Vanlife: the 3 most sought-after French destinations for a summer road trip

Carhaix will host the fourth motorhome and camper van festival from September 4 to 7, 2026, at the Kerampuilh site. Around 130 vehicles, both new and used, from about twelve brands will be on display. Visitors will have the opportunity to compare models and gather information.

At least 300 caravans and trailers have set up on private agricultural land in the commune of Norroy-le-Veneur (Moselle). According to the prefecture, this is an evangelical gathering of the association "Vie et Lumière". The mayor, Nathalie Rousseau, expressed concern, noting that the gathering is expected to last three weeks, which poses problems for the village of 2,000 residents who rely on the land for hay for horses. Currently, only the landowners can file a complaint to initiate legal proceedings.

Stellantis is recalling more than 13,000 Expert and Traveller vehicles in France due to a software defect in the AdBlue system. The recall covers K0 models built between 17 May 2022 and 29 January 2024, including Citroën Spacetourer/Jumpy, Peugeot Traveller/Expert, Opel Vivaro/Zafira, Fiat Scudo and Toyota Proace. The issue is that a diagnostic function related to the emission control system may not meet regulatory requirements. The fix is a free software update taking about 30 minutes. Owners of camper vans based on these vans should check their vehicle's status using the VIN. A second recall addresses a fire risk in the engine bay, affecting vehicles built between 6 June 2025 and 22 January 2026.

Coastal municipalities in Brittany, including Quiberon and Lamballe-Armor, are imposing restrictions on overnight motorhome parking due to record tourist numbers. The measures aim to combat wild camping and ease traffic. Associations like the Comité de Liaison du Camping-car are challenging some bans in court, citing freedom of movement. Tourists can use paid service areas with water and electricity, and face fines for violations, such as €120 for an unpaid toll.

Challenger has introduced the Sport Edition S114 camper van based on the Citroën Jumper, priced at €51,490. The vehicle measures 5.99 m in length and 2.05 m in width. It features a transverse double bed, a new Vario bathroom with a sliding wall, a multifunctional table, a compressor fridge, and diesel heating. The model is positioned as an affordable option in the camper segment, with a similar version available from Chausson under the Sportline name.

The motorhome service area in Vire Normandie (Calvados) has received negative online reviews due to overflowing bins and no electricity hookups. Travelers stopping there note that the town has installed a waste disposal point and water access, but no power connection. The municipality estimates that between 6 and 12 motorhomes pass through daily, with each visitor spending around 39 euros per day, contributing significantly to the local economy.