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.
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.
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.