France's Camping Capital Is A Little-Known Town On The Breathtaking Mediterranean Coast

France is one of the most exciting countries in Europe to explore, and its Mediterranean coast is world-famous as a seaside destination. From the nature lover's paradise of Calanques National Park to the sun-drenched opulence of Nice, Cannes, and Antibes, France's Mediterranean coast is one of the most sought-after beach destinations in Europe, if not the world. While the spotlight often falls on Provence and the French Riviera, the shoreline of Languedoc-Roussillon is an underrated gem. Situated past Montpellier around the lazy curve of the coast as it heads down towards Spain, Argèles-sur-Mer is a little-known treasure, one of the best beaches in the region, and the undisputed capital of French camping culture. 

Sandwiched between the Mediterranean and the Pyrenees, Argèles-sur-Mer is a charming little slice of outdoor recreation heaven. Its combination of stunning golden beaches, dramatic mountain landscapes, picturesque Catalan architecture, and a majestic seventh-century castle looming over the small village offers a feast of things to see and do, and it is filled with excellent campsites. In fact, it boasts the largest capacity for camping anywhere in Europe! 

Getting to Argèles-sur-Mer is a breeze. It is just north of the Spanish border, around 13 miles from the center of the city of Perpignan, a journey that takes just 20 minutes by car or by regional train. Perpignan International Airport is just half an hour away, served by routes from across Europe, North Africa, and New York, while Spain's Girona-Costa Brava Airport offers another option just over an hour away, with a scenic drive through the Pyrenees as a bonus!

With over 50 campsites to choose from, it is easy to see why Argèles-sur-Mer is one of the best places to camp in France. From caravans with a mountain view to family-friendly pitches with on-site restaurants and splash pools, there's something for every type of camper. For families or anyone looking for a dash of luxury in their outdoor accommodation, La Chapelle is more of a camping resort than a traditional tents-and-cold-showers site. With a half-acre water park, an on-site snack bar, and a variety of holiday cottages, it is perfect for campers who like things on the deluxe side. For travelers with motorhomes, there are several dedicated night stops down the coast to Collouire and Port Vendres, which let you stay right on the beach. 

Visitors can get their culture fix in the village, with its eccentric tangle of French and Catalan traditions and architecture, its rich history front and center in the form of the blocky, imposing castle that instantly transports you back to the Dark Ages. More adventurous travelers might head out to hike through the beech forest of La Massane, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore other routes through the mountainous landscapes, past ancient dolmens, medieval fortifications, and gorgeous panoramic sea views. 

But the main attraction that draws campers to Argèles-sur-Mer is its glorious beach, with 4 miles of golden, sugar-soft sand separated from the town by a stretch of green space and trees, but with plenty of bars, restaurants, and convenience stores within easy reach. Rent loungers or spread out your towels and enjoy the warm waters of the Mediterranean for an idyllic afternoon. And if you visit this part of Southern France in May, you'll get perfect weather without the crowds.

While the traditional image of camping is of roughing it a little and the undeniable delights of campfire BBQs and s'mores, in the south of France, there's more to it than that. Sure, there's plenty of classic outdoor adventure to be had, but blended with the elegance and sophistication that is intrinsic to French culture. Where else can you stroll five minutes from your campsite to pick up fresh baguettes and croissants, or refill your water bottle with local red wine for just $3.50 for a quart and a half?

Exploring the surrounding countryside isn't all mountain biking and hiking trail scrambles either. The Languedoc-Roussillon is one of the largest wine regions in the world, and while Argèles-sur-Mer isn't particularly famous for its wine tourism, it is a stone's throw away from some of the largest and most celebrated vineyards of the Roussillon plains. Head to Chateau Valmy for Côtes du Roussillon, Muscat de Rivesaltes, and Rivesaltes, surrounded by the exquisite Art Nouveau elegance of the castle itself, built in the late 19th century, or to Domaine St. Thomas, a wonderful producer located on the edge of the Sunêlia Les Pins campsite!

French food is always an adventure for the tastebuds, and it is worth exploring the gastronomy of the region, a wonderful blend of Provençal and Catalan flavors. From the fabulous local markets to the casual eateries in town, the joys of cargolada(grilled snails with herbs), ollada(a pork stew), and boles de picolat (spicy meatballs) are not to be missed.