Camping holidays in the land of prehistory

Ariège has 6 caves worth visiting. Not all have been inhabited by man, but the Grotte de Niaux, the Grotte du Mas d’Azil and the Grotte de la Vache bear witness to human occupation dating back 14,000 years, to the time of the Magdalenians, hunter-gatherers who were the last people of the Palaeolithic period. The Salon Noir room in the Niaux cave is the masterpiece of this period. Its walls are decorated with highly realistic black line drawings of animals. The cave was not inhabited, but was used as a sanctuary, so people came especially to the cave to paint the animals they had seen in nature. There are no fewer than 100 representations of animals in the cave, 80% of which can be seen in the Salon Noir. Unlike other great prehistoric caves such as Lascaux or the Chauvet cave, when you visit the Niaux cave you are not visiting a facsimile, but the original cave. Not far away, the Grotte de la Vache is the perfect complement to the Grotte de Niaux. This cave was occupied by humans when the Salon Noir was covered in cave paintings. We can therefore imagine that the men who decorated the Niaux cave, or at least their contemporaries, lived in the Vache cave.

The Mas d’Azil cave was once inhabited by man. Numerous prehistoric remains have been found there, including paintings and tools. An interpretation centre provides a better understanding of the period thanks to the excavations that have been carried out in the cave. The Mas d’Azil cave is one of a kind. A river runs through it, as does a road that you can take by car.

If your dive into the prehistoric caves of Ariège has left you wanting to find out more about our ancestors, then a short diversions to the Parc de la Préhistoire in Tarascon-sur-Ariège is in order. In addition to its 2,500 m² of museum space, this park is a fun visit for families, with workshops that will put you in the shoes of Cro-Magnon men (lighting fires, flint knapping, hunting, wall painting) or archaeologists (learning excavation techniques).

If you want to know everything there is to know about prehistory, be sure to visit these caves or the prehistory park during your camping holiday in Ariège.

A stroll in Cathar country

Around the turn of the millennium, many deviances of Christianity were born in Europe. Among these deviances, Catharism left a profound mark on Ariège. Born in France in the 12ᵉ century, this movement claimed to be Christian and New Testament, living in poverty and working with their hands, like the apostles. They also denounced a church that was too rich and linked to the powerful. After several decades of condemnation, Pope Innoncent III launched a crusade against the Cathar heretics. In just over 30 years, the Cathars were exterminated in south-west France. The symbol of the crusade against the Cathars is the castle of Montségur. Occupied by a Cathar community, this hilltop castle became the headquarters of the Cathar movement in 1232. After a siege lasting several months, it was the last Cathar stronghold to fall in 1244, and more than 200 Cathars were burned there. Today, you can visit the remains of the castle, still perched on its hilltop, and enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

As well as the castle of Montségur, there are other Cathar sites worth a visit on your camping holiday in Ariège, in particular the castle of Foix. Standing atop a rocky outcrop 60 metres above the town of Foix, this perfectly preserved medieval castle is very distinctive, with its ramparts and three towers. Although the castle was never associated with Catharism by the Church and its crusaders, the Counts of Foix maintained good relations with the movement. Today, the castle offers a real immersion in medieval Ariège. During your visit, you will discover rooms that appear to have remained unchanged since the 13ᵉ century, as well as siege weapons (trebuchet, catapult, etc.) outside the building. There are also workshops where you can try your hand at activities from the period, such as crossbow shooting, blacksmithing or stone cutting.

Medieval towns and villages near your campsite in Ariège

The castle is not the only attraction in Foix. Its old town is a plunge back into the Middle Ages, with its narrow streets, covered passageways, covered market, fountains and half-timbered houses. It is not the only testimony to this period. With its covered market halls and colourful half-timbered houses, Mirepoix is one of the other jewels in the Ariège crown. Every year in August, this small town comes alive during the international puppet festival, with its many shows and festivities. A different way to enjoy the town. If, however, you prefer a quieter time, avoid these few days, which attract thousands of people to Mirepoix. As well as its medieval towns, the Ariège is home to a number of villages with authentic charm, such as Saint-Lizier and its bishop’s palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Camon, the only village in the Ariège to have been named the most beautiful village in France. So many places not to be missed during your next stay in a caravan, tent or motorhome at one of the Ariège campsites.

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Campsites around Auray – Saint-Goustan

The rich history of Saint-Goustan

It was in the 13ᵉ century that the Dukes of Brittany decided to found a port and a castle at Saint-Goustan. Two districts were then created: the port and the fortress overlooking it, both linked by a bridge. The port was named Saint-Goustan in honour of the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. While the fortress has now disappeared, the port and bridge have survived and changed little since the 16ᵉ century with their cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. It was during this period that the port experienced its hours of prosperity. Wine and grain traffic made it Brittany’s third-largest port. One of the highlights of Saint-Goustan’s long history is the fact that Benjamin Franklin landed in Auray when he came to ask for France’s support in the American War of Independence. A quay now bears his name in memory of that moment. For lovers of antiques, this quay hosts a number of second-hand markets and craft fairs throughout the summer. Ask at the reception of the campsite where you are staying in Morbihan for the dates.

Saint-Goustan, a port with medieval charm but still very much alive

Although the fortress of Saint-Goustan no longer exists, the district has retained its dual identity. On the left bank of the River Auray, the Loch ramps, built over the ruins of the castle, lead to the upper town. From here, you’ll have an uninterrupted view of the port of Saint-Goustan. It’s the ideal place to take a great photo of your camping holiday in Morbihan. At the foot of the upper town, the four-arched stone bridge built in the 15ᵉ century will lead you to Place Saint-Sauveur. This curved cobbled square, lined with timber-framed houses, is the heart of life in Saint-Goustan. As soon as the fine weather returns, the terraces of bars and restaurants take over. It’s the ideal place to eat and enjoy the view of the harbour and its old sailing ships. But beware of the success of these restaurants. They often sell out in high season. We advise you to book in advance to be sure of getting a seat. Behind the square, steep cobbled streets criss-crossed with steps lead up to the heights of Saint-Goustan and the church of Saint-Gildas. Take your time wandering these narrow streets and admiring the medieval houses.

Touring pitches in Auray – Saint-Goustan

A selection of campsites with pitches for your holidays in a tent, caravan or motorhome in Auray in Morbihan.

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Our selection of campsites with pitches for caravans, tents and motorhomes in Beaujolais

itinerary through the 10 Beaujolais crus

All red Beaujolais wines are made from the same grape variety, Gamay. However, they do not all have the same appellation. Although it only covers 15,000 hectares, the Beaujolais vineyards have 12 AOCs. These include two regional appellations (Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages) and 10 local appellations, the 10 crus du Beaujolais. These ten crus are concentrated in the northern part of Beaujolais, in an area barely 20 kilometres long and only 5 kilometres wide. The appellations range from north to south: Juliénas, Saint-Amour, Chénas, Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie, Chiroubles, Morgon, Régnié, Côte-de-Brouilly and Brouilly. To discover these 10 crus, forget the main roads and take the hillside roads. They will take you to some breathtaking viewpoints, particularly between Fleurie and Chiroubles. Above the village of Fleurie, the Chapelle de la Madone awaits you, accessible on foot from the village or by car. A magnificent panorama encompasses the north of the Beaujolais region and the Saône valley. On a clear day, you can see the Alps and Mont Blanc in the distance. A little further south, towards Chiroubles, the Chiroubles terrace offers one of the finest views in the Beaujolais region from its 760-metre altitude. There’s an orientation table and picnic tables where you can enjoy a sumptuous meal. But don’t forget to save room for dessert. The Terrasse du Beaujolais restaurant serves pastries that are as delicious as they are copious. Be sure to try them during your camping holiday in Beaujolais. The Maison du Cru de Chiroubles awaits you on the terrace of Chiroubles. From here you can follow the panoramic trail of the 10 crus. This 2 km walk is punctuated by belvederes overlooking the Beaujolais vineyards.

Another of the emblematic landscapes of the 10 Beaujolais crus is Mont Brouilly. Although it is not the highest peak in the region – that title goes to Mont St Rigaud at an altitude of 1,009 metres – Mont Brouilly, with its rounded shape and vine-covered slopes, has a highly recognisable silhouette. As you stroll through the 10 crus of the Beaujolais region, take the time to stop off at the winegrowers’ to taste their wines. The welcome is always very friendly and you’ll discover delicious, fruity wines that deserve much better than the unflattering reputation inherited from Beaujolais Nouveau. One of our favourites is Château Thivin, which produces wonderful Côte de Brouilly. In a different vein, be sure to visit Château de la Chaize. Many great names have made this their home. The château was built by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the architect of Versailles, and the gardens were designed by André le Nôtre, who was also responsible for the gardens at the Château de Versailles. The winery and its historic 108-metre-long cellar date back to the 18ᵉ century. It is undoubtedly one of the finest, if not the finest, cuverie in Beaujolais.

Beaujolais Museum

Georges Dubœuf is one of the great figures of Beaujolais. In particular, it was he who introduced the Beaujolais Nouveau tradition beyond the borders of the Beaujolais region. He is also known for his Hameau en Beaujolais, a fun museum about vines, wine and the Beaujolais region. This museum in Romanèche Thorens is just as interesting for adults, who will learn a great deal about the wine trade, as it is for children. For the latter, the museum offers a range of fun activities, such as an interactive investigation to be carried out with a tablet in hand in the museum’s rooms. And don’t forget the dynamic cinema room, where you can follow two bees through the landscapes of Beaujolais and southern Burgundy. A great place to visit during your camping holiday in the Beaujolais with your tent, caravan or motorhome.

Le Beaujolais des pierres dorées

In the south of the Beaujolais region, on the outskirts of Lyon, the villages of the Pierres Dorées Beaujolais await you. The villages in this region are characterised by their stone with a golden sheen. It is the presence of iron oxide in this limestone that gives it such a distinctive hue. The rolling vine-covered hills of the Beaujolais region are the backdrop for these medieval villages. A setting reminiscent of Tuscany. So make the most of your camping holiday in the Beaujolais to visit these characterful villages: Ternand, Châtillon d’Azergues and Charnay. However, if you had to visit just one, it would be Oingt, the only village in the Rhône to be classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Perched at the top of a hill, Oingt’s role was to watch over the passageway between the Loire and Saône rivers. It has preserved many remains from this era, including the Nizy gate and the 12ᵉ century keep. From the top of the latter, admire a beautiful view of the southern Beaujolais region.

Hiking in the Beaujolais Vert

Although Beaujolais is irrevocably associated with wine, the vineyards only cover part of the region. Moving westwards away from the Saône valley, you enter the Beaujolais Vert. In this low mountainous region, the vines have given way to fir trees, creating landscapes ideal for hiking and mountain biking. In this natural setting, Lac des Sapins is a jewel with emerald reflections. This man-made lake is home to Europe’s largest biological bathing area (for a fee), as well as a beach on the lake. At the other end of the lake, you’ll find a water sports centre where you can hire paddleboats, pedalos and canoes. A natural destination that’s sure to appeal to sports enthusiasts! The ideal place to relax on hot summer days during your camping holiday in the Beaujolais region.

Campsites in Beaujolais

A selection of campsites with camping pitches for your holidays in a tent, caravan or motorhome in the Beaujolais.

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A paradise for walkers and sports enthusiasts

With 1,250 kilometres of Grande Randonnée (GR) trails and 5,300 kilometres of Promenades et Randonnées (walks and hikes), Aveyron is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Ask at your campsite reception. They’ll be able to tell you which are the most beautiful walks around you. The region is also a delight for lovers of white-water sports and the great outdoors. The hiking trails are ideal for mountain biking, while the Dourbie, Tarn and Lot rivers are ideal for canoeing. The cliffs and rocky outcrops of the region are also renowned among rock-climbing enthusiasts. At the confluence of the Tarn and Dourbie rivers, Millau is famous for paragliding. In the evening, as the sun sets, it’s not unusual to see dozens of sails colouring the blue skies of southern Aveyron.

Camping le Muret, between the Viaur and Aveyron gorges

Camping Le Muret is a small campsite with 44 places, including 34 camping pitches, in the heart of the Ségala countryside. This is authentic countryside, nicknamed the land of 100 valleys because of its location between the Aveyron and Viaur valleys. The small lake at the heart of the campsite adds to the charm of the place, especially at the end of the day when the rays of the setting sun are reflected on its surface. The campsite restaurant serves local produce to remind you that Aveyron is also a land of good food.

Camping le Val de Saures between Lot and Truyère rivers

Situated at the confluence of the Lot and Truyère rivers, Val de Saures campsite awaits you in the village of Entraygues in Aveyron, a delightful medieval town. It offers 103 places on 96 pitches spread over 2.6 hectares of shady grounds. Close to the shops, it’s the ideal destination for motorhome users, who won’t need to move their vehicle to get to the village.

Campsite Via Natura les Cerisiers near Millau

At the entrance to the Gorges du Tarn, Les Cerisiers is a delightful campsite on a human scale with 80 places, including 70 camping pitches. A member of the Via Natura association, this campsite nestles in an exceptional natural setting at the entrance to the Gorges du Tarn. It is set in 2.5 hectares of wooded grounds. There are some 300 trees of around fifty different species. The Tarn, which borders the campsite, offers a pleasant swimming beach for all the family.

Campsite in Aveyron with heated swimming pool: Les Prades in the Gorges du Tarn

Camping Les Prades enjoys an idyllic location in the spectacular Gorges du Tarn. It has two private beaches where you can go swimming or children can play in the river. Although it has a unique natural environment, this 4-star campsite also has all the comforts you could wish for, with a heated swimming pool, spa, bar and restaurant.

Camping le Roc qui Parle in the Dourbie valley

Le Roc qui Parle campsite nestles in an exceptional setting in the heart of the unspoilt Dourbie valley. The campsite slopes down to the river Dourbie, where campers can enjoy a refreshing swim. Two kilometres away, the village of Nant offers shops and restaurants in the shadow of its medieval covered market. The campsite offers 70 spacious, green pitches.

Campsite with swimming pool in the dourbie valley: les 2 Vallées at the gates of the village of Nant

Just outside the village of Nant, in the Dourbie valley, you’ll find Les 2 Vallées campsite. This campsite has a heated swimming pool and access to the Durzon river which runs alongside. The village of Nant is within walking distance of the campsite. It is a charming medieval village with shops (butcher’s, baker’s, supermarket, etc.) and several restaurants around the medieval covered market in the centre of the village. It will be particularly attractive to motorhome owners, who won’t have to move their vehicle during their stay in Aveyron.

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Our campsites in Pas-de-Calais

World War I memorial sites near your campsite in Pas-de-Calais

The First World War had a profound effect on the Pas-de-Calais. It must be said that fighting took place there during the 4 years of the conflict. On the frontline that crosses the Pas-de-Calais, it was mainly British troops, with soldiers coming from all over the Common Wealth, and German troops who fought each other throughout the war, which explains the numerous monuments dedicated to the soldiers of the Common Wealth. At Vimy, you can visit the Canadian Memorial to the 66,000 Canadian soldiers who died on the Pas-de-Calais front. Not far away, at the foot of the hill of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, you can visit the history centre of the 14-18 Notre-Dame-de-Lorette Memorial. This museum looks back at the First World War in the Pas-de-Calais through the 90 km of frontline from 1914-1918. With emblematic objects, unpublished photographs, period films and animated maps, this museum helps us to better understand this war.

The Ring of Memory was built on the same site. The ring is 345 metres long, 56 metres of which are in the air. It bears the names of the 580,000 soldiers who died in the Pas-de-Calais between 1914 and 1918. These names are listed in alphabetical order, without distinction of nationality or rank.

Not far away, in Arras, the Carrière de Wellington (Wellington Quarry) recalls an often overlooked episode of the First World War. This quarry lies 20 metres under the cobbles of Arras where, for 6 months, the British prepared their spring offensive of 1917. They had the idea of transforming the city’s chalk quarries into a real underground barracks for up to 24,000 soldiers in order to launch a surprise offensive on 9 April 1917. Guided tours take you 20 metres underground to discover this incredible network of galleries. Allow 1h15 for the visit. Note that the temperature in the galleries is constant: 11°. So don’t forget to take a little wool, even if it’s hot outside! After the visit, if you wish, you can extend the experience by having a real English breakfast 20 metres underground!

World War II sites to be visited from your campsite in Saint-Omer

The town of Saint-Omer played a special role during the Second World War. In Eperlecques, close to your campsite in Saint-Omer, the Germans used a blockhouse as one of the main launching bases for the V1 and V2 missiles that bombed London during the last years of the war. Although bombed several times by Allied troops, the blockhouse has always remained standing. It is the largest blockhouse in Northern France. During your visit, you will learn all you want to know about the V1 and V2 and will be able to see two of these missiles on their launch pads. The Eperlecques blockhouse should have been part of a series of sites in the north of France, since in 1943, not far from Saint-Omer, in Helfaut, the Coupole was built, a gigantic underground bunker, consisting of hundreds of metres of gallery. It owes its name to the half-sphere of reinforced concrete 77 metres in diameter and 5.5 metres thick that covers it.

It was to have become a V2 launch base, but Allied bombing and the Normandy landings delayed and then cancelled its commissioning. Today it is a centre of memory and history that allows you to better understand the war. The former launch complex is now dedicated to the conquest of space. It now houses a 360° bubble which, thanks to 3D technology, plunges you into space for a more realistic journey.

The fortress of Mimoyecques, a stone’s throw from your campsite on the Opal Coast

Discover the fortress of Mimoyecques from your campsite in the Pas-de-Calais. It was also part of the German missile launching network during the Second World War. It is located near the coast, not far from the site of the two Capes. It was built in 1943 to house a new type of weapon, the V3. With its 5 cannons, it was to be able to send 1500 shells per day to London. A visit to the site will delight military history enthusiasts. Especially as the site has a double interest. Carved into a chalky massif, the fortress of Mimoyecques is also a remarkable natural site where over 500 bats nest.

In addition to your discovery of the historical sites of the Second World War in the Pas-de-Calais, make a small diversions to Dunkirk during your camping stay in the Pas-de-Calais. Four years before the Normandy landings, Dunkirk was the site of Operation Dynamo, which evacuated more than 300,000 Allied soldiers from France to England in less than 10 days. The Dunkirk 1940 museum retraces this important episode of the early days of the Second World War. The museum presents a rich collection of military maps, photographs, weapons and uniforms.

Campsites in the Pas-de-Calais around the sites of the First and Second World Wars

A selection of campsites with touring pitches for caravans, tents and motorhomes in the Pas-de-Calais.

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Find the full programme of festivities on the website (only in french, sorry) www.cerf-volant-berck.com.

Campsites in Hauts-de-France near Berck

A selection of campsites with touring pitches in the Hauts-de-France région, near Berck.

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Our campsites on Lake Maggiore in Italy

Camping in caravan, tent or camper van in front of the Borromean Islands

In the 15th century, a large part of Lake Maggiore was given in fief to the Borromeo family, a wealthy Italian family. The latter gradually bought all the islands of the small archipelago that stretches out in the waters of the lake. It was therefore renamed the Borromeo Islands. It is composed of 5 islands of which only 3 can be visited: Isola Bella, Isola Madre and Isola dei Pescatori. Isola Bella is entirely occupied by the Borromeo Palace, a perfect example of the Lombard baroque style. The palace and its sumptuous gardens, built in the 17th century, still bear witness to the splendour of an era. Isolda Madre is home to one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Italy, covering 8 hectares. Isola dei Pescatori, finally, has retained its fishing village atmosphere despite the influx of tourists during the summer. One of the best views of the Borromean Islands can be had from the Mottarone (1491 metres) which stands on the shores of the lake. On the other side of the lake, the summit of Sasso del Ferro (1062 metres) also offers a wide panorama of the region. It can be reached by cable car from Laveno Mombello.

Stresa, the jewel of Lake Maggiore

Facing the Borromean Islands, the town of Stresa nestles on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Italy. This charming town has always attracted artists. Stendhal, Chateaubriand, Dumas, Dickens and Lord Byron spent time here. Hemingway even chose to set a large part of the setting of his novel A Farewell to Arms there. Stresa’s popularity peaked in the early 20th century, as evidenced by the Belle Epoque buildings facing the lake. During your camping holiday on Lake Maggiore, walk in the footsteps of these great writers as you stroll through the streets of Stresa.

Verbiana, the largest town on Lake Maggiore

Verbiana is the largest town on Lake Maggiore. Its district of Pallanza is a popular holiday destination. This district of Roman origin extends over a peninsula. It includes hotels, villas and parks as well as an elegant town hall built in the 19th century and supported by 32 arcades. The lakeside promenade offers beautiful views of the Borromean Islands. Not far away, the Intra district is the medieval centre of Verbiana. Its alleys are lively and contain many shops. Every Saturday morning the largest weekly market on Lake Maggiore is held in Piazza del Mercato and Piazza Don Minzoni. The beautiful park of Villa Taranto forms the border between the two districts. This park, which mixes English and Italian styles, is one of the most important botanical gardens in the world. It covers an area of almost 16 hectares and contains some 20,000 species of plants and flowers.

Cannero Riviera

With its terraced houses, hidden among vineyards, orange and olive trees, above the lake, Cannero Riviera has an idyllic setting. It is no wonder that such illustrious figures as Winston Churchill and Queen Victoria decided to stay here. During your visit to the Cannero Riviera, you will discover elegant villas, but above all a picturesque little port that has retained the charm of the past. Take advantage of your stroll in Cannero Riviera to go for a swim in the waters of Lake Maggiore. Nestled in a cove, the beach of Cannero Riviera is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Maggiore.

Cannobio, last stop before Switzerland

Cannobio is the last town on the lake before the Swiss border and is very popular with tourists. However, it wasn’t until the 21st century that this resort town had its heyday. The Romans were already staying here and in the Middle Ages a royal court took up residence here. The city has preserved elegant palaces built between the 17th and 19th centuries, stone testimonies of its glorious past. Its promenade with its old fishermen’s houses is one of the most beautiful on Lake Maggiore. The beautiful Piazza Vittorio Emanuele III, in front of the old port, is one of Cannobio’s most popular places to live.

Our selection of campsites on Lake Maggiore

On the shores of Lake Maggiore, or close to the lake, find our selection of campsites for caravan, tent or motorhome in Italy.

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Our campsites in the Golfe du Morbihan

Even if you don’t take part in the Semaine du Golfe by boat, during your camping stay in the Gulf of Morbihan you will be able to admire these thousands of sailing boats which offer a magnificent spectacle in an exceptional natural setting. In addition, the host ports offer a range of activities to enhance the festival: exhibitions, tastings of local produce, concerts, brass bands, popular dances, etc.

So make the most of your camping holiday in the Gulf of Morbihan to take part in the festival. But don’t forget to book your place, there won’t be enough for everyone…

Our campsites in the Gulf of Morbihan

A selection of campsites for caravans, tents and motorhomes around the Gulf of Morbihan.

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Touring pitches in Conques in Aveyron

You reach Conques by following the winding road that runs alongside the river Dourdou. The village suddenly reveals itself to you at the bend in the road, clinging to the hillside. It is easy to imagine the admiration of the pilgrims who once followed the road to Santiago de Compostela when they first discovered this magnificent village, all in red stone. Conques has been attracting pilgrims on their way to Spain for a thousand years. Its Romanesque abbey of Sainte-Foy was built between the 11th and 12th centuries. It can be seen at the end of the long pedestrian street that crosses the village from one side to the other. It is at sunset that it takes on its full majesty, when the sun illuminates its western tympanum. This sculpture representing the Last Judgement through 124 characters is one of the masterpieces of Romanesque art. When night falls, from May to October, it is highlighted by a polychromy that reminds us that in the past it was enhanced with bright colours. So enjoy the show during your camping holiday in Conques in the Aveyron.

“Tresor” and stained glass windows by Pierre Soulages in the abbey of Sainte-Foy in Conques

In addition to its sumptuous façade, the Sainte-Foy de Conques Abbey is a treasure trove. It houses 250 chapiteaux spread over two levels and beautiful stained glass windows by the painter Pierre Soulages. The painter was born in Rodez, a few kilometres from Conques, and he admits that his love for art was born when he discovered the abbey. If you want to learn more about the painter during your camping holiday in Conques in the Aveyron, you can also visit the museum dedicated to him in Rodez. After the stained glass windows of Pierre Soulages, you can go and admire the Treasure of Conques. This collection of religious silverware is the most complete in France. Its masterpiece is the reliquary statue of Sainte-Foy which dates from the 9th century.

Stroll through the medieval streets of Conques

If the abbey is the highlight of any visit to Conques, you should not forget the rest of the village. As you wander through a maze of narrow cobbled streets, you will discover the secrets of this small town: timber-framed houses with lauze roofs, bread ovens, fountains, etc. Once fortified, Conques has preserved several defensive elements such as an enclosing tower or the Vinzelle gate. On the heights of the village, the château d’Humières is a very fine example of 15th and 16th century civil architecture.

Medieval bridge over the Dourdou

Leaving the village centre and following the GR65, the route taken by pilgrims to Conques, you will come to the medieval bridge over the Dourdou. This bridge dates from the 14th century. It is composed of 5 arches and is 40 metres long. It was an obligatory passage for pilgrims. On your way you will see the Sainte-Foy chapel. Traditionally, pilgrims ring a bell here and hope for a response from the monks of Conques.

Touring pitches in Aveyron

Une sélection de campings à Conques pour vos vacances en caravane, tente ou camping-car en Aveyron.

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The lake of Paladru nestles among green hills that form a magnificent setting for this turquoise jewel. The lake owes its colour to the lacustrine chalk that covers its bottom. It was during the ice age, about 12,000 years ago, that these landscapes were shaped. Man arrived here in 2700 B.C. with one of the first human communities in Isère, followed a few centuries later by the knight-peasants of the year 1000 who also found refuge on the shores of Lake Paladru. This human presence has made Lake Paladru an important archaeological area. The brand new Archaeological Museum of Lake Paladru, inaugurated in June 2022, allows visitors to learn more about the remains uncovered by the archaeological excavations carried out over several decades around the lake.

The lake of Paladru, a preserved natural area to discover during your camping holidays in Isere

In addition to its historical interest, Lake Paladru is also a site of great natural wealth. There are no less than 7 protected areas on its shores. Birdwatchers will particularly appreciate the natural site of the Grands Roseaux where mallards, swans and great crested grebes nest. It can be discovered by taking the Chemin des Marais, a greenway dotted with observation points.

A swimming lake near your campsite in Isère

Lake Paladru is bordered by 4 municipal beaches. You can therefore swim there during your camping holiday in Isère. Swimming is only allowed on these beaches, but dogs are not allowed. Three of these beaches are chargeable (Le Pin, Paladru and Montferrat beaches) while the fourth, Charavines beach, is free. As the lake is shallow (36 metres), it heats up well during the summer and its temperature can reach 25°. Swimming is not the only activity offered by Lake Paladru. You can fish or sail on the lake. However, the latter is regulated. You will have to pay a navigation fee which varies according to your boat (with or without motor, electric, etc.).

Our campsites in Isère around Lac de Paladru

A selection of campsites in Isère with camping pitches for your caravan, tent or motorhome.

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