Le Camp
Europe France Midi-pyrénées Tarn-et-Garonne
If there’s a better feeling than that of gliding smoothly through a crystal-clear natural swimming pool while eye-to-eye with frogs perched nonchalantly on rocks, then we’ve yet to experience it. The chirp of crickets, the buzz of dragonflies, birdsong, and, of course, the croaking chorus of those ubiquitous frogs provide the soundtrack to a wonderfully wild swim which proves the perfect introduction to Le Camp, a secluded southwest campsite set in leafy surroundings and combining five-star facilities with a truly relaxed atmosphere.
The site is owned and run by Claire and Nigel, a British couple who took over the running of Le Camp in 2017. Nigel previously ran a luxury tented safari camp in Kenya, where he also worked as a professional wildlife guide, and the spirit of the classic African safari, “luxury in the wild” as he aptly describes it, is clearly key to their ethos. It's all subtly reflected in the furnishings and chilled out atmosphere at this soporific French escape.
Don’t worry, though, the essential spirit of camping still remains. The central cooking area lets different visitors meet and chat while they prepare dinner, but there’s none of that cringeworthy group action. Sure, there’s a little court set up for an impromptu game of pétanque and a badminton net hangs between two trees, but there are no chalked-up league tables or happy-camper types urging you to join in the fun. The vibe is as natural as the surroundings and guests can socialise as much or as little as they desire.
Perhaps most impressive is just how different it could have been. Sitting in the stunning Aveyron Valley in the Midi-Pyrénées region, this formerly run-down campsite used to have some 38 camping pitches but for the past 10 years the previous owners have allowed the the surroundings to flourish, shrinking it down to just a handful of safari tents and woodland yurts. The eco-credentials, too, are impressive. ‘Grey’ water is recycled, solar lighting is used and the pool is cleaned naturally by gravel and plants. Local, organic products are used as much as possible, and most of the furniture has been hand-made.
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Campsite Gallery
The campsite owner says
Le Camp offers luxury camping, or glamping if you prefer! It is a unique holiday experience. Here you will discover the thrill and adventure of sleeping under canvas without the discomfort of traditional camping. We offer the luxury of a hotel and the self-sufficiency of a private villa. Set deep in the countryside of South West France, a little off the beaten track, at Le Camp you will find peace and tranquility amongst the trees. Encounter nature in style in your own private hideaway.
Le Camp
Le Camp, 82330 Varen, Tarn-et-Garonne, France
Camping Pitches & Accommodation
7 safari tents.
Campsite Facilities
Seven tents, all with wide beds, solar lighting and, in all but the 2 woodland tents, dry composting toilets. Shower block with 3 shower rooms. Full range of kitchen appliances, crockery, utensils and condiments. Covered outdoor seating area with open fire place, a book exchange, magazines, games, power sockets, Wi-Fi. Free laundry. BBQ and salad/herb garden to help yourself to. The natural swimming pond is fully fenced with a safety gate. Pets are not permitted, but the site itself has two friendly dogs and cats, plus two handsome goats to feed (not to mention all the wildlife on site!)
Things to do
The Midi-Pyrénées region is home to over a dozen villages (officially listed as ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’). This is more than almost any other region in the country. There are over 1,000 climbing routes around the Gorges de l’Aveyron and the landscape is criss-crossed by way-marked walks. Head to the nearby St-Antonin-Noble-Val to enjoy a spot of kayaking, hiring your boat for the day from Location Canoe/Les Pieds dans l’Eau (0033 563 68 24 80). Alternatively, buy a fishing licence from a local newsagent and do some angling for trout from one of the area’s many bridges. Further afield, the Forêt de la Grésigne offers the chance to experience the largest oak forest in Europe. If it rains, take a short drive to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Albi and check out its Toulouse-Lautrec museum (0033 563 49 48 70).
Eat & Drink
In the nearby medieval town of St Antonin Noble Val, characterful La Corniche (0033 563 68 26 95) is exellent and the views are knock-out. Or seek out the riverside Manjocarn Café (0033 563 68 25 85), hang out of choice for all the local climbers and so laid back its unbelievable, with great locally sourced and produced food.
Opening Dates
1st May – 30th September.
Prices
Safari tents from £150 per night (optional continental buffet breakfast during Easter, May half term and Summer holidays).
Travel Directions
Le Camp is situated in South West France, an hour and a half's drive from the airports of Toulouse and Rodez or a 9–10 hour drive from Calais. Follow directions, which are sent when you book.
Campsite Facilities
- Laundry
- No pets allowed
- Campfires permitted
- Groups welcome
- Good for kids
- Wifi
- Exclusive Hire
- Swimming pool
- Showers
Good for...
- Woodland camping
- Nice Views from Site
- Waterside Campsite
- Remote location
- Romantic retreat
- Forests nearby
- Mountains nearby
- Fishing nearby
- Good walks nearby
- Bicycle routes nearby
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