First ever Trip to Western France.

[RONALD5555]

Hi everyone, I have spent some time reading everyones accounts of their trips to Europe. My wife and I are considering a 2/3 week venture, probably down the West coast of France in 2012 ,probably in May or September. We have a Twin axle Bailey Barcelona. I have always been worried that large twin axles are not welcomed everywhere. We are very experienced throughout the U K. I would be very grateful for any tips and advice.Thanks, Ron

 

[Robtel]

Hi Ron,
I have the same make and model van as you and went to France last year without problem, stayed on a total of three different sites.
I have seen some French sites stating they will not accept carvans over a certain length, I believe this is more to do with access issues and affects both single and twin axle vans. I have also seen one photograph posted on a forum indicating twin axles were banned from at least one site.
Prior to owning the Barcelona I had a twin axle Wyoming which I also took to France without problem for three or four years. I would advise doing your homework, drawing up a list of sites you might want to visit and either check out their websites or phone them direct and ask if there are any restrictions. Are you planning on booking or just going where your fancy takes you? I usually book, either direct with the site or through a third party such as Caravan Club or Select Sites (sometimes a combination). The Caravan Club and Select Sites literature indicates any length restrictions, whether using them or booking direct I make a point of saying it is a twin axle van. Never had a problem with taking a twin axle to France, just be aware that there may be length restrictions on some sites.
If you have any particular sites in mind if you post their names someone might have actually visited and will be able to give you more info. I would recommend La Garangeoire in the Vendee area as worth consideration
http://www.camping-la-garangeoire.com/en/index_en.htm

Robert

 

[RONALD5555]

Thank you for your information Robert. I ususally book the sites that we are going to. I will do my homework and thanks for your suggestions. My main concern was the size of the `van. Regards Ron

 

[PaulRT]

Hi Ronald
There is really no need to book campsites in France for either May or September. Our experience is that, providing you avoid the French peak season ,which is about 14 July to 15 August, you will never have any difficulty getting onto a site. As for the size of the van, you sometimes see sites which do not allow twin axles (pas a deux essues) or charge considerably more for them. We have found that the Caravan Club Continental Touring Guide (Vol 1 for France, Spain and Portugal) is an excellent source of information on sites. This will normally include any comments about twin axles or difficulties in manouvering around the site with a long unit.
Go for it and have a great time.
Paul

 

[RONALD5555]

Thanks Paul.I have bought the Guide, and have also looked at the Caravan Clubs` sites bookable through the booking service. I intend to spend sometime on research.Regards Ron

 

[TD42]

If you are going in the off peak times I & many others would recommend you obtain the ACSI card http://www.campingcard.co.uk/gb/en/europe/ ,
or use Camping cheques , http://order.campingcheque.co.uk/?utm_source=Adwords&utm_medium=ppc&utm_term=camping%20cheques&utm_campaign=Camping+Cheque+PPC&gclid=CI6xyYfqsqsCFcRtfAodHhjIdw
or even vacansoleil cheques http://www.vacansoleil.co.uk/soleil-cheques/
you should also keep your eyes open on the caravanning web sites for the DFDS/Norfok line special offers & discount codes for your ferry trip. this should soon be available around October & will save you a great deal.last year £58 return car & van

 

[RONALD5555]

Much obliged for the information, TD