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Choosing The Family Van for your next surf retreat in France
Group trips Traveling in a 100% electric converted van

Choosing The Family Van for your next surf retreat in France

Are you looking to learn surfing in the southwest of France and wondering which surf retreat to choose? The Family Van stands out with its unique concept of itinerant surf retreats in electrically equipped vans. Discover what our clients have to say and why they recommend The Family Van for a beginner surf retreat in France.

Why choose The Family Van?

The Family Van offers a unique surf retreat experience: aboard 100% electric equipped vans, discover the most beautiful surf spots in the region while traveling responsibly thanks to electric power. Founders Kévin and Noémie accompany you throughout your stay, helping you discover the hidden treasures of the Southwest.

Discover reviews from previous travelers who experienced our itinerant surf retreat in France :

  • Fanny P.: “An unforgettable stay. The van was very well laid out, the team was incredibly kind and generous. The days discovering the Landes and surfing were perfect and very well organized!”
  • Adélie F.: “A perfect week with surf lessons every morning, discovering this sublime region, and free surf sessions at sunset. Ideal for meeting new people and fully experiencing van life.”
  • Nesrine K.: “An unforgettable experience, a real road trip among the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. The vans were very comfortable and pleasant. A perfect surf initiation for beginners.”
  • Grégoire L.: “We had a fantastic week with friends. Breathtaking landscapes, intense surf sessions, and lots of laughter and good vibes.”
  • Pierre: “The Family Van offers a well-thought-out itinerary for perfect sporty and touristy holidays! The van is very well equipped and easy to drive thanks to the electric power.”
Choosing The Family Van for your next surf retreat in France

The Family Van: The Best Choice for your surf retreat in France

  • Support throughout your stay: Kévin and Noémie, the founders of The Family Van, are passionate local guides who accompany you throughout your surf retreat. They share all their best tips and hidden gems of the region.
  • Flexibility and mobility: thanks to our equipped vans, you have the freedom to move from one spot to another, outside of surf lessons and proposed activities. This allows for a perfect balance between community life and moments to recharge.
  • Comfort and sustainability: our vans are equipped with everything you need for an enjoyable stay. By choosing The Family Van, you opt for a responsible surf retreat in France without compromising on comfort.
  • Community and conviviality: The Family Van is a community of enthusiasts! Share unforgettable moments with other beginners during this memorable surf retreat.

Book your spot now!

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience an unforgettable surf retreat with The Family Van. Book your spot now and get ready for an exceptional human and sporting adventure.

Contact us:

Join us for a unique, environmentally friendly, and emotionally rich itinerant surf retreat in France. The Family Van awaits you for an unforgettable adventure in the Southwest of France!

By choosing The Family Van for your beginner surf retreat in Southwest of France, you opt for an ideal introduction to surfing, guided by professionals and in harmony with nature. Prepare to live unforgettable moments and discover the passion of surfing in the magnificent setting of the Southwest of France.

To keep dreaming, also discover this article on the most beautiful surf spots in South West of France.

Why choose a surf camp in Southwest France?
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Why choose a surf camp in South West of France ?

Have you set a goal to start surfing in 2025 or improve your skills? A surf camp in South West of France seems like the ideal option! Known for its exceptional spots, suitable for both beginners and intermediate levels, discover in this article why south this region of France is the perfect destination for your next surf camp.

Going to a surf camp in South West of France: benefits

  1. World-renowned surf spots : 

Southwest of France is world-renowned for its surf spots, which are also stages for numerous international competitions. From the Biarritz’s beaches to Hossegor famous shorebreaks, and the miles of stunning beaches in Biscarrosse (among others!), going to a surf camp in the southwest seems like the ideal option to progress while enjoying conditions suitable for all levels, depending on the chosen beaches.

  1. One step closer to your outdoor needs!

Going to a surf camp in southwest of France ensures you to discover a region with diverse and breathtaking landscapes that make it famous! There’s something for everyone: endless pine forests, stunning hikes to meet Pottok ponies, or miles of beaches with plenty of space for everyone. Wonder and escape are guaranteed!

  1. Perfect occasion to try french’s finest kitchen !!

If you decide to go to a surf camp in the southwest of France, don’t miss out on tasting the local cuisine: grilled chipirons, Basque pâté, local wines, pastis landais… To name a few. Traveling well also means eating well: you won’t be disappointed!

Why choose a surf camp in South West of France?

The Family Van: the ideal choice!

Among all the surf camp options you can find in the southwest, The Family Van stands out with its unique concept of itinerant surf retreats in an electrically equipped camper van. Discover why The Family Van is the ideal choice for your next surf camp in South West of France.

1. A unique immersive experience

The Family Van offers an extraordinary surf camp experience: this itinerant concept allows you to discover the most beautiful surf spots in the region while respecting the environment. The vans are equipped to provide you with a pleasant stay, offering optimal comfort without compromising on sustainability. Traveling in a van also allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature and local culture. Each step of your journey is an opportunity to discover new surf spots and landscapes.

2. Freedom and flexibility 

With The Family Van, you enjoy total flexibility. The equipped vans offer the possibility to stay mobile during your surf camp and fully enjoy the region without being stuck in the same place for the entire duration of your stay.

3. The best team to guide your trip!  

Kevin and Noémie, founders of The Family Van, are travelling with you to supervise the stay and introduce you to the region in their own way, while sharing their favorite spots! In parallel, the partner surf schools chosen for the lessons will be there to provide personalized advice tailored to your level, helping you progress quickly and safely.

4. An extraordinary human experience!! 

The Family Van guarantees unforgettable moments shared with other travelers, thanks to an extraordinary stay format where camp life and sharing are at the heart of the experience. Come as strangers, leave as family <3

5. The easiest access 

 If you want to try The Family Van’s unique offer, nothing could be simpler: their agency is located 1 minute away by walk from Dax TGV station. You will also have the possibility to leave your vehicle in the company’s secure parking if you decide to come by car. 

Biarritz’s airport is also only 1h away by train / car from Dax train station.

Book your spot now!

Join us for an unforgettable surf camp in South West of France with The Family Van. Book your spot now and get ready for an exceptional human and sporting adventure.

Contact us: 

Website: www.thefamilyvan.fr 

Email: contact@thefamilyvan.fr 

Phone: +33 7 83 62 48 89 

Instagram: @thefamilyvanfr

By choosing The Family Van for your surf camp in the southwest, you opt for an ideal introduction to surfing, guided by professionals, and with an itinerant format for a complete and environmentally friendly trip.

Discover this article about the magic of South West of France <33

Why choose a surf camp in South West of France?
Surfcamp for beginners in France
Group sport trips Group trips

Surfcamp for beginners in France

This year, you’ve decided: you’re going on a surfcamp for beginners in France! But you don’t know where to start: don’t worry, we have the solution. A surfcamp for beginners in France is the best solution for getting into surfing. Among the various options available, The Family Van stands out with its unique offer of itinerant surf retreats in an electrically equipped camper van. Let’s take a closer look at this unique and original offer of itinerant surf retreats in an electrically equipped camper van.

The advantages of a surfcamp for beginners in France

Beyond the ideal location that the southwest offers for a surf camp (with world-renowned surf spots), going to a surfcamp for beginners in France has many advantages: guidance from qualified surf instructors to progress while having fun and pushing your limits, a friendly and privileged environment, and opportunities to meet people and share unforgettable moments.

The Family Van: an itinerant, eco-friendly surf retreat by electric van

The Family Van offers a surfcamp for beginners in France, with an itinerant format. While travelling by 100% electric camper vans, discover the most beautiful surf spots in the southwest of France while respecting the environment. The Family Van group trips are characterized by:

  • Professional Guidance Throughout the Stay: Our partner surf schools accompany you throughout the week. They provide personalized advice tailored to your level to help you progress quickly and safely.
  • Independence: Thanks to our equipped vans, you have the freedom to move around easily during the day. Unlike a traditional surf retreat where you stay in one place for the duration of your stay, you will have the opportunity to discover the region easily by being mobile!
  • Comfort and Originality: Our vans are equipped with everything you need to feel at home: a kitchenette, dry toilets, storage, a sleeping area, and a lounge area.
  • Respect for the Environment: By choosing The Family Van, you opt for an eco-friendly surf camp that respects the environment without compromising on comfort. Our electric vans (automatic) allow for silent and emission-free driving, promoting slow travel!
  • Unforgettable Encounters: Traveling in a camper van means traveling differently! Share strong and privileged moments with the other participants and return transformed from your van trip 🙂
surfcamp for beginners in France

The best surf spots for beginners in Southwest France

The southwest of France is full of surf spots suitable for beginners. With The Family Van, you will have the opportunity to surf at must-see spots along the coast:

  • Biscarrosse: Its long sandy beaches and accessible waves make it a perfect spot for beginners.
  • Capbreton: The beaches of Capbreton offer ideal areas for learning to surf and catching your first smooth waves!!
  • Biarritz: A mythical surf spot, La Côte des Basques is a perfect place for a surfcamp for beginners in France thanks to its regular waves and renowned surf schools.

Book Your Spot Now!

Join us for an unforgettable beginner surf retreat with The Family Van. Book your spot now and get ready for an exceptional human and sporting adventure.

Contact Us:

By choosing The Family Van for your beginner surf camp in the southwest, you opt for an ideal introduction to surfing, guided by professionals, and with an itinerant format for a complete and environmentally friendly trip.

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What does a surfcamp in an electric van look like?

I took part in a surfcamp in an electric van organized by The Family Van, and I wanted to share my experience with you, so that you can go behind the scenes of this trip!

I chose to go with The Family Van because I was looking for an itinerant surfcamp accessible to beginners. My last surfing experience was when I was 13… water under the bridge! But I was also looking for a dynamic and positive social experience. I was not disappointed! Of course, the fact that the trip was low-carbon was a huge plus! What could be better than spending a superb vacation, while leaving as little trace as possible on the environment we admire so much!

Surfcamp in einem elektrischen Van

A surfcamp in an electric van means meeting new people, riding tons of waves and having a great time!

At the start, all the vans are wisely parked in the company parking lot, literally a stone’s throw from the station (1 minute on foot). You’ll be greeted by a warm and enthusiastic team, who’ll explain in detail all the secrets of a surfcamp in a electric van. You’ll also be given an adapted wetsuit, which I recommend you try out on the spot. It’s a bit of a hassle, but well worth it if you don’t want to be caught out or end up with a layer full of water after a good wave🙂 . Unpleasant, I’m sure you’ll agree! You’ll also be given your board and all your surfing gear.

As for the vans, they come with everything you need: a brush to chase away the smallest grain of sand (aka your best friend), a nice roll of toilet paper, fresh, clean sheets, all kitchen accessories, as well as salt, pepper, olive oil, coffee, tea and a huge basket full of food to keep you fed all week.

Eventually, you’re handed the key to your van and it’s up to you to make friends with the Malibu, the Uluwatu, the Puerto Escondido, the Imsouane, the Belharra, the Supertubes and the Teahup’oo! All legendary wave names to make you feel like a maxi surfer!

Surfcamp in einem elektrischen Van

Embark on a surfcamp in an electric van, and may fate be kind to you!

Once you’ve picked up your van, there’s nothing easier than following the road book that’s been sent to you! All the information you need to know is written in it – it’s literally the holy grail.

Our first rendezvous on this electric van surfcamp was a skateboard festival, to get the trip off to a relaxing start! If you’re worried about meeting your new travel partners, don’t be! The people you’re about to meet are all very different, but driven by the same desire as you: to have the maximum amount of fun! And, let’s face it, they want to learn a bit about surfing too ;).

Then all you have to do is let yourself go, from campsite to campsite, from beach to beach and sunset to sunset.

The chosen spots are always calm, and you’ll have the chance to share some good, convivial times. If you’re like me, and like the excitement of a close-knit group, you’ve come to the right place! But if you’re a fan of freedom and independence, you’ll also find something to suit you, because here, everyone is free to do as they please! If you’d like to go off on your own to discover a specific viewpoint, don’t worry, the group will be waiting for you at the next spot. It’s all about enjoying yourself to the full!

There's always plenty to do on a surfcamp in an electric van!

With a surfcamp in an electric van, you’ll soon realize that fun is the name of the game. The Atlantic coast is the perfect place to enjoy your summer evenings, solo or accompanied. Don’t be afraid to suggest things – there’s always someone willing to join you on your adventures.

What’s more, you’ll have surf lessons EVERY day. You can practice at any spot you find along the way, but please listen to the guide’s advice. No one wants to come and get you if you try to snap back on a 3-meter wave, so don’t! We don’t do that!

Surfcamp in einem elektrischen Van

A surfcamp in an electric van = an itinerant cosy nest.

If you’re scared by the concept of the converted van, don’t panic, I’m a big homebody and I can tell you that vans are very comfortable. The vehicle is full of little storage compartments, but I advise you to travel light! Quite simply, because it’s sunny in the south and you’ll be spending half your day in a bathing suit.

You’ll find everything you need, packed into a van of less than 7 cubic meters. A portable kitchen, which you can move around to cook with friends. A sink that’s more useful for brushing your teeth than washing dishes. Several cupboards that can be used as tote bags, because let’s face it, there’s nothing worse than hearing your vanity rattling around corners. A comfortable comb bed that can be folded away into a cosy bench in no time at all. And finally, an i-tech cockpit where you can store your gear and rock out to your best playlists.

During your electric van surfcamp in south west, you won't have to worry about recharging, believe me!

Everything, and I mean everything, has been designed to make your life easier! Isn’t that nice! The routes are calculated for the autonomy of the vans, so don’t panic, you’ll always arrive safely. Provided you’ve thought about plugging into the mains during your night. A word of advice (from experience): don’t lose the adapter! For the more adventurous, should you nevertheless decide to change tack and take your own route to extend the ride, you’ll find all the recharging stations you need, geolocated on the Chargemap app.

Unforgettable surf sessions, unforgettable memories, warm encounters - you'll find it all at The Family Van!

To conclude this little chronicle, I’d say go for it! With your eyes closed and all sails set! A surfcamp in an electric van at The Family Van is an enriching experience that I’ll be delighted to repeat!

Feel free to browse their website Thefamilyvan.fr to find out more!

Maybe we’ll see you soon on another electric van surfcamp 😉

Un groupe de personne voyageant en van aménagé électrique
Group trips

Our group trips in electric campervans

When you were young, you were a fan of summer camps and group trips. You pushed, pushed, pushed, until at 18, you thought you were too old to continue. That the past is the past… But not so fast!

The Family Van, an expert in electric campervan rental, now offers itinerant surftrips in group aboard 100% electric campervans, centered around sports or cultural themes.

Let’s take a closer look at this alternative to traditional campervan travel that makes us want to go back to summer camp, but for adults.

A sports or cultural theme at the heart of the trip

All group trips with The Family Van are organized around a sports or cultural theme, led by a certified guide throughout the entire trip. Whether it’s surfing, hiking, visiting castles in the Loire Valley, or wine tasting, there’s something for everyone.

The goal is to promote French heritage through an innovative trip that combines human encounters with the practice of an activity.

The Family Van aims to develop as many themes as possible based on the desires of its users and those who want to try renting a van with them.

Discover our first group trip, The Family Surf!

Traveling group stays in 100% electric vans

All group trips with The Family Van are operated aboard 100% electric Citroën vans, fitted out to provide maximum comfort for travelers eager to test the experience.

“Our goal is to rethink the experience of traditional van travel, making it more responsible and innovative,” says Kevin, CEO & co-founder of the company.

The electric van allows for a new way of traveling, slower and closer to the outdoor desires of travelers. The aim is to break away from traditional travel modes and opt for slow-travel, taking the time to appreciate the surrounding landscapes and meet new people.

A summer camp for adults

What better way to relive your childhood memories while preserving the planet than a group trip in an electric van?

The Family Van is like an adult summer camp reinvented for an itinerant trip aboard electric vans, with a group of people bonding together through activities, encounters, and landscape discoveries.

The Family Van also offers customized trips in electric converted vans and self-drive rentals of electric converted vans.

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Itinerant surf camp for a long weekend

Summer is approaching and the desire to go on vacation is itching, but your boss will never let you take a full week off. Don’t panic: The Family Van now offers you the opportunity to go on an itinerant surf camp for a long weekend.

The format of our group trips: from Wednesday to Sunday to discover the Nouvelle Aquitaine region and learn to surf.

Surfcamp itinérant en van aménagé dans le sud ouest

Discovering the Nouvelle Aquitaine region for a weekend

A long weekend is the break everyone needs to recharge, think about something else for a few days, and decompress.

Between Landes, Gironde, and Pays-Basque, we can assure you that there is no shortage of things to do in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. The Family Van allows you to rediscover this region during a 5-day itinerant surf camp in June.

An Itinerant surf camp for a long weekend ... in an electric van!

The Family Van surf camp has two unique features: it is itinerant and uses electric vans.

The company’s concept is to reimagine the summer camp experience that we all enjoyed as children and adapt it for adults. Who says we can’t have fun past the age of 18? By reserving your itinerant surf camp aboard our electric vans, you can travel responsibly while meeting new people and indulging in the practice of surfing

Daily surf lessons

The goal of a surf camp is to progress in surfing while having a good time.

At The Family Van, all of our itinerant surf camps include van rental, surf equipment (wetsuit, board, and wax), and surf lessons with a certified local guide. Depending on the level of the participants, the guide will determine skill-level groups during the stay.

Optimized recharges with the electric van

In addition to the carefully selected campsites that will allow you to recharge overnight, the route proposed for this 5-day surfcamp has been designed in such a way that you won’t need to recharge during the day.

Convinced? Head to thefamilyvan.eu to book your spot in our group trip 🏄

The Family Surf. Roadtrip de surf et surfcamp en France.
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Traveling surf camp in france

From summer camp to surf camp, let us take you on a journey!

Summer 2001, you still remember the campfire organized by Céline, the counselor who supervised your summer camp that year. Campfires, big games, lots of friends, and an incomparable nostalgia at the end of those 2 weeks during which your parents said, “but how great are summer camps!”

But 20 years later, that nostalgia is still present and you have only one dream: to find the carefree spirit you had at summer camp, recharge your batteries, and meet new people around a common passion: surfing!

Perfect, you’re in the right place with The Family Surf trip, the only itinerant surf camp in France and in Spain

The surf camp, an unusual stay around a passion: surfing and the ocean.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or experienced surfer, a surf camp is the perfect stay to combine discovery, practice, relaxation, and meeting new people in an ideal setting.

Generally all-inclusive, it is located near renowned surf spots and is led by teachers who can usually adapt to the different levels of the participants.

To summarize: a house on a specific spot, 10 to 15 people, daily surf lessons, and additional activities planned most of the time: yoga, hiking, balanced meals… All in an atmosphere centered around well-being and the practice of a sports activity. Today, many surf camps have managed to develop all over Europe and even in the world: France, Portugal, Spain, there is something for everyone.

However, one of them seems to stand out: The Family Surf. Let’s take a closer look at an exceptional itinerant surf camp.

The Family Surf : the surfcamp 2.0

The Family Surf is a surf camp that combines road trips, surfing, the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, and… an electric van! Unlike a traditional surf camp where a group of people practices surfing while being based in the same place for a whole week, The Family Surf offers an itinerant surf camp aboard an electric van. Their goal is to offer an alternative to traditional van travel, focused on a more responsible and innovative travel model.

This one-week expedition themed around surfing brings together enthusiasts and beginners on a circuit that travels through the Nouvelle Aquitaine region: Biscarrosse, Montalivet, Hossegor, the Médoc coast, and the Basque Country are just some of the planned stops on the itinerary.

So, if you have a free week in the coming months and have no idea what to plan… We have the solution! Discover Vanlife Mag’s article on The Family Surf, the itinerant surf camp in France.