Holiday in the South of France
If you’re dreaming of a holiday that combines sun-kissed beaches, scenic countryside, vibrant markets, and rich cultural history, look no further than the South of France. From the sparkling Mediterranean coastline to quaint villages nestled among rolling hills, the region has it all. In this blog, we’ll take you through two exceptional camping destinations: Les Sablons and La Baume La Palmeraie. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer, these campsites provide the perfect base for a family-friendly holiday in the heart of France.
Why the South of France?
The South of France, or Le Sud, offers a unique blend of chic coastal towns like Monaco, Saint-Tropez and Cannes, bustling city life in Montpellier and Nice, as well as rural hideaways in Provence and the Languedoc. The Mediterranean climate ensures long, hot summers—perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and alfresco dining. Add in the spectacular food, world-class wines, and friendly locals, and you have a holiday destination like no other.
Camping
For families and groups seeking a blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty, camping is the ideal way to experience the region. Being a family with young kids, we decided to try camping for the first time. We were not sure how it would go but after reading various reviews we gave it a go. We tried Les Sablons and La Baume La Palmeraie all from Eurocamps.ie
1. Camping at Les Sablons: Your Oasis by the Beach
Located in the heart of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, Camping Les Sablons is a dream for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Nestled along the Mediterranean coast near the town of Portiragnes, Les Sablons offers direct access to a long sandy beach and is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and lagoons.
What Makes Les Sablons Special?
a) Prime beach location
One of the main highlights of Les Sablons is its proximity to the beach. You can step right from the campsite onto the soft golden sands. The warm, shallow waters are ideal for families with young children, and the beach is well-maintained, offering plenty of space to relax or play.
b) A hub of activities
Les Sablons is perfect if you’re looking for variety in your holiday. The campsite offers a packed schedule of activities, including water aerobics, beach volleyball, and tennis. For those seeking water-based fun, there are five swimming pools, complete with water slides and a heated whirlpool.
c) Kid-friendly amenities
The on-site kids’ club ensures that little ones are entertained with arts and crafts, sports, and themed events. Meanwhile, adults can indulge in the wellness spa, complete with a sauna and massage options.
d) Outdoor adventures
The surrounding area is perfect for hiking, cycling, and water sports. You can rent a bike and explore the nearby Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For wine lovers, the region is known for its vineyards, so be sure to take a tour and indulge in local wines.
e) Evening entertainment
When the sun sets, the campsite transforms into a lively hub of evening entertainment. From family discos to live performances, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to explore the local markets and restaurants in nearby Portiragnes-Plage, where you can sample delicious French cuisine.
Top Tips for Your Stay at Les Sablons
- Book early: Les Sablons is a popular choice, especially in the summer months, so be sure to book early for the best pitches or accommodation.
- Bring bicycles: The region is cyclist-friendly, and biking along the Canal du Midi or through nearby vineyards is a great way to explore.
- Visit Béziers: Just 10 minutes away by car, the historic city of Béziers offers Roman architecture, charming streets, and lively markets.
2. La Baume La Palmeraie
Next on our camping journey is La Baume La Palmeraie, located in Fréjus, just inland from the iconic French Riviera. Unlike Les Sablons, La Baume offers a more secluded, nature-filled retreat, while still being close enough to the glamorous coastal towns of Saint-Raphaël and Cannes.
The Highlights of La Baume La Palmeraie
a) A tropical paradise
La Baume La Palmeraie feels like an exotic getaway thanks to its lush gardens filled with towering palm trees and tropical plants. The campsite’s stunning pool complex boasts six swimming pools, two of which are lagoon-style, surrounded by palm trees for a truly serene vibe.
b) Perfect for families with young children and couples
Whether you’re travelling with young children or as a couple, La Baume has something for everyone. The kids will love the splash zones, waterslides, and children’s pools, while adults can unwind in the wellness centre or lounge by the quieter pools.
c) Accommodation options
From well-appointed mobile homes to shaded pitches for tents and caravans, there are options for every type of camper. For a bit more luxury, choose one of the modern, fully-equipped lodges.
d) Explore the French Riviera
One of the biggest draws of La Baume La Palmeraie is its location. You’re just a short drive away from the glamorous beaches and towns of the Côte d’Azur. Spend a day exploring the historic port of Fréjus, visiting Roman ruins, or strolling along the seafront promenade.
e) Activities and Entertainment
Like Les Sablons, La Baume offers a range of activities, including tennis, archery, and mini-golf. There’s a dedicated kids’ club, nightly entertainment, and themed evenings in the on-site restaurant. You can also sign up for guided hikes or water sports in the nearby Gorges du Verdon.
Top Tips for Your Stay at La Baume La Palmeraie
- Explore the nearby towns: Fréjus, Saint-Raphaël, and the vibrant city of Nice are all within easy reach and make for perfect day trips. We also took a spin to Monaco which is only about an hours drive.
- Book excursions: If you’re keen on outdoor adventure, sign up for canyoning, kayaking, or rock climbing in the nearby mountains.
- Plan for markets: The region is famous for its open-air markets, so don’t miss the opportunity to pick up local products, from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Final Thoughts: Choosing Between Les Sablons and La Baume La Palmeraie
Both Les Sablons and La Baume La Palmeraie offer exceptional experiences, but which one is right for your South of France holiday?
- If you love direct beach access and a bustling campsite with endless activities, Les Sablons is the perfect choice.
- If you prefer a more secluded, nature-inspired getaway with the option to explore the glamour of the French Riviera, then La Baume La Palmeraie will be your dream destination.
Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable holiday. The South of France has something for everyone, and camping at these two exceptional sites ensures you’ll experience the region’s magic to the fullest.
Ready to plan your South of France adventure?
Whether you choose to relax on the beaches of Les Sablons or explore the natural beauty surrounding La Baume La Palmeraie, your holiday is sure to be one for the books. Don’t forget your sunscreen, camera, and a sense of adventure!
Check out my Cannes blog next. https://teanglo.com/cannes/
Click on this link to watch our 10 day holiday in France including our stay in La Baume la Palmeraie and Les Sablons. https://youtu.be/obW27MDqEPc
