Artful Explorations: A Campers’ Guide to France’s Creative Havens
France promises breathtaking landscapes, pretty beaches, and charming towns, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistic legacies that shape its cultural heritage.
From the enchanting streets of Montmartre where Toulouse-Lautrec once roamed to the tranquil shores of Impressionist Étretat and Pablo Picasso's ancient Antibes, France offers much inspiration for art lovers pitching their tents. The only problem is where to go first!
So, if you want to learn more about France's most celebrated artists and explore some fantastic towns and cities, read on. Here are ten stunning creative havens you can't miss.
Berthe Morisot's Enchanting Étretat
Nestled along the windswept cliffs of Normandy's Alabaster Coast, the picturesque town of Étretat served as an Impressionist muse for Berthe Morisot and many others.
As one of the few female Impressionists, Morisot is known for her intimate depictions of domestic life and luminous landscapes (including nearby Fécamp). Indeed, her canvases capture the fleeting beauty of daily life with unmatched sensitivity.
After Lunch, 1881
Visitors to Étretat can retrace the Impressionists' footsteps along the scenic coastal pathways that inspired their works. From the iconic arches of the Aiguille d'Étretat to the rugged cliffs overlooking the English Channel, campers can immerse themselves in the timeless allure of this Impressionist retreat.
While you're there, don't miss the Jardins d'Étretat – a neo-futuristic garden overlooking the much-painted Étretat arches.
Camping Municipal D’Etretat is in a great location. Easy to find and get to and only 15 mins walk to the town and beach. There are great walks on the cliff tops with amazing views. The site closes from 12pm and then reopens at 3pm. So, bear this in mind when arriving. You cannot make a reservation. The facilities are a bit dated but do the job. Overall, a medium sized site in a great location and great value. It is flat, has good shower and washing up facilities with plenty of hot water and laundry facilities. The female warden who runs the site arrives twice a day, in the morning and after lunch to check people in and generally make sure all are ok. She is very friendly and helpful, and she was fine with speaking English. The site is about 15 minutes’ walk into the lovely town where there are lots of cafes and restaurants. The walks along the cliffs are stunning. The site has 72 touring pitches and most have an electric hook-up point
Camping Abijune is a campsite nestled in the heart of Le Tilleul, Normandy, France and ideally situated just 2.5 kilometres from the charming seaside town of Etretat. The owners, Severine and Guillaume, will be pleased to welcome you to their site, where they aim to create a family atmosphere where good humour, friendliness, respect and quality are of prime importance. The site has a total of 86 pitches. Sixty grass/hardstanding pitches, with 16amp hook-up points, are available for touring units and are delimited by hedges and lined with mature trees offering shade during the summer. The site also has a wide choice of 26 cottages and chalets available to hire. The campsite boasts a range of amenities to keep you entertained and ensure a comfortable stay. Take a refreshing dip in the semi-partially covered pool, perfect for both scenarios of Normandy weather. The kids can also let off steam at the playground. After a day of exploring the surrounding coastline, you can enjoy a bite to eat at the Campsite restaurant, where they hold regular themed dinners (mussels and fries evening,) or you can enjoy international cuisine such as burgers and pizza, which you can also take away back to eat at your pitch.
Heading east along the picturesque Normandy coastline, you'll find the rural retreat of Varengeville-sur-Mer. This charming village inspired Georges Braque during his later years.
As a co-founder of Cubism alongside Pablo Picasso, Braque revolutionised the language of modern art with his fragmented compositions and explorations of form and space.
The Viaduct at L'Estaque (Le Viaduc de l'Estaque), 1907-08
In the tranquil environs of Varengeville-sur-Mer, campers can bask in the countryside that inspired Braque. The local church houses a gorgeous stained-glass window by the artist, and Braque's tomb is poignantly topped with a white dove mosaic. You can also find another Braque stained-glass window in the St. Dominique Chapel on the road between Dieppe and Varengeville.
Le Marqueval is a well established, lively, family site of 284 pitches (including 60 mobile homes), located close to the seaside town of Hautot-sur-Mer, just west of Dieppe and 1.2 km from the sea. This peaceful site has been developed around three small lakes (one unfenced, suitable for fishing) where you'll find plenty of greenery. It's an ideal starting point for those who wish to discover the Cote d'Albatre, go hiking on the GR21 or explore the rich heritage of the Seine-Maritime area of Normandy. When on-site, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained, including an outdoor water park comprising of two pools and a square metre paddling pool with a mushroom fountain and water spouts. During the season, the site organises karaoke sessions, boule competitions, fishing as well as evening meals and dance evenings.
This friendly, attractive site with a heated outdoor pool is just four kilometres from Dieppe and is useful for those using the Newhaven-Dieppe ferry crossing, either as a one night stopover or for a few days break before heading on. The 120 pitches (70 for touring) are flat and there is some shade. Electricity (10A) is available to all. There are good hardstandings for motorhomes but other pitches may suffer after heavy rain. The site is quietly located in a valley with the only disturbance from the occasional passing train. A fast flowing small river runs along one border (not protected for young children). The welcoming owners live on site and will do anything they can to assist their guests.
Our artistic odyssey continues in Giverny (a two-hour drive south of Varengeville-sur-Mer), a location that needs no introduction for Impressionist aficionados. This picturesque village is where Claude Monet found solace and inspiration – creating his iconic Water Lily series.
Water Lilies and the Japanese Bridge, 1897–1899
Monet's former residence, now the Fondation Claude Monet, welcomes visitors to the meticulously maintained house and gardens that served as the muse for his masterpieces.
As sunlight dances on the lily pond's surface and vibrant blooms sway in the breeze, soak up the enchanting scenery that fueled Monet's creativity.
In a loop of the River Seine about half-way between Paris and Rouen, this site could be an ideal base for those wishing to discover the many attractions of this stretch of the river which include Giverny and Monet’s garden, the château at la Roche-Guyon, the Parc Naturel Régional du Vexin Français and historic Vernon with its Norman associations. Moreover, it is next to a small lake which is the Base de Plein Air et de Loisirs des Boucles de la Seine, offering numerous water and land-based activities. The site has about 130 pitches, most of which are available for touring units, with 10A electricity; there are currently 25 mobile homes and a few caravans for hire.
Head 50 kilometres east, and you'll find the charming town of Pontoise, a scenic spot along the banks of the Oise River. As the capital of the Val-d'Oise département, it inspired the "Father of Impressionism", Camille Pissarro. Renowned for his luminous landscapes and intimate portrayals of rural life, Pissarro found deep joy amidst the French countryside.
Jalais Hill, Pontoise, 1867
Visitors to Pontoise can explore the Musée Tavet-Delacour (housed in a historic mansion overlooking the river) and the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire Pissarro, dedicated to Pissarro's life and works.
This is an excellent little three-hectare site located in a large leisure and country park on the western outskirts of Paris. Campers have direct access to the huge country park (250 m. from site) with its three large lakes, one with a beach for swimming, others for sailing and pedalo hire. The site has 87 pitches in two sections, one end for campers (mainly groups) with its own sanitary block, the other for caravans and tents. There are 37 level pitches, all but four with electricity (10A, Europlug), water and drainage. There is some very occasional aircraft and train noise.
Le Grand Paris is a small, informal site 33 km. northwest of Paris. It is situated on the southern outskirts of the village of Nesles-la-Vallée in a pretty, tree-lined river valley not far from l’Isle-Adam, which is a popular destination for Parisians at weekends. Many of the 135 pitches are occupied by seasonal caravans but there are 65 large, flat pitches available for touring all with 3/9A electricity and 25 also have water and waste water drainage. The site is informally arranged around a duck pond with many trees to provide shelter and shade.
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec's Bohemian Montmartre Retreat
No guide to art in France would be complete without mentioning the capital. And where better to start than bohemian Montmartre? This Paris district played a pivotal role in the life and art of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Known for his vivid depictions of Parisian nightlife, Toulouse-Lautrec left an indelible mark with his bold compositions and expressive style.
Campers exploring Montmartre can follow in Toulouse-Lautrec's footsteps along the bustling streets of Pigalle and the iconic Boulevard de Clichy, where the artist found inspiration in the cabarets, dance halls and theatres that defined the district's vibrant social scene.
At the Moulin Rouge, 1892-95
For true Lautrec lovers, extend your trip south to Albi (just outside Toulouse), where Lautrec was born. Thanks to a gift from his parents, Albi's Musée Toulouse-Lautrec houses the largest collection in the world dedicated to the artist.
Jacques-Louis David's Revolutionary Paris
Before we leave the City of Light, you can't miss the monumental Neoclassical works of Jacques-Louis David.
Born in Paris in 1748, David's artistic prowess and political fervour propelled him to prominence as one of the most celebrated painters of the French Revolution.
Oath of the Horatii, 1784
Campers can trace David's legacy across the city's historic landmarks and cultural institutions. The Louvre Museum houses several of David's iconic paintings, with some of his most famous creations found in the "Red Rooms". While there, you'll also find Eugene Delacroix's iconic Liberty Leading the People – another revolutionary masterpiece.
While you're in the area…
Why not explore Auguste Rodin's, Majestic Meudon Manor? Found in the southwestern suburbs of Paris, it's home to the majestic estate where French sculptor Auguste Rodin lived and worked during the later years of his illustrious career.
The Musée Rodin Meudon offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city, inviting campers to wander through the artist's former residence, sculpture garden and studio.
A busy site and the only one within Paris, set in a wooded area between the Seine and the Bois de Boulogne. The site is quite extensive but nevertheless becomes very full with many international visitors, with noise well into the night, despite the rules. There are 410 pitches of varying size (including mobile homes) of which 313 are marked, with electricity (10A), water, drainage and TV aerial connections. An improvement and development programme including a new toilet block and restaurant was carried out during the winter of 2014/15. Reservations are made for pitches – if not booked, arrive early in season (mornings).
This site is on flat land beside the River Marne with 450 pitches, 76 of which are occupied by mobile homes and chalets to rent. The 220 touring pitches are on gravel and are separated by hedges. All have electricity (10A) but water has to be fetched from the toilet blocks except for the 32 serviced pitches which have taps and waste water points. There is also a large area of grass pitches for camping where there are water points but no electricity. It is very much a short-stay site and it can be noisy late at night with groups staying here, although it appears to be well run.
Huttopia sites are rather different; when the French owners visited Canada and experienced ‘back to nature’ camping, they were so impressed that they decided to introduce the idea to France.
As an antidote to Paris's urban excitement, head to France's western border and the verdant landscapes of the Franche-Comté region. Here, you'll discover the picturesque town of Ornans, which served as the birthplace and muse for the Realist master Gustave Courbet.
Renowned for his unflinching portrayals of rural life and social realities, Courbet's bold brushwork and earthy palettes captured the essence of nineteenth-century France.
The Pont Ambroix Languedoc, 1857
Visitors to Ornans can explore the Musée Gustave Courbet (housed in the artist's former family home), where an extensive collection of his paintings and drawings celebrates Courbet's singular artistic vision.
Located in the heart of the Jura in the Loue valley on the edge of historic Ornans, this traditional site is on a fairly steep slope with terraced pitches. The area has plenty of outdoor activities, including canoeing and kayaking, mountain biking, caving and fishing. With 95 pitches (65 for touring), there are around 50 with electricity hook-ups (3-16A), including nine with multi-services. There are also 25 mobile homes, caravans or tents to rent on the site and three gîtes. Larger units will find access difficult.
Situated in the heart of the Jura mountains and close to historic Ornan, La Roche d’Ully is a spacious, attractive and modern site, surrounded by views of wooded hills and rocky outcrops. There are 115 large pitches, 75 of which are for tourers, most have electricity (10A) and all have access to water. Divided by a variety of bushes and young trees, there is not a great deal of shade.
Continuing our journey and venturing south to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence, we arrive in Arles. Once a provincial capital of ancient Rome (with many Roman remains, including the Arles Amphitheatre), it inspired the vibrant hues and swirling brushstrokes of Vincent van Gogh.
Immortalised in iconic Van Gogh paintings such as Café Terrace at Night, Arles offers a glimpse into the artist's most tumultuous yet artistically prolific period. The city's vibrant energy and picturesque vistas continue to inspire contemporary artists and travellers.
The Starry Night, 1889
For a deeper exploration of Van Gogh's Provencal sojourn, the Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles showcases his works alongside contemporary exhibitions paying homage to his enduring influence.
While you're in the area…
Aix-en-Provence, the birthplace of Post-Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne, is just an hour's drive from Arles. There's a delightful walking trail linking the home where he grew up with his studio, Atelier Cézanne. While you're there, soak up views of the stunning surroundings (especially Montaigne Sainte-Victoire) that featured so heavily in Cézanne's works.
Located in the heart of the Camargue Regional Park in Languedoc Roussillon,Camping Domaine du Crin Blanc is ideally located halfway between the Mediterranean Sea and inland. (Baux de Provence, Saint Remy de Provence).The Crin Blanc campsite offers 120 accommodation units to hire, 50 spacious grassy pitches from 80 to 100 m2, with established hedging and semi shaded by trees. All pitches have a 10 amp European electrical hook ups available.
Camping de la Chapelette is located in the heart of Provence at Saint-Martin-de-Crau, just 8.1 miles away from Arles and 12.4 miles away from Les Baux-de-Provence. Whilst staying here you will have the opportunity to picnic in a park shaded by hundred-year-old plane trees. Fishing is available nearby (with permit). Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool. The Arles Train Station and Les Alpilles mountains are 15 minutes away. A children’s playground and activities are available at the site including volleyball, table tennis and boules.
Aix is a busy, attractive town with a delightful pedestrian-friendly centre just waiting to be explored. There is much to visit in the area and Marseilles is within easy reach using the frequent train service. Chantecler is a pleasant, eight-hectare campsite set in mixed woodland with an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity. It is particularly well situated on the southeast edge of the town, close to the motorway and only minutes, by a good bus service, from the city centre and the main station. The site provides 271 hedged and shaded pitches (over 200 for touring units) arranged in mature woodland with good facilities. Whilst this is a popular site which can get very busy in July and August, it is well run by a friendly, enthusiastic management.
On the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera, the coastal town of Antibes provided a tranquil retreat and boundless inspiration for Pablo Picasso. Drawn to the region's luminous light and vibrant colours, Picasso found creative renewal amidst Antibes's idyllic landscapes and ancient charm.
Visitors to Antibes can explore the Musée Picasso, located within the historic walls of the Château Grimaldi, where the artist maintained a studio. A remarkable collection of Picasso artworks showcases his enduring fascination with the Mediterranean landscape.
Brick Factory at Tortosa, 1909
From the iconic La Joie de Vivre to photos of Picasso at work and the whimsical ceramics created during his time in Antibes, campers can immerse themselves in Picasso's oeuvre amidst this enchanting coastal enclave.
While you're in the area...
As a bonus, head to the medieval hilltop village of Biot in the Antibes area. This beautiful spot inland from Antibes provided the backdrop for Fernand Léger's cubist and abstract creations.
A leading figure of the avant-garde movement, Léger's dynamic compositions and bold use of colour epitomised the spirit of early twentieth-century French art. In Biot, campers can visit the Musée National Fernand Léger, located in the artist's former studio.
Le Rossignol's small and quiet campsite has 111 terraced pitches on a gentle, sloping site in a quiet, urban area northeast of Antibes. There are 84 pitches for touring, all with electricity, the remaining pitches being used for mobile homes to rent. The site is close to the coast, with the beach 1.2 km. away through the town, it is ideally located to explore Antibes or the wider French Riviera.
Camping le Sequoia is a family run, family orientated site with carefully maintained facilities and a beautiful pool. The owner, who is justifiably proud of her oasis of calm greenery in this very busy tourist area, lives on site. It is only 800 metres from the new SNCF station at Biot with a very frequent train service that serves the entire coast from Monaco, Nice and Cannes to Antibes. A small, quiet site, there are just 20 touring pitches (with 6-10A electricity) and 24 mobile homes for rent. Beaches are 800 m. distant and the spectacular theme parks of Marineland and Aquasplash are a short walk along the N7. The Riviera has something for everyone and this site would make an excellent base to explore the department of Alpes-Maritime.
The South of France is a haven for artistic creativity, there's almost too much to see and do! So before we complete our camping tour, let's stay on the French Riviera and head to bustling Nice.
With its azure waters and Mediterranean charm, this exciting city served as a muse for Matisse during his later years. The Musée Matisse Nice pays homage to the artist's profound connection to the city, housing a unique collection of his paintings, drawings and personal belongings.
Le bonheur de vivre, 1905–6
In nearby Vence, the Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence stands as a testament to Matisse's revolutionary approach to religious art. Its vibrant stained glass windows and minimalist aesthetic make it an unmissable stop for any modern art lover.
La Bergerie is a quiet, family owned site, situated in the hills about 3km from Vence and Saint Paul de Vence. 10km from the sea at Cagnes sur Mer. This extensive, lightly wooded site has been left very natural and is in a secluded position about 300m above sea level. Because of the trees most of pitches are shaded and all are of a good size. It is a large site but because it is so extensive it does not give that impression. There are 434 pitches, 300 with electricity (66 also with water and drainage) and 4 of them with private sanitary. Ther are also various types of accommodation to rent including the new Mobile Home Malaga Duo. Because of the nature of this site some pitches are a litle distance from the toilet blocks.
Green Park is now part of the Homair group and is currently managed by Max and Alex L’Honen. The part of the site which used to be on the opposite side of the road is now a campsite in its own right and also owned by Homair. Situated just over 4 km. from the beaches at Cagnes-sur-Mer, this is predominantly a site with around 100 chalets and mobile homes to rent. There are just 58 pitches for tents only due to the steep incline on which the terraces are situated. In fact, after the second terrace, no children under ten years are allowed. Cars cannot be parked on the pitches but can park close by. Touring motorhomes and caravans are not accepted at this site.
If you're ready to embark on your own artistic escapades across France, explore our full list of Alan Rogers-approved campsites. From urban glamping to back-to-nature rural retreats, there's something for campers of all styles and budgets.
All that's left is to wish you bon voyage et bonne création on your next French adventure!
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