France here we come!

Today we set off on our two-month winter motorhoming trip to France and Spain, excited at the prospect of learning new languages and visiting interesting cultural locations. This trip is a month later than planned after ferries to Spain were cancelled due to stormy weather conditions in January. We took the ferry from Dover to Calais and our first stop-over was a caravan site not far from the port. Approximately 20 miles outside of Calais in the countryside is Camping Bal, a small but convenient location when arriving and leaving by ferry. At this time of year, the place was deserted and the hotel, also on site, was closed. During peak season, the hotel's restaurant would provide a meal to begin or end your journey in France. A fellow British motorhomer arrived not long after us and also seemed to be using the pitch as a convenient pit stop. 

 

The site offers narrow pitches for about 10 - 12 caravans or motorhomes. Water is easily available but during the winter months the taps are not accessible due to the threat of ice. We therefore had to fill up at a tap near the hotel. There is one toilet / shower room which is clean and spacious although you need to take your own toilet paper, which I think is common over in France.

 

Staying for one night meant that we weren't able to really explore the area but we did want to get a feel for being in France so did a short walk from the site to soak up the surrounding countryside. Camping Bal was a safe and convenient place to stop for a night and meant that we didn't have to look for an Aire on our journey southwards. The caravan site is isn't far from the port but a sufficient distance that allows you to escape into the countryside.

 

Our journey through France now carries on further south. The French Language CD is in the player as we attempt to learn as much as possible and use to whenever we can. Although there aren't many Caravan Club sites open at this time of year, we are meandering our way down the Eastern border, stopping at those that are, taking in the local sights and attractions.