The Lapalisse Traffic Jam

On June 8, 2026, a washing station for trucks and motorhomes, as well as regular cars, opened in Vitré (Ille-et-Vilaine). The machine is 2.82 m high, 2.58 m wide, with 11 m rails. Prices range from €6 to €24 depending on the program.

In Izernore (Ain department), over 150 caravans of an evangelical community have occupied the municipal stadium and its surroundings since June 14. A prefectural decree dated June 17 orders the group to leave. This is part of a series of illegal occupations of sports facilities in the region.

Thierry Chalupt, 53, has launched a mobile motorhome repair workshop in Dordogne after losing 70% of his revenue when Horizon Dordogne closed, with its owner owing him €100,000. He relies on his seven years of experience in the industry.

In La Laigne, Charente-Maritime, three years after the June 16, 2023 earthquake, most victims have returned home, but four families remain in mobile homes. Corinne Gousseau, a retiree, lives in a caravan at the foot of her house as repairs have not started due to a dispute with the insurer over cost estimates. Mayor Philippe Pelletier says the village still lacks shops and is seeking solutions to revive commerce.

From October 5 to 11, 2026, the Pays de Lapalisse in Allier will host the 11th edition of the Embouteillage de Lapalisse festival, marking its 20th anniversary. The event features 1,000 vintage vehicles, a reenactment of the historic traffic jam on Route N7, a retro campsite, and a temporary campsite. The festival recreates the 1950s-60s holiday atmosphere with concerts, fashion shows, and film screenings.

Onlycamp, a network of nature campsites, is offering free stays from July 3 to 5 for campers whose home is within 100 km of the campsite. The offer applies to tents, campervans, caravans, and motorhomes. Guests must present proof of residence and can use promo code FREEVACANCES when booking.