: wat zien & doen?

10 x mooiste bezienswaardigheden in de Charente

Dé 33 x mooiste dorpjes in Frankrijk

Geschreven door, reisroutes in de buurt, loirestreek autoroute langs kastelen en meer ..., autovakantie occitanië: je complete route, wandeling périgueux, langs steegjes en pleintjes, wil je elke week leuke reistips en voordelen ontvangen.

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

Motorhoming & Campervanning in France- Your Complete Guide

Planning to go touring in France with a motorhome or campervan? There are some essential things you need to know before your trip, including important paperwork and what kit to bring with you. Here’s everything you need to know about motorhoming in France.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE motorhoming in France checklist below to help you stay organised

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

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Motorhoming in France

If you enjoy motorhome life in the UK or elsewhere, you’re going to LOVE motorhome touring in France. There’s everything you could want from a road trip, including fantastic campsites by the beach, vineyards and local markets full of wine, cheese and other goodies, incredible history and plenty of places to explore.

Even better, the French LOVE motorhomers and campervanners. They are not only welcomed, they are provided for, with copious motorhome parking spots and approved overnight stopovers called Aires (more on that shortly!)

France is often the gateway to Europe for anyone in the UK with a Motorhome. All too often we rush through as quickly as possible, keen to drive to other locations, like Spain or Italy.

But I urge you to take some time to explore. France has some incredible destinations for camper holidays- see below for great itinerary ideas.

If you’re contemplating taking a motorhome to France, this post will help you plan your trip- and tell you what you need to bring and organise before you leave. Don’t forget to grab your FREE Motorhoming in France checklist to help you remember everything.

Motorhoming & Campervannin in France Checklist

Planning a trip to france with your motorhome or camper.

GUIDE – For a step-by-step guide, with video walkthroughs of aires, motorhome set up, checklists and more, grab our France Road Trip & Motorhome Travel Planner

CHECKLIST – Don’t forget to grab your FREE France motorhome travel checklist HERE

GEAR – And if you need any motorhome gear for touring France or Europe, here’s what we recommend.

Motorhome Touring in France- video

If you’d like to share our experiences of motorhoming in France, watch this video to see our experiences with French tolls, motorhome campsites and driving in France! We also show you around the Menton Lemon Festival and we cross the Millau viaduct in our motorhome.

We hope you found the video useful. If you did, we’d love it if you followed us on Youtube . New videos with tips for motorhoming and campervanning in the UK and Europe are released weekly.

Motorhome route planner for France- where to go

The best thing about planning a motorhome or camper trip is that you can literally go ANYWHERE. But that freedom can also be a bit overwhelming- where do you even start?

Before we tell you about the essential things you need to do whilst motorhome touring in France, let’s chat about some of the places you can visit on your France road trip .

Northern France in a campervan routes

Again, many people drive through northern France as a way of getting somewhere else, but there a lot to discover here if you make time to explore.

Some of our favourite places for motorhome trips in Northern France include:

• The Normandy beaches. Everyone should do this at least one
• Mont St Michel – one of the most historical places in France.
• Brittany- one of our favourite areas in France
• The Loire Valley. If you like chateaux and history, this is for you!
• Ile de Re and La Rochelle
• Strasbourg- one of the best and biggest Christmas markets in Europe !

On a side note, I know Paris is in the north of France and we LOVE Paris… but not with a motorhome or camper. Park up in a campsite nearby and travel in by public transport or taxi. Driving in Paris is a law unto itself! (There are plenty of incredible places to see around the Paris area without going into the city itself and we would always suggest getting the train in, instead of driving!)

New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:

See all our Europe motorhoming posts here

NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it

Motorhome Route Planner Southern France

We’ve spent a lot of time motorhoming in southern France. Some of our favourite places include:

• The Gorges du Verdon . One of the most spectacular places we have EVER been with our motorhome
• The Pyrenees, especially the Cirque du Gavarnie . It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful.
• French Alps. Exploring the Alps with a motorhome is one of our favourite trips. We also love Lake Annecy and you MUST add the cable car up Mont Blanc to your France motorhoming itinerary.
• Bordeaux and the Dune du Pilat- make sure you allow time to visit some of the incredible vineyards in the area!

READ MORE: 11 Unmissable France road trip itineraries and ideas

Campervan in France Advice- when to go

The best time to visit France with a motorhome, campervan, caravan or any other vehicle is whenever you have time to explore! Some people pop over on the Eurotunnel for a weekend break. Others take a month to explore one corner.

The beauty of France being so large is that usually there will be at least one area with decent weather. And the beauty of exploring with a home on wheels is that you can drive to wherever the weather is best for you!

Generally, the best weather in France is between April- October. You may still get decent temperatures into November on the French Riviera (that’s the coast on the Med, not the Atlantic coast.) If you’re planning to go motorhome skiing in France, then December- March are your best times, but be aware that a new French law was passed in November 2021 about winter tyres/ snow chains.

RELATED: If you are planning a winter motorhome trip, read this first.

It can get VERY hot in summer, especially down south. It can also be amazingly windy- you’ll find many cafes and restaurants near the Mediterranean or Atlantic bolt down their outdoor furniture.

Our favourite times are Spring and Autumn. It’s usually warm, especially in the south, but there aren’t huge crowds and it’s easy to get access to popular tourist places.

Driving from the UK to France camper routes

If you’re taking your motorhome from the UK to France, there are a couple of options on how to get over there- ferry or Eurotunnel.

Getting to France by Ferry from the UK

Ferry routes go from all along the south coast and occasionally up the East Coast too. The main operators are:

• Brittany Ferries
• Irish Ferries

We enjoy taking the ferry because it cuts down on driving time- we’re travelling whilst we’re sleeping. Also, we’re often driving from South-West England to the west coast of France- so ferry cuts off a lot of that journey.

We were reluctant to take the ferry with our dog, as we didn’t want to leave him in the vehicle, but there are now pet-friendly cabins available on the Portsmouth-Caen route with Brittany Ferries which we use all the time.

The downside of taking the ferry, especially with a motorhome or campervan, is that it’s MUCH more expensive and there are less frequent crossings. Also, in bad weather, it can be miserable.

Taking a Motorhome on the Channel Tunnel

The “Chunnel” is fast, effective and probably the cheapest way to get a motorhome or caravan to France, even in school holidays. There are very few downsides, but the biggest is the delays in summer. Sometimes the queues can be HOURS long- and that was before BREXIT.

The other big downside is how far you have to drive to get there if it’s out of your way- that’s the main reason we don’t use it as often as the ferry, although if we’re going straight through France to go motorhoming in Germany , the Netherlands or anywhere further east, it makes sense.

Also, if you use LPG in your camper for movement (ie, in place of diesel or unleaded) then you are NOT allowed to use the tunnel. (Having gas bottles for cooking/ heating is fine.)

Don’t forget, you can use your Tesco vouchers to reduce the cost even further and some motorhome clubs also offer discounts.

Read More: Driving in Europe after BREXIT? Find the changes HERE 

Best Motorhome Route to Italy Through France

If you’re planning a route through France for an Italy road trip , we’ve put together some of the best driving routes for motorhomes, campers, caravans and cars (complete with estimated toll charges)

Motorhome/ camper Hire in France

Of course, if you don’t own or have access to your own motorhome, camper, car or caravan, you’ll need to rent a vehicle.

There are some important questions you need to consider when renting a motorhome – including making sure you can get to the vehicle and exactly what gear will be on the vehicle when you collect it.

Don’t forget, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure the vehicle has the required safety equipment. The on-the-spot fines apply to you as the driver, not the company. Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring.

Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws.

Make sure you have proof that you can take the vehicle across a border into another country if that’s what you’re planning to do.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Motorhoming in France- what do you need?

In France, as with all countries in Europe, there are certain things you MUST carry with you in your motorhome or campervan.

Don’t forget, if you are driving through France to get to another country, you need all the kit required by France as well as the kit for that country.

Grab your FREE France travel checklist so you remember it all!

Things you need to drive in France- safety gear

Unlike in the UK, there are some things you legally MUST carry in your vehicle when Motorhoming in France. These are:

• Hi-vis reflective jackets – one per person (These MUST be accessible without getting out of the vehicle- ie, don’t keep them in the garage unless you can reach them from inside!)
• Warning triangle
• Headlight beam converters – must be fitted before you drive in Europe.
•  UK sticker  attached to the back of vehicle or reg plates.
• First aid kit – compulsory in many countries, including France and Germany. Find out what we carry in our European first aid kit here

TOP TIP: Buy these essentials for driving in France BEFORE you get to the border- prices at Eurotunnel or on the ferry can be two or three times as much. Here’s what you need from Amazon ., which is cheaper than Halfords or the high street.

Do I need a breathalyser to drive in France?

No. Repeat after me- you do NOT need a breathalyser to drive in France.

It was a law France passed a few years ago… and then quietly removed for whatever reason. Many posts ranking highly in Google still list a breathalyser in their essential Europe driving accessories list, but I promise you you don’t need one.

BLIND SPOT Warning STICKERS for vehicle over 3.5 tonnes in France

As of the 01 January 2021, France have decided all vehicles over 3.5 tonnes must have ‘blind-spot’ stickers, even visiting foreign vehicles.

Here’s everything you need to know about motorhome blind spot warning stickers and if you need them.

Clean Air Sticker

Some of the bigger French cities require you to have a sticker before you can drive in. Personally, I recommend NOT driving into any cities and staying outside the zone, but here’s what you need to know about Crit’Air.

Get a full list of the essential kit and paperwork needed for motorhome touring in France and Europe

Road trip accessories you MIGHT need when campervanning in France

The following kit are things you might need to carry in your car, motorhome, caravan or campervan, depending on when you are planning your road trip in France.

If you are travelling between 15 October and 15 April, you will need to have snow chains able to be fitted as conditions dictate on many roads in the mountains..

• Snow chains/ winter tyres – If you’re going to one of these regions in winter (Nov- March) you’ll need either snow chains or winter tyres fitted. Snow socks are allowed but not as good.
• Red/ white warning board sign – for bike racks or anything overhanging the end of the motorhome or campervan. These are not currently compulsory in France, but they ARE compulsory if you’re motorhoming in Spain and Italy. Get the more expensive aluminium one, the cheaper versions are not legal in Italy.
• Spare bulbs for all lights in the vehicle
• Fire extinguisher
• Water and snacks- just in case you run into traffic or breakdown somewhere remote.

What documents do you need to drive in France?

If you’re driving in France, you need to carry the following documents:

• Passport (or identity card)
• Driving licence (check it is in date!)
• Motorhome Insurance documents- check you are covered for driving in Europe
• Breakdown cover
• Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)
• Vehicle must be legally taxed and MOT’d
• Trailer certification
• Green card (get from your vehicle insurer)
• International Driving Permit if required
• Personal travel insurance

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in France?

Most UK citizens do not need an IDP to drive in France, as long as you have a card driving licence issued in the UK (in date, of course!)

You might need one if you have:

• a paper driving licence only
• a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

(If you do need an IDP, here’s an  in-depth guide on how to get an International Driving Permit  and which one(s) you need from a UK post office.

Motorhome touring in France- Other useful things you might need

We’ve been touring Europe in our motorhome for several years. We’ve tried all sorts of kit- some useful, some not so much.

Here is a list of things we highly recommend when motorhoming in France, but which are NOT essential:

• Motorhome WiFi – learn our favourite way to get internet on the road
• Toll pass (see below)
• TV- If you’d like TV in your motorhome or camper , here’s how to get it.
• Motorhome sat-nav – get one you can enter your motorhome dimensions into, like these
• Motorhome security camera – this thing is GOLD for allowing us to go exploring and leave the van for a short time.
• Solar panel- perfect if you want to wild camp in France with your motorhome
• Inverter- a motorhome wild camping essential
• An awesome road trip playlist!

Motorhome Travel in France- where to stay

Once you’ve got a vehicle to tour around France in, the next thing to consider is what sort of motorhoming holiday you want to have and where are you going to camp/ park up overnight?

• Do you want to stay at a luxury campsite with pitches for motorhomes, campervans and caravans which has a pool, restaurants and activities for the kids to do?
• Do you want to use  aires/ free overnight parking spots in Europe  and stay 2/3 nights in a place before moving on?
• Would you prefer to wild camp in your motorhome and stay at a new place each night, far from crowds and cities? 

Deciding the type of holiday you want to have will make planning your motorhome trip a lot easier. Here’s a bit more information about the types of motorhome parking available in France to help you decide.

Motorhome campsites in France

Like in the UK, campsites in France vary in quality and price. Some campsites have great facilities, like swimming pools or a beach on a lake, watersports, play area, restaurants, fresh bread delivery, shop etc.

Others are more rustic and aren’t much more than an aire with an attendant. Expect the facilities at cheaper campsites to be much lower in hygiene standards than you might be used to!

There are some gorgeous motorhome campsites in France, right by beaches and lakes, with swimming pools, evening entertainment and kids clubs. If you want a relaxing holiday whilst staying in your own van and enjoying the sunshine, this might be the best option for you.

They work much like in the UK- you arrive, check in (and will usually need to show a passport), are given or can select a pitch with or without electric (depending on what you booked) and that’s it.

Expect some campsites to keep your passport for the duration of your stay with them. This is often at the places where you haven’t paid in advance- I always try to pay in advance and keep my passport where I know it’s safe!

Dogs are normally always welcome on campsites, but there isn’t always a dog walk/ run where they are allowed off lead.

The best motorhome campsites in France

We do occasionally use campsites in France. This is normally when we want to ride our motorbikes and don’t want to leave the van unattended all day in an aire or wild camping spot.

Because we rarely plan a route through France, and therefore we never know where we’re going to be, we book campsites at the last minute- or just turn up. This doesn’t always work, (especially in  August or between October-March when many campsites shut) but there always seems to be something around which works out.

If you’re more organised, you can find some of the best motorhome campsites in France here.

France motorhome travel in the school holidays- or not?

If you’re travelling in the school holidays, you’ll want to book up the campsite (if you’re using one) asap- the best ones get booked up months in advance.

If you’re NOT travelling during the school holidays, you might want to consider getting an  ACSI camping card – you’ll save a lot of money on campsite charges.

Overnight Motorhome stopovers in France – Aires

For us, we prefer to travel around France and explore different places during our motorhome trips instead of staying in one area. We generally stay only one night in a place (unless we’re planning to ride the motorbikes, in which case we find somewhere for a few nights.) 

There are two types of motorhome overnight parking options instead of campsites. The first are approved Motorhome parking places, which are called  Aires in France .

Aires are approved overnight motorhome parking places, often provided and maintained by the local commune. They are designed for motorhomes or campervans (not caravans sadly). You can’t book an aire in advance, and they all have different services available.

Some have electric hookup and waste disposal, others are literally an approved motorhome parking place for the evening. You can often stay in an aire for 2 or 3 days. Some are paid and will have a sign somewhere telling you what to do to pay; some are free.

How to find and use Motorhome Aires in France

You can find aires using a motorhome app like Park4Night or campercontact, or you can get a book before you go (see below).

READ MORE: Step by step instructions on how to find and use French Aires for motorhomes

To use an aire, you turn up in your motorhome or campervan and see if there’s an available space. It’s that simple! Most aires cater for motorhomes up to about 8m, so if you’re towing with your motorhome (like we often do), you need to be very careful which ones you choose.

Aires have no set arrival or departure times, so there’s a lot more freedom, but they often have a 24h or 48h max duration- and that is checked, so don’t overstay your welcome.

Bear in mind that there is often no security or personnel at these places (you often pay at a machine like a car park) so we try not to leave the motorhome unattended for long periods.

Books to help your find motorhome aires in France

We don’t use books to find campsites or aires on France (we prefer apps), but I know many people prefer having something which doesn’t rely on motorhome wifi or internet!

Here are some excellent France motorhome guides to help you plan your travels and overnight stopover. They also make excellent gift ideas for motorhome owners !

Motorhome Parking Tips for Aires in France

You cannot pre-book Aires- they operate on a first-come basis. We found people tended to move on about 10-11am and most were parked up by 4pm, so try and move within that window for the best chance of finding a space.

We like aires, as we feel happier leaving our motorhome if we want to go off an explore, and don’t want to deal with the noise or expense of a European campsite. We tow motorbikes behind our motorhome and love being able to use them without worrying if the van is ok.

RELATED: How to find and use aires and motorhome stopovers around Europe

Wild camping in France for Motorhomes

We love wild camping in a motorhome in France – and there are some INCREDIBLE places to stop for a night.

Motorhome wild camping offers a lot of freedom- you can turn up and leave as you like, although we only ever advise using a wild camping spot for one night; otherwise, the locals might think you’re moving in!

Want to stay off-grid with your motorhome?

Grab our FREE wild parking checklist and make it easy for yourself. Everything you need to do, bring or remember when you stay off-grid.

You need to be very respectful when wild camping- it’s not a right, it’s a privilege, so take away all of your waste, don’t play loud music and don’t park too close to someone’s house. If a sign says it’s private land, either ask the owner for permission or move on.

Don’t park anywhere with a sign saying no overnight parking. Don’t forget many farmers and landowners carry guns in France- you don’t want to get on the wrong side of that!

READ MORE: Step-by-step guide to motorhome wild camping in France

France Passion- approved overnight motorhome parking scheme in France

If you’d like to avoid campsites and sostas, but don’t want to risk staying off-grid, there is another option which offer places to stay with a motorhome or campervan- France Passion.

France Passion is a collection of businesses and locations across France which allow motorhomes and campervans to stay overnight on their land.

In return, you are expected to eat a meal at the restaurant, or buy some wine or produce from their shop. If you enjoy visiting vineyards, chateaux or local markets, this might be a good scheme for you.

Motorhome and campervan service points in France

In addition to the aires, France has a system of motorhome service places. We find these using the app Park4Night, and each place allows you to empty waste (both grey and black) into safe and hygienic locations. If you’re lucky, there will also be fresh water available.

TOP TIP: Use your own water hose when filling your fresh water tanks- many public hoses have been there for years and have all sorts of disgusting bacteria lurking inside!

Getting LPG in France

LPG (GPL) is fairly plentiful and can be found at selected petrol stations and at autogas stations. If buying from a petrol station, you may need to wait for an attendant to turn the system on for you. You can find places which sell LPG using MyLPG.eu

If you don’t have refillable gas bottles in your motorhome , you will need a different attachment in order to be able to connect to a French gas bottle.

READ MORE: Learn  how we find LPG in Europe for our motorhome without refillable bottles

Getting Fuel in France

Many people worry whether they should fill up in UK or France.

In our experience, France is often a little cheaper, BUT there are often has fuel strikes. We ALWAYS fill up in the UK before we go… just in case.

Driving tips for France motorhome travels

France is generally not too bad for drivers (at least, not compared to motorhoming in Italy !) The scariest thing about driver in France are the… ummm… older generation who don’t realise that priorite a droite is no longer a thing (more on that below!)

Some quick tips for driving in France:

• France drives on the right, like much of Europe
• You DON’T need a left-hand drive vehicle although it might help if you’re travelling on your own.
• The road system is set up for you driving on the right. Signs are on that side, roundabouts have helpful arrows and slip roads are pointed the right way. It’s not as hard as it sounds
• Avoid driving in Paris. At all times. In any vehicle.
• The maximum speed for private vehicles under 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways but speed limits are lower for cars towing caravans and for motorhomes over 3.5t in weight. You might need to display motorhome or caravan speed stickers
• If driving through towns and villages, only use the horn in an emergency.
• Helmets are compulsory if you are motorcycling in France
• Buses and trams have right of way.
• Seatbelts are compulsory
• In-car speed camera detectors and  motorhome sat-nav systems  warning of the presence of radars are illegal (whether they’re in use or not!)
• Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, but you can use a hands-free unit without earbuds.
• Minor traffic offences can result in on-the-spot fines.
• UK driving licences are perfectly acceptable to use and you probably won’t need an IDP (find out the changes made to  driving in Europe after BREXIT )
• You will need a green card to prove you  have motorhome insurance  cover when travelling in France.

Priorite a droite in France

France no longer has the stupid ‘prioritie a droite’ rule, (which meant you had to stop ON the roundabout for anyone coming onto it…!) HOWEVER, expect the occasional older French resident to merrily sail onto the roundabout and expect you to stop for them. It’s fun. Also, I believe it still exists in some places in France- like the Arc de Triomphe. Again- avoid Paris.

There is an excellent article explaining Priorite a droite, with all the corresponding road signs, right here

Speed limits in France

Speed Limits are as follows (unless otherwise signed!)

• 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways
• 110km/hr (68mph) on major roads
• 90 km/h (50 mph) on minor roads (out of town)
• 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas
• In rain or snow conditions, the limit is lowered to 110 k/h on motorways and 90 k/h on trunk roads- this WILL NOT be signposted- you’re expected to know it

Motorhomes with trailers or caravans:

• motorways 80 km/h (50 mph)
• major out-of-town roads 70 km/h (44 mph)
• minor out-of-town roads 70 km/h (44 mph)
• built-up areas- 50 km/h (31 mph)

Motorhomes and Campervans weighing over 3.5 tonnes and under 12 tonnes:

• motorways 100 km/h (62 mph)
• major out-of-town roads 80 km/h (50 mph)
• minor out-of-town roads 80 km/h (50 mph)
• urban areas- 50 km/h (31 mph)

Beware of parked cars on the sides of fast roads

Entrapment is allowed in France and police will regularly park an old car at the side of the road with a hidden camera in it, and then they’ll pull you over further down and give you a speeding ticket.

Speed camera warnings in France

If you see a sign for a speed camera, there’s nearly always a camera within a mile for sure.

Tolls in France

France, like nearly all countries in Europe which don’t have a vignette system, has tolls on its major roads. You collect a ticket at the machine as you enter the road system and pay (either a person or machine) at the end in cash or on a card. Tolls in France are one of the most expensive in Europe (just be grateful you’re not motorhoming in Norway!)

Depending on your route and size (height!) of your motorhome, a trip from Northern France to southern will cost around 50€. If your motorhome is over 3m, you will be charged as a Class 4 vehicle, not class 2, so it could be as much as 90€.

Most motorhomes are calculated for class B, regardless of the number of axles. You can calculate the toll cost of your intended route  here

You can use a tollpass/ telepass (like e-Movis) or you can pay-as-you-go by cash or card (we always recommend carrying some cash- just in case!) Signs indicate the means of payment accepted on each lane.

Driving in France- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident

You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment.

What to do at the scene:

• Stop your vehicle immediately but safely- out of the flow of traffic if possible.
• If a vehicle is blocking the road, use hazard lights and put the red warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching traffic
• Name and address of all the people involved in the accident
• Vehicle registration numbers of all parties
• Insurance company details of all parties
• Take photos of damage using a camera, GoPro or phone

For more details, read our step-by-step guide on dealing with a road traffic accident in Europe

Campervanning in France- security

We highly recommend paying extra attention to your  motorhome security  when travelling in France. You might even wish to fit an extra camper habitation door lock and never leave your vehicle unattended in an unsecured area.

More useful things to know when motorhoming in France

Emergency Numbers:  112 will get you everything you need.

Language – French. English usually spoken in campsites and in tourist areas, but not often elsewhere.

Currency – Euro

Cards – most major credit and debit cards are accepted. American Express is only taken in large stores (not at tolls and often not at fuel stations)

Timezone – GMT+1 (or one hour ahead in BST) France is always one hour ahead of the UK, no matter what. Their clocks go forward and back whenever ours does.

Tipping – If you decide to treat yourself to a meal out, most restaurants will include a tip in the bill. Otherwise, 10-15% is standard. Coffee shops and lunchtime eateries often don’t include a tip, so check your bill before paying.

Shops – Many shops close on Sundays. Bigger supermarkets may be open, but will close at lunchtime. If bakeries open on Sundays, they are often closed on Mondays instead. Many shops and businesses also shut for a long lunch (between 12-2pm) and some will not open on Wednesday afternoons.

Doing Laundry in France while motorhome touring

We struggled to get our motorhome anywhere near a proper laundrette (which are often in the centre of towns and cities). We ended up putting it on the back of our motorbikes, or specifically choosing a campsite with laundry facilities.

However, many bigger supermarkets in France have some washing machines outside and it’s very common to pull up, put on a load of laundry and then do your shopping.

Touring France with a dog

France is pretty dog-friendly and they are widely accepted on public transport. Take a muzzle and their pet paperwork, such as the AHC- although we’ve never been asked to show this.

Read more:  changes affecting travelling to Europe with a dog after BREXIT

We also found dogs were allowed on the beaches except in high season, which makes sense and they’re often allowed in restaurants if they’re well-behaved and on a short lead.

Other posts you might find useful:

• The best road trips in France
• Unmissable road trip ideas for Europe
• Essential motorhome checks to do before you travel

See all our Europe travel tips and ideas

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Hi Both, We have lived in the south of France for fifteen years. In general the French do not tip. They may leave the few coppers of loose change on the plate but will remove everything from a Euro up. I have never tipped in a restaurant in France and never had a waiter hover expecting one. Like the rest of Europe there is a compulsory minimum wage and people are not allowed to work for tips alone. If you get extraordinary service for something then that is up to you but don’t feel compelled to do it.

Having been a waitress (many moons ago) I know how nice it was to get a tip, so we always try and leave one. 🙂

Informative post….France is fab. I don’t think you mentioned Critair Stickers for travelling into some cities and areas during heavy pollution. Our moho is too old for one and we manage to get to the Med without encountering any issues but Paris has a permanent zone and many cities now have this in place for temporary polution. Ive read many people end up paying a fortune for one through dodgy websites when they areess than £5 …the AA have a link to the official website. Happy Travelling Michaela-moho PS never taken a breathalyser either ?

Hi Michaela. I’ve updated the guide to include Crit Air. 🙂 Thanks for the tips about the AA website. Safe travels.

Hi, thank you for providing such an informative blog! Planning on taking our first trip abroad in our motorhome and finding lots of very useful info here. I will have lots of questions that I’m sure I will find answers to here but one answer I haven’t found yet is regarding hills/mountains. We have a old J reg talbot and I’m a little concern about travelling anywhere near mountains. Would you say the roads near mountain ranges are generally ok to take a motorhome such as ours on or should we avoid them?

I will be back to pick your brains some more and will be sure to purchase necessary items from your page to help you in your work.

Pretty new to motorhome life but living it since November 2019 and loving it. Can’t wait to get into Europe as it seems so much more motorhome friendly than here in the UK. Oh, we are originally from the South West too, maybe we will cross paths one day!

Thanks again

Garry, Jess, Jasper (the dog), Kraken (the cat) & Batfink (the kitten)!

Hey guys. I think it depends on the vehicle- and you know that better than us. If you struggle getting up a steep-ish hill in the UK, you’ll really struggle in ‘proper’ mountains like the Alps or the Pyrenees. If you’re not sure, steer clear- there’s nowhere to turn around halfway up! Let me know how it goes!

My only comment would be. You need to be aware of heights, we have a 2007 Knaus su ti on a Renault master chassis if we go over 3500 meters, Andorra is a prime example, the engine is starved of oxygen and really struggles to move. I’ve written to MMM magazine and followed their advice but to no avail. Most vehicles have no problems but I have had two cars with the same problem

Hi, Really informative and helpful article. Lots of useful tips and advice. I’m planning on doing an road trip through France , then Spain this summer and followed then a ski season in France ( actually was looking at doing it last year but the virus stopped that ) . I may of missed it but had you got any recommendations for travelling in Spain. Regards Stephen

Thanks so much for your blog – it’s been so helpful! 🙂

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Met de camper naar Frankrijk: tips voor route en overnachten

Frankrijk is hét land om met de camper te ontdekken. Ga op reis langs de rotsachtige kusten van Normandië en Bretagne, door de glooiende heuvellandschappen van de Bourgogne of over de kronkelige wegen langs de Dordogne, Tarn, Verdon en Lot, die ruige kloven hebben uitgesleten. Zin in avontuurlijke roadtrips? Zet dan koers naar de smalle bergweggetjes in de Alpen, Auvergne of Pyreneeën. Of je nu met een camperbusje op stap gaat of met een grote camper het land wilt verkennen, overal zijn mooie gebieden te vinden. In dit artikel geef ik je tips voor een mooie route en plekken om te overnachten.

In dit artikel lees je over de volgende onderwerpen

Tips camper Frankrijk

Frankrijk is een campervriendelijk land. De Fransen zelf gaan er graag op uit met hun ‘camping car’, maar ook veel vakantiegangers uit het buitenland ontdekken de mooie wegen van Frankrijk met een kampeerwagen. Er zijn een paar dingen om rekening mee te houden wanneer je met een camper naar Frankrijk gaat. Net als met een auto, is het bijvoorbeeld verplicht om veiligheidshesjes onder handbereik te hebben en tijdens de winter is het verplicht om winterbanden en sneeuwkettingen te hebben en deze ook te gebruiken als dat wordt aangegeven. Voor campers zwaarder dan drieënhalve ton zijn er aanvullende regels, zoals de verplichting om een dodehoeksticker op de zijkant te plakken. Verder geldt dat sommige bergwegen en smalle routes niet toegankelijk zijn voor dit soort zware campers, dit staat langs de weg aangegeven met een rood omrand verbodsbord. Ook moet je in Frankrijk rekening houden met de milieuzones, met name rond en in de grote steden. Als je hier wilt rijden moet je een milieusticker op de voorruit hebben.

Mooie routes

Overal in het land vind je mooie routes. Wat wij vaak doen is onze roadtrip aan de hand van de Michelin wegenatlas uitstippelen. Op die kaart zijn schilderachtige routes met groen gemarkeerd en staan bezienswaardigheden met sterren aangegeven. Verder letten we altijd op de toeristische bordjes die we langs de kant van de weg zien staan. De meeste monumenten en historische gebouwen staan namelijk vermeld op bruine verkeersborden, en het is dan ook leuk om gewoon wat op de bonnefooi naar dit soort plekken te rijden. Ook vind je op veel plekken op het platteland allerlei thematische routes die met bewegwijzering staan aangegeven, zoals routes du fromage langs kaasboerderijen of routes des vins langs wijngaarden.

Langs de kust

Een roadtrip langs de kust is altijd een goed idee. Geniet van de weidse uitzichten op indrukwekkende kliffen en verlaten baaitjes, leuke vissershavens en langgerekte zandstranden. Zowel aan de westkust als aan de Middellandse Zeekust zijn mooie routes te ontdekken. Rijd bijvoorbeeld langs de Opaalkust in het noorden, met de Cap Blanc Nez als hoogtepunt, of ontdek de landingsstranden van Normandië. Minder bekend en rustiger is de Route des Caps die langs de noordwestkust van het schiereiland Cotentin voert. Het einde-van-de-wereldgevoel krijg je aan de ruige kust van Finistère in Bretagne, ook een gebied waar je prachtige wandelingen kunt maken. Als je van surfen houdt, dan is de zuidwestkust van Les Landes niet te missen. Hier vind je kilometerslange zandstranden, eindeloze naaldbossen en bovenal vaak hoge golven, ideale omstandigheden om je surfplank in het water te gooien. Aan de Middellandse Zee vind je tot slot ook nog enkele mooie routes. Ontdek bijvoorbeeld de ruige Côte Vermeille in de Pyrénées-Orientales, of ga op ontdekkingstocht langs de Côte d’Azur, over de corniches langs de bergachtige kust.

Door de bergen

Enkele van de meest indrukwekkende wegen van Frankrijk vind je in de berggebieden. Veel camperaars trekken de Alpen in om daar mooie routes te verkennen. Een van de bekendste autoroutes is bijvoorbeeld de Route des Grandes Alpes, van het Meer van Genève naar Nice. Deze voert over een hele reeks bekende bergpassen en langs schitterende landschappen. Maar ook in andere bergachtige streken zijn mooie routes te rijden. Wat dacht je bijvoorbeeld van de Route des Crêtes in de Vogezen, een stukje dichter bij huis. Of ga eens naar de Auvergne , waar allerlei routes door het vulkanische landschap voeren en je soms het idee hebt in IJsland rond te rijden. En dan heb je ook de Pyreneeën nog in Zuid-Frankrijk. Een bekende route is de Route des Cols, die van de ene kant van de bergketen naar de andere voert en daarbij vrijwel alle bekende Pyreneeëncols aandoet. Leuk en herkenbaar als je fan bent van de Tour de France. Maar ook de deelgebieden van de Pyreneeën zijn de moeite waard met de camper, zoals bijvoorbeeld de bos- en merenrijke Ariège , waar ook nog eens schitterende wandelroutes te vinden zijn.

Volg de rivieren

In Frankrijk vind je bijzonder veel rivieren. De langste van allemaal is de Loire, die van de bergen in de Ardèche naar de Atlantische Kust stroomt. Hoe leuk is het om met de camper de loop van zo’n grote rivier te volgen, en te stoppen bij alle fraaie kastelen en dorpen die je tegenkomt. Naast de Loire kan dat bijvoorbeeld ook heel goed met de Rhône, de Seine, de Dordogne en de Lot. Maar ook kortere rivieren zijn de moeite waard. Een van de beroemdste rivierkloven is die van de Verdon. Door het natuurgebied van de Gorges du Verdon loopt een indrukwekkende autoroute, die je ook nog eens langs mooie dorpen brengt. Zo’n route vind je ook bij de Gorges de l’Ardèche en de Gorges du Tarn, allebei schitterende plekken met torenhoge rotswanden.

Historische dorpen

Frankrijk is niet alleen zo populair vanwege de natuur. Veel mensen zijn ook gecharmeerd van de schitterende eeuwenoude dorpen. Je kunt aan de hand van de Michelinkaart vaak heel gemakkelijk zelf een route samenstellen langs mooie dorpen. In veel departementen heeft de lokale toeristische dienst echter ook kant-en-klare routes langs de meest bezienswaardige dorpen. Loop gewoon eens een Office de Tourisme van een streek binnen en vraag naar een ‘circuit touristique’ langs ‘villages de caractère’, en ze zullen je ongetwijfeld verder helpen. Zelf hebben we zo al vele mooie roadtrips gereden, langs bijvoorbeeld bastidedorpen in Zuidwest-Frankrijk en door de vallei van de Dordogne . Ook ander delen van het land zitten vol met pittoreske plekken, zoals de Elzas met de vele wijndorpen en de Provence met de kleurrijke Provençaalse dorpjes.

Overnachten met een camper

Zoals gezegd is Frankrijk een ideaal land om met de camper te verkennen. Dat komt niet in de laatste plaats doordat er zoveel is ingericht op de ontvangst van campers. Bij veel toeristische dorpen vind je bijvoorbeeld camperplekken met faciliteiten om je afvalwater te lozen, nieuw water te tappen en wc’s. Daarnaast is het in Frankrijk toegestaan om gewoon op parkeerplaatsen gratis te overnachten , tenzij dat ergens expliciet verboden is. Opgelet: het is op parkeerplaatsen niet toegestaan om te ‘kamperen’, dat wil zeggen dat je bijvoorbeeld geen luifel mag uitklappen of stoeltjes buiten mag zetten. Maar gewoon in je camper slapen kan dus prima. Daarnaast zijn er natuurlijk buitengewoon veel campings , zowel hele grote als hele kleine. Tot slot is het ook een leuk idee om je aan te sluiten bij het netwerk van France Passion. Voor dertig euro per jaar kun je verder kosteloos overnachten bij meer dan tweeduizend boerenbedrijven. Zo kun je je camper neerzetten bij onder andere wijnboeren maar ook tussen lavendelvelden en zonnebloemvelden, of bijvoorbeeld op een boerderij met koeien of schapen.

Frankrijk Puur Roadtrips

Op zoek naar mooie ritten in Frankrijk, met de auto, motor of camper? Dan is het boek Frankrijk Puur Roadtrips wat voor jou. Je vindt hierin maar liefst vijftig kant-en-klare reisroutes in het hele land, inclusief tips voor campings en bezienswaardigheden onderweg.

Een perfect stuk informatie voor onze eerste ervaring met een campertje in Frankrijk. Hartelijk dank. Paul en Andrea

Fijn dat het van pas is gekomen!

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10 gratis camperplekken in Frankrijk: geniet van prachtige natuur en unieke uitzichten!

France Motorhome Itinerary

Are you planning a motorhome trip to France, but don’t know where to start?

We’ve got the perfect France motorhome itinerary for you! Whether you’re in a motorhome, campervan or even a car with a tent, our two to three week French itinerary will take you on an incredible road trip around the country.

From dramatic mountains, fields full of lavender and sunflowers to the sparkling blue Mediterranean and rushing rivers of Occitanie, this journey will share breathtaking landscapes, exciting adventures and iconic sights as you tour this diverse country.

What you get with this itinerary;

• 34 pages of detailed daily suggestions covering 21 days including what to do and see, and where to go along the route + packing tips and France road trip tips .
• A 3000km route with daily mileage and drive times.
• Fifteen recommended campsites and aires suitable for motorhomes.
• 160+ attractions and points of interest along the route.
• Ready to use interactive Google Map with route, campsites and attractions detailed .
• Ten insider tips that you won’t find in guide books.
• Three wild camping spots to try, and access to all our France wild camping tips.

No time to research? Don’t worry, we’ve got that sorted!

Grab our two-three week France itinerary, packed with campsites, attractions and insider tips.

Get up every morning knowing your day is planned with driving routes and campsites marked out for you on your interactive map.

Make the most of your holiday and let us do the planning for you.

+immediate download + read on any device + free lifetime updates

Price £12.99

Where Are You Going?

This itinerary starts in medieval Dijon and heads south along the beautiful eastern side of France before looping across traditional Provence to visit some of the region’s most iconic sights.

You’ll meander across historic Languedoc covering Gard, Herault and the wild Cevennes, where you’ll find rushing rivers and gorges in which to swim, mountains to hike and beautiful gardens to visit.

Finally, you’ll enjoy the wonderful landscape of the Dordogne, where dramatic castles and historic villages nestle in picture-perfect valleys alongside the mighty river itself.

Throughout the itinerary, you’ll find suggestions for how to spend your day – whether you’re a history and culture vulture or an adventure seeker, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy with our itinerary.

You May Also Like…

Why Buy Our Itineraries?

• We have years of experience camping, caravanning and motorhoming in the UK and Europe. We’ve also lived in our motorhome full-time for three years…meaning we’ve visited LOTS of places and have gathered lots of information and insider knowledge.
• As well as visiting all the places we write about, our itineraries are extensively researched to ensure they are accurate and provide up to date information.
• Our itineraries come in PDF format that can be viewed on any device, just download and get reading.
• All the links in our itineraries are clickable, meaning you can check up on a particular campsite or view the map directly from your phone or tablet.
• We offer free lifetime updates. No catch, completely free, forever. Whenever we update an itinerary, you will be offered the chance to download the new version free of charge.
• Our site and payment gateway is 100% secure. You can pay safely and risk free with a debit or credit card or use Paypal.
• If you are not satisfied with your itinerary, we offer an uncomplicated, no questions asked refund within 7 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when i check out.

• You will be taken directly to our secure payment gateway, where you are asked to enter your email and payment details. 
• If you want to receive automatic updates, tick the box and you will receive an opt-in email.
• Once this information is entered and your payment is accepted, a download button will appear on your screen. 
• Click this if you are using the same device on which you will view and use the itinerary. If that’s not the case, don’t worry, you’ll also be receiving an email within a few moments of purchase with a download link.
• You have three attempts to download your itinerary. If you need more attempts, please  email us .

What happens when I download the itinerary?

When you download the itinerary, it will appear on your screen in a web browser, such as Chrome or Safari. Select the share button and save to your phone, tablet, laptop or computer.

Can I print the itinerary?

Yes, but it will use quite a lot of ink as our itineraries also include images.

What if I’m not happy with my purchase?

We want you to be 100% satisfied, but if you’re not, drop us an email and we’ll sort a refund for you.

The best campervanning road trips in France and Germany

These are some of the best routes for seasoned road trippers and novices alike.

• Post author By Caroline Mills
• Post date 7th July 2021

There cannot be a child that hasn’t, at some stage in their childhood, draped a duvet cover over a couple of chairs and ‘camped’. That hasn’t created a den in their bedroom or garden, had a picnic – pretend or otherwise – or a midnight feast and devoured an entire packet of Wotsits and Jammie Dodgers by torchlight or attempted to sleep in a makeshift tent. That was me. That was my children.

Camping, in all its guises, became a part of my life and defined many moments throughout childhood and has continued to remain a focal point. Since my three children successively arrived, we have ventured on many camping road trips as mother and son/daughter(s), with all three children, or I alone, touring across the entirety of Europe from France and Germany to Spain and Scandinavia.

Most of the time, we’ve ‘wild camped’ legally, stayed in aires and Stellplätze or pitched in permissive private spaces, all in addition to campsites. We never book ahead; rarely do we know where we’re likely to be or stay until we choose to pitch up for the night. We don’t think anything of it; it’s what we do, but plenty of people have commented on the mettle to get-up-and-go, to camp, to drive a motorhome in a foreign country ‘without a man’. It’s simply the man in our lives unfortunately can’t come with us.

France and Germany have no shortage of spectacular routes, offering everything from sensational views to sublime food and wine. So buckle up and join me on a tour of a few of my favourites.

Best for: epic views

Bavaria & Baden-Württemberg; Berchtesgaden to Lindau; 280 miles, 5 days

What is it about the smell of freshly mown grass? Especially when it’s on a gently sloping mountain pasture and you can hear the sound of cowbells merrily tinkling as their brown and white-patched owners tear at luscious green turf. There’s an emerald lake that sparkles in the sunshine, its cool water fed by precipitous waterfalls that tumble from a craggy mountain backdrop.

This is, in effect, Germany’s Alpine Road all rolled into one. The signposted tourist route gently meanders through blissful Alpine countryside between Königsee (Germany’s highest lake) and Lindau, on the northeastern edge of the massive Bodensee that divides Germany from Switzerland and Austria. In between we pass pine forests, electric-blue reservoirs and a panorama of peaks, all the while stopping off to explore charming Baroque villages like Bad Tölz and Füssen. Quintessential Bavaria at its finest.

Best for: gardens

Île de France; Chantilly to Vaux-le-Vicomte; 240 miles, 4 days

If you like gardens, you’ll love Île de France. This northern region is brimming with magnificent compositions of celebrated landscape gardener, André le Nôtre – France’s answer to Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, although you could say it is the other way around given that le Nôtre was born 100 years earlier.

Circling Paris, this rather grand route visits some of the country’s most spectacular homes and gardens, beginning at the historic Château de Chantilly (birthplace of Chantilly cream) and finishing at Vaux-le-Vicomte – often regarded as le Nôtre’s finest garden. Along the way we stop off at other big-hitters, including Château de Sceaux, with its glorious parkland, and the most famous of them all – the Palace of Versailles .

Best for: beer

The Ardennes; Stenay to Dinant; 304 miles, 4 days

Ok, so technically this route goes through Belgium. But when they joined forces with France to promote a new Beer Route in the cross-border region of the Ardennes, it moved up my list of places to go. But don’t expect to turn up in the region and follow a brown-signposted tourist trail; this 350-mile route is of the modern age, downloadable on to a smartphone, where you create your own itinerary.

The four-day journey explores the captivating towns of this region of river valleys, with its mountain-high sides and shiveringly tight bends. And in among are springing up dozens of microbreweries, adding to the weighty collection of well-established Trappist beers and village brasseries.

Highlights include Stenay, home to its very own Beer Museum, Haybes, with its microbrewery that makes a ‘Stockport’ beer tribute to the English town that helped it to rebuild after the German destruction in World War I, and Dinant, birthplace of the well-known Leffe Abbey beer. Santé!

Best for: beaches

Pays de la Loire/Nouvelle-Aquitaine; Saint-Nazaire to Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle; 780 miles, 6 days

The southwest coast of France has long been a popular destination for beach-goers, with the likes of La Rochelle and Les Sables-d’Olonne drawing a cosmopolitan crowd for years. But there are many other smaller seaside towns to enjoy here, and this coastal route takes in some of the best – traversing marshlands, pine forests and Europe’s biggest sand dune along the way.

Bordeaux and Biarritz are high points of the journey (the former for its wine, the latter for its glitz and glamour), as is the town of Fouras, with its plethora of oyster restaurants, and charming Saint-Jean-de-Luz, where tapas is the dish of the day. And every few kilometres there’s another sun-drenched beach to enjoy, each with its own beauty and character.

Best for: food

Provence; Apt to Aigues-Mortes; 160 miles, 4 days

Silvery green olive trees are baked in parched soil, their stunted snake-like trunks blackened with age. Opening the door of the motorhome as we pull up beside argentine slivered rocks drenched in sunlight at the summit of Les Alpilles, a wave of scent hits me with such potency, it’s like a beguiling linctus. Rosemary, thyme, lavender, marjoram, pine, all mingle together in a heady concoction that explodes among the senses.

Earlier, riotous coloured cloths in customary Provençal patterns had covered the tables of open-air cafés in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, each groaning with a plentiful supply of mouth-watering platters. This is just a typical scene in Provence, and this 160-mile, four-day route across the region explores some of France’s freshest produce.

Starting in the small town of Apt, the self-proclaimed glacé fruit capital of the world, we pass through France’s premier melon-growing centre, Cavaillon, before traversing a patchwork of vineyards, lavender fields and olive groves in the shadow of Les Alpilles.

As we cross the Camargue, a regional natural park that covers much of the Rhône delta, small sheds appear on the roadside every few miles, each offering a variety of regional specialities: Camargue rice, salt and olive oils, Vins des Sables (Wine of the Sands) and Saucisson Taureau, a charcuterie sausage made from Camargue bulls. For me, this is what touring is all about.

Best for: history

Lower Saxony; Celle to Bad Iburg; 263 miles, 6 days

It’s a story that would rival any script from a soap opera. There’s scandal, murder, illegitimate children and political drama, and all this in a pre-modern era when society was not so liberally minded. It’s no wonder the Georgians aren’t part of the school curriculum.

The region around Hannover offers plenty of windows into this dramatic past: the architecturally rich town of Celle, with its half-timbered houses and striking palaces; the fairytale Schlösser of Marienburg and Ahlden (one built as an act of love, one used as a prison); and, of course, Hannover itself, where love affairs and suspicious deaths seem to pervade every palace. Fans of The Crown can eat their heart out on this route.

More information

For more information on camping road trips across France and Germany, take a look at Caroline’s guide :

De mooiste camperroutes in Frankrijk

Ontdek frankrijk met de camper.

Frankrijk is dé vakantiebestemming bij uitstek om met de camper te ontdekken. De grote verscheidenheid aan natuur, kleine authentieke dorpjes en hippe steden met achter elke hoek een bezienswaardigheid, zorgen ervoor dat je er kunt blijven reizen, zonder je ook maar een moment te vervelen.

Frankrijk is een echt “camperland” met uitstekende voorzieningen die je camperreis heel wat aangenamer maken. Doorheen het land is er een groot aanbod aan campings en camperplaatsen. In principe mag je in Frankrijk overnachten in de camper daar waar je ook mag parkeren. Hier zijn wel enkele regels en uitzonderingen aan verbonden.

Wij selecteerden hieronder de mooiste camperroutes door Frankrijk die je als inspiratie voor je volgende camperreis kunt gebruiken.

7 van de mooiste camperroutes in Frankrijk

Normandië is een heerlijke roadtrip-bestemming. Nergens in Frankrijk ontdek je zo’n variatie aan landschappen en bezienswaardigheden. Nomads stippelde een camperroute uit van 957 km die vertrekt in de badplaats Dieppe en langs de witte krijtrotsen van de Côte d’Albâtre voert naar het charmante Honfleur en Deauville. De rit brengt je langs de invasiestranden van D-Day en ook de Mont Saint-Michel ontbreekt niet. Terugkeren doen we via het binnenland, want het heuvelachtige Normandië heeft meer te bieden dan enkel kust. Op deze camperroute zal het je niet ontbreken aan campings en camperplaatsen.

Wie ‘Provence’ zegt, denkt direct aan een zonnig, bergachtig landschap dat afgewisseld wordt met wijngaarden en purperen lavendelvelden. Een camperroute door de Provence zorgt ongetwijfeld voor adembenemende uitzichten. Deze route is een streling voor het oog. Je trekt van authentiek dorpje naar gezellige stad in een prachtig decor van heuvels. De camperroute telt 668 km en vertrekt in het minder bekende Alpes-de-Haute-Provence om van daaruit naar het zonnige Vaucluse te rijden. Fruitkwekerijen, olijfgaarden en truffels brengen je naar de Camargue om daarna de wijnstreek Côtes-du-Rhône en het Romeinse verleden van Avignon en Orange te verkennen.

Franse Pyreneeën

De Pyreneeën strekken zich uit van de Golf van Biskaje tot aan de Middellandse Zee en vormen de natuurlijke grens tussen Frankrijk en Spanje. Een camperroute door de Franse Pyreneeën biedt zee, stranden, bergen, rivieren, meren, dalen, natuurparken en talloze leuke stadjes. Deze camperroute is ideaal voor een vakantie van pakweg 14 dagen en biedt een verscheidenheid aan bezienswaardigheden. Geniet voluit van de schoonheid van de Pyreneeën en laat je leiden langs de grillige banen van Biarritz tot aan Barcarès aan de Middellandse Zee.

Aan de voet van de Pyreneeën ligt de Aude in de regio Languedoc-Roussillon. Deze regio staat bekend om prachtige natuur, heerlijke wijn en de geschiedenis van de Katharen. De zonnige regio leent zich dan ook uitstekend voor een tocht met de camper! De camperroute vertrekt in Narbonne aan de Middellandse Zee en trekt het binnenland in via kronkelige wegen en mooie wijngaarden. Daarna trekt de route de Pyreneeën in en verken je de impressionante burchten en kastelen van de Katharen. Hoog gebouwd op duizelingwekkende rotsen herinneren de ruïnes van Peyrepertuse en Quéribus aan het verleden.

Côte d’Azur

De Côte d’Azur is dé vakantiebestemming van menig Belg en Nederlander, maar misschien niet voor de hand liggend om er met de camper naartoe te trekken. Het is er superdruk in de zomer, de nauwe straten leveren stress op in de camper én de campings en camperplaatsen zijn dun gezaaid. Maar… in het voorjaar of het najaar is het er rustig en kan je de regio perfect met de camper berijden. Laat je betoveren door de azuurblauwe kust, de kleine dorpjes en natuurlijk ook door de grote badsteden van de Franse Rivièra.

Elzas & Vogezen

De Elzas is een veelzijdige bestemming in het noordoosten van Frankrijk die camperliefhebbers weet te charmeren met zijn cultuur en gastronomie. Het is een rijke, levendige en gulle streek die zich uitstrekt langs de Rijn en je meeneemt langs wijnheuvels en gezellige dorpen, met op de achtergrond: de bergtoppen van de Vogezen. Op deze camperroute staan eerst de vele wijngaarden en de uitstekende Elzasser wijnen op de planning. Daarna volgen we de Route des Crêtes die ons langs bergdorpen en pittoreske stadjes naar de hoogste toppen van de Vogezen brengt.

Champagnestreek

De regio Champagne-Ardenne is de poort naar Oost-Frankrijk en staat bekend om het prestigieuze elixer waarvan de Franse koningen nipten, Champagne. De bubbels veroverden restaurants over de hele wereld en schitteren op menig feest. De Champagnestreek is echter meer dan enkel deze godendrank. Deze camperroute brengt je langs uitgestrekte wouden en langs schitterende wateren zoals de Maas en Lac du Der. Ook de machtige steden Reims en Troyes kunnen op onze campertocht niet ontbreken.

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5 Best Routes for Exploring France with a Motorhome (+ Tips!)

Of all the European countries, exploring France with a motorhome is the obvious choice for us Brits. Just a hop over the channel and we’re there.

Some of us have fond memories of travelling France as a child, and even as an adult – usually to the big cities. The French countryside is stunning though, and one of the most interesting, efficient and different ways to experience it is by hiring a motorhome in France and following a tried and tested route, your way .

Bed, transport and kitchen all in one? Sounds like a cost effective way to travel to me.

Let’s take a look at some of the best France in a campervan routes, to inspire your next trip.

Best campervan routes in France

Let’s have a look at some of the most popular campervan routes France has to offer. Fancy travelling in a motorhome around France?

1. Corse in a campervan

– Travelling round Corsica is one of the most popular routes to do in France by campervan

Corsica is right up there on my places I want to visit list. Really need to make this happen. It also happens to be one of the most popular places to rent a Yescapa vehicle.

The little island looks incredible – surrounded by azure waters, beautiful churches, so many restaurants to try and some mind bending views easily visible from the seat of your new motorhome.

Exploring France with a motorhome is so popular in Corsica there are many campsites where you can pull up for the night. Diverse landscapes with moon shaped bays, Corsica is the perfect place for anyone with a motorhome who wants a relaxing trip. The island is only around 100 by 50 miles, meaning that you won’t be racking up a high daily mileage, but you can take it slow and steady, enjoying what you do see.

READ MORE 

The All-Time Best Campervan Routes in the UK 

2. The Wine Region (Bordeaux) by motorhome

– Bordeaux is another popular France in a campervan routes

Now’s the time to make friends with someone who doesn’t drink, if you’re planning on taking your motor home through the wine region. Failing that, or actually, even better, this is your big opportunity to make the most of the fact that your home and your wheels are now all one.

Park up at one of the wineries and you can sample their offerings to their full potential knowing that your bed is just a few steps away for an early night.

It’s not just drinking the wine that’s the main attraction here, seeing how it’s grown is also fascinating. You’ll pass alongside beautiful vineyards, see the wine production in action and traverse the hills and flats offering stunning views of one of the most famous wine regions in the world.

Motorhoming in France is even more fun when you’re in the wine region!

3. The Castles of the Loire Valley

– Motorhoming in France is the perfect opportunity to take in the incredible countryside

The Loire Valley, is one of the most popular places to go on a road trip in Central France. It’s here that you’ll find stunning chateaux to stay at and / or explore, underground villages, and of course, the Loire River – available for all water based activities.

Starting in Saint Nazarre you’ll drive across France with the likes of Nantes, Angers, Tours, Orleans and Briare to tempt you from your road trip. There’s a simple route to follow, but you can always divert if you see something or somewhere you fancy. There are ample restaurants and vineyards along this route to try too.

I mean, this is France.

Touring France in a motorhome is even more appealing when you factor in that you won’t have far to wander back to your campervan at the end of an evening of indulgence!

The Loire Valley is one of the best places to go camping in France.

Campervan around France

Check out this video of motorhoming in France to give you some serious inspiration for what you could do there! And have a read of my suggestions for the best accessories for campervans for some inspiration to what to pack, and these great campervan gadgets too .

4. Mountain Road by campervan

The Mountain Road is aka the route of the Grand Alps. Living up to its name, this is a drive that starts from Lake Geneva on the border with Switzerland and takes you all the way to the Mediterranean Sea, somewhere like Nice, by way of the French Alps.

That means there’s tonnes of beautiful scenery, peaks and passes to marvel at as well as a good few opportunities to pop on the hiking boots and get in a workout.

While it’s closed in winter, motorhomes can travel the 400 plus miles between May and October and there are plenty of campsites along the way. There’s also loads of stunning places complete with car parks that you can simply call home for the night and wake up to snowy peaks in the morning.

I’d suggest doing this trip as soon as the road opens, so that the roads are clear but the mountains are still covered in snow. This is one of the most beautiful places to go exploring France in a motorhome. Beaut. 

5. Biarritz in a campervan

– Travelling down the coast is one of the best France motorhome routes 

If you’ve got the staying power, then get yourself down to the south west of France where this cool coastal town, not too far from the Spanish border, can offer you a few days of sun, sea and surf.

Making your way from the northern crossing at Calais, you can stop off at places like Loire, La Rochelle and Bordeaux before finally vegging out on the sunny beaches of Biarritz on your trip through France in a motorhome.

Once a fave with Napoléon III, the town has held onto its popularity and has a load of campsites, making it the perfect place to pitch up for a week before making the journey back north.

READ MORE: Best Places to Camp in the South of France

Make sure to book your ETIAS for France ASAP, as it’ll be mandatory from 2025. The application is fully online and can be completed at any time of day, from anywhere with an internet connection.

Tips for parking your motorhome in France 

Once you pull up in one of these fab destinations, what about parking?

Well, most of these destinations have campsites you can drive straight on into without a reservation. Some require a small fee for the night and others are completely free. Alternatively, you can look up some safe spots away from the regular camping crowd using websites like park4night.com or campercontact.com .

That way you get to sleep in some cool locations, wake up where you want and immediately get on your way to the next destination without being held up by any bathroom or exit queues.

Wild camping in France for motorhomes 

“Le camping sauvage” as it’s known in France, or just wild camping to us is when you set up your motorhome wherever you please. There are of course, rules around this.

If you plan to wild camp in France, with your motorhome, you need to know the law. 

The principle rules are: 

• Wild camping is permitted anywhere in France subject to the permission of the landowner or tenant of the land, and subject to certain general limitations. The basic rules are set out in  Article  R111-33  of French town and country planning law.
• The main restrictions stipulate that wild camping is not permitted on the coast, in protected natural sites, and on the perimeter of classified historic monuments.
• Local authorities and the authorities in charge of designated natural sites, such as national or regional parks, may establish specific rules pertaining to their own area.

So basically, look for signs indicating local by-laws, don’t wild camp with your motorhome in France on private land, and be very careful when camping on or near the coast. 

Wild Camping in Scotland

Wild Camping in England

Top tips for exploring France in a motorhome

Before you hit the road, it’s good to remember and acknowledge that driving a campervan is a lot different to driving a car. And driving a campervan in France is definitely different to driving one in the UK — hello right side of the road.

Campervans are bigger for a start and that means they’re more difficult to park and there are restrictions on certain bridges, tunnels and roads to watch out for. Then there’s the difference in engine size, the weight of the vehicle itself and rules of the road you need to consider if you’re exploring France in a motorhome.

So whether it’s your first or fifth motorhome trek across France, here are a few words of advice on how to get safely from A to B in France in a motorhome. And if you want to hire a VW Campervan , here are some top tips for you.

1. Be headlight aware

Make sure your headlights work and flick them on whenever there’s poor light, even if it’s in the daytime. It’s a legal requirement.

2. Belt up at all times

Even though it can be tempting for your passengers to have a snooze on the bed or make a quick sandwich in the back while you’re doing the driving, make sure they keep the cooking for later and sit with a seatbelt on as you drive. Safety first!

3. Measure the motorhome 

Whip out the tape measure and size up the motorhome so you have a better idea of how much wider it is than your car at home. It’ll help with road positioning when you’re driving on those narrow roads and keep you from veering off.

If you’re exploring France in a motorhome, it’s a great idea to know what kind of girth you’re dealing with. 

4. Travel with a friend

Don’t drive one alone. More than anything, campervans are so damn difficult to park, you need a buddy to direct you as park up and reverse it. Consider coming up with your own set of hand signals (the polite kind) between you and your friends so you know what they’re trying to tell you as you slide it into reverse.

When I went on a campervan holiday around Somerset, in England , it sometimes took two of us to get me out of the cute, quirky, yet small streets of Cheddar Gorge. It’s just a whole new beast to get used to! 

5. Be security conscious

A big van means a big win for any pesky thieves about and so the best thing to do is to go all in on any alarm systems and deadlocks you’re offered. That way you’ll have a bit more peace of mind when you’re off exploring.

6. Pack the breathalyser

In France, anyone who owns a vehicle has to have one so make sure you’ve got one in your campervan when you’re motorhoming France.

7. Pack the red triangle

And while you’re at it, throw a red emergency triangle in the back. Should there be an accident, you’ve gotta have one of these to warn other drivers.

8. Speed detection camera kits are illegal

Keep any speed camera detection kits at home. It might make you feel all smart but they’re illegal in France and could mean a big fine.

Driving France by motorhome

– Exploring France in a motorhome means seeing some incredible views

These are just a few of the options for driving through France with a motorhome. Once you’re clutching the keys, you can go anywhere you like.

Hire a motorhome with Yescapa and they can also sort your insurance for you, from well-known companies Maif, AXA, Allianz and Atlantis Seguros. You can request whichever level insurance you like, from basic to all out fully comp, and they’ll sort it out for you.

If you’d like more information, check out Yescapa’s free eBook on ‘ How to Conquer Europe in a Campervan ‘

Campervan around France 

I hope this post has helped you to plan your campervan route through France, and given you a few France motorhoming tips to remember along the way. 

Let me know if you decided to get involved!

Pin these France in a campervan routes for later

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

13 Comments

Great read! Recently returned from doing the North Coast 500 in a campervan which we hired from clarkiescampers.com. Already planning our next adventure, however this time I time we will go some place warmer! 🙂

Oh wow, sounds fab. My boyfriend and I are getting a campervan to travel the Pembrokeshire Coast in August – can’t wait!

@VickyFlipFlop, Hi Vicky We are 1st timers and looking forward to travelling in a hired campervan to explore France, do you have any routes that 1st timers should go on?

Your ideas are really helpful and you always inspire me with your great ideas and techniques… I’m also living in my campervan and almost visit minimum 5 times on your site in a month… to be updated with your thoughts… Thanks again for this post….

Oh wow, that’s cool! I hope I do that one day too 🙂

Loire valley definitely our favourite. Hundreds of fabulous Chateau lining the river banks. One of our favourite has to be Chambord. Once the kings hunting residence the Chateau is beyond belief and well worth visiting.

Oh nice! I definitely have a lot of France to discover, one day!

Interesting read, thanks!

Glad you enjoyed it Robyn – fancy doing a trip round France in a motorhome then?

Great post and article! So stunning pics you shared. Thank you so much for sharing it.

No worries. Thanks for reading and commenting :).

So my Father-in-Law has said we can use his motor home this year as we can’t afford to fly anywhere. Reading through this post, I’m going to put France on the table! Thanks Vicky.

Yay, definitely! I loved seeing the sights of France when I cycled through and I think seeing it by motorhome would be even better. Have fun!

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6 week France summer road trip in our Bongo campervam

Posted on Last updated: 10 March 2024

2021 was another summer of uncertain travel due to the global pandemic. Travel restrictions were changing constantly and it was exhausting keeping on top of all the various rules between countries. But road trips are what keep our soul alive and whilst many families opted to stay in the UK, we decided to take the plunge and head over to France in our Mazda Bongo camper for the entire school summer holidays.

Disclaimer: In return for an honest review published to this website and social media coverage during our trip, Eurocamp Independent provided complimentary camping and Eurocamp provided a complimentary one week stay in one of their chalet. As always, these are all my own words. Also, this post contains affiliate links. Should you click to purchase, it is at no additional cost to you, but I receive a small commission.

Well not quite the entire summer holidays. The boys’ bubble burst at school just a week before we were due to sail. So we had to isolate, and move our ferry crossing back a week to keep in line with French rules (so that we knowingly had not been in contact with a covid case in the past 14 days).

If you’ve been following our blog for a while, you know that we love France; not just for the weather, culture and wine (of course!), but France really does have some of the best family campsites in the world.

In the years that we have lived in the UK, we venture over to France at least once per year. In 2020, despite all the restrictions, we managed a two week France road trip to the Loire and the Vendee ( click here to read about that trip). And in 2019, which was pre-Bongo, we spent a month travelling around France with our Vango air tent ( click here to read about that trip). And there have been many more trips before this and since.

But this 6 week camper road trip in France was the longest we’ve spent in France in one go, and was honestly the best. After 18 months of restrictions, lockdowns, tiers, and school closures, we had a renewed appreciation of travel. I cried when we finally arrived to Dover Port for the ferry to Calais . I cried again when we cycled through the Alps on that first day. I cried again when I saw my boys on stage singing French songs with their new French pals from kids club. And I cried again on the ferry home, knowing how lucky we had been to have experienced such an amazing summer together, and that travel was still uncertain for the foreseeable.

Jumping through all the hoops to get to France (and back!) and dealing with all the pre-trip anxiety as we witnessed Boris and Macron bicker on the news, was absolutely worth it.

READ: Top 10 tips for driving through France

Our 6 week camper road trip in France

We’re a family who embrace slow travel and tend to only spend around a week at each campsite.

Both us parents were working on occasion during this trip (we both work remotely) and so this style of travel meant the kids could go to Kids Club, plus we really got to know a place well and feel at home there.

If you do plan to work in France from overseas, then don’t forget the VPN for travel .

Week 1: The Alps

Camping at: Camping la Rencontre du Soleil

Surrounded by 3000+ metre jagged peaks, in the heart of The Alps, a stay at the quiet  Camping la Rencontre du Soleil  is all about the views. The local village of Le Bourge-d’Oisans and the challenging switchbacks up to Alpe d’Huez often feature on the  Tour de France , and during the winter, this is a premier skiing destination.

Does this mean you need to be a super fit mountain biker to fully appreciate these views? Not at all. Directly from the campsite are traffic-free, FLAT, cycle paths along the Romanche river that are perfect for kids, affording absolutely jaw-dropping views with snow capped peaks even in the height of summer.

Or if you want to experience some altitude hiking without an epic uphill struggle, drive the 25 minutes up to the cable car station at Alpe d’Huez and ride up to the summit of Pic Blanc at 3330 metres. Just incredible.

Camping la Rencontre du Soleil is a small, quiet campsite, and the perfect base for adventure loving families. Onsite there is a small swimming pool (no slides), a ball court, a restaurant (also serving takeaways, including amazing pizzas), small playground and a kids club.

Click here to read more

Week 2: Languedoc-Roussillon

Camping at: Les Sablons

Situated on the sun-drenched south coast of France’s Rousillon, close to the historical city of Béziers,  Les Sablons  is more of a village in its own right, than a campsite. There is everything you need on site to never have to leave, from a well stocked SPAR supermarket, a bar and restaurant, a swimming pool complex with waterslides, a huge play area and direct access to the beach. There is also an abundance of activities laid on throughout the day to keep all ages busy.

But if you can tear yourselves away from the onsite facilities, there is a fantastic cycle path (flat and traffic-free) along the Canal du Midi, which is easily accessed from Les Sablons. Stop at the locks along the canal to watch the boats passing through, pop into the quiet and pretty village of Portiragnes, or cycle the 14km all the way to Béziers.

But what kept me  very  happy was our private washblock! On the corner of our spacious pitch we had a shower, toilet, large fridge-freezer and wash basin ALL TO OURSELVES! This is the absolute height of  Bongo camper  luxury, and something we’ve only experienced before in  camping in Namibia .

Week 3: Languedoc-Roussillon

Camping at: Camping de la Plage, Sainte-Marie

With the name  Camping de la Plage , you can take a reasonable guess that this campsite is right on the beach. And what a beach it is; an endless stretch of sand hugs the gently lapping Mediterranean shoreline, backed by swaying palm trees, and views of the Pyrenees marking the Spanish border in the distance.  Plage de Sainte-Marie  is accessed directly through a security gate from the campsite, and further along to the right are a selection of beach bars and restaurants radiating that holiday in the sun vibe.

The campsite itself continues the chilled out vibes from the beach. It’s a medium sized site, and in places it does feel rather dated, although this fits with its laidback charm. We found the staff here particularly friendly. And the pool area is fantastic.

Week 4: Atlantic Coast

Camping at: La Cote d’Argent Campsite, Hourtin-Plage

Situated in a shady pine forest that lines a seemingly endless stretch of a powder-soft sand buffeted by the Atlantic waves, the location of  La Cote d’Argent Campsite  is pretty perfect. Spend your days surfing or jumping in the waves, or hop on your bikes and enjoy the traffic-free cycle paths that weave through the pine forest to inland lakes. But do allow for some days onsite, as kids will love the pirate waterpark, the huge playground, and there’s also a great Kids Club onsite (for age 6+).

Week 5: Dordogne

Camping at: Le Moulin de Paulhiac Campsite, Dordogne

Sometimes a campsite takes a while to grow on you, and sometimes you love it as soon as you pull in.  Le Mouline de Paulhiac Campsite  in the  Dordogne  of Southern France definitely falls into the latter category. 

Set in a quiet valley along the meandering River Céou,  Le Mouline de Paulhiac Campsite  is a medium/small site offering a relaxed pace, large and shady pitches, and a lovely sized swimming pool with water slides and splash park. There’s a restaurant onsite that overlooks the playground (very hand for parents wanting an extra drink in peace) and the river is a fantastic place to take your inflatable and slowly float down the river from one end of the campsite to the other.

Geared to younger children (aged 8 and under),  Le Mouline de Paulhiac Campsite  is a very relaxed site where your days are spent lounging by the pool or on the river, and visiting quaint local towns and villages.

Check out our guide to visiting the Dordogne with kids

Week 6: Loire Valley

Camping at: Le Château de Chanteloup Campsite, Loire

Ever fancied camping in the grounds of a French chateau? There are a handful of campsites in the expansive  Loire Valley  where you can do just this, but  Le Château de Chanteloup Campsite  set in 50 acres of parkland is perhaps the most idyllic and peaceful of them all, and with it’s woodland playground and summer kids club, it’s a great  French campsite for families .

This was the final stop for us on our 6 week road trip around France in our  Mazda Bongo camper . We stayed 5 nights from the 30th August, right at the end of the summer season. By the time we had arrived, the autumn leaves had begun to fall from the towering oak trees and summer kids club was finished for the season, but the afternoons were still beautifully warm for a dip in the pool and the restaurant remained open.

This is a beautifully quiet and idyllic site. I’ll be honest, on arrival I was a tad nervous that our two boys (age 6 and 7) were spoiling the peace for some older campers without kids. But with all the woodland to explore and the fantastic playground area, there is more than enough space for kids to burn off some energy.

The facilities here are excellent and in keeping with the chateau. You will find a swimming pool, woodland playground, basketball court, rowing boats on a small lake, table tennis, and even goats!

Check out our guide to visiting the Loire with kids

Want to extend this trip and head into Spain?

Check out our Northern Spain road trip itinerary , which goes from Santander to Barcelona and the Pyrenees.

FAQ of this trip

I received so many questions about this trip. Click here to watch the Insta-live where I answer the following questions:

1. Which ferry crossing did we us and was it expensive? 2. How did we choose campsites and where to go? 3. What was our favourite campsite? 4. How did we work on the road? 5. Kids clubs – how much were they? How did our boys cope with being the only British kids? 6. How much did we spend? Fuel, campsites, food. 7. How much in advance did we book? 8. How do we fit everything into the bongo? 9. How did we deal with the heat and mosquitoes? 10. What are the toilets like on site? Can people hear you having a poo? 11. What did we do about buying and cooking food? Any tips on good meals that all the family like? 12. How do we live in such a small space and not wind each other up? 13. What items could we not have done with? 14. What would we do if we broke down on the road? 15. Do we really like the French ‘mega campsites’ after Africa? 16. Did we miss friends and family being away for so long?

You may also like to read: Road trip from Calais to the Pyrenees and back All about our Mazda Bongo Camper The BEST family campsites in France

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Most Scenic Road Trips in France: 12 Epic Routes

29 March 2024 · In: France , Road Trip

Are you looking for the  most beautiful and scenic road trips in France ? Adventure lovers, you have come to the right place! This article walks you through  12 road trip ideas to add to your bucket list  for an unforgettable holiday, whether you are travelling for 7 days or 2 weeks.

France is a breathtaking country  which has much to offer! From charming traditional villages and stunning natural landscapes to emblematic landmarks and delicious local cuisine (and wine), you will find  plenty of things to do and places to see  on a French road trip in both summer and winter.

Even though France is my homeland, I am constantly discovering something new when I explore the country, as  each region truly has its own identity and culture . Whichever road trip you choose, I am sure you will have a wonderful time!

So, are you ready to discover the  top 12 France road trips that you must experience ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any other suggestions 🙂

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, please  read our full affiliate disclosure .

12- Route des Grands Crus

Overview: 12 epic french road trips.

1- Provence Lavender Loop 2- The Loire Valley & Châteaux 3- French Riviera Coastal Drive 4- Alsace Wine Route 5- Normandy Coastal Escape 6- Gorges du Verdon Loop

7- Corsica Coastal Drive 8- Route des Grandes Alpes 9- Brittany Coastal Road 10- Pyrenean Escape 11- Champagne Route 12- Route des Grands Crus

Best France road trips – Map

12 breathtaking road trip routes in France

Here are 12 road trips to inspire your next French adventure. Each of these routes is easily accessible by car, campervan or motorbike. But also be sure to check road conditions, especially in winter, and book your accommodation in advance.

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1- Provence Lavender Loop

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-July) 

The Provence Lavender Route, also known as the  Route de la Lavande , is a scenic journey through the picturesque countryside of Provence, renowned for its  vast lavender fields that burst into vibrant purple flowers . The perfect road trip for Instagram lovers!

Starting typically in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence, the route also takes you through  charming villages  like Gordes and Roussillon, where you can unwind and admire the lavender fields in  full bloom from late June to early July , creating a mesmerising sea of purple.

Whether you are driving or cycling, this itinerary offers an ideal blend of  cultural exploration, immersive experiences amidst the lavender fields of Provence and scenic drives  with panoramic views of rolling hills and ancient stone villages.

READ MORE: 20+ Best Places to Visit in The South of France

ITINERARY 

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the most beautiful sites in Provence:

Day 1: Avignon

• Start your journey in Avignon, a historic city known for its medieval architecture.
• Explore the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) and Pont Saint-Bénézet (Bridge of Avignon).
• Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town.
• Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Sault and Gordes

• Drive to Sault, known as the lavender capital of Provence. 
• Explore the lavender fields surrounding Sault. 
• Take in the stunning views of the Mont Ventoux.
• Continue to Gordes, a picturesque hilltop village with narrow cobbled streets and panoramic views.
• Visit the Lavender Museum to learn about the history and cultivation of lavender.
• Visit the Senanque Abbey, famous for its iconic lavender fields.

Day 3: Roussillon and Valensole Plateau

• Explore the colourful village of Roussillon, known for its ochre cliffs and vibrant hues.
• Wander through the Ochre Trail. 
• Admire the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
• Drive to the Valensole Plateau , one of the most scenic areas for lavender viewing in Provence.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the lavender fields and capturing photos of the stunning scenery.

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence

• Head to Aix-en-Provence, a charming city known for its elegant boulevards, fountains and vibrant arts scene.
• Visit the Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined avenue lined with cafés and shops.
• Explore its historic centre.
• Discover landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur and the Atelier Paul Cézanne.
• Enjoy an afternoon stroll through the gardens or join a walking tour .
• Browse local markets for lavender products.

Day 5: Return to Avignon

• Drive back to Avignon and complete the Lavender route loop.
• Enjoy the scenery along the way. 
• Once in Avignon, spend your final evening exploring, shopping or relaxing.

PROVENCE LAVENDER MAP

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

2- The Loire Valley & Châteaux

⏰  Duration : 5 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September) 

The Loire Valley road trip offers a captivating journey through a picturesque and historic region of France. You will discover a landscape dotted with  majestic châteaux, charming villages and lush vineyards  along the banks of the Loire River, a paradise for history and wine lovers!

From the  fairy-tale castles  of Chambord and Chenonceau to the  picturesque towns  of Tours and Amboise, this itinerary is a perfect blend of  cultural heritage, scenic beauty and culinary delights  and is the ideal way to learn more about the rich culture and history of France.

I feel lucky enough to say that  I was born in the Loire Valley , more precisely in Orleans. I loved the region and its cultural landmarks. It always felt great to be in the countryside whilst still being close to major cities like Paris. I am sure you will love exploring its many highlights. It is also an  ideal destination for families with children .

READ MORE: Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe: 16 Epic Routes

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most famous châteaux in the Loire Valley:

Day 1: Tours

• Start your road trip in Tours, a city in the heart of the Loire Valley.
• Explore its historic Old Town with half-timbered houses and Place Plumereau.
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
• Take a walk along the banks of the Loire.

Day 2: Château de Villandry and Château d’Azay-le-Rideau

• Drive to Château de Villandry, famous for its superb Renaissance gardens.
• Continue to Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a fairytale castle set on an island in the Indre River.

Day 3: Château de Chambord and Château de Cheverny

• Visit the iconic  Château de Chambord , a masterpiece of the French Renaissance.
• Explore its massive double-helix staircase and its vast garden.
• Head to Château de Cheverny, famous for its elegant interiors and well-preserved furniture.
• If you have time, you can also discover the pretty village of Cheverny and its vineyards.

Day 4: Château de Chenonceau and Amboise

• Visit the elegant  Château de Chenonceau , spanning the Cher River.
• Explore the stunning gardens and galleries of the castle.
• Drive to the town of Amboise, where you can visit Château d’Amboise and Clos Lucé, the former home of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Spend the evening exploring the quaint streets of Amboise.

Day 5: Wine tasting and back to Tours

• Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a local vineyard in the Vouvray or Montlouis-sur-Loire wine region.
• Spend your last evening in Tours sampling local cuisine and wine.

LOIRE VALLEY MAP

3- French Riviera Coastal Drive

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

The French Riviera, also known as the  Côte d’Azur , offers a captivating journey along the Mediterranean coastline of southeastern France. Whether it is  exploring   historic sites, relaxing on pristine beaches or cruising along scenic coastal roads , this road trip promises an unforgettable experience.

Stretching from the glamorous city of Nice to the border with Italy, this itinerary takes you through  picturesque coastal towns, sandy beaches and stunning landscapes , where you will be treated to panoramic views of the azure sea and lush hillsides.

Along the way, you will also encounter  luxurious resorts like Cannes and Monaco , where you can indulge in exclusive shopping, gourmet dining and world-class entertainment. Have fun!

READ MORE: South of France Road Trip: 1-Week Itinerary

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the main highlights of the French Riviera:

Day 1: Nice

• Start your journey in Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera.
• Explore the vibrant Old Town with its narrow streets, colourful buildings and bustling markets.
• Visit the Promenade des Anglais, a famous waterfront promenade perfect for a stroll or bike ride.
• Relax on one of its beautiful beaches and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine.

Day 2: Antibes and Cannes

• Drive to Antibes, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque old port and historic ramparts.
• Explore the Musée Picasso housed in the Château Grimaldi.
• Stroll through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town.
• Continue to Cannes, famous for its film festival and glamorous atmosphere.
• Visit the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.
• Take a walk along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette.

Day 3: Monaco and Monte Carlo

• Drive to Monaco, a tiny principality known for its glitz and glamour.
• Visit the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.
• Explore the charming Old Town of Monaco-Ville.
• Admire the stunning views from the Jardin Exotique.
• Visit the Oceanographic Museum .
• Continue to Monte Carlo, home to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo and luxurious hotels.
• Enjoy a stroll around the glamorous Casino Square and take in the sights of the city.

Day 4: Menton and Villefranche-sur-Mer

• Drive to Menton, a picturesque town known for its lemon festival and beautiful gardens.
• Explore the colourful Old Town and visit the Jean Cocteau Museum.
• Continue to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a charming seaside village with a scenic harbour.
• Explore the Citadel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on one of its beaches.

Day 5: Return to Nice

• Enjoy some last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping.
• Spend your evening sampling local cuisine and wine.

Optional: Saint-Tropez

• Drive to Saint-Tropez, a legendary seaside resort synonymous with luxury and style.
• Explore the Vieux Port lined with luxurious yachts and charming cafes.
• Visit the Musée de l’Annonciade, home to an impressive collection of modern art.
• Relax on one of its beautiful beaches or enjoy water sports activities.

FRENCH RIVIERA MAP

4- Alsace Wine Route

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August)

The Alsace Wine Route, or  Route des Vins d’Alsace , is a scenic journey through  one of the premier wine regions in France , stretching approximately 170 kilometres (105 miles) from Marlenheim to Thann. 

This picturesque route winds through  charming villages, lush vineyards and historic wine-producing towns , offering you the opportunity to explore renowned wineries, sample exceptional white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer and immerse yourself in the  rich winemaking tradition of Alsace . 

With its stunning landscapes, quaint villages and world-class wines, this Alsace Wine road trip itinerary promises a  memorable and delightful experience for wine enthusiasts  and travellers alike.

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most iconic stops along the Wine Route:

Day 1: Strasbourg

• Begin your journey in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the picturesque Old Town (Grande Île) with its charming half-timbered houses and canals.
• Join a guided tour and discover the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral.
• Visit the Alsatian Museum to learn about the history, culture and winemaking traditions of the region.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Alsatian cuisine with regional wines.

Day 2: Obernai

• Drive to Obernai, a charming medieval town surrounded by vineyards.
• Explore its historic centre, featuring narrow streets, colourful facades and the Obernai Clock Tower.
• Visit a local winery for a wine-tasting experience, sampling the renowned white wines of Alsace.
• Enjoy lunch at a traditional Alsatian Winstub (wine tavern), tasting dishes like choucroute garnie and flammekueche.

Day 3: Riquewihr

• Travel to Riquewihr, one of the most picturesque villages along the Alsace Wine Route.
• Explore its well-preserved medieval architecture, flower-filled streets and charming wine cellars.
• Visit local wineries for tastings of Riesling, Gewürztraminer and other Alsace varietals.
• Take a stroll through the surrounding vineyards, enjoying panoramic views of the Alsace countryside.

Day 4: Colmar

• Drive to Colmar, known as the Capital of Alsatian Wine.
• Explore its historic Old Town, featuring colourful half-timbered houses, cosy cafés and the picturesque Little Venice district.
• Visit the Unterlinden Museum to see the Isenheim Altarpiece and other works of art.
• Enjoy a wine-tasting tour in Colmar and visit local wineries.

Day 5: Eguisheim & Strasbourg

• Drive to Eguisheim, a charming village known for its circular layout and flower-decked streets.
• Explore its medieval centre and visit the St. Leon Fountain.
• Stroll through the vineyards surrounding the village.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps indulging in Alsatian specialities paired with regional wines.
• Return to Strasbourg, where you can explore any sights you may have missed on your first day or simply relax.

ALSACE WINE MAP

5- Normandy Coastal Escape

The Normandy Coastal Route, also known as the  Côte d’Albâtre  or Alabaster Coast, winds  along the rugged coastline of Normandy  in northern France, stretching from Le Tréport to Honfleur. 

This picturesque journey offers breathtaking views of  towering chalk cliffs, quaint fishing villages and historic landmarks . You will have the chance to explore iconic sites like the cliffs of Étretat, enjoy fresh seafood in charming seaside towns and  learn about World War II history  at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. 

Whether you love  exploring historic sites ,  enjoying outdoor activities  like hiking or beachcombing, or simply soaking in the  stunning coastal scenery , the Normandy Coastal Route promises an unforgettable road trip experience. 

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the main highlights of a road trip along the coast of Normandy:

Day 1: Le Tréport & Dieppe

• Start your journey in Le Tréport, a picturesque seaside town known for its colourful cliffside houses and funicular railway.
• Visit the Tréport Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline.
• Explore the bustling harbour of the town.
• Drive along the coast to Dieppe, the largest town on the Alabaster Coast, famous for its fishing port and historic castle.
• Explore its vibrant Saturday market, stroll along the promenade and enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Étretat

• Drive to Étretat, renowned for its stunning chalk cliffs, natural arches and pebble beaches.
• Take a hike along the coastal path for spectacular views of the cliffs and the English Channel.
• Visit iconic landmarks such as the Needle Rock and the Arches of Aval.
• Explore the town of Étretat, with its charming streets, art galleries and beachfront cafés.
• Immerse yourself in Les Jardins d’Étretat to enjoy a variety of gardens, sculptures and contemporary artwork.

Day 3: Honfleur

• Continue your journey to Honfleur, a picturesque harbour town with colourful timber-framed houses and cobbled streets.
• Explore the historic Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor), lined with cafés, art galleries and seafood restaurants.
• Visit the Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France.
• Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town and admire the maritime-themed architecture.

Day 4: Omaha Beach & Bayeux

• Drive along the coast to Omaha Beach, one of the landing beaches of the D-Day invasion during World War II.
• Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, where thousands of soldiers are buried overlooking the beach.
• Join a World War II tour  of the key beaches and sites linked to D-Day.
• Explore the nearby town of Bayeux and visit the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of England in 1066.

Day 5: Mont-Saint-Michel

• Head to Mont-Saint-Michel , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in France.
• Explore the medieval abbey perched atop a rocky island, surrounded by tidal flats and salt marshes.
• Wander through the narrow streets of the village, lined with shops, restaurants and historic buildings.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding countryside.

NORMANDY COAST MAP

6- Gorges du Verdon Loop

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

The Gorges du Verdon Loop is a spectacular road trip route that will guide you through the  stunning natural landscapes of the Verdon Gorge  in southeastern France – a must for photo lovers and outdoor enthusiasts!

Often referred to as the  Grand Canyon of Europe , the Verdon Gorge is  one of the most impressive river canyons in Europe , carved by the turquoise waters of the Verdon River over millions of years.

This fascinating loop begins and ends in the picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, taking you on a  scenic journey along the north and south rims of the gorge , with plenty of outdoor activities, picturesque villages and unforgettable views along the way.

Here is an example of a  4-day itinerary  for exploring the Verdon Gorge:

Day 1: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

• Start your journey in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a charming Provençal village nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs.
• Explore the narrow streets, adorned with colourful facades.
• Visit the Notre Dame de Beauvoir Chapel perched high above the village.
• Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialities such as truffle-infused dishes and goat cheese.

Day 2: North Rim & La Palud-sur-Verdon

• Begin your drive along the Verdon Gorge Loop, heading west towards the Verdon Gorge.
• Continue driving along the Route des Crêtes, a scenic road that winds along the rim of the gorge, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.
• Choose from a variety of activities such as hiking along the Sentier Martel trail, rock climbing on the limestone cliffs, or kayaking and canoeing on the Verdon River.
• Arrive at the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon, where you can explore the Maison des Gorges du Verdon visitor centre to learn more about the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Day 2: South Rim & Aiguines

• Drive towards Trigance to reach the south rim of the gorge.
• Stop at the Point Sublime viewpoint for panoramic views of the gorge and the turquoise waters of the Verdon River below.
• Pause at the Balcons de la Mescla viewpoint to admire the convergence of the Verdon and Artuby rivers, and do not miss out on a stop at Pont de l’Artuby.
• Continue your journey towards Aiguines, stopping at Col d’Illoire along the way, a stunning mountain pass.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures & Lake Sainte-Croix

• Drive to Lake Sainte-Croix, a stunning reservoir nestled amidst the hills of the Verdon Regional Natural Park.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakeside or at one of the scenic viewpoints along the gorge.
• Relax on the shores of the lake, go for a swim or rent a pedal boat or kayak to explore its tranquil waters.

Day 4: Return to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

• Drive back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, taking the scenic route through the countryside.
• Along the way, stop at viewpoints and picturesque villages to soak in the last views of the Verdon Gorge and the surrounding landscapes.
• Arrive back in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in the afternoon.
• Spend your remaining time exploring any attractions or shops in the village, or simply relax and enjoy the Provençal ambience.

GORGES DU VERDON MAP

7- Corsica Coastal Drive

⏰  Duration : 6-7 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

The Corsica Coastal Drive offers a mesmerising journey  along the rugged and picturesque coastline of Corsica , the Mediterranean gem of France. It is the perfect destination if you are looking to mix sun and outdoor experiences. 

This scenic road trip winds through  charming coastal towns, pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs , showcasing the diverse landscapes and turquoise waters of the island. 

You will also have the chance to  explore historic landmarks, enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and soak up breathtaking vistas , making the Corsica Coastal Drive an unforgettable adventure along one of the most beautiful coastlines of Europe. 

Here is an example of a  6-day itinerary  offering a taste of the best that Corsica has to offer:

Day 1: Bastia

• Start your journey in Bastia, one of the main cities in Corsica, located on the northeast of the island.
• Explore the historic Old Town (Terra Vecchia) with its narrow streets, baroque churches and lively squares.
• Visit the Old Port (Vieux Port) and enjoy waterfront dining at one of the local restaurants.

Day 2: Calvi

• Drive along the coastal road towards Calvi, a picturesque town located on the northwest coast of Corsica.
• Stop at the charming village of Saint-Florent along the way, known for its pretty harbour and Citadel.
• Continue driving through the scenic countryside and arrive in Calvi in the afternoon.
• Explore its historic Citadel, stroll along the waterfront promenade and relax on the sandy beaches.

Day 3: Porto

• Drive south along the coast to Porto, a small village nestled between the mountains and the sea.
• Explore the village of Porto and visit the Genoese watchtower overlooking the harbour.
• Discover the Calanques de Piana, stunning red granite cliffs that plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
• Optional: Take a boat tour to explore the Calanques de Piana and the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Day 4: Bonifacio

• Drive along the rugged west coast of Corsica towards Bonifacio, located on the southern tip of the island.
• Stop at the village of Cargèse, known for its Greek Orthodox Church and beautiful beaches.
• Continue driving through the scenic countryside and arrive in Bonifacio in the afternoon.
• Explore the historic Old Town perched atop limestone cliffs.
• Visit the Citadel and stroll along the picturesque marina.

Day 5: Porto-Vecchio

• Drive along the eastern coast of Corsica towards Porto-Vecchio, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches.
• Stop at the beautiful beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, known for their turquoise waters and white sand.
• Continue driving to Porto-Vecchio.
• Spend the afternoon relaxing and exploring the historic centre.

Day 6: Bastia

• Drive back towards Bastia along the eastern coast of Corsica.
• Stop at the Bavella Massif, a stunning mountain range with towering granite peaks and scenic hiking trails.
• Continue driving through the scenic countryside and arrive in Bastia in the afternoon.
• Spend your remaining time exploring any attractions or shops in the city.

CORSICA COASTAL MAP

8- Route des Grandes Alpes

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August)

The Route des Grandes Alpes is an iconic and legendary road trip route  spanning 700 kilometres across the French Alps , from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea.

Passing through some of the most  breathtaking mountain scenery  in Europe, this itinerary takes you through picturesque valleys and over high mountain passes, offering spectacular views of  snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and charming villages .

You will embark on a journey of epic proportions, combining exhilarating driving experiences with opportunities for numerous  outdoor adventures, cultural explorations and gastronomic delights  along the way.

Here is an example of a  4-day itinerary  covering some of the highlights of the French Alps:

Day 1: Thonon-les-Bains & Chamonix

• Start your journey in Thonon-les-Bains, located on the shores of Lake Geneva.
• Drive to Chamonix, a famous ski resort town nestled in the shadow of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps.
• Pass through the picturesque Arve Valley and stop to enjoy the scenery.
• Explore its charming streets and visit the Aiguille du Midi for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Take a ride on the Montenvers Railway to see the Mer de Glace glacier.

Day 2: Megève

• If you have time, drive through the Mont Blanc Tunnel, crossing into Italy briefly before returning to France.
• Head to Megève, passing through alpine villages like Les Houches and Saint-Gervais-les-Bains.
• Arrive in Megève, a charming alpine resort town known for its luxury hotels, gourmet restaurants, and scenic beauty.
• Explore its historic centre, stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy dinner at a traditional Savoyard restaurant.

Day 3: Briançon

• Continue your journey southward through the French Alps.
• Drive through the stunning Tarentaise Valley, passing by ski resorts such as La Plagne and Les Arcs.
• Cross over the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps, and descend into the Maurienne Valley.
• Continue driving through picturesque mountain villages like Val d’Isère and Bonneval-sur-Arc.
• Arrive in Briançon, a fortified town known for its UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications and stunning mountain scenery.
• Explore its historic centre, visit the Fort des Têtes and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Nice

• Drive towards Nice, descending into the Ubaye Valley, known for its rugged beauty and outdoor activities.
• Continue driving through the Alpes-Maritimes region, passing by picturesque towns like Barcelonnette and Entrevaux.
• Arrive in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera.
• Explore its vibrant Old Town, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and relax on the beach.

GRANDES ALPES MAP

9- Brittany Coastal Road

⏰  Duration : 6-7 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August)

The Brittany Coastal Drive offers a  picturesque journey along the rugged and diverse coastline of Brittany , a region in northwestern France known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and charming seaside towns. 

This road trip route will take you through  quaint fishing villages, historic ports and stunning natural landscapes , providing you with opportunities to explore the scenic and untouched beauty of Brittany.

From the medieval city walls of  Saint-Malo  to the wild beauty of the  Quiberon Peninsula  and the charming streets of  Vannes , this itinerary perfectly highlights the  diverse landscapes, rich maritime heritage and gastronomic delights  of Brittany, making it an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers, history enthusiasts and foodies. 

Here is an example of a  6-day itinerary  offering a great mix of cultural, historical and natural attractions in Brittany:

Day 1: Saint-Malo

• Start your journey in Saint-Malo, a historic port city known for its impressive city walls and maritime heritage.
• Explore the medieval Old Town (Intra-Muros), stroll along the ramparts and visit the Château de Saint-Malo.
• Hop on a boat cruise to discover the Emerald Coast and local history.
• Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling local specialities like moules marinières (mussels in white wine sauce) and galettes (savoury buckwheat crepes).

Day 2: Dinard

• Drive along the coast to Dinard, a charming seaside resort town located across the Rance Estuary.
• Explore its elegant Belle Époque architecture, relax on the sandy beaches and take a stroll along the scenic coastal promenade.
• Visit the Pointe du Moulinet for panoramic views of Saint-Malo and the surrounding coastline.

Day 3: Perros-Guirec

• Drive to Perros-Guirec and continue along the scenic Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast), known for its stunning rock formations and sandy beaches.
• Explore the Ploumanac’h Lighthouse and the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers’ Path), offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.
• Visit the charming village of Ploumanac’h and stroll through its quaint streets lined with granite cottages.

Day 4: Douarnenez

• Head to Douarnenez, a picturesque fishing port on the Bay of Douarnenez.
• Explore the Port Rhu Museum and learn about the maritime history and boat-building traditions of the town.
• Visit the Tréboul district and relax on the sandy beaches or take a boat trip to the Île Tristan.
• Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant, savouring fresh catches from the local fishing boats.

Day 5: Quiberon

• Drive along the coast to Quiberon, a popular seaside resort town located on a narrow peninsula.
• Explore the beaches, cliffs and coastal paths, including the Pointe du Conguel and the Côte Sauvage (Wild Coast).
• Visit the Quiberon Citadel and learn about the history of the town as a fortified stronghold.
• Enjoy seafood specialities at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the harbour.

Day 6: Vannes

• Continue your journey to Vannes, a charming medieval town located on the Gulf of Morbihan.
• Explore the historic centre, with its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets and bustling markets.
• Visit the Vannes Cathedral and the Château de l’Hermine, a medieval fortress overlooking the harbour.
• Take a boat tour of the Gulf of Morbihan and discover its scenic islands and coastal landscapes.

BRITTANY COAST MAP

10- Pyrenean Escape

⏰  Duration : 7-8 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

Embark on a scenic Pyrenees road trip starting from Toulouse, where the journey unfolds amidst  historic charm, cultural richness and dramatic mountain vistas . 

From the medieval allure of  Foix  and the picturesque landscapes of  Vielha  to the spiritual sanctuaries of  Lourdes  and the elegant architecture of  Pau , you will not get bored on your adventure through the Pyrenees.

This itinerary offers a perfect mix of  scenic drives, cultural exploration and outdoor activities , allowing you to fully experience the beauty and diversity of the Pyrenees region, providing a unique experience in one of the most  spectacular mountain landscapes  in Europe.

Here is an example of an  8-day itinerary  covering some of the most spectacular parts of the Pyrenees:

Day 1: Toulouse

• Start your journey in Toulouse, known as the  Pink City  due to its distinctive terracotta buildings.
• Explore the historic city centre, including the Capitole de Toulouse, Basilica of Saint-Sernin and the Garonne River waterfront.

Day 2: Foix

• Drive to Foix, a charming town dominated by its medieval castle.
• Visit the Château de Foix and explore the narrow streets of the Old Town.
• Optional: Hike or take a scenic drive through the nearby Pyrenean foothills.

Day 3: Andorra

• Head to the Principality of Andorra, a small mountainous country nestled in the Pyrenees.
• Explore the capital city, Andorra la Vella, known for its duty-free shopping opportunities and mountain scenery.
• Visit landmarks such as Casa de la Vall and the Sant Esteve Church.

Day 4: Vielha

• Drive through the scenic Pyrenean landscapes from Andorra to Vielha, located in the Val d’Aran region of Catalonia, Spain.
• Explore its charming streets, lined with stone buildings and mountain vistas.
• Visit the local markets and sample traditional Catalan cuisine.

Day 5: Saint-Lary-Soulan

• Head to Saint-Lary-Soulan, a picturesque mountain town in the French Pyrenees.
• Take the cable car up to the Pic Lumière for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
• Explore the thermal baths or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or mountain biking.

Day 6: Lourdes

• Continue your journey to Lourdes, a world-famous pilgrimage site known for its Marian apparitions and healing waters.
• Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and attend a Mass or participate in the candlelight procession.
• Explore the Grotto of Massabielle and the Basilica of the Rosary.
• Drive to Pau, a historic city known for its elegant boulevards, Belle Époque architecture and views of the Pyrenees.
• Visit the Château de Pau, birthplace of King Henry IV of France, and stroll through the Parc Beaumont.
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specialising in regional cuisine.

Day 8: Return to Toulouse

• Drive back to Toulouse and enjoy the scenery along the way. 
• Once in Toulouse, spend your final evening exploring, shopping or relaxing.

PYRENEAN ESCAPE MAP

11- The Champagne Route

The Champagne Route, or  Route Touristique du Champagne , takes you on a fantastic journey through the  picturesque vineyards and charming villages of the Champagne region  in northeastern France. 

Stretching approximately 500 kilometres, this scenic route offers you the opportunity to explore  prestigious Champagne houses, historic towns and centuries-old cellars , whilst enjoying tastings of the world-famous sparkling wine directly from the producers. 

With its  stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage and exceptional gastronomy , the Champagne Route promises an unforgettable experience through one of the most celebrated wine regions in France.

Here is an example of a  6-day itinerary  covering some of the most iconic attractions in Champagne:

Day 1: Reims

• Start your journey in Reims, the largest city in the Champagne region.
• Visit the magnificent Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the historic city centre.
• Take a tour of one of the prestigious Champagne houses in Reims, such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger or Pommery, and enjoy a Champagne tasting.

Day 2: Épernay

• Drive to Épernay, known as the  Capital of Champagne , located south of Reims.
• Explore the Avenue de Champagne, lined with grand Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët and Mercier.
• Take a tour of a Champagne house and cellar, learning about the Champagne-making process and history of the region.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialities paired with Champagne.

Day 3: Hautvillers & Ay

• Visit the charming village of Hautvillers, known as the birthplace of Champagne, where Dom Pérignon perfected the méthode champenoise.
• Explore the village and visit the tomb of Dom Pérignon in the local abbey church.
• Drive to the village of Ay, another important Champagne-producing area, and visit Champagne houses such as Bollinger or Deutz.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vineyards surrounding Ay.

Day 4: Montagne de Reims

• Drive through the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, a scenic area known for its vine-covered slopes and picturesque villages.
• Visit the village of Verzy and explore the Faux de Verzy, ancient twisted beech trees unique to the region.
• Stop at Champagne houses along the way for tastings and tours, experiencing the diversity of Champagne styles produced in the area.

Day 5: Marne Valley

• Explore the Marne Valley, driving through vineyards and charming villages.
• Visit the village of Châtillon-sur-Marne and enjoy panoramic views of the Marne Valley.
• Stop at Champagne houses in the area for tastings and cellar tours, discovering the terroir-driven Champagnes of the Marne Valley.

Day 6: Return to Reims

• Spend your final day in Reims exploring any attractions or Champagne houses you may have missed.
• Visit the Musée de la Reddition, where the German surrender was signed in 1945.
• Explore more Champagne vineyards surrounding the city.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, toasting to the end of your Champagne Route road trip.

CHAMPAGNE ROUTE MAP

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : spring & autumn (April/May-September/October)

The Route des Grands Crus is a scenic road offering a  memorable journey through the prestigious Burgundy wine region  in France, spanning approximately 60 kilometres from Dijon to Santenay. 

Lined with  lush vineyards, historic castles (châteaux) and charming villages , this route showcases some of the finest wine-producing terroirs in the world, including  renowned appellations  like Gevrey-Chambertin and Puligny-Montrachet.

You will have the chance to explore  prestigious wine estates , indulge in  wine tastings  and immerse yourself in the  rich viticultural heritage  of Burgundy along this iconic wine route.

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most popular attractions in Burgundy:

Day 1: Dijon

• Start your journey in Dijon, the capital city of the Burgundy region.
• Explore the historic centre of Dijon, known for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.
• Visit the Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne (Ducal Palace) and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, one of the oldest museums in France.
• Immerse yourself in a wine-tasting experience at La Cave du Palais .
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialities such as boeuf bourguignon and escargots.

Day 2: Nuits-Saint-Georges

• Drive along the Route des Grands Crus whilst enjoying the scenery.
• Stop at the picturesque village of Vosne-Romanée, home to several prestigious grand cru vineyards, including Romanée-Conti.
• Visit a selection of wineries for tastings of the renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
• Continue to Nuits-Saint-Georges and explore the historic centre, including the 16th-century Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall).
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a glass of Nuits-Saint-Georges wine.

Day 3: Beaune

• Drive south to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy.
• Explore the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century charitable hospital with a distinctive colored-tile roof.
• Visit the Marché aux Vins de Beaune, where you can taste a selection of Burgundy wines and purchase bottles to take home.
• Enjoy an immersive wine-tasting experience at Château de Pommard.
• Explore the charming streets of Beaune and dine at a traditional bistro or Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 4: Meursault

• Drive through the scenic vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, stopping at prestigious wine villages such as Pommard and Volnay.
• Visit the village of Meursault, known for its elegant white wines made from Chardonnay grapes.
• Take a tour of a local winery and enjoy tastings of Meursault wines, known for their richness and complexity.

Day 5: Santenay

• Continue your journey along the Route des Grands Crus, stopping at villages such as Puligny-Montrachet and Chassagne-Montrachet.
• Visit the Château de Santenay, a historic castle and winery located in the village of Santenay.
• Take a tour of the château and its cellars, followed by tastings of Santenay wines.
• Explore the village of Santenay and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

GRANDS CRUS MAP

Shop the printable road trip planner

Plan and create an unforgettable road trip in France!

Tips for reducing your impact on a road trip

Are you looking forward to your unforgettable road trip? I understand! 

Road trips are a fantastic way of travelling as they allow us to move freely and discover many incredible places at our own pace. 

However, they can also have negative environmental impacts. That is why considering our carbon footprint and adopting  eco-responsible habits  is essential.

READ MORE:  How to Plan an Epic (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Here are some  sustainable tips  on making your France road trip more eco-friendly and having a positive impact on the places you visit:

PREPARE YOUR ROUTE IN ADVANCE 

I know getting lost on a road trip can feel fun and exciting, but when trying to lower your footprint, it is best to plan your route to minimise driving distance and avoid unnecessary detours. The shorter the distance you travel, the less fuel you will use and the less harmful emissions you will produce. In addition, consider alternative transportation options such as public transit or carpooling for shorter distances. 

Tip: Get offline maps to stay on track even if you lose signal. 

PLAN YOUR MEALS

Another great way to reduce your impact on the road is to plan your meals. Throughout your journey, eat at local restaurants or wander through local markets to buy fresh produce. You will have the opportunity to try the local cuisine whilst contributing to the local economy. 

STAY IN GREEN ACCOMMODATIONS

Stay in eco-friendly accommodations such as eco-lodges, hotels with green certifications, or campgrounds with sustainable practices. Look for accommodations that prioritise energy efficiency, waste reduction and water conservation.

It is not always easy to determine whether an accommodation has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.

MAKE YOUR TRIP PLASTIC-FREE

As you might know, plastic packaging is a significant environmental issue and causes concerns for wildlife and the preservation of natural landscapes. Therefore, avoid plastic as much as possible and bring reusable items instead. Choose  eco-friendly alternatives , like reusable tote bags, cutlery, plates and more. 

Tip: you can also buy  filtered water bottles  to refill your water anywhere. 

CHECK YOUR CAR AND DRIVE SMOOTHLY

Make sure your vehicle is in the best possible condition for the road: check the engine, oil level and tyre pressure before your trip. In addition, use the available features in your car, like cruise control, to help you maintain your speed and reduce excess emissions. And even better, drive an electric vehicle if possible! (Or a bike for the most courageous).

LEAVE A PLACE BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT

Aim to live by the principle: leave no trace. And even better, leave a place better than you found it. For example, dispose of your litter appropriately and pick up any trash you encounter. Be respectful of the land and do not drive over protected areas. Finally, stay on the marked trails when hiking, as going off can be dangerous for flora and fauna. 

ADOPT A RESPONSIBLE ATTITUDE TOWARDS WILDLIFE

Be mindful of your surroundings and adopt a responsible attitude towards wildlife, on land and in the sea. Do not come close to, feed or touch animals and corals. Remember that you are only a guest in their home.

ALWAYS RESPECT THE LOCAL HERITAGE

Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and try to learn a few French words!

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

France travel planning guide + tips

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your road trip in France stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over France. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in France is easy and is a great way to explore the country freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in France is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury resorts.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

The best road trip planner app I recommend you download on your phone is Roadtrippers . It will help you build your perfect itinerary with the top stops along the way.

Beautiful road trips in France – FAQ

Yes, France is a great destination for a road trip. With its diverse landscapes, charming villages, historic landmarks and world-renowned cuisine (and wine), France offers countless opportunities for memorable road trip experiences.

Yes, driving in France is generally easy. The country has an extensive network of well-maintained roads and highways, including Autoroutes (toll roads) and Routes Nationales (national roads), which make it easy to travel between cities and access remote places.

And you, what is your favourite road trip in France ? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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The Best 10 Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary

• David Angel

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Welcome to my South of France Road Trip itinerary guide, taking in the best of both Provence and Occitanie.

Driving in the South of France enables you to see far more than public transport does. You can get off the beaten path, seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

This road trip itinerary is packed with suggestions, and if you have a few more days available, there are plenty of possibilities for discovering even more amazing places.

I’ve devised this southern France road trip itinerary to include some of the best of Provence and the region to the west, Occitanie. The latter, covering southwest France, used to be known as Languedoc & Roussillon.

Provence is perhaps better known than Occitanie – but over several trips I’ve found both are equally compelling. This itinerary is an amalgamation of two of the south of France road trips I have done. It also takes you around six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The first few days are spent driving short distances around the west of Provence before heading west. You eventually return via the fascinating city of Albi, enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

Table of Contents

South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – avignon.

Avignon, my suggested starting point for this south of France vacation, is one of the best cities in France to visit. It’s best known as the City of Popes – six Popes presided from there in the 13 th and 14 th centuries.

The Palais des Papes – the Popes’ Palace – is one of the highlights. The immense fortified palace is one of the greatest Gothic buildings in France, and still dominates the whole city.

Avignon is also renowned because of the famous song, Sur le pont d’Avignon . The Pont Saint-Bénézet is named after the local saint who claimed he had a vision telling him to build a bridge on the site.

The location was unsuitable: the original 12th-century bridge was destroyed by floods, and just four arches of its replacement survive.

I suggest sticking to one day in Avignon , simply because there is so much to see elsewhere. It may well be worth considering a guided walking tour of Avignon , which will cover the main sights I’ve mentioned and the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral near the Papal Palace.

There are also several more churches to explore, including those of St Didier and St Pierre, and the formidable circuit of town walls.

Also take a walk to the Rue des Teinturiers, one of the prettiest streets in Avignon. It’s set along a canal in an area once lived in by the city’s dyers and tanners, and one of their waterwheels is still preserved.

Places To Stay In Avignon

Hotel d’Europe : 5-star luxury on one of the loveliest squares in Avignon

La Mirande – 5-star elegance next to the Palais des Papes

Les Jardins de Baracane :  gorgeous 17 th century guesthouse      

Day 2 – Around Avignon – Pont du Gard, Orange And More

I suggest using Avignon as a base for the first part of this south of France road trip as there is such an abundance of day trips from Avignon . 

One of the best things about staying in Avignon is that so many of the best places to visit in Provence are within reach by public transport. That said, a great many places to see in Provence can only be reached by car.

The drawback of using public transport in the south of France is that you’re limited to seeing one place a day. Driving allows you to cover more ground more quickly, and on the second day of your South of France vacation you can easily reach two World Heritage Sites and explore some of the best of Côtes du Rhône wine country.    

Start the day by heading west along the N100 from Avignon, continuing to Remoulins and following the D19 towards the Pont du Gard. It’s one of the most iconic bridges in Europe , a triple-layered arched aqueduct built in the 1 st century AD. The Romans built it to supply the nearby town of Nemausus with water.

It’s remarkably well preserved, among the outstanding Roman monuments in Europe. The Aqueduct is a few minutes’ walk from the car park and small museum devoted to the Pont.

After a couple of hours at the Pont du Gard, return to Remoulins and then join the A9 motorway (toll applies) for the short journey (around 30 km from where you join the motorway) to Orange. Follow the signs to the centre of Orange, a provincial town to the north of Avignon.

Here you’ll need a couple of hours to visit two more amazing Roman sights (which make up another World Heritage Site). The Arc de Triomphe d’Orange is beautifully preserved, especially its exceptional bas-reliefs. It’s believed to date from the reign of the first Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus, and there is also an inscription dedicated to his successor, Tiberius.

The other unmissable sight in Orange is the Théâtre Antique, or Ancient Theatre. Again, it’s incredibly well reserved, with an intact stage wall. The statue in the stage wall is of Emperor Augustus, during whose reign it was probably built. The Theatre has been used to stage productions again since the 19 th century.

The stage is an astonishing 60 metres wide, and dramas and comedies would have been performed on it in ancient times. Nowadays it’s used for opera performances, especially during the summertime Choregies d’Orange festival.

You can return to Orange via the backroads around the famous wine village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Alternatively, a more scenic route takes you east via Violes to the Dentelles de Montmirail, Beaumes-de-Venise and Carpentras before swinging south-east to Avignon.  

Day 3 – Avignon to Arles

We leave Avignon behind on the third morning of our South of France road trip, gently making our way a short distance down to the Rhone to the gorgeous World Heritage city of Arles.

Begin the day by driving the 10 miles (16 km) south from Avignon to the gorgeous little town of St Remy de Provence. I’ve stopped here numerous times over the years, and always found something new to intrigue me.

It’s mainly known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, who made several of his most famous paintings there, including Starry Night and Olive trees with the Alpilles in the background . He produced these while a patient at what was then known as the Saint-Paul Asylum, on the southern edge of the town.

This is now known as the Centre Culturel Saint-Paul de Mausole, and is next to the same groves of olive trees van Gogh painted. These are, in turn, next to the ancient Roman city of Glanum. Two of the best-preserved monuments – the Mausoleum of the Julii and Triumphal Arch – are on the west side of the road, while the rest of the city is on the other side.

The settlement pre-dated the Romans, who occupied the site until it was ransacked around 260 AD by the Alemanni.  The ruins of the main town are substantial, including part of a temple, a well-preserved main street, baths and a spring.

Head south over the jagged hills of the Alpilles range, from which you emerge with a view of the vast coastal plain.  The D5 road continues around to Les Baux de Provence, one of ‘les plus beaux villages de France’.   

It’s certainly one of the most dramatically sited villages in France, occupying a limestone outcrop with superb views in all directions. The village is huddled below the ruined medieval castle, which ruled over more than 70 villages before the line of succession ended in the 15 th century.

Most of the old village is given over to tourism, with many of the houses now used as galleries or gift shops. But don’t be put off. I’ve visited the village three times, and most recently loved the walks around the Val d’Enfer (the Valley of Hell) to the north of the village.

The views there are superb, and if you have time I also suggest visiting Les Carrières de Lumières , a series of underground caverns that hosts some amazing art installations. At the time of writing they have a Dutch theme, with Vermeer, van Gogh and Mondrian featured.

The village also gave its name to bauxite, an aluminium ore quarried to exhaustion until the end of the 20 th century. Your day is almost done. It’s a 20-minute drive – around 8 miles (14 km) south-east to the wonderful city of Arles, where I suggest staying two nights.

Where To Stay In Arles

Hotel de l’Anglais:  wonderful guesthouse in the heart of Old Arles

Hotel de l’Amphitheatre

Hotel Spa Le Calendal

Day 4 – Arles

Arles may just be our favourite city in Provence. I’ve visited several times over the years, and it’s a great base for a day – even several. It’s the gateway to the Camargue, the wetlands of the Rhone delta, and like Avignon, makes a great base for day trips in the south of France.  

Some of you may prefer Arles to Avignon – it’s more vivid, bright and colourful than its more austere neighbour to the north. Arles, another UNESCO World Heritage city, has two main draws for its visitors: its Roman sites and Vincent van Gogh association.

The Roman amphitheatre, which holds crowds of 25,000, was completed a few years after the Colosseum in Rome. It’s in excellent condition, and like its counterpart in Nimes, hosts bullfighting (but no killing), and concerts.  It’s an awesome venue for events like this, and an absolute must-see if you visit Arles.

The Roman Theatre is a short distance away. It would have been of similar size to the Roman Theatre in Orange, but is in worse state of preservation. The most intriguing of the Roman sites in Arles is Les Alyscamps, a Roman-era necropolis that continued to be Arles’ principal burial ground a thousand years after they had gone.  Roman burial grounds were traditionally outside the city walls, as was the case here.

Vincent van Gogh moved to Arles in 1888, and though some of his time there could be described as turbulent, it was also one of the most productive of his lifetime.  Arles undoubtedly inspired him. It was where he produced the likes of Starry Night Over the Rhone , The Yellow House , Café Terrace At Night , L’Arlesienne and some of his famous still-lifes and studies of chairs.

He left Arles for St-Remy in May 1889, having spent time at the Hospital (now L’Espace van Gogh). If you have an interest in van Gogh, you should also make time to visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh , which usually has a small collection of his paintings on display.

Aficionados of modern architecture should also seek out Luma Arles. It’s an arts and cultural centre, the distinctive work of Frank Gehry.  The architect of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Dancing House Prague completed this commission in 2021, and it’s one of his best.  I love the description of the Tower in the Guardian just after its completion – ‘Bacofoil scrunched by an invisible fist’.

Day 5 – Arles to Carcassonne

The fifth day of your South of France road trip is really down to you. It’s a two-hour drive, mostly along the A9 autoroute, to your next stop, Carcassonne. You may wish to see more of Arles. Or perhaps you may wish to get to Carcassonne as early as possible.

On the other hand, there is the option of heading south to the fascinating Camargue, or visiting some intriguing seaside towns very close by. I spent a couple of days of my first south of France road trip, back in the summer of 1988, in this area and have always meant to return.

We meandered around the Camargue for a while, camping near the beautiful old seaside town of Le Grau du Roi, on the western edge of the wetland area. Le Grau is a few miles along the coast from La Grande Motte, a resort built in the 1960s and 1970s.

I wrote in my journal at the time that it was ‘a seaside resort for aliens’. Many of the buildings – designed by Jean Balladur – are pyramid-like constructions. They were supposedly inspired by some of the pyramids of Central America, but always struck me as being more futuristic.

The medieval fortress town of Aigues-Mortes is a few miles along the coast on the D62. The town walls are superb, the architecture of much of the small town likewise. It’s on the shore of the Camargue, on the edge of a vast expanse of salt flats.  I haven’t returned there since the ‘80s, but would recommend anyone intrigued enough to go exploring.

Head for the A709 and then the A9 autoroute south of Montpellier. La Languedocienne takes you past the splendid old cities of Beziers and Narbonne, and at the latter take the A61 to your next stop, the fortified town of Carcassonne.

Places To Stay in Carcassonne

Hotel de la Cite & Spa MGallery : stunning 5-star hotel in the medieval citadel

Sowell Hotels Les Chevaliers : fine 4star in the Ville Basse, with some of the best views in town

Day 6 – Carcassonne

Carcassonne is one of the great icons of France and most beautiful castles in Europe.  The city – close to the Mediterranean and trade routes – has been fortified to some degree since Roman times.

The Visigoths took over the city, and the Carolingians, under Pepin the Short, took over in the 8 th century. The city was also renowned as one of the main refuges of the Cathars, Christians with what the Catholic Church considered heretical beliefs. As part of the Albigensian Crusade, thousands were brutally expelled from Carcassonne.

I’ve visited Carcassonne on three south of France road trips, and each time the initial sight of it has blown me away. The Cité de Carcassonne – the Citadel – encompasses the Old Town and Castle (Chateau Comtal), its 50 or more towers and turrets and immense walls visible from many miles away.  

It’s an amazing sight from the Pont Vieux – the long medieval bridge across the river Aude – and from the vineyards that surround the town. The Cité is quite small and only takes a few hours to explore, including its gateways and ramparts and the Basilica of St Nazaire. 

Each time I’ve visited I’ve ended up spending more time in the Ville Basse – the modern lower town – than the Cité.  A restored medieval citadel isn’t really conducive to day-to-day modern life, and this is where you’ll find more Carcassonne restaurants and hotels.

While there, don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint-Michel, which replaced the Basilica in the Cité as the region’s mother church in 1803. Also take a drive into the surrounding countryside to appreciate some of the amazing views of the Cité.  Some of the best are from the vineyards surrounding the town.

Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is on the doorstep of another – the Canal du Midi. This amazing feat of engineering was completed in the mid-17 th century. The 240-kilometre waterway links the city of Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea, and Carcassonne is near the mid-point of the Canal.

Day 7 – Carcassonne to Albi

The drive between these two World Heritage cities takes you over the unheralded Montagne Noire (Black Mountain). It also crosses from the Aude departement to Tarn, of which Albi is the capital.

The Montagne Noire is a vast upland forest area, and the D118 winds its way up and over the top. It takes you as far as the outskirts of the fine town of Castres , a name familiar to rugby fans around Europe. I only stopped for lunch for an hour or so, with just enough time to admire the quirky tanners’ houses above the Agout river.

A few old friends from Wales have visited to watch rugby there, and are very enamoured with the town. I’d be inclined to press on towards Albi, but there are plenty of other things to see in Castres, including a Goya Museum.

Continuing northwards, you eventually pass the turnoff for the gorgeous medieval village of Lautrec. If the name is familiar, it’s the ancestral village of the family of artist Henri de Toulouse—Lautrec, more on whom shortly. There’s a beautiful square surrounded by characteristic local brick and timber houses, and a fine 17 th century windmill on the hill above the village.

Eventually you reach the red-brick wonder of Albi, long one of my favourite cities in France. Park, check in and head straight for the most striking building in the city, the extraordinary Cathédrale Ste Cécile.

Its exterior looks more like a forbidding fortress than a place of worship. This was the intention of Bishop Bernard de Castanet, who began the Cathedral in the aftermath of the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade.

This campaign had seen the defeat of the Cathar heretics, so the new Cathedral was all about projecting Bernard’s power.  Although he did cut costs somewhat by using brick rather than stone. Albi Cathedral is said to be the biggest brick building in the world. I’m pretty sure that it isn’t (mighty Malbork Castle in Poland is bigger) but it’s a hugely impressive edifice.

I strongly recommend taking a walk down the hill to the River Tarn to admire the view of the city with the Cathedral looming above.  It’s particularly striking at sunrise, when the first light of the day glances across the red-brick buildings. Albi Cathedral is so different inside. I remember expecting a bare, austere interior, like a vast empty hall in a Castle. Not at all. It’s positively lavish and extravagant.

I was particularly struck by the beautifully painted vaults, which run the length of the church. This would have been done in the late 15 th and early 16 th centuries. The walls are also beautifully decorated, with the 15 th -century Last Judgment mural at the west end of the nave the oldest surviving work.

Places To Stay In Albi

Hotel Alchimy: 4-star with luxury suites in the historical centre

Hostellerie du Grand St-Antoine

La Voute du 26   – amazing apartment in medieval house in the historic centre of Albi  

Day 8 – Albi and Albigeois Region

There are enough things to do in Albi to keep you there for two or three days. It’s one of the most underrated cities in France, a place rich in medieval architecture. Other cities (Toulouse) and towns in the region also have the distinctive red brick houses with timber frames – as does Lautrec, from the previous day of this South of France itinerary.

Start the day at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum , housed next door to the Cathedral in the Bishops’ Palace, the Palais de la Berbie. The superb collection of Toulouse-Lautrec’s works was donated to his home city in 1922. He was famous for his Parisian posters and also drawings and paintings, and some of his best-known works are included in the collection, including the Moulin Rouge Masked Ball poster.

Spend more time exploring the less-known Albi sights, including the Maison du Vieil Alby (House of Old Albi, open afternoons only) and the Saint-Salvi church and cloister.      I was fortunate to have allowed myself three days in Albi, leaving time for a short drive north into the Albigeois, the countryside north of Albi. 

The main draw in the area is the gorgeous hilltop town of Cordes-sur-Ciel. It’s a beautiful rambling medieval town built on a steep hill, its cobbled streets full of galleries. It seemed to be pitched towards curious visitors, but when we visited, in April, there were very few of us around.

If Cordes is busy in summer and you really want to step back in time, head around 10 miles west to the village of Penne. It’s somewhere I yearn to return, an extraordinary village crowned by a wonky medieval castle. It’s in my personal most beautiful villages in France list, for sure.  

Day 9 – Albi to Millau

With great reluctance, we bid farewell to Albi to head east towards the southern end of the Massif Central. On this day we visit one of the great modern famous landmarks in France . And there is the option of visiting the home of one of the best blue cheeses in the world, if your tastebuds are so inclined.

We suggest following the D999 east from Albi into the Aveyron department, a journey of around 60 miles (100 km).  ass through the pretty town of Saint-Affrique before you reach the cheese mecca of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon. 

This small village is paradise to blue cheese fiends like us, and I ate one of the best sandwiches of my life there. The contents were no more than a very large chunk of bread and a huge helping of Roquefort cheese, but this was my food paradise.

The story goes that a shepherd left a piece of cheese in the high pastures, retrieving it months later to find it covered in mould. He supposedly tried a bite, and so one of the most famous cheeses in France was born.

See Also: What Is France Famous For? 

It’s a half-hour drive from there through the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park to Millau. These days it’s best-known as the nearest town to the Viaduc de Millau – or Millau Viaduct.

This magnificent bridge is the tallest in Europe, 270 metres above the Tarn valley floor at one point. One of its piers is 1143 feet (348 metres) high – which is considerably taller than the Eiffel Tower.

From Roquefort, I suggest rejoining the D999 and turning right, heading east to the nearest junction of the A75 autoroute (motorway). Join the autoroute, heading left (north) where you enjoy astounding views of the bridge and landscape below.

Turn off the A75 at the next junction, and follow the road around to the rest area (Aire du Viaduc de Millau) and viewpoint. From there you get a stunning view, with the piers of the bridge very close to each other. I also suggest driving around the Tarn Valley below the Viaduct to seek out more views of it.

One of my favourites is the beautiful village of Peyre, roughly a mile west of the Viaduct. This is where our dusk image of the Viaduct was shot.  

Hotels In Millau

Couvent de la Salette :  the best luxury bet in Millau, beautiful rooms in a centuries-old former convent

Domaine des Ondes – great guesthouse with wonderful mountain views

Day 10 – Millau to Avignon

Before the Viaduct was built, Millau was best-known as the gateway to the Gorges du Tarn. The upper reaches of the river flow through this spectacular narrow gorge on its way west, where it eventually meets the broad Garonne river.

Follow the D187 north out of Millau, continuing north-east to Le Rozier. From there, you have the option of heading 10 miles north to the best viewpoint in the Gorges du Tarn, the Point Sublime, which commands a breathtaking view of the valley.

From there, double back to Millau or head south via minor roads via Nant, to join the D7. This becomes the D999 a few miles to the east, and from here you continue into the Cevennes.  briefly stopped) and Saint Hippolyte du Fort. The D999 takes you all the way to Nimes, home to of the greatest Roman monuments in France and an enchanting old centre.  

You could overnight in Nimes or continue to Avignon – entirely up to you. I’ve stayed in Nimes twice, both times for one night, and would gladly do so again. The Maison Carrée, a 2 nd century AD Roman Temple, is one of the best-reserved ancient buildings anywhere in the world. It’s an astonishing sight, especially at dusk when the floodlights give it a magical aura.  

The Temple is on the same square as the Carré d’Art, a contemporary arts centre and museum designed by Norman Foster (who also designed the Viaduc de Millau. Even if a little Roman monument fatigue is beginning to creep in, the Arènes of Nimes is a must-see. Like that of Arles, this amphitheatre is in superb condition and still used for concerts and events.  

Getting To The South Of France

If you’re flying long-haul to France, from North America or Australia, it makes sense to fly to Paris, then catch the TGV (fast train) south to Avignon. You can then pick up your hire car from there. We recommend discover cars , who we use ourselves to find the best car rental deal in the area we’re exploring.

If you’re flying to the south of France from elsewhere in Europe, there are a multitude of airports in southern France to choose from.

You don’t necessarily have to start this south of France road trip from Avignon – you could easily do so from Carcassonne, which has a small airport that is a hub for budget carrier Ryanair.

I’ve flown into several other airports across the region, including Nimes (another Ryanair option), Marseille and Nice. You can also fly to Lyon (less than two hours’ drive north of Avignon) or even Grenoble, in the heart of the French Alps.  

South of France Road Trip – Final Thoughts

I hope this south of France road trip itinerary gives you some inspiration. It’s an astounding part of the world, and this mixture of Provence and Occitanie will encourage you to delve deeper into one, or both, of them.  

Check out more of our Europe road trip articles here:

• Normandy Road Trip – 7 days itinerary through gorgeous Normandy
• Portugal Road Trip – Alentejo – exploring the borderlands and backwoods of south-east Portugal
• Pembrokeshire Road Trip – 5 days around glorious West Wales
• Snowdonia Road Trip – 4 road itineraries around Eryri

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

A Surfer’s Guide to Motorhome Touring in France

A surf trip in a camper van is an incredible way to explore a new location and indulge in the sweet surf break that it offers. France, in particular, boasts incredible surfing opportunities for wave riders of all levels. Motorhome touring in France is an incredible way to enjoy the coastline with your surfboard.  

It’s not hard to come by a camper in France, and the biggest challenge that you’ll find is picking the best one for you. The Atlantic coastline is 4,668 kilometers long, and offers unbeatable surfing conditions, throughout the year.  

If you want to find out more about the best places to surf every month, read our month-by-month surf guide here.

While some surfers travel in an RV or motorhome, others prefer the versatility of a campervan. Here’s all that you need to prepare for an epic surf trip along France’s motorhome routes.  

* Just to let you know that this article may contain affiliate links. If you click on them we might receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Options for   Motorhoming in France

Before you map out the route and wax up your board, you need to decide which vehicle is best to meet your needs.  

RV (Motorhome) in France

An RV offers space and comfort to kick it after a surf – whether you’re a beginner finding your feet, or a pro shredding tubes.  

Benefits of a touring France by motorhome

A motorhome is a fantastic option for traveling in slightly larger groups or families. With more space to sleep and work, a motorhome (or RV) is the perfect home away from home on the road in France.

Where to rent an RV motorhome in France

There is a choice of places to find RV rental. France may boast a few choices, but we recommend Auto Europe . The website has a choice of urban plus motorhomes, family plus motorhomes, and even premium options.  

Surfing Campervan in France

Campervans are another great option. Slightly smaller, but equally as effective.  

Benefits of campervanning in France

Campervans allow you to travel across France’s gorgeous landscapes with flexibility and maneuverability. A campervan is also a great option because it offers all that you need to live comfortably, without being clumsy.  

Where to find campervan rental in France

It’s as easy to find a camper in France as it is to rent an RV. One of the best sites is Van-It , with a selection of campervans available to rent without breaking the bank. There are all different sizes, perfect for an unforgettable surf trip.  

Seven Stops: France Motorhome Routes for Surfers

Once your bags are packed and your fuel tank is full, you can get going. There are so many amazing spots to stop and surf along the coast of France, and we encourage you to take your time. Even so, there are a few spots in particular that we’d like to point out for you to circle on your map.  

1. Yport, Normandy

Yport is one of the more popular spots to surf in Normandy. Nearby, Etretat is also a great option. The classic wave breaks as a left-hand point break over flat rocks and promises to be a lot of fun. There are very few crowds meaning that you can enjoy the waves without getting flustered. Keep in mind that swell consistency isn’t the best in Normandy, so it’s best to manage your expectations.  

If you’re looking for a place to park your vehicle overnight, then Le Rivage is a fantastic option. Located on the top of the cliff, the spot boasts an epic view and the opportunity to read the waves.  

When the swell isn’t working in your favor, then you can explore the little French village Fecamp. The combination of art, history, and the marina makes the spot a charming location for a holiday.  

Distance to next destination: 552 kilometers

2. Pors Peron, Bretagne

During the winter months, Pors Peron transforms into a clean, consistent wave. When the conditions are right, the exposed beach break is another surf spot that’s worth adding to your itinerary. Just like Yport, there are few crowds, meaning more waves to go around.

Pors Peron is largely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Brittany. Camping Pors Peron is a simple campsite that offers everything that you need, without the fuss. They offer great facilities, just a stone’s throw from another beach.  

If the waves aren’t working, then you can always drive to the nearby medieval town of Pont Croix. The little town is filled with gorgeous historical sites, delicious restaurants, and captivating culture.  

Distance to next destination: 325 kilometers

3. Saint Gilles Croix de Vie, Vendée

Saint Gilles Croix de Vie is home to a much-loved surf spot that isn’t as well known as others. It’s a gentle spot that suits surfers of all levels (and ages). Boasting a fairly consistent beach break, wave riders can shoot either left or right, as long as you don’t mind riding slightly smaller waves.

Camping Les Cypres is the camping ground of choice near Saint Gilles Croix de Vie. In many ways, the camping grounds cater to surfers and share access to both Saint Gilles Croix de Vie as well as La Sauzaie.  

While the beach is arguably the biggest attraction in the area, there are other fun things to do in the area. A lot of activities are centered around nature, such as the Le Grand Defi, but there are also many cultural sites to visit, such as the Vendee Miniature Museum.

Distance to next destination: 234 kilometers

4. Montalivet, Bordeaux

Montalivet is a standard surf spot that breaks over a sandy bottom, offering rides to surfers of all levels. There’s potential to get a really long ride, depending on whether you visit when the conditions are right.  

Although it’s located slightly further away from the beach, Camping Le Bonheur Est Dans Le Pré is the campsite of choice when stopping over at Montalivet. The extra drive is worth it, as the space is beautiful and serene.  

A lot of the attractions in the area pivot around natural beauty. For example, there’s the option to explore the nearby vineyards and empty beaches. The local village of Vendays-Montalivet is also a great spot to grab a cup of coffee or mingle with the friendly locals.  

Distance to next destination: 67 kilometers

5. Le Porge, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Le Porge is an hour’s drive from Bordeaux and the surf spot in Le Porge is the perfect place for beginners, with a choice of two schools ready to teach beginners as well. The wide-open beach boasts fun peaks and exposed beach breaks.  

La Grigne is a large campsite that can become quite busy in summer. The campsite is within walking distance of the beach and offers a beautiful, forested area to relax after fun in the water.  

Even if the swell isn’t working, it’s worth visiting the local beaches in Le Porge. Traveling a short distance in each direction will bring you to Lacanau, Andernos-Les-Bains, and Carcans.  

Distance to next destination: 187 kilometers

6. Hossegor

Hossegor is the pride and joy of surfing in France. The consistent wave breaks in four main spots, suited for various skill levels. The entire town is set up around surfing, and there are more than enough surf schools, rentals, and waves to go around.  

Want to return to Hossegor at a later stage? Read our blog on planning the ultimate Hossegor surf trip here.

There is a choice of several campsites to choose from in the area. Depending on what you hope to achieve from the trip, you can browse campsites around Soorts-Hossegor and take your pick!

If you’re traveling as a surfing nomad, then there are several places that are perfect to live, work, and surf in Hossegor. Read about them in our blog here.

When you’re not surfing, you can explore the rest of what Hossegor has to offer. Take a stroll in the forest, visit the farmers market, pop into a sunset bar, and grab an ice cream from Café de Paris.  

Distance to next destination: 38 kilometers

7. Bidart, Biarritz

There are several spots to surf in Biarritz, but Bidart’s surfing beaches are a great place to start. Choose between Ilbarritz for all levels, Pavillon Royal for experienced surfers, and Erretegia for surfers from beginner to experienced.  

There are several camping spots to choose from, some of which are right in front of the surf spots. One of the best campsites is Camping Erreka which offers a bit of luxury in an authentic and natural environment.  

The beautiful, coastal town in the Basque country is dripping with culture and offers the opportunity for traveling surfers to immerse themselves. Visit the local golf course, the lookout deck at Rocher de la Vierge, and the Cathedrale Saint-Marie de Bayonne.  

Tips For Traveling Through France In A Motorhome

Whether you’re taking a campervan to France from your home, or you’re renting one in the country, there are a few details to note.  

• A valid driving license is essential
• Make sure that you have the vehicle’s original registration document handy
• Be careful to stick to the speed limits in France
• Stock up on snacks and water for late nights
• Invest in a portable wifi device if you plan on doing any work on the road
• Keep an eye on the expected climate and temperature to make sure that you’re prepared

France is a fantastic digital nomad destination, especially for surfers. Read more about our top destinations to work and surf around the world.

Bags Packed and Surfboards Ready!

Are you ready for the ultimate surfing road trip through France? Hiring a campervan can save you money and give you everything that you need – as you need it.

Whether you need a larger motorhome for a bigger group or prefer the zippy size of a smaller campervan – France’s surfing coastline is your oyster!

• Ultimate surf van for a California road trip
• Campervan hire in Portugal for the ultimate surf trip

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Candice Boyers

Candice Land, aka Candi Land, aka The Captain, is a freelance writer, digital nomad and full-time globe trotter.

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10 of the best campsites in France

Author of Take the Slow Road: France, Martin Dorey shares his favourite places to stay while travelling by campervan or motorhome, from an idyllic riverside campsite in the Loire Valley to camping on the beach in the south of France

MY TOP TEN FRENCH CAMPSITES

Looking for a good campsite? Here are 10 of my faves. Bear in mind, though, that I haven’t visited all of France’s campsites – and generally prefer smaller sites, indies or quirky places – so this is not a definitive list. But at least it’s a really good start.

1. Best for swimming

Camping du Lac de Narlay, Le Frasnois, Jura

A beautiful site on a hillside that slopes gently down to Lac de Narlay, a cerulean slice of wonder that’s great for a swim and a kayak. Go for electric and you’ll get a pitch that’s level, otherwise it’s a free-for-all. If you can nab a level spot by the lakeshore then you’re doing better than we did.

camping-narlay.com

2. Best for cooling off on a hot day

Camping du Brec, Entrevaux, Alpes-de-Hautes-Provence

Another lakeside campsite that’s got its own patch of watery heaven. Only this time it’s all yours. The owners provide kayaks and SUPs for you to muck about on and the bar is right next to the water. Pitches are a great size and it’s really friendly. Loved it.

camping-dubrec.com

3. Best for falling out of your van into the sea

Le Camp du Domaine, Le Lavandou, Bormes-les-Mimosas, Var

OK, so it’s big, very big. But book yourself a pitch on the beach and you’ll never be closer to the water. It won’t be cheap, but you’ll have everything right there, including a sunshade. Wake up, slip on your shorts and get in the Med. Swim around the marker buoys before breakfast then go and pick up your pain from the on-site bakery.

campdudomaine.com

4. Best for toasting your good fortune

Camping d’Épernay, Marne

It’s one of the nicest municipal campsites we’ve come across. It’s right on the river and has a restaurant and kayak hire on site, as well as sports facilities. It’s an easy cycle into town to get sozzled on Champers and makes a great base for exploring the Champagne houses of the region.

epernay.fr/hotel-restaurant/camping-municipal

5. Best for walking to surf

Camping de la Côte d’Argent, Hourtin Plage, Gironde

It’s going to cost you, and woe betide you if you didn’t book ahead, but that aside, this is the campsite for all travelling, van-dwelling surfers (and their families) who need more than just a car park. There’s a fab pool complex for the kids, bars and nightly entertainment for the other half. It’s also just a four-minute walk from the beach. Perfect for early surfs, and then back in time for croissants.

camping-cote-dargent.com

6. Best for Paris

CityKamp Paris

Let’s face it, there isn’t much else to choose from if you want to visit Paris by moho. But even so, it’s not lax or complacent in any way. The pitches are decent and it’s an easy bus and metro ride into the centre of the city. If you want to see the city, this is it.

campingparis.fr

7. Best for winter sports

Camping Huttopia, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Savoie

The Huttopia sites are like the Caravan and Motorhome Club sites: reliable, well-presented and decent value. This site offers a free bus to the funicular railway that will take you to Les Arcs for winter sports, which means you don’t have to drive up the mountain roads but can still enjoy the rides. They have a drying room, there is a supermarket opposite and the town is a short cycle away.

europe.huttopia.com/site/camping-bourg-saint-maurice

8. Best for walking and natural wonders

Camping La Bergerie, Gavarnie, Hautes-Pyrénées

This is a tiny site that may not be suitable for huge mohos and bigger vans. But if you can fit, you will love it. It’s right by a river and is the last site before the Cirque de Gavarnie. A wonderful location.

camping-la-bergerie-gavarnie.com

9. Best for views

Panorama du Pyla, Pyla-sur-Mer, Gironde

You might have to manoeuvre a bit to get in but it’s worth it. The views are magnificent, over Arcachon Bay to Cap Ferret. It’s also got direct access to the Grande Dune du Pilat, Europe’s biggest sand dune, so it’s an easy walk on to the top of this monster of silicon. They also have a pool and kids’ stuff and a bar, also with great views.

yellohvillage.fr/camping/panorama_du_pyla

10. Best for the Loire

Camping Chaumont-sur-Loire, Loir-et-Cher

Right next to the river, this is an ace campsite for perfect sunsets, hot days and château exploration. It’s a free-for-all when it comes to pitches but that’s the way we like it. Get there early and grab the best spot right next to the river.

camping-chaumont-sur-loire.com

This is an extract from Take the Slow Road: France by Martin Dorey. Martin is author of The Camper Van Bible and the Take the Slow Road campervanning guides which include England and Wales, Scotland, Ireland and France, all out now.

bloomsbury.com

Read an interview with Martin Dorey in the July issue of FRANCE Magazine (out now).

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South of France road trip: A two-week itinerary

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The purple fields of lavender, the heart and soul of Provence, are a regular sight on this road trip itinerary through the southern reaches of France . As the premier fruit-growing region in France, the agricultural land of Provence is covered in orchards growing such things as apples, pears, figs and stone fruit. You’ll see these interspersed with olive groves the further south you travel.

The landscapes change considerably in these parts, from agricultural land, steep cliffs and sheer ravines falling away into turquoise waters below. The food develops a Mediterranean feel to it as the cities edge closer and closer to Italy .

This itinerary covers what we did on a two-week itinerary in the south of France. These are our tips to make the most of these regions’ offers and are meant as a guide to help your French road trip planning.

Auvergne Rhône-Alpes

Provence-alpes-côte d’azur, itinerary summary, itinerary highlights, how to get around in southern france, road trip checklist, motorhome stopovers, things to do in lyon, where to stay, things to do, things to do near l’isle-sur-la-sorgue, mont ventoux, how long should you spend in southern france, tips for travelling in the area, best time to visit, motorhome resources, regions covered.

Separate regions before 2015 when the French administration merged many of the existing regions and departments, Auvergne brings the towns of the central-south whilst the Rhône-Alpes adds those from the south-eastern Alps area. Combined, it’s an area that is well known for outdoor adventures and sports, making the most of the mountainous landscapes.

In this region you’ll find the highly regarded area known collectively as Provence, influenced by the Mediterranean, home of many incredible national parks and outdoor adventure locations and the world-famous lavender fields. It is combined with the coastal areas that run along the French Riviera, brimming with visitors, celebrities and fancy cars, yachts and hotels.

Digne-les-Bains

Gorges du verdon, luberon valley.

• L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

• World-famous lavender fields of Provence
• Spectacular natural landscapes; gorges, national parks, mountains, thermal springs
• A blend of large cities, mid-sized towns and small villages
• Home to some of the “prettiest villages in France” – Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
• Regional food like ratatouille, bouillabaisse and tapenade and the wines of the Rhône along with many local fresh food markets plus the gastronomic city Lyon
• Medieval architecture

Make your road trip a breeze with some quick pre-planning.

• Motorhome hire  – We use and recommend Anywhere Campers . Read our  comprehensive review  here and if you are getting a quote, be sure to use our link here . Anywhere Campers are also the best for one-way motorhome hire in Europe.
• Car hire  – If you are planning on taking a road trip and staying in hotels, we use and recommend  Discover Rental Cars .
• Travel insurance  – We always recommend  travel insurance , especially so when on a road trip in a motorhome or a rental car.
• France road rules  – Take the anxiety out of your road trip in France with this simple guide to  driving in France . Be sure to read our comprehensive article on whether you need a crit air sticker to drive in France .

The regions of Auvergne Rhône-Alpes and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur are perfect for a road trip. Apart from the major cities, public transport is not common, so having your own vehicle gives you freedom and flexibility. Having a motorhome, as we did for this journey, means you are fully self-contained. Hiring a car and staying in hotels is another option.

This itinerary, along with all others we write, is an example of areas that you can travel in France as a short journey. Many travellers, particularly those who may come from the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, or retirees, often spend many months, even years travelling throughout this great country.

Others though, come from far away and often do not have the luxury of time. For these people, many from Australia and New Zealand, even South Africa, Canada and the USA, can only come for a few weeks at a time. Sometimes four weeks is the maximum they can get away.

We’ve done six and 12-week road trips through Europe, but this is not the norm for many. Our itineraries can be seen as building blocks. With a selection of short road trips, travellers with only a few weeks at their disposal can choose from our selection and just follow one of them. However, they can all be tacked together to turn a short trip into a much longer one.

For an extended road trip, this itinerary can be easily bolted onto our Burgundy itinerary.

More reading >> Looking to spend more time in the south of France? Start with this itinerary that takes in Burgundy first.

We are huge fans of using the France Passion network whenever we are in France. Throughout this itinerary, you can assume that we have stayed at one of these wonderful locations, usually sampling on local wines and fresh food, proudly made by the property owners. If we haven’t stayed in such a place, we will note the name of the campground we used.

There are over 250 France Passion locations in Auvergne Rhône-Alpes and 144 in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

You might also like to read >> Learn more about the France Passion network? Read our comprehensive article here

DEPARTMENT: Rhône REGION: Auvergne Rhône-Alpes

Lyon is one of France’s most significant cities and is universally known as being at the centre of all things food-related. From Michelin starred chefs to incredible food markets, its matched with a long and proud history.

Lyon is a beautiful town situated where the rivers Saône and Rhône join. Divided by the river, there is old Lyon and the new Lyon.  Both are very different, and if you are visiting, it’s the old town that you want to see.

You’ll need a lifetime to get to know Lyon well, but for those who don’t have that luxury, try to spend at least 48 hours in Lyon.

There is so much more to do in Lyon. These are some of the highlights.

Explore the streets of the old town (Vieux Lyon)

The best way to get to know Lyon is by putting on your best walking shoes and walking all over the old town. Up and down the lanes. In and out of tiny nooks that you’ll find, exploring the traboules.

Lyon has such beautiful architecture that you’ll be enthralled just with the everyday buildings as much as the most important, historical ones. Lyon’s wealth was made centuries ago on the silk trade.

Lyon was known to be a city of great wealth and there is no more splendid exhibition of this than in the Renaissance buildings. You can see many of these right in the heart of Vieux Lyon in the Saint-Jean, Saint-Georges and Saint-Paul districts.

Find and explore the traboules

Lyon is known for its traboules. Across the old town, a simple door can hide a secret passageway. Many of them run between several buildings, connecting them to streets, the river and other buildings.

These ancient thoroughfares were built to give the silk workers a path to the river, where the silk was transported to other locations.

If you know what you are looking for, you can identify the door by a bronze plaque that is placed nearby, usually providing you with some information about that particular traboule.

Some have open doors. Others have doors that are not. In this case, you need to know to press the button to open the door and let yourself in.

Residents of the buildings have an agreement with the local authorities to ensure the traboules always remain accessible. They must agree to keep the laneways clean and open to the public until 7 pm each night. In return, those who use the laneways must be respectful of the residents and their right to privacy and peace and quiet.

Each traboule is different. Some have exquisite balconies and others have unique pastel-coloured plasterwork. Gardens and courtyards can be a feature. Some are only within one building, whilst others run under four buildings panning an entire block.

It’s a unique way of getting to know a city.

La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Take the funicular up to the top of the hill that overlooks the old town of Lyon. Here you will find the Basilica Notre Dame de Fourvière, built in the latter part of the 1800s.

If you go inside, you’ll be rewarded with the opulence and wealth usually found inside these centuries-old European churches. The Museum of Sacred Art resides here as well.

If you make it here, don’t miss the opportunity to get a photo from the best seat in the house.

St Jean Cathedral and Place

Lyon’s oldest pedestrian square, St-Jean Place is always a hive of activity. The St-Jean Cathedral watches over it, an impressive, part Romanesque building has also been influenced by Gothic architecture, especially on the facade.

Chill out in Place Bellecour

The largest pedestrian square in Europe is home to cafes, restaurants, buskers and a throng of people daily. Here visitors mix with locals on a work commute or simply moving from place to place.

Eat Lyonnaise food

Foodie or not, you can’t come to Lyon without having some kind of food experience. Chefs the world over suggest that Lyon is the culinary capital of the world, partly because Chef Paul Bocuse, a name synonymous with food in France, lived here.

Lyonnaise food culture sits at the heart of everything here. From the incredible Les Halles permanent market to fine dining restaurants and the traditional Bouchon, finding good food won’t be difficult here.

Traditional Lyonnaise cuisine comes with a few different flavours and different foods, not eaten often in many parts of the world. Andouillette sausages made with intestines, boudin noir (blood sausages), kidneys, Lyonnaise saucisson, quenelles (fish dumplings ) are just a few of this city’s specialities.

Hop-on-Hop-off bus

Short on time? Have your ticket already purchased for the Hop-on-Hop-off bus and see all the main sights of Lyon.

Buy your Hop-on-Hop-off bus tickets

Lyon City Pass

We also recommend these passes if you are planning on being in Lyon for a few days. They include entry to all the major sights as well as public transport.

Buy your Lyon City Pass and avoid the queues

There is no shortage of hotels in Lyon . For those driving, if you are planning on staying in Lyon, we recommend staying at a campground. Free parking is not possible in Lyon and finding a street park where you can fit a larger vehicle in the city centre is difficult, if not impossible.

When in Lyon, we head straight to the campground and just take public transport into the city.

Camping des Barolles

Accessible for tents, caravans and motorhomes, there are bungalows here as well.

Open all year round, there is a small grocery store, bar, laundry and good bathroom facilities. Bread may be ordered for the following day and tickets for the buses and metro can also be purchased here.

The campground is approximately 7.5km outside Lyon (to the south-west) and access to the city is possible (and recommended) by bus. The journey will take about 30 minutes.

Location : 88 avenue Maréchal Foch 69230 Saint Genis Laval

Distance from Lyon to Gap – 214 km (132 miles). If you don’t want to drive the entire distance from Lyon to Gap, Grenoble is a larger city that sits at the halfway point between the two.

DEPARTMENT: Hautes-Alpes REGION: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Gap is the next larger city as you leave Lyon to head further south through the Provence region. Gap is very close by the southern French Alps and as such, the mountains can be seen surrounding the city. It’s a city where the Mediterranean vibe is still highly visible, but you are left in no doubt that you are in the mountain country too.

Many of the things to do in Gap rely heavily on being in the outdoors, from hiking and walking to exploring the parklands.

In the city itself, visit the local markets if you can and take the time to explore the city streets. There are also several museums here.

Distance from Gap to Sisteron- 50.4 km (31.3 miles).

DEPARTMENT: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence REGION: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

It’s hard to know where to look as you approach Sisteron. Regardless of direction, your gaze will firstly be drawn to the citadel that sits on top of a seriously craggy mountain. The kind of mountains that define this area. In the shadows of the citadel is the village of Sisteron, their brightly coloured buildings pops of colour against the wall of mountain grey.

Cast your eyes down even further and you’ll be met with the turquoise waters of the Druance River.

Sisteron Citadel

The citadel is the main reason to visit Sisteron. The citadel has seen its fair share of change since it was first built in the 12th-century. Some of the original architecture still exists along with additions from more modern times.

During the second world war, it was used by the Germans as a prison. The French government, then based in Vichy, did the same. The citadel was also impacted by bombings during the same war.

Visit the village centre

Sisteron is an easy town to walk. Take your time to explore the town full of wonderful medieval buildings and winding laneways.

Before you leave, be sure to find the town clock and the Notre Dame des Pommiers Cathedral (Sisteron Cathedral)

Pénitents des Mées

Not far from Sisteron, (22km south), Les Mees is worth pulling off the road for. The small town, an agricultural area with fruit orchards and olives, has its own unique claim to fame.

Behind the town, 100 metre high rocks have created quite a sensation.

Known as the Pénitents des Mées, they are steeped in folklore in these parts. Said to represent the monks who were turned into stone when they fell in love with some local women, each rock is hooded as the monks held their heads in shame.

Distance from Sisteron to Digne-les-Bains – 38.7 km (24 miles).

We learned all about the dreaded French Mistral in Digne-les-Bains. As we jumped on our bikes, a must for any motorhome trip, the fierce, icy wind pushed at our backs.

The yellowish leaves of the plane trees shimmered almost silver as we were pushed about by it. We’d always been fortunate to miss this wicked wind that descends from the icy Alps and down into the Rhône Valley, onwards to the coast of the French Riviera. You certainly know you’re alive when this one blows into town.

Digne-les-Bains, or simply Digne, is known as a spa town in these parts. Nestled down between the convergence of three valleys, the mountains both protect it and provide a source of water.

Long associated with being a health resort, the waters coming from the mountains are said to have healing qualities.

Digne-les-Bains also provided the backdrop for the opening scenes in Victor Hugo’s Les Miserable.

Digne-les-Bains isn’t packed with well-known tourist attractions, but there is still enough to keep you occupied for a while.

Learn about lavender

The town sits at the heart of the lavender producing area of Provence, affectionately known as the lavender capital.

Lavender is celebrated each August with a month dedicated to the strong- smelling flower that covers fields all across Provence. The first weekend of August sees their love of lavender celebrated at the festival Corso de la Lavande.

Towards the end of the month, Foire de la Lavande is a fair where you can find any kind of lavender product possible.

Explore the historic town centre

It’s easy to ride bikes or walk around the town centre. It’s small and flat. Visit Saint-Jérôme cathedral and the Gassendi Museum. A former hospital from the 16th-century, the building alone is worth the visit. Inside there are exhibitions of all kinds; modern artwork, 16th to 19th-century paintings and taxidermy.

For some time out, visit the Cordeliers Botanical Garden.

Relax in the thermal waters

The hot springs that run nearby have long been touted as having medicinal and therapeutic qualities. So much so that people come to Digne-les-Bains specifically to bathe in the thermal waters.

Buy from the local market

Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Provençal market takes place in the main street, Boulevard Gassendi. The Marché bio & “Bienvenue à la ferme” market occurs every Tuesday and the smells from the rotisserie chicken, Toulouse saucisson and other delights being cooked in the square, linger down the road, calling out to everyone to come and visit.

We couldn’t resist buying a local cheese that had been matured in leaves. Wrapped in chestnut leaves, we had seen a story on this aged chèvre back home in Australia.

Distance from Digne-les-Bains to Castellane (Gorges du Verdon)- 53.9 km (33.5 miles)

From Castellane to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, the road of the Gorges du Verdon has you clinging to the edge for approximately 42 km. Winding through the mountains, sometimes even driving through them, it’s a ride that can be a little unsettling at times if you are a nervous passenger.

If you can get past the sheer drops that seem to appear out of nowhere beside your window, you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery that this area keeps on delivering at every turn.

Tip : If you are driving in a motorhome here, you’ll just need to be on your guard for drivers that don’t have as much respect for others as they should. Whether it be that they go too fast, or too close, a trip along the gorge usually comes with a smattering of close encounters and in a large vehicle, it can be a little trickier than a standard car.

Castellane, dominated by the enormous rock that sits over it, with a church perched right on the very top, is a lovely town to spend some time in. It’s also the starting point for many of the water sports like rafting.

Not far from Moustiers-Saint-Marie lies the largest artificial lake in France, Lac de Saint Croix.  It is spectacular, especially on a bright, sunny day. Its bright turquoise water, the result of the combination of glacial waters and rock minerals that are suspended in the water, shine even in the day time.

This area is home to adrenalin based sports, with rafting, rock climbing and some serious hiking trails. In summer, this area is packed full of people trying their hand at one of these pastimes.

Make a stop at Point Sublime. Here you can walk to the edge of the mountain to score a dramatic view of the mountains and the deep ravine that carries the water into Lac St Croix. It’s also the point at which many hikes start from.

Distance from Moustiers (Gorges du Verdon) – Manosque (eastern end of Luberon Valley) 52.5 km (32.6 miles) Distance from Manosque to Gordes – 62km (38.5 miles)

DEPARTMENT: Vaucluse & Alpes-de-Haute-Provence REGION: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Spanning over 600 square kilometres, the Luberon Valley wraps up many of the things we love about France, all in one area. Throw a blanket over the top of the Luberon and you’ll pick up many glorious small towns.

As the hills of the valley rise up and down, small villages hug their highest points, spilling over the edge, making the landscape picture postcard perfect.

Other credentials lie in the fact that a number of them are also officially regarded as Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (the prettiest villages in France).

Once a sleepy area, the Luberon Valley was made eternally famous by author Peter Mayle and his love of Provence. His book, A Year in Provence kickstarted a love affair for visitors to this area.

These are some of our favourite towns but any drive through the valley will include so many more.

This town is all about the colours of red, yellow and orange. In the Luberon Valley where the green of the rolling hills and forest trees is usually the dominant colour, this town is a standout.

Roussillon is built on the largest ochre area in the world and its loudly on display here. Follow the Ochre Trail cut through the hills. There are trails marked out for a short 30-minute walk or an hour.

Roussillon is now a heritage-protected town and mining, once an industry here, is no longer possible.

Reminding us a lot of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in the Lot Valley of France, Gordes has the pick of the locations in the Luberon. It comes into our view from a distance, the buildings seeming to cling onto the edge of the hill on which they are built. Once a rundown village in the 1960s, today it’s one of the most upmarket, with many global celebrities owning property here.

There is a terrific market here and an 11th-century castle. Kill two birds with one stone and go on Tuesday to see both. The markets are spread around the castle and neighbouring streets. Wandering the streets here is like being in a fairytale.

The villages surrounding Menerbes are home to many local artists. Menerbes has had its share of famous artists including Picasso. It’s not hard to find an art gallery here either.

Many of the historical buildings that are important in this town are now privately owned, but you can still visit Saint Hilaire Abbey and the Saint-Blaise Chapel.

Still, there are many signs of its former medieval past in the many buildings that line the cobbled streets and fortifications that once protected the town.

Don’t miss a visit to the incredible Maison de la Truffe et du Vin du Luberon (House of Truffles and Wine). Not only is it located in one of the most prestigious Renaissance-era buildings in the village, but inside it’s a world of wonderful food and wine.

Here you can enjoy a long and distinguished lunch, or take part in a wine tasting. If learning more about wine is your thing, then take a class or workshop. If you love French food , good luck escaping the shop without buying something for your road trip or to take home.

Some special locations give an an incredible view over the valley.

No visit to the Luberon is complete without strolling the cobbles of Lacoste. Starting at the bottom, work your way up the winding streets until you reach the top of the hill.

At the top of the hill sits the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s château. Some of it was redeveloped by fashion designer Pierre Cardin, who now lives here. He also owns a sizeable portion of the village.

Cardin also uses this area for his art exhibitions like the one below.

Distance from Gordes to L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue – 18 km (11 miles)

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

DEPARTMENT: Vaucluse REGION: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is known as the Venice of Provence, a term that is thrown around ubiquitously in France. Here, it refers to the small waterways that circumnavigate the small town, fed by the River Sorgue, and dotted with the waterwheels of a bygone era.

These wooden water wheels dated back to the early 1800s and were used to power mills and factories in this former industrial town. Silk and wool weaving factories also used the water source.

These days, the factories no longer reside here. Instead, L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a well-known player in the antique market. Large barns line the entrance to the town, but look closely and you will find many small dealers here too.

Each weekend, the town comes alive as the antique markets open up with more than 300 vendors selling their wares. Twice a year, at Easter and in August, the international antique fair brings in people from all over the world.

Église Notre-Dame-des-Anges

Antique Villages

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is divided into “villages” of antiques. With over 300 antique dealers and many more sellers of second-hand goods and bric-a-brac, visitors come to this town specifically to buy. It is the largest location of antiques in France outside of Paris .

Sunday markets

With the town already bursting at the seams come the weekend the Sunday market pushes it into overflow. Vendors line Quai Jean Jaurès, the main street of town. It’s one of the most scenic spots you’ll encounter for a market, with the River Sorgue bubbling away alongside the road.

Here you’ll find many fresh food vendors. Fish, vegetables, fruit, pastries and fabulous French bread are intertwined with flea market oddities, handmade soaps and straw shopping baskets. The market also spreads into the streets behind and in front of the cathedral.

During the first week of August each year, the river plays a different role, hosting the floating market.

In the main waterways of the town, you will see many flat-bottomed boats, not dissimilar to the punts you might have seen in the United Kingdom . The Nego Chin has been purposely designed to be able to manoeuvre in areas of shallow water. They have historically been used for hunting and fishing.

In town, you can catch a ride on one to take you from one part of town, or one side of the river, to another. Alternatively, watch for fishermen giving displays during the weekend, the floating market or various festivals and races that occur during the year.

Partage des Eaux

Located about 1.5 km from the centre of L’isle -sur-la-Sorgue is the Partage des Eaux, a large area of water with a leafy green backdrop of plane trees. The same trees are prolific throughout the town also. It is here that the River Sorgue is divided into two sections running in different directions.

It is said that the Sorgue maintains a constant temperature of 13° Celsius, making it a hive of activity during the hot summer months. Even on the hottest day, 13° is way too cold for me.

Fontaine de Vaucluse

8.6km along the D24 takes you to Fontaine de Vaucluse and the commencement of the River Sorgue. This tiny town, seemingly hidden away, with a population of around 600, sees visitors thronging to it each summer.

The emerald green waters that originate from the rainwater and melted snow from surrounding mountains swirl around this town, creating a feeling of peace and tranquillity. Fontaine de Vaucluse is the only location where this underground network of rivers come to the surface and can be seen.

This area, where visitors walk and swim, is flanked by the plane trees that sway in the breeze overhead. It’s a beautiful place to come to chill out, particularly when the weather is warm.

The water source here is one of the most powerful in the country, with over 630 million cubic metres making its way to other areas each year.

It’s a little bit touristic here with souvenir shops lining the pathway down to the waterhole, but that’s not a reason not to visit. It’s truly a beautiful town.

Bishops of Cavaillon castle

On a rocky outcrop perched above the village, the Bishops of Cavaillon castle, also known as Château des Evêques de Cavaillon can be seen. Built in the 12th-century they are now ruins.

To visit the ruins and to get an incredible view of the area, take the stairs near the Museum and Library Petrarca. The stairs do turn into a rather steep, unsurfaced pathway so it is not recommended for visitors who require more accessible walking tracks.

The Galas Aqueduct Bridge

We love aqueducts, so you can imagine our delight at seeing one in this region. The Galas Aqueduct was constructed as part of the Carpentras Canal, built in 1853 as part of the irrigation infrastructure for the area, drawing its water from the Durance River.

Distance from L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue to Avignon – 32.4 km (20 miles).

Avignon is one of those French towns that you can just keep coming back to. It’s easy to get to it and simple to navigate. Personally, I also think Avignon receives a bit of a raw deal from many who seem keen to miss it altogether, or to think of it as more of a base for trips to other parts of Provence.

The attraction for us starts at its walls. Once a completely walled city, its ramparts are still highly visible, wrapping this beautiful city in its arms.

During the 14th-century, Avignon became the home of the Popes, who resided here outside Rome until the late 1370s. Much of the city is dedicated to and celebrates this history.

Pont Saint-Bénézet

Commonly known as the Pont D’Avignon, this bridge was once the only place that the Rhône River could be crossed. It was also part of the path the pilgrims travelled from Italy through to France.

Originally spanning almost 1200 metres long, the bridge, finished in 1185 had 22 arches. But, it had its share of drama. The bridge was heavily damaged during a siege in 1226, leaving only a small portion of it remaining. Surprisingly, the chapel on the bridge remained intact and locals later rebuilt the bridge.

The bridge was destroyed once again in the early 1600s when floods and constant water pressure wiped out some of the arches. Today only four arches and the Chapel of Saint Nicholas remain.

For a different perspective, go across the river to the park L’ile De Barthelasse. Alternatively, for a higher view, head up to the Rocher des Doms in the centre of the city.

Need to know: Tickets must be purchased to gain access to the bridge and chapel. Buy a ticket to both the bridge and the Palais des Papes to secure a discount. Access to the bridge is available for visitors with disabilities.

Palais des Papes

The Pope’s Palace commands your attention once inside the walls. It should also command your presence inside. As the largest Gothic palace constructed in medieval times, it’s a brilliant place to visit to get an understanding of the influence the Catholic Popes had on this city and its surrounds.

Not being a massive fan of museums and organised tours, here you can do it independently and interact with many of the rooms, features and exhibits with the aid of technology.

Town Square

Whether it’s taking a stroll across the cobbled square, people watching or having a coffee, take some time just to get involved in what is going on. It’s a hive of activity with locals and visitors blending here in the rich mosaic of daily life.

L’ile De Barthelasse

Many years ago, we stayed overnight in our motorhome at a great campground on this small island in the middle of the Rhône.

Pedestrian and vehicle access is possible via the Pont Édouard Daladier. There is also a free river ferry that goes back and forth across the river. Catch the ferry at Quai Joël Bameule, near the Pont D’Avignon.

Visit the Manguin Distillery to try some eau-de-vie (essential for making Cognac ) and regional favourite pastis.

Explore the streets within the walls

Avignon is perfect for just taking your time and meandering through the cobbled streets that project out from the main town square. You can’t get lost in Avignon so make the most of a few hours to explore. The inner parts are also pedestrianised, making for a safe and hassle-free place to walk.

Note : When the river cruises are operating, Avignon, as one of the major ports on these journeys, can become quite crowded as guests try to make the most of their few hours onshore.

Climb to the top of Rocher des Doms

With plentiful trees and places to sit on the grassy hill, enjoy a picnic with fresh food you can buy at the local Les Halles market. Grab a bottle of champagne and take in the view, or simply watch the animal life hop in and around the fountains.

Enjoy a light meal or drink at the cafe and watch the world go by. As the highest point in Avignon, it’s also the best spot for a view across the river, towards Villeneuve-lès-Avignon or to Mont Ventoux in the north-east.

There are several options for access to the gardens. Walk up the steps near the cathedral, the Sainte-Anne steps or from the river.

Visit the Les Halles market

One of our favourites in France, this food market follows a typically French architecture style, used in many of its markets. Industrial looking, it permanently houses the best fresh produce and food vendors in the region.

You’ll find plenty of things to buy here for your picnic by the river or in the Rocher des Doms. Or, if you’re like us on a road trip, stock up the onboard fridge for our eating pleasure.

If you are looking for a bite to eat, there are many places within the market where you can eat and drink.

Museums of Avignon

The Musée du Petit Palais has a collection of medieval art, whilst the Musée Angladon will keep you enthralled with archaeological exhibits and the work of Picasso, Cézanne and Van Gogh.

Even better, many of the museums in the city are free.

For those who want some extra information and assistance during a visit to Avignon, we can recommend the following tours.

3-hour walking tour of Avignon

• View Avignon from the top of a medieval rampart
• Visit the Pope’s Palace (includes express entry)
• Visit Place de l’Horlage, town clock and theatre
• Wine tasting upon completion

Check your dates for availability and book online

Full and half-day tours from Avignon

Depending on your timing and where you are staying, there are many excellent full day and half-day tours that start (and end) in Avignon.

Explore the tours available from Avignon

Distance from Avignon t o Châteauneuf-du-Pape – 17.5 km (10.8 miles).

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a small village in the centre of a vast wine-growing region. Here over 300 winegrowers produce wine that is grown in unusual terroir. Around 13 different grape varieties are grown here, kept warm at night by the rocks underneath that have soaked up the warmth of the Provence sunshine during the day.

The village itself is beautiful. Its size makes walking around very easy. Park your car and get out and walk in the streets, visiting the numerous cave à vin (wine houses) you’ll find. Most of them offer wine tastings and will be happy to talk to you about their own varieties.

If you don’t have time to visit them individually, try Vinadea . Located in the centre of town, you can select from a vast range of local wines.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Castle

Built for Pope John XXII, this castle is a shell of what it would have been when built in the early 1300s. The majority of the castle was destroyed, like many significant buildings in France, during World War Two.

Visit here to walk around the ruins and get a spectacular view of the valley below.

Private Guided Walking Tour

• Guided tour through village
• Visit castle ruins
• Walk through the vineyards learning from the producers, wine tasting
• Take your own picnic lunch for a special picnic in the vineyard
• Note: Approximately 7 km of walking on uneven terrain
• Pickup from hotel in Avignon

Check availability and book online

Distance from Châteauneuf-du-Pape to Mont Ventoux- 60.4 km (37.5 miles).

Mont Ventoux can be added into any part of your trip once you get down into the Luberon area. You can deviate from the Luberon itself, make a day trip from L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue, or venture east on your return back to Lyon. If you have the time and enjoy the driving, fit in a visit to the highest mountain in Provence.

At 1912 metres above sea level, on a good day, Mont Ventoux offers one of the best views across the region. It’s also a great drive with views possible along the way.

The roads leading to the summit are excellent, but you will need to be mindful of cyclists. Crazy as you might think they are, there is no better achievement for many bike aficionados than to reach the top under pedal power.

Often part of the Tour de France course, hardcore cyclists, many either emanating their tour de France heroes or wanting to be one, use Mont Ventoux as a training ride.

As I watch them from the comfort of my comfy motorhome, I take my hat off to them. What incredible stamina.

As the road takes you higher, the pine forest trees thin out and the landscape becomes more barren, not unlike some of the scenery I’ve seen in Iceland . There is less vegetation as the limestone rock face shows itself. I can totally imagine this mountain top being covered in snow.

We couldn’t believe the number of people at the top. It was so lively. I guess if you’d cycled 1912m you’d have plenty to celebrate.

There is a great sweet shop up here and a few other market stalls. There’s also a cafe where you can grab a coffee, or in our case, a tasty cold beer to sit back and enjoy the view.

Note : You can also do a trip to Mont Ventoux from L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue

Distance from Mont Ventoux to Valence – 158 km (98 miles).

DEPARTMENT: Drôme REGION: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Valence is a small city which depending on your timing can be a longer stop or merely a stopover point before making your way back to Lyon.

Distance from Mont Ventoux to Valence – 104 km (64.6 miles).

Notwithstanding additional driving to and from other locations, the total distance for this itinerary is approximately 900 km (560 miles). The distances from Lyon to Gap and Valence to Lyon are the largest. All other stops in between require relatively short driving times.

If you drive fast and don’t spend much time in these towns, this trip is easy in seven days or less. We recommend spending at least 10-14 days in this area to do it justice.

Take it slowly. These regions are some of the most beautiful in France and you should take the time to savour it. Stop on the side of the road to pick an apple from a wild tree, or pick some lavender growing on the kerbside. Stop in at the small villages, spend your money locally, and see everything these areas have on offer.

Unless you are in a hurry, stay off the toll roads and take the D roads.

The BAC level in France is 0.05. Don’t drink and drive.

English is spoken in all the big cities but less so in the small village. Try your hand at speaking some French, or use a  phrasebook  if necessary.

People who haven’t driven motorhomes will always say you can’t drive them in these regions. If that were the case, no one would ever drive one anywhere in France. Whilst smaller rental cars make things easy, if you are driving large motorhomes, just park them on the outskirts of the larger towns.  We recommend having bikes or e-bikes to get around on.

Make sure whatever vehicle you are driving has a sound GPS system, or you have data access for your phone (maps), or offline maps downloaded. Or you can go old school and have driving maps .

More reading : Here’s our guide to driving tips in France .

Winter is perfect for skiing and outdoor winter sports in the alps regions. It’s also a much quieter time, with fewer visitors. This means accommodation will be less expensive, queues will be shorter and you’ll get more places to yourselves more often. On the flip side, the weather isn’t as good as it is in summer or the shoulder months, some places will be closed and campsites might not be open.

We’ve always travelled here in Spring. It’s still t-shirts and shorts weather, but towards the end, there’s a crispness in the air. Beware the Mistral though. It loves to blow in Spring. There are fewer people than in summer, but everything is still open and able to be accessed. The shoulder season of Autumn is similar.

Summer is the premier time to visit, but it comes with some downsides. The weather is brilliant, Mediterranean style with the sun shining most days, although the heat can be stifling and thunderstorms are possible. August is when the French take their annual holidays so this adds to the hordes of visitors making their way to the south of France.

Everything is more crowded, more expensive and booking in advance is necessary for many areas to avoid disappointment or issues.

Join our Facebook community “Planning for motorhome travel in France” Click HERE

You might like to check out these itineraries. Click on the links below for more information.

• Travelling through the Loire Valley along the canals
• Canal du Midi motorhome itinerary
• 10 days (or so) in Occitanie region of France
• 20 days in south-west France  +  France Passion stopovers in south-west France
• Lot River and Lot Valley itinerary
• Following the Tour de France in a motorhome
• 10-day itinerary Burgundy France
• Itinerary through Rhone-Alps and Provence
• Travelling through Europe in a campervan – a 42-day itinerary

Click on the links below for more guides and tips to make travelling in a motorhome easier.

• Must-ask questions before hiring a motorhome in France
• Tips for planning a European motorhome itinerary
• What’s inside a campervan?
• Things to pack to make your motorhome life a breeze
• Tips for picking up a hired motorhome
• Tips for motorhome safety
• Comprehensive packing guide for motorhome road trips
• Do I need a crit air sticker for driving in France?

About The Author

Kerri McConnel

A former corporate business executive, Kerri is the content creator for Beer and Croissants, a trusted source of detailed guides on motorhome travel, road trip itineraries, and destinations.

Together with Stirling, they are motorhome experts, having independently road-tripped their way across much of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand since 1995. Back home in Australia, they own their own motorhome and can always be found on a regional road trips, taking in towns that often no one has heard of.

They are responsible travellers; long, slow trips in motorhomes, spending time in small regional communities where the tourists usually don't wander, and spending money in their small economies. And where possible, they travel in shoulder and off seasons, so they don't add to the tourist rush.

As an Honorary Barge Lady for Barge Lady Cruises and a regular on European Waterways vessels, Kerri is also an expert on luxury barge travel in Europe, having completed five barge cruises in France and Scotland.

Kerri is a Digital Travel Publisher Member and former board member and treasurer of the Australian Society of Travel Writers (2020-2023).

Everything written and produced on this site is our own work. there's no AI and if we've written about it, you can trust we've been there, done that!

Read more about Kerri here

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How to explore France by campervan this summer

Whether you’re looking to discover the rolling lavender fields of Provence or capture the breathtaking vistas in the heart of the Alps, a campervan trip through France is one of the best ways to discover the country. Here’s what you need to know.

There are few better places to enjoy the freedom of campervan travel than France. One minute you’re relaxing in the shade of an apple orchard following a night on Normandy’s homebrewed calvados; the next you’re crawling up Europe’s highest paved road, the epic Col de l'Iseran. With such a varied array of experiences to explore it allows for endless adventure.

Campervanning here is also pretty straightforward — it’s just as accessible to road trip across the Alps, admiring chiselled peaks and sweeping panoramic views, as it is to dip into the Mediterranean, whizzing along idyllic sections of France’s 2,000-mile coast and parking overnight in a low-cost aire (stopover areas designed specially for campervans).

Whatever plans you have pencilled in, the best way to tackle this country is by covering one region per road trip. France is huge — around 600 miles from north to south and the same from east to west — so exploring by campervan requires a little patience.

Come summer, many campervans head south for the fragrant lavender fields and rolling vineyards of Provence, or towards the star-studded French Riviera. The latter’s coastal roads have curves that leave drivers swooning from Cap Ferrat to Cannes but be careful not to drift into Monaco: campervans are not permitted here. Instead, park in neighbouring Cap-d'Ail and visit the principality via public transport. Apply the same advice for Paris, and other large cities.

If you’re looking for something more off the beaten track, opt for the wild drama of Brittany, a hilly peninsula in northwest France. Its lengthy, rugged coastline is dotted with beach resorts and famed for its unusual, blush-hued sand and prehistoric megalithic rocks. Elsewhere, the Atlantic coast offers a slow swing between wine-tasting in Saint-Émilion to ritzy restaurants in Biarritz — with plenty of rolling hills in between.

The vast, untamed and ancient terrain of the Pyrenees is another popular hotspot with campers in July and August, where drivers can tour between traditional mountain villages set among jagged peaks and the prehistoric cave paintings at Tarascon-sur-Ariège.

Thrill-seekers, meanwhile, can choose from several mountain passes, such as the snaking Col de l'Iseran, Europe’s highest paved road, that sweeps around the Graian Alps. It’s usually skiers up this high, but during the exceptional wildflower-meadow months, it offers an incredible parade of beauty — even when soundtracked by impatient beeps.

France also offers countless places and campervan sites where you can commune with nature — from the wonderfully wooded Ardennes to the ancient streams of the wild Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. France Passion , a camping scheme connecting food producers with campervan drivers, can help travellers discover the country’s wild side. As well as a free, private space for the night — often a farmer’s field — drivers get to sample some incredible local produce with no obligation to buy. Whether quaffing wine in Burgundy or devouring creamy Auvergne cheese, farm-to-fork is rarely this short.

In the summer months, book private campsites in advance, especially if staying longer than a week. Websites like campercontact.com can be good barometers for availability. They’re also great for selecting spots with ample tree cover or a swimming pool. France has municipal alternatives, too — most now go pool-to-pool, playground-to-playground with their private counterparts, which can be cheaper.

If budgets are tight, divide trips into mini-drives by overnighting at an aires. park4night.com has a full list and most of them are free. They’re a parking spot and little else, but some have facilities like lavatories, small shops and restaurants. These charge a few Euros per stay, and you can usually park for between 24 and 48 hours.

Three more European road trips to try

1.   The Ring Road, Iceland Forget the Golden Circle. To really get to know Iceland, traverse Route 1, also known as the Ring Road — an 828-mile lasso of the country that takes campervans past steaming geothermal hot pots, diamond-like glaciers, smouldering volcanic cones, lumpy lava fields and rushing cascades. From hiking through the rugged gorges of Thórsmörk to sea-kayaking along the cliffs of Snæfellsnes, there are detours aplenty, too. Then, at night, there’s every chance you’ll spot the swirling, dancing ribbons of the Northern Lights.

2. The Romantic Road, Germany   A joyous sweep of ancient castles, baroque churches and slumbering half-timbered towns (plus a statue of Jesus said to weep real tears), this 220-mile-long waltz through southern Germany lives up to its name. Start at riverside Würzburg and you can build up toward a cinematic finish at King Ludwig II’s Neuschwanstein Castle, which acted as a muse for King Stefan’s knockout pad in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty . En route, stop to visit beautiful Weikersheim Castle or wander the cobbled streets of pastel-painted Dinkelsbühl.

3. The panoramic roads, Montenegro Wild doesn't quite cut it when describing Montenegro's four panoramic roads. Inspiring, imperious and impressive, these roads cover more than 745 miles combined, and run through dark green, deep-cut Tara Canyon and untouched national parks. They spiral tightly up towards mountainside monasteries and spill out around the shores of Lake Skadar. Essential stops include the former royal capital, Cetinje, and the flowing turquoise fjord at the Bay of Kotor. By campervan, the majesty of Montenegro unfurls right before your eyes. Note that some parts of the roads are unsuitable for larger campers — contact the tourist board for alternative workarounds.

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Best French Road Trips – 12 Amazing France Road Trip Ideas

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

France by Car

If you have wheels, wanderlust, and some free time, there’s nothing like a road trip to make you appreciate the diversity of the country at a more relaxed pace. A road trip in France ticks all the boxes of epic drives, amazing food, friendly people, beautiful culture, and some of Europe’s most gorgeous sights. Plus, French road trips are fun!

From the Alps to the French Riviera, from the Atlantic Ocean to cute medieval villages inland, France by car means unforgettable routes that will plunge you straight into the country’s heart and soul.

We’ve taken many road trips through France, and you can find more France road trip ideas here . For this post, however, we asked other experienced travelers and friends to help us complete the list of the very best road trips in France, so if you are looking to plan a France road trip, where’s what and where we recommend.

Related posts

FRENCH ROAD TRIPS | PRACTICAL INFO

Getting around France by car

If you are hitting the roads in France for the first time, have a look at our Driving in France Guide .

We recommend booking your car with DiscoverCars.com . This site is great because it takes all major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and more, and compares prices for you. This helps to ensure that you get a great price without all the time and work. Check out our best tips for renting a car in France .

Get Inspired

Whether you’re looking to hug the coast or drive through some of the world’s best vineyards or lavender fields, find your adventure and plan your trip with our France Road Trip Planner e-books , which come with detailed itineraries and our top France road trip tips. All you need to supply is a car and a killer playlist!

Don’t take the road without travel insurance!

Compare plans, prices, and coverage with  Travel Insurance Master , a comparison site that will find the perfect fit for you amongst the world’s leading programs.  Travel Insurance Master is also the best place to look for senior travelers .

30 Ideas for an Unforgettable Road Trip in France

If you are looking for an epic road trip, France has it all to make you happy. Here’s an ultimate guide to the best road trips in France, suitable for all types of travelers. These phenomenal France road trip itineraries can be easily combined, shortened, or extended.

1. Alsace Wine Route

• Duration: 6 days
• Suggested route: Mulhouse – Colmar – Strasbourg
• Region covered: Grand Est
• Best for: sightseeing, small towns, nature, landscapes, French wine

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the oldest and most famous wine routes in France. This France road trip itinerary from Mulhouse to Strasbourg takes 6 days, and it is the perfect road trip for those who love pretty small towns, picturesque landscapes, and wine – Click here to rent a car in Mulhouse

This French road trip starts in Mulhouse , where you will book a hotel for one night. Hotel Bristol is super central and comfortable, and it has secure parking at a small extra cost.

Stroll around Mulhouse’s Old Town with beautiful architecture. Mulhouse has two great museums, La Cité de l’Automobile and La Cité du Train . Depending on your interests and the time available in Mulhouse, visit one museum or both.

From Mulhouse, drive to Colmar and book a hotel for three nights. The James Boutique Hotel is central and with beautiful and cozy rooms and common spaces.

Take the time to explore Colmar’s pretty streets and historical sights; Colmar is the most beautiful town in Alsace! In Colmar, the Museum of Alsatian Wines is an excellent introduction to the wines of Alsace .

Use Colmar as a base to explore the beautiful town of Kaysersberg on day 3 and the towns of Riquewihr plus Eguisheim on day 4, combining sightseeing with wine tastings. Riquewihr and Eguisheim are very small, so if you start early in the morning, you can also squeeze in a short hike through the surrounding vineyards.

On day 5, drive from Colmar to Strasbourg , where you will spend your last two nights of this road trip France. For this last stop, we recommend the Hotel Cathédrale , with incredible views over the Strasbourg Cathedral and public parking available nearby.

Before arriving in Strasbourg , stop at the impressive Château de Haut-Koenisgsbourg , one of the best castles in France . Then in Strasbourg , use this Strasbourg itinerary for two days which covers the city’s main sights.

OTHER FRENCH ROAD TRIP IDEAS NEARBY

• Best of Alsace Road Trip

2. Paris to Nice Road Trip

• Duration: 7 to 10 days
• Suggested route: Paris – Lyon – Valence – Avignon – Marseille – Nice
• Region covered: Ile-de-France, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: sightseeing, food, and wine

This road trip from Paris to South of France is one of the best road trips France has to offer to admire its diversity of landscapes and cities. It takes ten days, and it is an ideal road trip for those who love history, architecture, food, and good wine – Click here to rent a car in Paris

Arrive in Paris and book a hotel for three nights. The Handsome Hotel by Elegancia  is super comfortable and is situated close to the main sights. Spend four days in Paris , dedicating one of these days to visiting Versailles .

From Paris, drive to Beaune , where you will spend one night. On the way, you can visit Auxerre , which is a beautiful Burgundian village with some wonderful historic sights. For a night in Beaune, book at the Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa located in a beautiful historical building in the center of Beaune.

Continue south to Lyon , where you are going to sleep for one night. Hotel de l’Abbaye  is an authentic spot, intimate, and full of charms. In Lyon , take the time to visit the Old Town and its famous Traboules and climb up to Fourvière Hill for some fresh air and great views.

From Lyon, drive to Avignon in Provence. Spend one day in Avignon visiting the Palace of the Popes and other sights, and tasting the local cuisine. Hotel Central is a great option for your night in Avignon.

From Avignon, continue south to Marseille , where we recommend spending at least two days. For your time in Marseille, have a look at this  Marseille 2-day itinerary   and pick the sights and activities you like most. The hotel La Résidence du Vieux Port has the perfect location for your visit to Marseille.

The last stop of this road trip through France is Nice , where you can use this list of the best things to do in Nice  to visit the city. Hotel La Pérouse Nice Baie des Anges is a great option and comes with the best view of Nice, over the Baie des Anges.

3. Normandy Road Trip

• Duration: 5 days
• Suggested route: Paris –Rouen – Etretat – Honfleur – Cabourg
• Region covered: Normandy
• Best for: history, small towns, seaside resorts

This 5-day Normandy road trip is a good combination of history, sightseeing, and relaxing walks. This France roadtrip through Normandy starts from Paris and covers some of the most beautiful sights in the Normandy region – Click here to rent a car in Paris

The first stop of this road trip from Paris is  Giverny to visit Monet’s House and Garden. Then, in the afternoon, head to Les Andelys to explore this picturesque town and the Château Gaillard , one of the best castles in Normandy . This medieval fortress, built in the 12th century under the rule of King Richard the Lionheart, is located on the top of a high cliff, and it dominates one of the meanders of the Seine Valley.

After exploring Les Andelys, drive to  Rouen , where you will spend the next two nights. For your stay in Rouen, book at the  Best Western Plus Hotel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert , a central hotel inspired by the French poet born and raised in this city.

The second day is dedicated to visiting Rouen , which boasts the best Medieval center in all of France and an impressive Gothic cathedral.

On the third day, drive from Rouen to Étretat through the beautiful Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine. On the way, stop at Jumièges Abbey to visit the ruins of this magnificent building. In the afternoon, visit Étretat , a picturesque town on the Alabaster Coast and world-famous for its impressive chalky cliffs. For a unique stay in Étretat,  Domaine Saint Clair – Le Donjon  is an excellent option, located 500m from the beach.

Day 4 of this Normandy road trip explores Honfleur . This pretty coastal town on the Seine’s estuary is one of Normandy’s top places to visit . For your night in Honfleur, book at  Villa du Cèdre , a property full of charm with a garden and swimming pool.

The last day of this French road trip explores two of the most beautiful seaside resorts of the Côte Fleurie: Deauville  and  Cabourg . Both towns are well known for their beautiful sandy beaches and Belle Époque villas.

OTHER FRANCE ROAD TRIP IDEAS NEARBY

• Normandy WW2 Sites
• Brittany Road Trip
• Road Trip in Northern France from Paris
• Road Trip from Calais to Paris

4. Champagne Road Trip

• Duration: 4 days
• Suggested route: Paris –Reims – Epernay – Troyes – Provins
• Regions covered: Grand-Est, Ile-de-France
• Best for: history, small towns, champagne wine

This Ch ampagne road trip is another beautiful roadtrip France has to offer. It explores the historical region of Champagne , well known for its rolling hills, historical sites, and sparkling wine with the same name. This France road trip itinerary is a good combination of sightseeing, beautiful landscapes, and (of course) champagne – Click here to rent a car in Paris

On day one, drive from Paris to Reims. On the way, do a short stop at  La Ferté sous Jouarre . This small town, and more precisely, its abbey, hosts two wonderful Merovingian crypts from the 7th century listed as Historical Monuments.

Dedicate the rest of the day to exploring Reims , the capital of Champagne, with many historical gems to visit. The city is well known for its Gothic cathedral, the coronation place for most of the Kings of France. For your night in Reims, we recommend the  Domaine Les Crayères , a mythical property in the city nestled in seven hectares of park, 300m from Pommery Champagne House. Once the car is well parked, you can explore the best champagne houses in Reims .

Day two of this road trip through the Champagne region explores Epernay and its surroundings. Epernay is best known as the main “warehouse” for champagne wines – here are the best champagne houses in Epernay . Not far from Epernay, there’s the Abbey of Hautvillers , where Dom Perignon is buried. Dom Perignon (1638-1715) was a Benedictine monk credited with the revolutionary champagne method, which transforms a still wine (without bubbles) into sparkling wine.

Leave Epernay direction to Troyes and stop at  Château d’Etoges for the night. This lovely château-hotel in the heart of the vineyards of Champagne has individually decorated rooms with period furniture and magnificent grounds.

On the third day of this Champagne road trip visit Troyes . This city was one of France’s most important fair towns during medieval times, a center for hosiery and cloth making. Stroll around the Old Town and admire its beautiful architecture of half-timbered houses.

After exploring Troyes, drive west to Provins, where you will spend one night. For your stay in Provins, book at  Demeure des Vieux Bains ,  a stunning historical property with comfortable rooms and beautiful gardens.

During the last day of this French road trip, explore  Provins , another medieval fair town. Provins is well-known for its Medieval festival (yearly, in June) and its underground city, a vast network of tunnels and passages from the 13th century that connected all the houses.

5. Cathar Country Road Trip

• Duration: 5 to 6 days
• Suggested route: Carcassonne – Cucugnan – Narbonne – Carcassonne
• Regions covered: Occitanie
• Best for: history, medieval châteaux, small towns

This Cathar Country road trip from Carcassone in Southern France takes five to six days and is the best road trip in France for those who love history, Medieval castles, and small towns. For the history of the Cathar and a complete description of the Cathar sites, check out the road trip’s detailed itinerary – Click here to rent a car in Carcassone

Arrive at Carcassone and book a hotel for two nights. Mercure Carcassonne La Cité  is super comfortable and has a refreshing swimming pool. The hotel also boasts amazing views of the walled citadel from the garden and some rooms.

Take a day to explore the medieval Cité de Carcassonne , one of the most important Cathar sites and one of the main targets during the first Cathar Crusade in 1209.

Day 2 of this road trip France visits the charming Medieval town of Mirepoix , and Château de Monségur , where the last Cathars who did not surrender were burnt alive. Spend the night at the  Logis Auberge du Vigneron , in Cucugnan , with fabulous views of the surrounding valley.

On day 3, visit Château de Peyrepertuse and Château de Quéribus , two fabulous hilltop fortresses and Cathar sites. Then drive to Fontjoncouse , a gorgeous oh-so typical French village in the heart of the Aude department conveniently located close to the next Cathar sites. Book a room (or a full cottage) for one night at   Le Petit Clos , a charming guesthouse with a swimming pool, terrace, and garden.

The next day of this roadtrip France visits Fontfroide Abbey and the Medieval village of Lagrasse with the Benedictine Abbey of St Mary of Orbieu . Both abbeys had an important role in the Cathar crusades, and they are interesting to visit.

On the last day of this Cathar road trip, drive to Minerve, a pretty medieval village where you can see a replica of one of the catapults used by the Crusaders. Then, visit Châteaux de Lastours , one of the best castles in Southern France , before driving back to Carcassonne. Châteaux de Lastours is an ensemble of four Cathar castles with a spectacular setting at the top of a rocky spur.

6. Route des Grands Crus, Bourgogne

• Suggested route: Beaune – Vougeot – Dijon
• Regions covered: Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
• Best for: sightseeing, landscapes, small towns, food, and wine.

The Route des Grands Crus is one of the best road trips in France for wine lovers. This Burgundy road trip from Beaune to Dijon takes four days and is an ideal road trip for those who enjoy small towns and beautiful landscapes – Click here to rent a car in Beaune

Arrive at Beaune the day before and book a hotel for 2 nights. Château de Challanges , a gorgeous 19th-century country house set in 7 hectares, is perfect for a relaxing stay.

Take a day to explore Medieval Beaune, the capital of wines of Burgundy. Be sure to cover Les Hospices de Beaune , a jewel of Burgundian architecture, and La Maison des Climats to learn more about the (wine) climats of Burgundy.

From Beaune, drive to Vougeot , where you will spend one night. For something special, book at  Château de Gilly , a 14th-16th century château with moats, French-style gardens, and a dining room with a magnificent vaulted ceiling.

On the way to Vougeot, stop at Nuits-Saint-Georges , a lively small town with a long history of wine-making. Visit the town, and perhaps a domain or two for some wine tastings.

In the afternoon, visit the Abbey of Cîteaux , the founder of the Cistercian order in France. It was its abbot who spotted the best kind of soils and selected certain grape varieties, improving the quality of the wines.

On day 3, visit the Château Clos de Vougeot , a must of any Burgundy wine route. In the 14th century, the monks of the Abbey of Cîteaux built the first walls separating vineyards, known as  clos , contributing like this to the promotion of the wines of the region. Clos de Vougeot was the first clos built by the monks, and the visit reveals the winemaking genius of the monks in the Middle Ages.

In the afternoon, drive to Gevrey-Chambertin , a small village home to nine Burgundy Grands Crus, perfect for a stroll and some wine tastings. Then, drive to Dijon, where you will spend one night. The  Grand Hotel La Cloche Dijon  is a good option, conveniently located close to all the main attractions.

On the last day of this French road trip, visit Dijon , the historical capital of Burgundy. Dijon was home to the Dukes of Burgundy, and as such, it has an interesting cultural and architectural heritage. Follow the owl trail, which takes you to Dijon’s main sights, like the Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne , built in the 14th-15th centuries.

OTHER ROAD TRIP FRANCE IDEAS NEARBY

• Road Trip Lyon to Annecy

7. Road Trip through the Jura, Eastern France

• Suggested route: Paris – Baume-les-Messieurs – Château-Chalon – Dole
• Best for: landscapes, small towns, hiking

This road trip through the Jura takes four days, and it is the ideal road trip for those who love nature and good food & wine. This Jura road trip covers the region of the lakes and waterfalls of the Jura (a department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté in Eastern France), and is one of the best road trips from Paris for nature lovers – Click here to rent a car in Paris

From Paris, drive to Baume-Les-Messieurs , a picturesque village in the heart of a blind valley. Take a stroll to explore the village and its main sights, and then head to the Cascade des Tufs , one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Jura.

For the first night, book a hotel in one of the villages nearby. La Maison du Lac Chalain , in Doucier, is a good option, and it has an excellent restaurant perfect for tasting the regional cuisine.

The second day is dedicated to exploring some of the best lakes and waterfalls of the Jura. The hike to the Belvédère des 4 lacs and Pic de l’Aigle (12 Km) is one of the area’s main highlights. If you start the day early, you can also hike to the Cascades du Hérisson , a beautiful 4 km trail that links many waterfalls.

Then drive to Château-Chalon , another pretty village in the Jura, where you are going to spend the night. Les Relais des Abbesses is a beautiful, historical property in the heart of the village, and it has a terrasse with magnificent views over the Jurassic plateau.

Spend the morning of the third day visiting Château-Chalon , one of the villages with the label ‘most beautiful villages in France.’ In the afternoon, head to Dole, which was the capital of the County of Burgundy until its annexation to the Kingdom of France.

Dole is a picturesque city bordered by the Doubs River, a city of canals and interesting architecture from the 16th century. Dole’s Old Town is a confusion of alleyways edged by Renaissance homes with turrets and courtyards. Book a night at Hotel de la Cloche , a charming property with an excellent location for exploring the city on the last day of this road trip.

• French Alps Road Trip from Annecy to Chamonix

8. Loire Valley Road Trip from Nantes

• Suggested route: Nantes – Saumur – Amboise – Angers
• Regions covered: Pays de la Loire and Centre Val de Loire
• Best for: Renaissance châteaux, small towns, French wine

This Loire Valley road trip from Nantes Airport takes five days and visits some of the best Loire Valley Castles . This itinerary through the Loire Valley is one of the best French road trips for history and architecture lovers – Click here to rent a car at Nantes Airport

Arrive at Nantes Airport and drive about 90 minutes to Saumur , where you will book a hotel for two nights. Hotel St. Pierre is super comfortable, has a great historical feel, and is situated right on the main square. Dine at Michelin-starred Le Gambetta to treat yourself to an amazing French meal.

From Saumur, drive to Château d’Usse (the castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty) with a stop at Château Miniere for a walk among the vines and some wine tasting on the way. The sumptuous and artistic gardens at Château Villandry are also a must-see and easily accessible from Saumur.

Continue east along the Loire Valley to Amboise for two nights. Hotel Le Manoir St. Thomas is a great choice of hotel and even features a suit of armor to guard the lobby. Amboise is home to the Royal Château d’Amboise and the Clos Luce , where Da Vinci spent the final years of his life.

From Amboise, drive to the Loire Valley’s most iconic chateaux: Château Chenonceau and Château Chambord . Enjoy dinner in Blois , followed by the exciting light show after dark at Château Royal de Blois .

On the return to Nantes Airport, break up the more than 3-hour drive with a stop in Angers to see the Apocalypse Tapestries at Château d’Angers . Château d’Angers resembles a menacing fortress rather than an elegant château and is an excellent counterpoint to the other places visited during this Loire Valley Itinerary.

By Jennifer (aka Dr. J) | Sidewalk Safari

• Road Trip Castles of the Loire Valley

9. West Coast of France Road Trip

• Duration: 10 days
• Suggested route: Etretat – Ile de Ré – Bordeaux – Biarritz
• Regions covered: Normandy and Nouvelle Aquitaine
• Best for: architecture, sightseeing, nature, and landscapes

Stunning landscapes, old cities, and historically important places are all part of a road trip along the west coast of France. Whether you camp or stay in hotels, this France roadtrip will be epic.

Start this road trip through France’s western coast in Étretat , known for its huge chalk cliffs. Enjoy a breathtaking walk on the cliffs and finish off with a delicious seafood dish in one of the seafront restaurants of this pleasant village.

The next stop is the WW2 beaches of D-day , such as Utah Beach and Omaha Beach. Visiting this place will leave an everlasting impression. The last stop in Normandy is Mont Saint-Michel , the Medieval abbey that speaks to anyone’s imagination. It is built on a rock in the sea and can only be reached by a bridge during high tide. For a magical experience, book a night in one of the hotels inside Mont Saint-Michel .

This road trip through the west coast skips the region of Brittany. The next stop of this itinerary is the island of Ile-de-Ré in the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine.

Ile-de-Ré is a fantastic small Island, right off the coast, reachable by a toll bridge. The island is known for oysters, the local drink Pinot, salt production, and the lighthouse watching over its rugged coastline. Rent a bike, as this is the main way of transport on the island.

After 1 or 2 days visiting Bordeaux , continue your journey to Arcachon and Dune du Pilat . This dune is the highest and biggest sand dune in Europe! Walking across it will give you the feeling of being in a desert. Enjoy the sunset on top of the dune while watching over the Bassin of Arcachon. A moment you’ll never forget.

End this west coast of France road trip with a visit to Biarritz , close to the Spanish border, and go surf in the Atlantic waters.

By Hellen | the Global Wizards

BEST ROAD TRIP FRANCE IDEAS NEARBY

• Basque Country Road Trip
• Road Trip from Bordeaux to Biarritz
• Road Trip Dordogne

10. Gorges du Verdon Road Trip

• Duration: 3 days
• Suggested route: Aix-en-Provence – Valensole – Verdon Natural Regional Park
• Regions covered: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
• Best for: nature and landscapes

If you are looking for South of France road trips, you will love this itinerary from Aix-en-Provence to the Verdon Natural Regional Park , which is considered one of the most scenic drives in France – Click here to rent a car in Aix-en-Provence

Did you know that there was a Grand Canyon in France? Yep. Well, it’s not as big as the one in the US, but when you get there, you’ll have the same feeling. It’s called the Gorges du Verdon , and it’s a stunning rocky landscape with towering cliffs, where a turquoise-green river meanders at the bottom.

To start this Gorges du Verdon road trip , you can drive from Aix-en-Provence or any nearby major cities: Marseille, Nice, or even Cannes. The trip takes three days to complete, with one day in Valensole and the lavender fields, one day driving around the different lakes, and one day driving the epic road on top of the Gorges du Verdon. Here are the major stops on this trip:

– Valensole is famous for its lavender fields , which bloom from the end of June to the end of July. Valensole is a cute little village where you can spend the night after exploring the fields around.

– Esparron de Verdon , and Lac Quinson de Verdon , are two small lakes with absolutely no crowds. Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is the main lake in the area and the perfect place to stop for a while and relax on the beach.

– Gorges du Verdon is the main attraction around here, France’s Grand Canyon. Drive on top of the gorges on an epic scenic route ( Route des Crêtes ), and enjoy one of the most beautiful landscapes in France.

– Sillans la Cascade . Before you leave, check out this secret waterfall, it is absolutely worth the trip!

One of the best places to establish your home base while exploring the area is the village of Valensole, for the ultimate traditional French experience. The bed & breakfast Les Terrasses de Valensole is exceptional.

By Kevin |  Kevmrc

• Lavender Fields in Provence Road Trip
• Route Napoleon Road Trip
• Luberon Road Trip
• The Ultimate Provence Road Trip

11. Gorges du Tarn Road Trip

• Suggested route: Millau – La Malène – Florac
• Regions covered: Occitanie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
• Best for:  nature, landscapes, and small towns

Les Gorges du Tarn is another beautiful south of France road trip. This 4-day itinerary will take you through The Causses, and The Cévennes , a region that offers the ultimate scenery for an amazing French road trip, from deep gorges with hairpin bends to wide-open pastoral landscapes. Because of its uniqueness, the region has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List.

This road trip in France starts and ends in Millau . On the first day, visit the world’s tallest bridge – Millau Viaduct –, and the tiny village of Payre . Stay the first night in Millau and use the evening to explore this beautiful Medieval city. Hotel des Causses in Millau is comfortable, central, and has an on-site restaurant.

The next day head to the heart of the Gorges du Tarn . The road (D809, D907, and D907bis) follows the bends of the River Tarn, which has cut deeply into the cliffs forming this stunning canyon. You’ll be passing through lots of lovely villages along the Tarn.

At Les Vignes, take the D46 road to Point Sublime , from where you will have the most breathtaking view over the canyon. Go back to Les Vignes and follow the road towards La Malène . On the way, stop at Pas de Soucy for some more amazing views.

You can stay the second night at La Malène. The Hotel Le Manoir de Montesquiou is a beautiful and historical building with a great location in the middle of the Gorge area.

On day 3, head to Sainte-Enimie – a postcard beautiful village. On the way, you can stop at Saint-Chélly-du-Tarn . After Sainte-Enimie, continue to Florac , where you can spend the third night. Grand Hotel du Parc has a perfect and relaxing setting in the Cévennes National Park.

The next day take D16 and D63 to the famous cave Aven Armand. You’ll be crossing Causse Méjean , a plateau with a totally different landscape from the canyons. After the cave, stop at the nearby Medieval Farm to learn more about the local traditions in this area ( Ferme Caussenarde d’Autrefois ).

Afterward, continue to Meyrueis on D986. When you arrive at Meyrueis, take D996 to Le Rozier. Follow the road along the canyon on La Jonte River – Gorges de la Jonte . Stop at Le Rozier and Peyrelau – two lovely places where the La Jonte River flows into the Tarn River. Afterward, continue to Millau, the end of this road trip.

By Daniela | Ipanema Travels

12. French Riviera Road Trip

• Duration: 7-10 days
• Suggested route: Cannes – Antibes – Nice – Monaco
• Best for: landscapes, and sightseeing

This French Riviera road trip from Cannes follows one of the best drive routes through France, with the French Riviera coastline being dotted with picturesque towns and pristine coves along the way – Click here to rent a car in Cannes

One of the best starting points for this France road trip along the Côte d’Azur is Cannes , a city filled with glitz and glamour that will make you feel as though you’ve arrived in the French Riviera in style! Book one night or two in the Hotel Croisette Beach Cannes soaking up the atmosphere and visiting Cannes’ top sights before moving on towards Nice.

On your way to Nice, you might want to stop off in Antibes . This is a lovely place to unwind after the buzz of Cannes, and you can enjoy a relaxing lunch and spend your afternoon at the Picasso Museum . If you want to hike the Cap d’Antibes and spend an extra day on the beach, consider staying a night in Antibes itself.

Next, you’ll drive to Nice , where you can explore the city’s narrow streets, bustling markets, and ochre-colored architecture. For your stay in Nice, book at Hotel Locarno , which has an excellent location 200 m from the beach and offers the best breakfast ever.

After spending 2 days in Nice and around, you can drive on to Monaco , stopping off at the medieval village of Eze and perhaps Villefranche-sur-Mer . You can then choose whether you want to stay in Monaco for a chic casino break or move on to Menton , a small foodie town on the French /Italian border.

The distances between the destinations are relatively short, so you can easily tick off two places in one day. We would suggest spending at least seven days on this French Riviera road trip, but of course, you can spend much longer delving into this stunning French region.

By Chrisoula | Historic European Castles

OTHER FRANCE ROAD TRIPS NEARBY

• Road Trip Southern France
• Road Trip Route du Mimosa

And there you have it, our favorite road trips in France to inspire your next trip. Check out our Road Trips category for the detailed itineraries and more French road trip ideas.

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Camper Van & RV Rental in Lyon

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Rent an RV in Lyon

Lyon is an ideal starting point to rent a camper van or RV and set off on your European camping adventure. Explore the historic Rhône-Alpes region, make a stopover in Italian Switzerland, and enjoy an active vacation in the mountains. The city is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bursting with art and culture as well as delicious French cuisine. Pick up your camper van rental in Lyon and discover French heritage and the natural wonders all around.

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• Address, Directions & Parking
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Where can I pick up my RV rental in Lyon?

The roadsurfer Lyon rental station is located just outside the city center, with quick access to the highways, making it super easy to set off on your road trip. It’s well connected to the airport and main train station, though we recommend taking a taxi or Uber to our location from the airport, as it’s only a 20-minute ride. You can find our address and directions via public transportation below.

1201 Avenue des Prés Seigneurs 01120 Dagneux France

Getting to the station

From Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) : From the airport, board the Rhone Express train to “Lyon Part-Dieu”. Change to the TER train toward “Amberieux” to “Gare de Montluel”. From here, it’s a 12-minute walk to the roadsurfer station. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or Uber from the airport (20-minute journey).

From Lyon Main Station (Lyon Part Dieu): From the station, board  the TER train toward “Amberieux” to “Gare de Montluel”. Alternatively, from the station, take bus 171 to “Gare de Montluel”. From here, it’s a 12-minute walk to the roadsurfer station.

Parking information

Please be aware that arking is not available inside the roadsurfer station. For your convenience, we recommend using the car park near the Montluel train station, located next to the coastal ophthalmology centre at ‘485 rue des valets, 01120 Montluel’.

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Explore Lyon RV Rentals

Beach Hostel Class B RV | VW T6.1 California Beach

• 150 hp diesel engine
• Big bed (whole vehicle width)
• Slide-out kitchen
• Manual pop-up roof
• Rear parking sensors with camera
• Cruise and distance control ACC, GPS

Surfer Suite Class B RV | VW T6.1 California Ocean

• Integrated kitchen
• Outdoor shower (cold water)
• Automatic pop-up roof

Camper Cabin Class B RV | Ford Nugget

• 170 hp diesel engine
• RV trailer hitch

Travel Home Class B RV | Mercedes Marco Polo

• 163 hp diesel engine

Camper Cabin Deluxe Class B RV | Ford Nugget Plus

• Tow hitch & Rear parking sensors with camera

Road House Class B RV | Sprinter

• 140 hp diesel engine
• Large kitchen area
• Indoor shower/wet bath (hot water)
• Rear parking sensors with camera, cruise control, etc.

Family Finca Class B RV | Sprinter

• 177 hp diesel engine
• Fixed high roof

Cozy Cottage Class C RV

• Spacious living-kitchen area
• Large wet bath (hot water)
• Without pop-up roof
• Rear view camera, cruise control, spacious rear compartment, etc.

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Rent a roadsurfer Camper Van or RV in Lyon

A wide range of activities and travel destinations are within a short distance once you pick up your camper van or RV rental in Lyon. If you want to be one with nature, explore the many lakes, the majestic Alps, and the regional parks. If you want to learn more about the city, the city of Lyon has an exceptional cultural heritage and is worth a visit. Read on for some of our top recommendations for your next trip.

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• Best Time of Year to Visit
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Camper vans & RVs with ready-to-go camping gear

Our roadsurfer camper vans and motorhomes are equipped with everything you may need or want on your road trip from Lyon. Enjoy a seamless driving experience with built-in navigation, relax and unwind on a big and comfortable bed, and make use of a fully stocked kitchen box that includes a pot and pan, tableware, glasses, utensils, mugs, and a French press for your coffee, allowing you to prepare your favorite meals. Additionally, we provide an outdoor table and camping chairs so you can enjoy your time outside. The only thing you need to bring is a comforter or sleeping bag and your sense of adventure. You can also reserve a comforter when you book your Lyon camper van, along with many other items that you can find on our  equipment list .

Best time of year to visit Lyon

Want to spend some time in the city of lights and eat delicious French cuisine? You can visit Lyon all year round due to its mild and sunny climate, but it’s particularly wonderful during spring, summer, or fall. It’s a convenient starting point for a road trip due to its close proximity to the stunning surrounding areas, like the many lakes and several national parks, as well as the Alps.

Filling and emptying water tanks in Lyon

We know it can be tricky to find places to fill your water tank at the start of your trip or empty your grey water tank before you return your camper van rental. Here are a few helpful pointers, because emptying black water is not something you can do everywhere. The following service areas are close to the roadsurfer station:

• For those who will use the highway, Dagneux, A42 aire de Lyon Montluel
• Free RV park: 279 rue centrale, 01360 Balan (5 minutes away)
• Free service area: 6 chemin des meules, 69330 Jons (9 minutes away)
• Black water disposal area: 467 route nationale, 01120 La Boisse (5 minutes away)

Gas stations near our Lyon station

Before you return your roadsurfer camper van, you can refill with diesel and AdBlue at one of these convenient gas stations near our location here:

• E.Leclerc, Zac des Baterses, Chem. des Malettes, 01700 Beynost (You can refill your AdBlue tank here on the truck side.)

Please note: The AdBlue service station information provided is for guidance only and is provided without warranty of any kind; customers are advised to check the information for accuracy on their own responsibility, as roadsurfer assumes no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information.

Parking in Lyon

As with all big cities, it’s easiest to navigate parking in Lyon with a few insider tips, especially with a larger Class C RV. To begin with, there are two different zones:

• Zone presto, which is more suitable for retailers and short-term parking.
• Zone tempo, which is paid parking from Monday to Saturday, from 9 am to 7 pm (except in August)

If you want to travel within the city, a camper van rental will likely be the best option, as it’s more compact, especially as most parking areas in Lyon have restricted heights. The most accessible parking garages for your camper van are:

• Parking Bonnefoi (9ft 2in maximum)
• Parking Saint-Antoine (6ft 8in maximum)
• Parking Marché Gare (7ft 6in maximum)
• Parking P2 Cité Internationale (8ft 10in maximum)

Campgrounds near Lyon

Looking for a unique camping experience for your camper van road trip? Find amazing campsites with roadsurfer spots and book a unique site tailored to your needs, with welcoming hosts at a fair price. At this point, you’ll have realized that Lyon and its surrounding areas are full of interesting and beautiful spots, so imagine sleeping in one of them! Gorgeous countryside lakes, vineyards, mountains, and so much – just rent a camper van or RV in Lyon and book your perfect spot today!

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