Can anyone help me win a debate with my wife? We're planning on visiting Ile de Re, by motorhome in July, it's busiest period. All the sites seem to only take week bookings during this period. I hate booking in advance and prefer to turn up on spec and be flexible with my dates. Has anyone tried to do this and can recommend any of the municipal type sites where you can just turn up, or shall I eat humble pie and not waste the bridge toll. We're taking our student type offspring (sorry) so want one of the busier areas.
Thanks
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Went to Ile de Re a couple of years ago in early August, right in the middle of the French holiday season, didn't book anything in advance (OH said no need, as we'd never pre-booked in the 15 years or so we'd been holidaying in France and had always got a pitch). Anyway, all of the commercial sites were full, but we went to a municipal at Ars (amused the kids no end, they sent all their mates postcards saying "we're camping in a bum") which was OK, but a bit scruffy, and still very crowded.
If you're in a motorhome, you may be able to overnight on one of the car parking areas, but I'd ring round a few campsites from La Rochelle or the Vendee coast before paying the toll to cross over the bridge, so you know you've got somewhere to stay at least the first couple of nights.
We went to the Il de Re last year in September. We were using Camping Cheques so we did not book in advance. If you don't mind not staying on a campsite there is an Aire at Les Portes en Re (right at the end of the Island) where lots of Motorcaravans were parked. There were various facilities there.
Unlike many places in France parking of motorhomes in carparks to overnight is actively discouraged on the Isl de rey in fact a total ban.Do not try and attempt it,you will be moved on.The ile de rey is one of the most popular holiday destinations for the French and altho there are lots of campsites they are all extremelly busy in July and August .
Last year stayed at the municipal at St Martin just a short walk from the town centre(about 2 minutes) It was still busy in October
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
Thanks for all your advice, I've admitted defeat, decided not to risk the toll and booked on a nice looking site at Jard, Les Ecureuils for a few nights to start with, seems to fit the bill and should look over to Ile de re.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Ile de re
