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Ascension weekend: 10 motorhome getaways less than 3 hours from major French cities
Travel guide
26/5/2025

Ascension weekend: 10 motorhome getaways less than 3 hours from major French cities

The Ascension weekend is the perfect opportunity to escape for a few days away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Thanks to your motorhome and the CAMPING-CAR PARK network, discover destinations rich in heritage, nature and local flavors, all accessible in less than 3 hours' drive from the 10 largest French cities. Whether you enjoy walks, culture or relaxation, here is our special selection for a successful Ascension weekend.

1. From Paris → The Loire Valley Chateaux

Located about 2.5 hours from Paris, the Loire Valley is a real open-air museum, ideal for exploring by motorhome. Thanks to the CAMPING-CAR PARK areas, explore this iconic region in complete freedom. Make a first stop in Chailles, a perfect starting point for visiting the Château de Chambord, famous for its grandiose architecture and French gardens. A few kilometers away, the area of Les Montils offers a peaceful setting on the banks of the Beuvron, ideal for exploring Blois and its chateau with its varied styles - Gothic, Renaissance and Classical.

Continue your getaway to Amboise, where you can park near the Royal Castle and the Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last home. For a nature and culture break, the Pontlevoy area welcomes you in a charming village close to the abbey, while Veuzain-sur-Loire immerses you in the authentic atmosphere of the Loire. Whether it's a bike ride, a cruise on a traditional boat or a tasting of chilled Vouvray accompanied by rillettes de Tours, each stop promises total immersion in the Loire Valley lifestyle.

With the Privilege Pack, book your pitch in a few clicks and fully enjoy your stay with complete peace of mind.

2. From Marseille → The Luberon

Just 1.5 hours from Marseille, the Luberon transports you to a picture-postcard setting with its perched villages, lavender fields and colorful markets. To start your motorhome trip, settle down at the CAMPING-CAR PARK area of Apt, the region's commercial heart, renowned for its Provençal market and local delicacies. Continue to Goult, a discreet jewel of the Luberon, where paved streets, mills and shaded terraces offer a peaceful and authentic stop.

Then stop at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, labeled Premium Green, where the area welcomes you close to the famous Sorgue spring, in an exceptional natural setting. An ideal stop for lovers of hiking and green landscapes. Finally, head to Vinon-sur-Verdon, at the gateway to the Verdon Regional Natural Park, to discover green Provence and savor the tranquility of the Verdon's banks.

The CAMPING-CAR PARK areas in the sector guarantee a comfortable, secure and fully autonomous welcome, with all services available. Thanks to the Digital Pass, manage your stays with ease, even at the last minute, for an impromptu weekend in the great outdoors. And for the gourmets among you, don't miss a stop at a winery to taste the Luberon AOCs - a real concentrate of Provençal terroir.

3. From Lyon → Between lakes and mountains

About 2 hours from Lyon, the Savoyard lakes and mountains region promises you a revitalizing getaway between crystal-clear waters and green peaks. To explore this area in complete freedom, the CAMPING-CAR PARK areas offer you strategic and comfortable stops. First, settle down in Saint-Ferréol, a natural gateway to the Bornes massif, ideal for reaching the shores of Lake Annecy and enjoying water sports or a bike ride to Annecy, the "Venice of the Alps".

Continue to Aix-les-Bains, a charming spa resort on the shores of Lake Bourget, where the area puts you close to the beaches and the lively city center. A perfect place to alternate well-being, walks by the water and cultural discoveries. In Seyssel, a small town of character located between the Ain and Haute-Savoie, you'll enjoy a calm and river-like environment, ideal for walks along the Rhône or a tasting of local wines.

Finally, for a nature immersion in the heart of the Jura forests, the Grand Tétras area welcomes you in a relaxing mountain setting, perfect for hikers and lovers of alpine wildlife. Each area is equipped to guarantee autonomy, security and comfort, with the possibility of booking easily thanks to the Privilege Pack. For a gourmet break, let yourself be tempted by a gratinéed tartiflette or freshly caught fish from the surrounding lakes - an unmissable Savoyard touch to perfect your stay.

4. From Toulouse → Albi and the Tarn Valley

Just 1 hour 15 minutes from Toulouse, the Tarn opens the doors to a territory with a thousand facets, between UNESCO heritage, perched villages and generous nature. Start your discovery in Gaillac, the birthplace of one of the oldest vineyards in France. The CAMPING-CAR PARK area welcomes you in the heart of the vineyards, ideal for exploring wineries and tasting AOC wines, while enjoying the charm of this peaceful town.

Then join Saint-Pierre-de-Trivisy, a green resort nestled in the heart of the Monts de Lacaune. The area offers an ideal natural setting for lovers of forest walks, with the added bonus of access to the holiday village facilities. For a more picturesque stop, Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val will charm you with its medieval streets, art galleries and Sunday market on the banks of the Aveyron. The CAMPING-CAR PARK area, perfectly located, allows you to enjoy nature activities such as canoeing or climbing in the gorges.

Finally, park your wheels in Laguépie, between Tarn-et-Garonne and Aveyron, a small green corner crossed by the Aveyron and the Viaur. The area, on the riverbank, is ideal for a bucolic break in complete serenity. Throughout your journey, the Digital Pass allows you to manage your stays smoothly, for a long weekend placed under the sign of freedom. Don't leave without tasting the local specialties: bougnette, tripous or farm cheeses... a treat for the taste buds!

5. From Nice → Gorges du Verdon

About 2.5 hours from Nice, the Gorges du Verdon offer a spectacular immersion between vertiginous cliffs, turquoise waters and perched villages. Nicknamed the "European Grand Canyon", this natural jewel is a dream playground for outdoor enthusiasts. To start your adventure, the CAMPING-CAR PARK area of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon offers an exceptional panorama of the eponymous lake, perfect for a refreshing swim or a paddle trip.

Next up, head to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, ranked among France's most beautiful villages. Nestled between two cliffs, this Provençal gem is famous for its earthenware and steep alleyways. The nearby area lets you explore this unique spot on foot, at your own pace. Heading east, take a break in Montauroux, a balcony overlooking Saint-Cassien lake, perfect for nature and swimming fans. Finally, the Cabasse area, in the heart of Green Provence, will immerse you in a typically Var region atmosphere, surrounded by vineyards, forests and old stones.

These stops are all accessible thanks to the Digital Pass, which allows you to plan and manage your stays in just a few clicks. Whether you're into kayaking in the gorges, hiking the Blanc-Martel trail, or a foodie searching for local specialties (like Sisteron lamb or Haut-Var goat cheeses), your motorhome getaway will be unforgettable, smooth, and full of flavors.

6. From Nantes → Gulf of Morbihan

Just 2 hours from Nantes, head to the Gulf of Morbihan, one of France's most beautiful seascapes, where islands, islets, and Breton villages are revealed along the water. To start your motorhome trip off right, settle into the CAMPING-CAR PARK area of Vannes, located near the historic center. This medieval city charms with its ramparts, half-timbered houses, and lively marina, perfect for your first Breton experience.

Continue your journey to the Arradon area, nestled on the edge of the gulf, offering direct access to coastal paths and hidden beaches. It's the perfect starting point for a hike on the GR34 or a kayak trip to the Isle of Arz. In Sarzeau, on the Rhuys peninsula, the CAMPING-CAR PARK area welcomes you not far from Suscinio Castle and the vast ocean beaches. A perfect spot to alternate between wild nature and cultural discoveries.

Enjoy freshly opened oysters facing the sea, a glass of chilled Muscadet, and dive into the warm atmosphere of local markets and festivals. With the Privilege Pack, book your spot in advance and enjoy a carefree seaside weekend, with your feet in the water and a light heart.

7. From Strasbourg → Colmar and the Wine Route

Just 1 hour and 10 minutes from Strasbourg, embark on an authentic getaway in the heart of the Alsace Wine Route, a gourmet and charming route dotted with flower-filled villages, endless vineyards, and half-timbered houses. After a must-see stop in Colmar, extend your wine experience by settling into the CAMPING-CAR PARK area of Andlau, a charming wine town nestled at the foot of the Champ du Feu mountain range. This village is renowned for its grand cru wines and its thousand-year-old abbey, making it an excellent starting point for hikes in the vineyard.

Continue to Dambach-la-Ville, one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Alsace. The local CAMPING-CAR PARK area puts you close to the ramparts, cobbled streets, and traditional cellars, where you can taste iconic grape varieties like Riesling or Gewurztraminer in a warm atmosphere. Finally, take a break in Vogelgrun, very close to Neuf-Brisach and the German border. This stopover, between the Rhine and vineyards, is ideal for exploring the natural landscapes of the Ried and the cycle paths of the Alsace plain.

The Digital Pass ensures smooth management of your overnight stays and simplified access to the areas throughout your itinerary. In May, the flowering vineyards offer an enchanting backdrop to discover Alsace in a different way: on foot, by bike, or at the rhythm of family wineries. A sensory journey between tradition and the Alsatian art of living.

8. From Montpellier → Camargue

About 1 hour and 30 minutes away, the Camargue transports you to a wild and captivating world, between salt marshes, endless beaches, and age-old traditions. To start your motorhome getaway, settle into the CAMPING-CAR PARK area of Grau-du-Roi, by the sea. This typically Mediterranean seaside resort offers you direct access to the beaches and the fishing port, perfect for enjoying a fish stew or watching the return of the trawlers.

Continue to Frontignan, famous for its Muscat wine and summer festivities. The area, located near the ponds and the city center, is an excellent starting point for exploring the nature reserve or strolling through the local markets. In Bellegarde, at the gates of the Gard Camargue, enjoy a peaceful environment between vineyards, scrubland, and hiking trails. Finally, the Mèze area, on the edge of the Thau lagoon, allows you to attend the fish auction, savor fresh oysters and mussels, or take a boat to Bouzigues or Sète.

Each of these stops immerses you in the authenticity of the Camargue, among pink flamingos, white horses, and bullfighting traditions. Thanks to the Privilege Pack, organize your nights with ease and savor every moment of your road trip in the heart of unspoiled nature and a generous terroir.

9. From Bordeaux → Arcachon Bay

Just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Bordeaux, the Arcachon Bay and the Atlantic coast offer you a concentrate of nature, freshness, and maritime traditions. Start your motorhome getaway in Lacanau, renowned for its surf beaches and cycle paths in the heart of the pine forest. The CAMPING-CAR PARK area welcomes you near the ocean for a guaranteed iodine-rich experience.

Continue to Arès, a charming oyster-farming village on the Cap Ferret peninsula. From the area, explore the surrounding nature reserves, the typical ports, and enjoy an oyster tasting with your feet in the sand. Then head to Biscarrosse, between lake, ocean, and forest. The area is ideally located to alternate between swimming, water activities, or visits to the seaplane museum. For a more peaceful stop, Gastes welcomes you on the edge of the southern lake, a haven of tranquility perfect for fishing, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing.

Each area in the CAMPING-CAR PARK network guarantees you comfort, security, and services, with simple management thanks to the Digital Pass. Set off to discover the Isle of Birds, climb the Dune du Pilat, or follow the many cycle paths through the pine forests. And to delight your taste buds, a plate of oysters accompanied by a glass of Entre-Deux-Mers wine will delight gourmets. A relaxing and refreshing Ascension weekend.

10. From Lille → Somme Bay

About 2 hours and 15 minutes from Lille, the Somme Bay opens the doors to a landscape ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world, where nature reigns supreme. Ideal for motorhome travelers, this authentic territory offers you a series of unforgettable stops thanks to the CAMPING-CAR PARK areas. Start your itinerary in Cayeux-sur-Mer, a seaside resort renowned for its long pebble beach and iconic bathing huts. The area is just a few steps from the dike, perfect for admiring the sunsets over the Channel.

Continue towards Le Crotoy, the only port in northern France facing due south. Here, the area allows you to easily reach the center and the beach for a gourmet getaway or a stroll on the bay. Stop at Ault, a village perched on chalk cliffs, where the CAMPING-CAR PARK area offers a spectacular view of the sea. Further north, the area of Merlimont is ideal for enjoying the fine sandy beaches and state forests, perfect for hiking or cycling. Finally, in Flocques, immerse yourself in the Picardy hinterland while staying close to the beaches of Mers-les-Bains and Tréport.

Explore the medieval streets of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, take a boat to observe the seal colonies, or stroll through the Marquenterre Park, a hotspot for European ornithology. For a unique experience, take the steam train that connects the villages around the bay. Thanks to the Privilege Pack, enjoy easy booking and optimal comfort at each stop. On the food front, don't miss the salt meadow lamb, bouchot mussels, or a tasty ficelle picarde, local specialties that will delight foodies.

With your motorhome and CAMPING-CAR PARK services, set off freely to discover the gems located just a few hours' drive from the major French cities. Thanks to options like the Privilege Pack or the Digital Pass, simplify your stays and fully enjoy each destination. Whether it's unspoiled nature, picturesque villages, or gastronomic discoveries, each Ascension weekend getaway promises you a unique moment. Prepare your itinerary, book your stops, and experience the adventure with complete peace of mind!

Discover all the available areas on Camping-Car Park and find our other getaway ideas on the blog.

Happy Ascension weekend to all our motorhome travelers!

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Jean-Alexis Lemieux
Media Manager

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