Review: France 4 Naturism Campgrounds Just Hit Different
From morning bakery runs for still-warm baguettes to spa days without a stitch of clothing, this is not the kind of “camping” we grew up with. And now? There’s no going back to the subpar bathrooms and questionable beaches we’ve seen at plenty of North American campgrounds. This summer, as part of our tour of Europe, we visited the last two out of six incredible France4Naturism resorts. Here’s how they all stacked up. Domaine de Bélézy - Most Family Friendly Easily the most family-friendly of them all: Domaine de Bélézy. This campground has something for everyone, but if you’re travelling with kids, it really stands out. We spent a lot of our time at the kids’ pool, and this is definitely not your average campground pool. There are water features, slides and a huge play area that kept our little one entertained for hours. You’ll probably be peeling your child away from here at the end of the day. There’s plenty beyond the pool too. The resort has lots of open space, sports facilities, organised activities and even a small petting zoo, so there’s always something to do without having to leave the property. It makes it especially easy for families because you don’t have to plan every minute of the day. Even though Bélézy is quite large, it still manages to feel surprisingly intimate. There are regular activities that bring people together without making you feel like you have to participate. While we were there, they held a communal evening BBQ where everyone could cook their food together. We ended up chatting with other guests while our little one ran around and played with the other kids. It was one of those really easy, relaxed evenings that made the place feel like a proper community. The restaurant on site is also genuinely good, with fresh local food, pizza, pasta, salads and other easy options for families. And if you do want to leave the resort, the surrounding area is a huge part of the appeal. Bélézy is close to some beautiful Provençal villages, including Bédoin, where you can wander the local markets, grab something to eat and explore with the kids. We loved being able to spend half the day at the resort and then throw some clothes on and head into a nearby village for a completely different experience. That combination is what made Bélézy work so well for us as a family. There’s enough happening on site that the kids are never bored, but you also have markets, villages and plenty to explore right outside the resort. Domaine de la Sablière - Most Naturally Naturist When I think of a naturist campground that really feels connected to nature, Domaine de la Sablière is the one that immediately comes to mind. The setting is a huge part of what makes it special. The campground is built into the Cèze gorge, so the terrain is steep in places and getting around can mean some fairly serious uphill walks. But that same landscape is also what gives the resort its character — beautiful views, lots of privacy and a feeling that you’re really tucked away in nature. You have the choice of spending your day around the pools or heading down to the river, which was easily our favourite part of the stay. The Cèze River runs through the campground at the bottom of the gorge and is calm, warm and incredibly picturesque. Huge rock faces rise up around the water, while the pebbly beach gives you plenty of space to sit, swim, float or set up for a picnic. There was something about being able to walk down from our accommodation, swim naked in a river surrounded by cliffs and then spend the afternoon relaxing beside the water that felt like naturism in its simplest form. That’s probably why Domaine de la Sablière stood out to us so much. It didn’t feel like naturism had been added onto the experience — it felt completely connected to the landscape and the way you naturally spend your day there. We loved our stay here and came away feeling like this was one of the places where we’d felt most genuinely close to nature. Euronat – the Big One Euronat – probably the most famous of the France4Naturism resorts. Tucked into the Médoc peninsula in southwest France, near Bordeaux, it’s basically a naturist village disguised as a campground. Our visit coincided with a stretch of rainy weather, but it still didn’t dampen the magic. We stayed in one of the Estuaire rentals – two cozy bedrooms, a sunny living room, a fully stocked kitchen, and a spotless bathroom. The outdoor deck became our go-to spot for morning coffee and end-of-day wine. Euronat is huge. On arrival, you’ll get a map and probably need it, at least until you rent a bike and start exploring. The beating heart is the central square, where you’ll find… well, everything: bakery, grocery stores, five restaurants, a fishmonger, hair salon, bookstore, souvenir shops. You could spend your whole holiday here and never set foot outside the gates. Dinner at La Boîte À Sardines was a standout — the tasting menu was fresh, inventive, and an incredible value. The Thalasso & Spa Center was another highlight: heated seawater pool, cold plunge, saunas, steam rooms, Turkish baths. We booked massages, floated in the mineral-rich pool, and emerged feeling like butter. The beach is a short stroll away, and even on a windy, grey day, it’s breathtaking. Our only regret? Not getting to swim. Arna – Forest Hideaway Next stop: Arnaoutchot (or just “Arna”), tucked deep in the Landes forest. For miles, it’s just pines, sand tracks, and birdsong – and then suddenly, this bustling naturist haven appears. We stayed in a modern mobile home with two bedrooms, a bright living area, and a shaded deck perfect for slow mornings. Shops, the pool complex, and the beach path were all within walking distance. The central hub has all the essentials – grocery store (yes, you can shop naked), bakery, restaurant, and a hair salon. The pool complex is pure joy: main pool, splash zone for kids, and a slide area that kept little ones squealing for hours. The beach walk winds through forest and over dunes, opening up to a wild Atlantic horizon. The waves can be fierce, but the drama of the coastline is worth it. In June, Arna felt calm and family-friendly; July and August bring a livelier vibe with more events and kids’ programs. If you can bear getting dressed, the nearby village of Léon is charming. Think shady squares, stone buildings, cafés, and markets. Le Sérignan Plage Nature – Mediterranean Ease Our final mainland stop, Le Sérignan Plage Nature, blends all the best parts of a naturist holiday: Mediterranean warmth, soft sand, and plenty to do. We stayed in a mobile home with a deck overlooking the pool – two bedrooms, modern kitchen, and five minutes from the beach. Rentals (except cottages) include bikes, which make exploring really easy. Instead of a central square, amenities are sprinkled throughout, giving it a relaxed, village feel. The naturist beach is pristine, with warm water and golden sand. There’s a textile section too, but it’s fenced off for privacy. The pool area is a highlight is big, clean, and with a balneo thermal bath area free for over-16s during naturist hours (9 a.m.–1 p.m.). The on-site restaurants serve fresh, local dishes; the seafood and pizza were especially good. We visited in June and found it calm and friendly. In peak summer, expect more energy, entertainment, and kids’ programs. Domaine Naturiste de Riva Bella – Island Escape On the eastern coast of Corsica, Riva Bella offers a wilder, more natural setting without sacrificing comfort. We stayed in a Paradisu Villa just steps from the beach. It is modern, beautifully furnished, and stocked with thoughtful extras (including a high chair and baby bed). The beach here is unforgettable: soft sand, crystal-clear water, and a clothing-optional vibe embraced by nearly everyone. Rental guests get assigned loungers and parasols for a small deposit, which takes the stress out of finding a spot of morning. While we didn’t camp, we were impressed by how spotless and well-kept the pitches and facilities were. The on-site restaurant serves local dishes and themed dinners, and there’s a small grocery store for essentials (just note the afternoon closure). The Thalasso & Spa is a must – with hammam, hydro-massage baths, sauna, and even a free beachfront sauna for all guests. And yes, there are llamas roaming the property, along with donkeys and pigs. It’s a quirky, charming touch that makes Riva Bella stand out. Bottom line: if you want a naturist getaway with gorgeous beaches, top-tier amenities, and zero tan lines, you can’t go wrong with any France4Naturism resort. Pack light, bring an appetite, and be ready to question everything you thought you knew about “camping.” A full video review of each campground is below (with the latest from last summer being added soon) Disclaimer: Nude beach Map was hosted by France 4 Naturism. But all thoughts and opinions are our own.