We spent nearly 3 weeks camping at Cosycamp, in our own tent. It was a wonderful relaxing experience. The campsite is new and the owners, Richard and Sophie, and their staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, booking us into local restaurants, and helping us with outings...etc. The facilities are well thought through, for example, there is a large baby bath with a detachable hose as a tap, which was a god send. The showers are powerful and free (push button) and the temperature adjusted well. They have ironing facilities and 2 washing machines and a tumble dryer (all 5 Euros each). The toilets are all unisex and some contain urinals which was a bit awkward on occasion!
The swimming pool is next to the bar/cafe and is large and clean. There is also a very large and shallow toddler pool with wide steps so my crawling one years old and my 4 and 6 year olds had plenty of splashing options. Also the main pool has a big wide slop to get in, so very safe for young kids. The cafe sells ice creams and lollies, lovely coffee and alcohol so days by the pool were perfect.
The site is right on the Loire, there is a little strip of grass and some overgrowth to walk thru to get to the river, so no danger of kids being too close to the water. There are a couple of small gravelly, grassy areas by the river so it is easy to wade in and surprisingly warm. Lovely to swim in and great for the kids to use their nets and have a paddle. I would also recommend booking their spa pool for a private swim (1 euro each for 1 hour). We had a romantic evening with a bottle of wine and also booked a day slot with the kids, lovely having the luxury of a private warm pool to relax in.
We used the next door stables for the kids a couple of times (half hour walk was 7.50 euros each). The local towns are pretty and offer great eating and there are some great antique, junk markets locally. Good local running for me at the 4-6 mile distance but my husband struggled to find paths at a greater distance.
One of the best things about Cosycamp is the freedom our kids had. They disappeared on their bikes after breakfast and were rarely seen! They made lots of friends over the 3 weeks and usually moaned when we dragged them in the car to do something off site. The play park contains a wooden raised house with a slide, and large net swing, a climbing frame and a high net all done in wood and really suiting the site.
I very much recommend Cosycamp. It has the perfect balance of well designed lovely facilities that you need in hot weather, beautiful views where ever you turn and a small family friendly feel. Im not normally into organised activites but their Puy lentil dinner along a large communal table followed by a big bonfire down by the river with our fellow campers was one of the highlights of the trip, and try their steak, one of the best I've ever had!
CosyCamp
Europe France Auvergne Haute-Loire
Picture the scene; a French summer’s evening at dusk, the heady scent of wild herbs and flowers lingering in the soothing air, a glass of chilled Chenin blanc in hand and the gentle lapping of the nearby river soundtracking this idyllic scene. Throw into this picture an array of quirky accommodation options alongside plenty of pitches for traditional tent camping and you have one seriously super, luxury campsite.
Opened in May 2013, Le Cosy Camp has already become one of the Loire Valley’s best eco-sites (and indeed one of the best glamping sites in France). Occupying an enviable riverside location in the picturesque village of Chamalières-sur-Loire, this is a place positively charged with history – the most evident example being the 12th-century Roman church. Surrounding the peaceful villages which adorn the lush valley floor are highland plateaus and rocky gorges which attract no end of walkers and enthusiasts of all things outdoors. You can hike, bike, trek or climb your way around this unspoilt, under explored region of Central France. Ask on site for routes and rental prices.
With safari and Canadian tents, gypsy caravans and treehouses to choose from, it really doesn’t matter where you decide to lay your head. The main draw, however, is still the wonderful riverside surroundings and the more back-to-basics atmosphere of the place. Campfires on the terrace draw families together every evening – inevitably culminating in a mountain of molten marshmallows – while the ‘no-vehicles in the camping area’ rule means little ones are safe to run wild without much supervision. It’s just another little sign that your considerate hosts have designed the site with relaxation in mind. From the various gardens (flower, vegetable, orchard, botanical garden, labyrinth, even a ‘garden of fragrances’), to the onsite bird sanctuaries and wellness centre a stay at Le Cosy Camp will definitely recharge the batteries.
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Details
Facilities
63 camping pitches, 1 gypsy caravan, 2 tree houses, 10 safari lodges, 10 canadian tents and 5 cottages. 2 shower/toilet blocks (one is heated during cooler season). Laundry. Baby-changing facilities. Electrical hookups. Heated outdoor swimming-pool and paddling pool. Fishing equipment can be rented onsite. Campfires in designated area in the evening.
Suitable For
Tents, caravans, vaccinated pets, large groups – yes.
Nearby
The picturesque village of Chamalières sur Loire and its Roman 12th century church are well worth a visit. The Loire Valley also has several castles to explore. Besides the countless river-based activities to whet your whistle, the region is brimming with lots of other outdoor pursuits to entertain. There's a rock climbing site in Chamalières sur Loire while for the more intrepid, Via-ferrata des Juscles in Pertuis is 19km from the site. Les Ravins de Corboeuf, known as "Le Petit Colorado de l'Auvergne", is a geological curiosity of coloured clays. There's also a leisure park in Neyrial, Yssingeaux, (17km away) with quad bikes, trampolines, mini-golf and archery amongst other activities. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Annunciation of Puy-en-Velay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also well worth a visit.
Food & Drink
An onsite snack bar serves up simple, locally dishes. Organic and Fairtrade products are used whenever possible. There's also a daily specials menu dinner and the likes of "pancake family party", plus beef burgers from the grill. Special breakfasts and picnics can be arranged by request. There are many local markets during the day and in the evening in the summer. 3 bar/restaurants in Chamalières sur Loire boasts 3 bars and restaurants while Le Puy en Velay has several places to sample the vino.
Opening Times
Start of March – early October.
The Owner Says
When we opened CosyCamp in 2013, we had a dream : create a different place, stylish, comfortable, natural & ecological. CosyCamp offers a unique glamping holiday experience in a wild park of 4 ha with no car. Eco friendly, botanical gardens, quiet, simple pleasures, “back to the basics”...
We are installed on the banks of the Loire, in a beautiful landscape of gorges. We propose large pitches of 100 to 200 m². But you can also rest in stylish decorated safari lodges, tree houses, or in an authentic wood and canvas tent. Or maybe will you choose the Gypsy caravan or the luxury cottage ?
We have a big family room where you will find bar, restaurant, TV corner, library, board games & wooden games : this is a place to relax, meet, play, read, listen to music..
You will also enjoy the heated outdoor pools and our cosy indoor pool with water jets..
At night fall, we organize a campfire with “norway candles. CosyCamp is a friendly-sized nature campsite. We seek authenticity, exchange and conviviality. You are welcome with your children, a fun play area has been created for them…
CosyCamp is located in the sunny southern part of Auvergne, less than 1 hour 15 minutes from Lyon. Our picturesque village of Chamalières-sur-Loire attracts holidaymakers for its tranquility and serenity. It charms nature lovers, hikers, fishermens and mushroom pickers. Chamalières-sur-Loire also fascinates roman art fans. The villager is huddled around a Roman church of the twelfth century Classified as a historic monument
In the surroundings, you will discover the outstanding medieval environment : Le Puy en Velay (Unesco World Heritage), the first castles of the Loire,…recharge yourself at Mont Jerbier de Jonc (source of the Loire), discover the impressive landscape of gorges of the Loire by canoe (arrivals in front of your accommodation !) and enjoy the greenway for the cycling.
The equestrian center is at the entrance of CosyCamp.
Location
Contact CosyCamp, Les Ribes, 43800 Chamalières-sur-Loire , Haute-Loire, Auvergne, France
Getting There
On the N88 beetween Saint Etienne and le Puy en Velay : way out Bas en Basset. Follow the "road of the river Loire" up to Retournac. Then cross the bridge and turn right to Chamalières-sur-Loire.
Train station 300m from the campsite.
Airport Saint Etienne (Bouthéon - 50 km).
International Airport Lyon Saint Exupery (79 km).
Reviews
Add Your ReviewRated ★★★★★ over 31 reviews
Great fun place
Wonderful campsite with festival feel
Head and Neck Injury from one of six unsafe pool umbrellas
I'm not telling you about this place...
A fantastic camping experience!
Wonderful family campsite
Gorgeous relaxed independent campsite perfect for families
Relaxed fun filled time away with the family
Fantastic, picturesque camping
Ein ganz besonderes Fleckchen Erde
Pitch perfect
Just bliss
Welcoming, beautiful, family adventure!
Wunderbarer Naturcamping
Best campsite in France!!!!
Fantastic campsite!
Fabulous camping holiday 2016
Uniquely wonderful, can't wait to return
The perfect pitch!
This is what you want
Absolutely loved it!
Brilliant
inspirational
fantastic place
After a first incredible summer at CosyCamp, we cut our holidays in Italy to return to Auvergne. Auvergne is for us a relaxing destination and Chamalières sur Loire is an amazing village. CosyCamp is located in the south of the department and the weather is nice in this part of the country. The site is run by a bunch of friends, caring and passionated people who make you feel at home .The campsite is very large, no cars go through, and respectful of nature and environment. Many aromatic gardens and tasty meals from the restaurant come from local producers. Everything is beautiful, down to Earth, and delicious. Children can swim in the pool, and there are creative and fun activities organised for them.
Perfect place to relax as a family
Richard and Sophie have designed the perfect place to relax as a family. On arrival you get a warm welcome, they inform you of all the great things to do on the campsite and all the highly recommended places to visit in the local surroundings. The site is car free, plots are large, the amenities are spotless, plenty of places for children to run free and lots of relaxation areas for the adults. The surrounding area is stunning full of history, good food and outdoor living activities.
Highlights of our stay included: fresh French bread delivered every morning for breakfast, exploring the River Loire by kayak, the hotel standard swimming pool, the local French markets and the hidden away medieval villages.
We will be back next summer.
Amazing campsite
We just came back from Cosycamp after spending 15 nights in our own tent, all we can say is book now before they full up!
Richard and Sophie has created a very unique site in Haute Loire region, the atmosphere is very inviting and friendly; compares to other campsites we've been to it is small yet you don't feel being cramped in because they do not allow car in the sites! On top of that, you have the direct access to the Loire too. Has anyone mentioned their carefully designed herb garden yet? They are very happy for you to use their herbs for your own cooking!
The region itself is stunning and Cosycamp is in the heart of it! If you like hiking, mountain biking you will not be disappointed.
The highlight for us is spending many evening around the communal campfire meeting new people and friends. Even if you are not keen to socialise with other campers in the site, you should at least watch Richard to light one of the Norwegian candle for the campfire once!
Thanks for the team in Cosycamp for an amazing holiday!
Einfach fantastisch
Ich werde auf deutsch schreiben um auch deutsche Reisende für diesen absolut fantastischen Campingplatz zu begeistern :).
Wir hatten dort 10 Tage in Juli 2014 verbracht. Wir fanden es wunderbar. Trotz dem schlechten Wetter hatten wir unseren Aufenthalt genossen. Es ist alles so liebevoll dort.
Die Plätze großzügig, das Restaurant gemütlich, die Gärten(!) und der Pool sehr gepflegt. Die Sanitäranlagen sind sauber und geräumig. Was aber die größte Rolle spielte: das Team. Man merkt, dass die Leute dort gerne arbeiten. Sind immer hilfsbereit und interessiert. Sie bauen mit ihren Gästen eine Beziehung auf. Deshalb ist die Atmosphäre dort so toll!
Nach 10 Tagen CosyCamp sind wir zu einen anderen, vorgebuchten Platz, in den Süden gefahren. Obwohl das Wetter viel besser (weniger regnerisch halt) war und der Camping an sich gar nicht so schlecht, haben wir "unseren" CosyCamp sehr vermisst!
Der Spirit macht es! Danke CosyCamp!
Calm, beautiful, perfect
Fabulous Campsite
This campsite is superb and one of the best sites we have ever stayed at. On the bank of the Haute Loire, it’s a truly stunning location. Waking up every morning, looking at the beautiful hills from within the valley, was wonderful. We wanted to have a rest but to also have the opportunity to do some fun stuff with our 6-year old – we got what we wanted. There were hardly any mosquitoes either – bonus!
There’s plenty to do both off and on site, so if you are looking for a rest, you will certainly get one here; if you want to be active, you can go and do your active stuff too. It’s good area for cycling both on and off road. A car-free campsite is quite refreshing and it means that children can cycle around safely. The cars were quite safe in the parking area too.
All the facilities are well maintained and cleaned regularly. There are two shower blocks, with plenty of hot showers and toilets, even during peak times. The pool is a very good size and we didn’t experience a bun-fight for loungers, chairs or the large squidgy loungers. The shallow pool is excellent for very small children.
There is a bar and restaurant, which serves simple but good, locally sourced food in the evenings. One evening a week, they have a family crepe party, which is too nice to resist! Drinks and ice-creams are available throughout the day. It is also a space for families to sit, which is quite welcomed when there’s inclement weather.
For us, the part that really made our holiday was the warm welcome from the lovely owners, Richard and Sophie. They are the friendliest owners you will ever meet. They were always smiling and always around if you needed them (not that we ever did). Each week, they took time to give a presentation about what’s on around the area. Different activities were put on every week for children and families to be involved in. Our daughter loved making musical instruments from leaves and branches!
Sophie and Richard spoke excellent English but always allowed me to try to speak French. You got a sense that you were staying at their place, rather than just on a campsite. This campsite is a project for Sophie and Richard – the philosophy you read on their website is not hype. I was blown away by how lovely it was in the first few months of it opening. I can’t wait to return to see what it’s like in a few years time. We will definitely be back. Thank you!
An Excellent Campsite
We are just home from two weeks at Le CozyCamp. The whole holiday was fantastic. The plots are large with (free) WiFi coverage of the whole site. The toilet / shower areas are spacious, clean, modern and plentiful.
What really sets Le CozyCamp above the competition however is the staff. Richard and Sophie were always around the site looking after people and helping non-native speakers with booking outings etc. The other staff were all incredibly friendly, patient and happy to help whenever they could.
The site also has a nice "family room" / Bar (with the emphasis on "Family Room"). It was made clear that we could bring out own food and drinks here as we wished, though ultimately we enjoyed fresh-brewed coffee's, hot-chocolates and home-baked pizza's from the bar on more than a couple of occasions. If you are really lucky, you might get a torrential downpour during which the chef might make a spectacular vegetable soup!
The camp-site also ran a few family evenings serving crepes and the local speciality lentils from Le Puy-En-Velay. Normally, I'm not big on socialising on camp-sites, but we spent a couple of evenings here enjoying good food and wine with our neighbours!
The villages of Chamalières-sur-Loire and Retournac are easily accessible by bike (and the latter boasts a great butchers, fruit and veg store, a lovely patisserie and an average supermarket).
On our last day, we stole a quick look around one of the "Safari Lodges" whilst it was being cleaned and we are seriously considering a return for a week of luxury!
Thank-you very much to Richard, Sophie and all of the other staff who made our stay so enjoyable. Your hard work has paid off and your camp-site is excellent!
:)
Matt Grimley
Excellent campsite, beautiful area
We stayed at Cosycamp for 11 nights in August 2013. It was fantastic. The facilities are kept exceptionally clean, the showers are always hot and you don't need to faff around with tokens. The swimming pool is big enough to not feel too crowded on a hot day and again it and pool side are kept clean. Cosy camp provide comfy sun loungers and cool beanbag beds to sun bathe on. The cafe/bar area provides a limited menu for evening meals but what they do provide, salads, pizza, burgers & selection of desserts are scrummy. There are a good selection of local beers and wines on offer too and of course ice cream. There is a lounging area above the airy bar area which the kids loved to congregate in to play their games together.
The Cosycamp team provide information on the area in the way of maps and leaflets which are easily accessible in the cafe/bar. We found them very happy to help us with our activity planning. The location is fab. We selected a large tent pitch 200m2 it faced directly to the river which was excellent for swimming in and kayaking on. The whole site is well laid out to include a playground for the kids, campfire area (many a marshmallow toasted), scenic seating areas & BBQ area. There was also an activity afternoon for the children on Tuesday. This was very low key which we liked and involved the kids making musical instruments out of different materials found in nature. It was very well done and both our children aged 6 and 9 enjoyed making them.
The whole atmosphere of Cosycamp is laid-back but not so much that you feel the need to tiptoe around. I think that fun and relaxation is at the heart of this site. In fact we struggled to get the kids go anywhere else ... you must though because the area is beautiful!
P.S We loved the road cycling in the area its not as full on as the Alpes but you need to like the odd hill!, MTBing still needs exploring! We will be back...
Thank you to the Cosy camp team for a wonderful holiday.