Every January 1, a tradition full of daring and good humor enlivens French beaches: the New Year's Day swim. Whether it's 41°F or 59°F, thousands of swimmers jump into the icy waters to start the year off right. This festive moment, sometimes involving costumes, is also a symbol of renewal, courage, and conviviality. For RV travelers, it's the perfect opportunity to combine winter adventure, local atmosphere, and independent travel.

And with CAMPING-CAR PARK, enjoy this moment with complete peace of mind thanks to a network of secure areas, open all year round and strategically located in the heart of the destinations where these major swimming events take place.

Where to dive on January 1st? Our favorite destinations with CAMPING-CAR PARK areas nearby

Normandy: Lion-sur-Mer and Caen

On the Côte de Nacre, the New Year's Day swim in Lion-sur-Mer is a highly anticipated event. In 2025, several hundred swimmers gathered there for an invigorating dip in the English Channel, in a festive and intergenerational atmosphere.

Where to stop?

• Lion-sur-Mer MOTORHOME PARKING AREA : a stone's throw from the beach, perfect for a peaceful break.
• Caen MOTORHOME PARK : the ideal base for exploring the region and reaching the beaches in just a few minutes.

With the Access Card or the Digital Pass, you can easily access the areas and enjoy essential services. The Privilege Pack even guarantees you a reserved spot, a real plus during busy periods.

Brittany: Le Vivier-sur-Mer and Saint-Malo

In Brittany, some swimmers brave the Atlantic even in winter! Between Le Vivier-sur-Mer and the beaches of Saint-Malo, New Year's celebrations bring together lovers of the sea and tradition. It's always a spectacular event.

Our recommended areas:

• Vivier-sur-Mer MOTORHOME PARKING AREA : quick access to Mont-Saint-Michel Bay.
• Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer MOTORHOME PARKING AREA : an ideal base for accessing the beaches and enjoying the Brittany coastline.

In addition to your stay, take advantage of local deals with the Digital Pass : discounts at partner stores, simplified access to tourist sites... practical and economical!

Hauts-de-France: Calais and Malo-les-Bains

In the north, swimmers are not deterred by the cold! In Malo-les-Bains, the New Year's Day swim is an institution. A carnival atmosphere, music, crazy costumes, and smiles keep the cold at bay.

Nearby areas:

• Calais MOTORHOME PARK : close to the beaches and the city center.
• Bray-Dunes MOTORHOME PARKING AREA : close to the sea.

These areas allow you to enjoy the show without the stress of parking. With the Privilege Pack, reserve your spot in advance and enjoy the experience with complete peace of mind.

Vendée: Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

n Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, famous for its family-friendly and festive atmosphere, hosts its own New Year's Day swim on the beaches of the Vendée region every year. It's a popular event where locals and visitors gather for a dip to celebrate the new year.

Nearby area:

• Fenouiller MOTORHOME PARKING AREA : just a few minutes from Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, it offers easy access to the beaches and town center while providing a peaceful setting.

Landes: Biscarrosse

For the first time, the seaside resort of Biscarrosse in the Landes region organized its New Year's Day swim in a festive and friendly atmosphere. Located on the oceanfront, this destination attracts lovers of nature and invigorating fresh air.

Where to stop?

• Biscarrosse MOTORHOME PARK: just a few meters from Vivier beach.

Practical tips for a successful New Year's Eve in a motorhome

To fully enjoy this unique experience, here are some special tips for RV travelers:

• Plan ahead by booking your spot with the Privilege Pack.
• Dresswarmly, but make sure you can quickly access your swimsuit.
• Hydrate before and after swimming.
• Stay in a group for greater safety and enjoyment.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the region, its specialties, its winter markets, and its coastal trails.

Conclusion: Start your year with a sense of freedom and freshness!

Whether you're a fan of unusual traditions or simply looking for a memorable New Year's Day, the Grands Bains on January 1st is a unique experience to enjoy at least once in your life. And by choosing the CAMPING-CAR PARKareas, you can enjoy a reliable, comfortable, and perfectly located network to experience this event in the best possible conditions.

🚀 Ready to dive into the new year? Reserve your space with your Access Cardand enjoy the benefits of the Digital Pass , and travel with peace of mind thanks to the Privilege Pack. For total freedom, even in winter.

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