A Journey Through the History of Camping Le Parc de la Grève
Our history
The story starts in the late 1950s. Every year, many young Vendéens would travel to Paris for work and return home for their holidays. With limited lodging options, they sought a place to pitch their tents. Coquineau, Jacques Rio’s grandfather, owned vast woods and meadows in L’Aiguillon-sur-Vie and welcomed campers to enjoy his land during the holidays.
As the years passed, more and more campers arrived, making the creation of a dedicated campsite an obvious choice. At that time, there were very few camping options near Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
Once upon a time
The Early Days: Le Village Gaulois Campsite
Jacques Rio remembers:
When it first opened, the campsite offered only tents, with no marked pitches, and had permission for 180 campers. By July 30, it was already fully booked!
Initially, the campsite was named Le Village Gaulois, inspired by the comic series “Asterix and Obelix” and suggested by a local craftsman known as “the druid.” Two years later, following copyright concerns, the name was changed to Le Gaulois.
Growth and Modernization of the Campsite
The first caravans arrived in 1969, prompting the need to set up individual plots and install electricity and water. Since there was no sewer system, part of the land was sold to create a residential area downhill, enabling the campsite to be connected to utilities. This allowed the campsite to become more comfortable and to expand.
Read more
Facing Nature and Storms
Surrounded by towering cypresses, pines, and holm oaks, the campsite was struck by a devastating storm on February 13, 1972, which tore down nearly 300 trees. Staff and volunteers worked tirelessly to prepare the site and open on time for the 1972 season.
Building the First “Cahute”
In 1973, the first fully wooden building was built using trees toppled by the storm. Called “La Cahute,” it served as the bar, games area, and reception. The site hosted dances and barbecues, where campers mingled with the village locals. Later on, the building was reconstructed in stone to provide more comfort. By the end of 1972, a pond had been dug, the southern grove cleared, and the stream channelled, allowing the campsite to host up to 150 pitches.
The current name : La Grève
The campsite took the name La Grève in 1981, inspired by the local area surrounding the site. In 1994, Jacques Rio sold the campsite, and today Stéphane and Virginie Bonal, the fifth generation of owners, warmly welcome visitors to this historic, nature-rich campsite in the heart of the Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie region.
