Here are a few ideas for holidays and discovery itineraries starting from villages with service areas. All you need to do is plan your own personalised itinerary by incorporating our charming stops and following our advice!

The best times of year for motorhome holidays in Les Plus Beaux Villages de France

Whilst July and August often see motorhome sites – and Les Plus Beaux Villages de France! – very busy, spring and autumn are excellent alternatives for making the most of your getaway. The weather is still fine, allowing you to enjoy all the activities on offer: hiking, cycling, cultural activities…

A handy tip: if you have no choice but to travel in July or August, plan your parking in advance by looking out for car parks a little further away so you can cycle into the villages!

Les Plus Beaux Villages de France aren’t always very accessible for large vehicles!

Generally speaking, the Plus Beaux Villages de France are accessible to all vehicles, but in some cases, you’ll need to be careful:

  • Some roads may be closed to traffic during the peak tourist season (to prevent accidents involving pedestrians),
  • In some villages (particularly hilltop villages), the narrow, winding streets may not be suitable for wide vehicles,
  • Some passages may sometimes be low or narrow under certain historic gateways…

So be sure to check before driving into one of the ‘Plus Beaux Villages de France’. As a general rule, follow the signs indicating recommended car parks well in advance. If possible, stop at a parking area or service area designated for motorhomes, and cycle (or walk) to the village.

Why it is better to park on the outskirts of the village

In order to welcome large numbers of visitors in the best possible conditions, local authorities strictly limit access and parking within villages, particularly during the peak tourist season.

These restrictions ensure that visitors can explore the village at a leisurely pace, allowing them to fully appreciate the beauty of the surroundings and the pleasure of a stroll, without too many vehicles cluttering up the narrow streets, the church forecourt, the area around the castle or the village square.

It also ensures that local residents and people living in the municipality can access their homes and local shops without too much disruption.

... and set off to discover some lovely motorhome sites