Van Life
Freedom, simplicity and the occasional breakdown…
We started our van adventures in our T5 and loved the freedom it gave us to go and explore and the great thing with a small van like a T5 is it’s easy to park and manoeuvre. When Neo arrived we decided we needed something a little more spacious. We purchased our Mercedes Vario (Bam Bam) in March 2020. Although the van was already fully fitted out and functional, it was in need of some TLC. Due to numerous lockdown’s and being busy with work, It took us until the end of December 2022 to do some of the upgrades. Jamie, replaced the flooring, insulated the entire van, clad the walls and ceiling and fitted a new bathroom with compostable toilet and a shower. It is still very much a work in progress, but we did enough to make it comfortable for our first longer trip away. In January 2023 we ventured over to France and Spain, full of optimism and looking forwards to some winter sun we were welcomed with a pretty chilly and wet winter. Nevertheless, we had an amazing time. We have shared a few of our favourite spots below.
What’s next?
A few upgrades to Bam Bam before we head away for a few short trips close to home and hopefully another trip over to Europe next year if time allows.
Aire camping car Biscarrosse, France
Only 10 euros per night when we stayed in January with toilets, water and waste disposal. Set amongst the pine trees and right next to vast white sandy beaches that were all dog friendly.
Devesa del Saler, Albufera, Spain
Found this spot by accident, huge car park in a nature reserve, right next to the beach. Free to park overnight, no dogs allowed on the beach unfortunately. No facilities open when we were there in January.
Saint-Palais-sur-Mer
One of our favourite spots on our travels. Located in the south west of France. Beautiful dog friendly beaches and a vibrant little town. A must do if you like oysters, this place is famous for them. Would recommend eating at Chez Bob, right on the beach. We stayed at the Camping Car on Rue des Roseaux, which in January was 14 euros per night, including electric, wifi and waste disposal but no toilets or showers. It’s a pleasant 1km walk to the beaches and town.
Lac du Moulinet, Lozère, France
Stunning location and was free to park. Right next to the lake and lovely walks through the forest. No facilities open when we were there in January.