Chaponnay mayor files complaint after about 100 caravans set up on municipal park

Approximately 150 caravans illegally occupied the Lavières site in Brottes on May 25. Members of local associations report litter, a damaged fence, and excrement. The president of the aeromodelling club fears for the condition of the recently renovated runway. Departure is scheduled for June 1; otherwise, the mayor will take necessary measures.

On May 31, about 80 caravans occupied football fields in Saint-Andiol, while over 250 caravans took over private land in Entrelacs. Mayors expressed dissatisfaction, police are monitoring.

German brand Rhön Camper, known for off-road motorhomes, will start sales in France in October through distributor Rolling Home (Ancenis, near Nantes). The company showcased the New Ultimate model on a seventh-generation Volkswagen Transporter with an innovative pop-up roof at the Stuttgart show. The lineup also includes eight models on Mercedes Sprinter (6 and 7 meters long) and Renegade and Rebel camper bodies. Prices in Germany start at €74,990 for the New Ultimate, €99,990 for vans, and €202,990 for bodies.

The May 31, 2026 episode of Capital on M6 explores two trends: compact camper vans, including a new Renault model, and low-cost accommodation options competing with Center Parcs.

In the Meuse department, known for its camper-friendly infrastructure, a new motorhome stopover has opened in Dieue-sur-Meuse. The site offers 10 pitches directly on the Meuse River, with waste disposal and fresh water services, but no electricity. Parking and services cost €5 plus a €0.66 tourist tax.

Developer Bastien Bertorello from Salon-de-Provence launched Road Trip Planner, an online tool that creates motorhome routes based on a set daily driving time (1 to 10 hours). The service automatically splits the trip into realistic stages, finds campsites, paid service areas, and points of interest near arrival points. The tool does not replace GPS and does not provide real-time navigation. Free trial (2 attempts) is available, with a premium subscription at €4.99 per month or one-off packages from €2.99 per trip.