1. Kayaking in the Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as Europe's 'Grand Canyon', is a must for kayaking enthusiasts. With its emerald waters and vertiginous cliffs, this is a veritable playground for kayakers. Kayaking down the Verdon is a way of immersing yourself in a breathtaking landscape, while enjoying an exceptional natural environment. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are routes to suit all levels.
Les Gorges de Provence campsite Montagnac-Montpezat) : This 4-star campsite is ideally situated on a plateau overlooking the Verdon valley, just a few minutes from Lake Sainte-Croix. It offers direct access to the paths leading to the Gorges, perfect for kayaking and nature lovers. You can hire boats or take part in guided excursions in the gorges. The campsite also offers a swimming pool, restaurant, family entertainment and a peaceful natural setting surrounded by pine trees. A perfect base for a holiday combining adventure and comfort.
2. Paddle on Lake Annecy
Lake Annecy, with its crystal-clear waters and mountain backdrop, is a popular spot for paddleboarders. The calm waters and spectacular scenery provide the perfect setting for this activity, whether you're looking for tranquillity or adventure. You can sail around Ile des Cygnes or explore the lake's small creeks. For the more experienced, the route around Ile de l'Aumône is a real challenge.
Camping La Nublière (Doussard): Situated right on the shores of Lake Annecy, this 4-star campsite is a little corner of paradise for water sports enthusiasts. With immediate access to the beach and a partner water sports centre, you can easily hire a paddle or take part in lessons. As well as paddling, you can go sailing, canoeing or simply enjoy a refreshing swim. The campsite also offers a wide range of services: restaurant, entertainment, kids' club, and an incredible view of the mountains of the Bauges massif. The ideal place for an active and relaxing holiday.
3. Sailing in Brittany
With its jagged coastline, steady winds and breathtaking seascapes, Brittany is a hotbed of sailing. Whether you're into catamarans, dinghies or windsurfing, there's no shortage of places to learn or improve your skills. The Bay of Saint-Brieuc, the Gulf of Morbihan and the Pink Granite Coast are among the most popular destinations. This is a region where the sea is part of the local culture, and where every outing is an iodised adventure.
Val de Landrouet campsite (Merdrignac, Côtes-d'Armor): Situated inland but only an hour from the coast, this 3-star campsite is an excellent base for exploring Brittany while enjoying a green and peaceful setting. It offers a wide range of sporting activities, including... sailing! Thanks to its lake and partnerships, you can go sailing on site or organise supervised outings. What's more, the campsite offers over 20 free activities in summer (archery, canoeing, paddle, etc.), entertainment for all ages and a warm welcome. Perfect for combining nature, sport and discovering the region.
4. Kite-surfing in Leucate
France's kitesurfing capital, Leucate attracts enthusiasts from all over the world every year, thanks to its steady winds, shallow lagoons and varied spots between sea and lake. It's also here that the famous Mondial du Vent takes place, a not-to-be-missed event in the world of board sports. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, Leucate offers an exceptional setting for surfing in complete safety.
Camping Le Fun (Fitou, near Leucate): Perfectly situated on the edge of the Etang de Leucate, this 4-star campsite is designed for surfing enthusiasts. It offers direct access to the Goulet spot, renowned for kitesurfing and windsurfing. You'll find all the facilities you need, including a rinsing area, equipment storage and large spaces for vans and trailers. Many kitesurfers stay here every year, particularly during the Mondial du Vent. What's more, there's a friendly atmosphere here, where enthusiasts and nature lovers come together. An ideal address for a sporting break with your feet in the water.
5. Scuba diving in Corsica
Corsica, nicknamed the Isle of Beauty, is also a veritable paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Its crystal-clear waters and marine biodiversity make it a dream destination for exploring caves, drop-offs and wrecks. Nature reserves such as Scandola and Cerbicale offer exceptional backdrops for unforgettable dives, accessible to all levels.
Camping Arinella Bianca (Ghisonaccia): This 5-star campsite on the east coast of the island, by the sea, offers the ideal setting for a holiday combining relaxation and discovery of the seabed. It works with the Favone Plongée club, which offers supervised outings from May to October for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers. As well as diving, the campsite offers a large swimming pool, a spa, entertainment and comfortable accommodation, all set in unspoilt natural surroundings between the sea and the mountains.
6. Canyoning in the Alps
The Alps offer a multitude of canyons with spectacular scenery, ideal for canyoning. Whether in the Vercors, Chartreuse or Belledonne massifs, canyoning descents reveal deep gorges, impressive waterfalls and crystal-clear natural pools. This activity combines water trekking, jumps, natural slides and abseiling, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Alpine nature.
Camping Idéal Camping (Allevard, Isère): Located at the foot of the Belledonne massif, this 3-star campsite is ideal for canyoning enthusiasts. In partnership with local service providers such as Isère Canyoning, you can explore canyons suitable for all levels. The campsite offers a variety of accommodation and many outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking and swimming at Lac de la Mirande, just 1 km away. An excellent base from which to explore the Alpine countryside.
7. Canoeing on the Dordogne
The Dordogne is an iconic river in France, and canoeing is one of the best ways to discover its magnificent landscapes. Canoeing down the river allows you to navigate between cliffs, prehistoric caves and medieval castles. It's an ideal activity for families or groups of friends looking for a tranquil experience in close proximity to nature.
Camping Le Port de Limeuil (Limeuil): This 3-star campsite is located at the mouth of the Vézère river, close to the Dordogne. It offers canoe hire and organises river trips, allowing holidaymakers to discover the Dordogne valley from a different angle . The campsite also offers a variety of accommodation, a swimming pool, a restaurant and entertainment for all the family.
8. Windsurfing in Hyères
Hyères, on the Mediterranean coast, is an ideal spot for windsurfing. Thanks to its constant winds and shallow waters, it's the perfect place to learn or perfect your skills. The conditions are particularly suitable for beginners, but more experienced surfers can also have fun on the waves.
Le Méditerranée campsite (Hyères): Ideally located just 150 metres from La Badine beach, this 3-star campsite is perfect for windsurfing enthusiasts. Thanks to its proximity to the Badine nautical base, you'll have access to equipment hire and lessons, whether you're a beginner or an experienced windsurfer. The campsite also offers comfortable accommodation, a grocery shop, a restaurant-pizzeria and a children's play area. It's the perfect base from which to enjoy water sports in beautiful surroundings.
9. Sea fishing in La Rochelle
La Rochelle, with its historic port and rich maritime waters, is an ideal place for sea fishing. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner, you can take advantage of sea trips to catch fish, while exploring the islands of the Ré and Oléron archipelagos.
Les Sables campsite (Aytré): Situated just 6 km from La Rochelle, this 4-star campsite is ideally placed for sea-fishing enthusiasts. It offers comfortable mobile homes and a renowned pool complex. Its proximity to the fishing port of La Rochelle makes it easy to organise fishing trips out to sea. The campsite also offers services such as a grocery shop, restaurant and entertainment for all the family.
10. Jet-skiing in Saint-Tropez
Saint-Tropez is a dream destination for jet-ski enthusiasts. Sailing around the beaches of Pampelonne and discovering the Mediterranean coastline at full speed is an exciting and unforgettable experience. Saint-Tropez is also a great place to relax, with its lively beaches and breathtaking views.
Camping des Mûres (Port-Grimaud): Ideally located just a few steps from the beach at Port-Grimaud, this 4-star campsite is a real paradise for jet-ski enthusiasts. Thanks to its proximity to the local nautical base, you can easily hire jet-skis and explore the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, the water sports centre offers equipment to suit all levels. The campsite offers modern, comfortable accommodation and a wide range of facilities, including a water park, restaurant and entertainment for all the family. It's the ideal place to combine relaxation and thrills at sea.
Whether you're a water sports enthusiast or just looking to relax by the water, these campsites in France offer the perfect setting for combining adventure, comfort and nature. So pack your bags, hit the beach and let the waves wash over you!