Question 1

Are there notaire (solicitor) fees?

Accepted Answer

No notaire fees apply when buying a mobile home on a campsite. This is one of the key financial advantages over buying a house or apartment in France.

Question 2

What ongoing costs should I expect?

Accepted Answer

Annual pitch fees cover use of the site facilities and maintenance of communal areas. Water and electricity are metered and billed separately. Insurance for your mobile home is also required.

Question 3

Do I need to speak French?

Accepted Answer

It helps, but it is not essential — especially at first. The campsite team speak English, and the local expat community is very welcoming to new arrivals. Many owners find their French improves naturally over time.

Question 4

What is the weather like in Vendée?

Accepted Answer

Vendée is one of the sunniest regions in France, with over 2,400 hours of sunshine per year. Summers are warm and long (typically 25-30°C), springs and autumns are mild, and winters are relatively gentle by northern European standards.

Question 5

How do I get to the campsite from the UK?

Accepted Answer

The most popular routes are: ferry from Poole or Portsmouth to Saint-Malo or Caen, then a 4-5 hour drive south; or fly to Nantes (Nantes Atlantique Airport) and rent a car. The campsite is approximately 55 minutes from Nantes airport.

Question 6

When is the campsite open?

Accepted Answer

The campsite is open to guests all year long. Mobile home owners may access the site at any time.

Question 7

Are prices shown on the listings?

Accepted Answer

We do not display prices on our website. Please contact us directly for pricing on any specific mobile home — we prefer to discuss your needs and budget personally to ensure the right match.

Question 8

How does the buying process work?

Accepted Answer

Once you've seen a mobile home you like, contact us to arrange a viewing — either in person or via video call. If you wish to proceed, we guide you through the purchase agreement, transfer of ownership, and pitch rental agreement with the campsite.

Question 9

Do I need a French mortgage?

Accepted Answer

No. Mobile homes are not classified as real property in France, so no mortgage is needed. Most buyers purchase outright, which keeps things simple and fast.

Question 10

Can non-EU nationals buy a mobile home in France?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are no restrictions on non-EU nationals purchasing a mobile home on a French campsite. British and other non-EU buyers are all welcome.

Question 11

Can I rent out my mobile home when I am not using it?

Accepted Answer

No.  However family and friends can be invited to stay.

Question 12

Is there WiFi on site?

Accepted Answer

Yes, WiFi is available across the campsite. Coverage quality varies by location on the site — some owners supplement with a personal mobile data solution.

Question 13

What is Caravans in France?

Accepted Answer

Caravans in France is a specialist service helping buyers find and purchase pre-owned mobile homes on licensed campsites in the Vendée region of western France. We are based near Maché, Vendée.

Question 14

Where is the campsite located?

Accepted Answer

Our campsite is located near Maché, Vendée, in western France. It sits near a beautiful lake, approximately 30 minutes from the coast and 55 minutes from Nantes airport.

Question 15

Do you list mobile homes from other sites?

Accepted Answer

Currently our listings are exclusively from our campsite near Maché, Vendée. We know this campsite inside-out and can vouch for its quality, management, and community.

Question 16

What facilities does the campsite have?

Accepted Answer

The campsite has a heated swimming pool, a bar/restaurant, children's play areas, sports facilities, and a friendly on-site team throughout the season.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Buying Process

Campsite & Facilities

Living in France