Explore the Best Routes, Key Stops, and Camper-Friendly Stays
Are you a wine enthusiast with a sense of adventure? Imagine cruising through picturesque landscapes, vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, and savoring world-class wines along the way. If this sounds like your ideal vacation, then a road trip through French wine country in a campervan is the perfect journey for you. In this guide, we will take you on five unforgettable road trips, each offering a unique experience in the heart of wine country. From the famous Bordeaux region to the charming vineyards of Alsace, get ready for a wine-tasting adventure like no other.
1. Bordeaux Bliss: A Wine Odyssey
Route: Bordeaux – Saint-Émilion – Médoc – Arcachon
Our first road trip takes us to the heart of Bordeaux, one of the most renowned wine regions in the world. Bordeaux is known for its exceptional red wines, and you’ll have the chance to taste some of the finest vintages as you embark on this journey.
Key Stops:
Bordeaux: Start your adventure in the beautiful city of Bordeaux. Visit the Cité du Vin, a wine museum that will immerse you in the world of Bordeaux wines. Don’t forget to stroll along the Garonne River’s picturesque waterfront.
Saint-Émilion: A short drive east will lead you to Saint-Émilion, a charming medieval village known for its vineyards and historic architecture. Tour the underground catacombs and taste the region’s Merlot-dominated wines.
Médoc: Head northwest to the Médoc region, famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon blends. Châteaux like Margaux and Rothschild offer tastings and tours that shouldn’t be missed.
Arcachon: Wrap up your trip with a visit to the coastal town of Arcachon, known for its oysters. Relax on sandy beaches or explore the stunning Dune of Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune.
Camper-Friendly Stays:
- Camping Bordeaux Lac: A serene campsite near the city, providing easy access to Bordeaux’s attractions.
- Camping Saint-Émilion: A peaceful campground surrounded by vineyards, perfect for wine enthusiasts.
- Camping Les Ormes: Located in Médoc, this campsite offers a relaxing environment amidst nature.
- Camping Le Coq Hardi: In Arcachon, this campsite offers a great coastal location for your campervan.
2. Rhône Valley Revelry: Wines and Vistas
Route: Lyon – Côtes du Rhône – Avignon – Châteauneuf-du-Pape
For our next adventure, we head to the picturesque Rhône Valley, a region known for its diverse wine offerings and stunning landscapes.
Key Stops:
Lyon: Start your journey in Lyon, a gastronomic paradise. Explore the Old Town (Vieux Lyon) and indulge in local cuisine before you hit the road.
Côtes du Rhône: Drive south to the Côtes du Rhône region, where you’ll find vineyards producing everything from Syrah to Viognier. Consider stopping in Tain-l’Hermitage for a wine tasting at Chapoutier or Jaboulet.
Avignon: Continue to the historic city of Avignon, known for its Papal Palace. Enjoy a stroll on the Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge and explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Wrap up your journey with a visit to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, famous for its rich red wines. Take a tour of the Château de Beaucastel and savor the local flavors.
Camper-Friendly Stays:
- Camping de Lyon: Conveniently located near Lyon, this campsite offers modern amenities.
- Camping Les Rives de l’Aygues: Nestled in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, this campsite provides a serene setting.
- Camping Bagatelle: Just outside Avignon, this campsite offers easy access to the city and the surrounding vineyards.
- Camping Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Stay close to the vineyards in this charming campsite.
3. Alsace Adventure: White Wines and Fairytale Villages
Route: Strasbourg – Colmar – Route des Vins – Mulhouse
Alsace, a region known for its crisp white wines and enchanting villages, awaits your exploration.
Key Stops:
Strasbourg: Begin your journey in Strasbourg, a city famed for its stunning cathedral and charming canals. Explore the historic district of La Petite France before departing.
Colmar: Drive south to Colmar, a fairytale town straight out of a storybook. Stroll through its well-preserved medieval streets and visit the Unterlinden Museum.
Route des Vins: Follow the scenic Route des Vins (Wine Route) through picturesque villages like Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, and Eguisheim. Stop at local wineries for tastings of Alsatian Rieslings, Gewürztraminers, and Pinot Gris.
Mulhouse: Conclude your journey in Mulhouse, known for its museums, including the Cité de l’Automobile. It’s also a great place to explore the culture of the region.
Camper-Friendly Stays:
- Camping Indigo Strasbourg: Located near Strasbourg, this campsite provides a tranquil atmosphere.
- Camping Les Trois Châteaux: Nestled in the heart of Alsace, this campsite offers easy access to the Route des Vins.
- Camping de l’Ill: Close to Mulhouse, this campsite is a convenient base for exploring the region.
4. Loire Valley Leisure: Castles and Cabernets
Route: Tours – Chinon – Saumur – Angers
The Loire Valley, often referred to as the “Garden of France,” is famous for its elegant châteaux and diverse wine offerings.
Key Stops:
Tours: Begin your journey in Tours, a city with a rich history. Explore the Old Town and the stunning Cathedral of Saint Gatien.
Chinon: Drive west to Chinon, known for its red wines made from Cabernet Franc grapes. Don’t miss the Château de Chinon, a historic fortress.
Saumur: Continue your journey to Saumur, famous for its sparkling wines. Explore the magnificent Château de Saumur and enjoy a tasting at Bouvet-Ladubay.
Angers: Conclude your trip in Angers, where you can visit the impressive Château d’Angers and its stunning Tapestry of the Apocalypse.
Camper-Friendly Stays:
- Camping de l’Arche: Located near Tours, this campsite offers a peaceful retreat by the Loire River.
- Camping de la Vienne: Set in the heart of Chinon, this campsite provides easy access to the town’s attractions.
- Camping Sites et Paysages Les Nobis d’Anjou: In Angers, this campsite offers a relaxing environment amidst nature.
5. Provence Panorama: Sunshine and Rosé
Route: Marseille – Aix-en-Provence – Luberon – Nice
Our final road trip takes us to the picturesque region of Provence, known for its sunny climate and delicious rosé wines.
Key Stops:
Marseille: Start your journey in Marseille, France’s oldest city. Explore the Old Port (Vieux-Port) and take a boat ride to the Calanques, limestone cliffs along the Mediterranean.
Aix-en-Provence: Drive northeast to Aix-en-Provence, a charming town known for its vibrant markets and cultural heritage. Visit Cézanne’s studio and enjoy local rosé wines.
Luberon: Follow the scenic route through the Luberon Regional Natural Park. Discover picturesque villages like Gordes and Roussillon, known for their colorful houses and stunning landscapes.
Nice: Conclude your journey in Nice, a beautiful city on the French Riviera. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and indulge in Mediterranean cuisine.
Camper-Friendly Stays:
- Camping Les Cigales: Located near Marseille, this campsite offers a relaxing atmosphere.
- Camping Sainte Victoire: Nestled in the hills near Aix-en-Provence, this campsite provides a tranquil escape.
- Camping Les Sources: In the Luberon region, this campsite offers a serene environment amidst nature.
- Camping Les Pecheurs: Close to Nice, this campsite provides easy access to the city and the stunning French Riviera.
French Wine Country
Embarking on a road trip through French wine country in a campervan is a dream come true for wine enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you choose to explore the Bordeaux vineyards, savor the flavors of Alsace, or soak in the sunshine of Provence, each journey promises unforgettable experiences and delectable wines. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and let the vineyards of France be your guide to an extraordinary wine-tasting adventure. Cheers to the perfect blend of travel and wine!