Camping Les Fruiters, Pyrennes, France - No Particular Place To Go

With the temperature fluctuating daily, we decided to head towards the Pyrenees, and our chosen stop was Camping Les Fruitiers, nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees on the banks of the Adour River.

Initially, we planned to stay just one night, curious to see if it lived up to its reputation for peace and quiet. The owner assured us with a smile, “You’ll want to stay longer,” and she was right—after our first night, we immediately extended our stay for several more days.

Camping Les Fruitiers offers an idyllic retreat surrounded by fruit trees and a serene atmosphere that invites you to unwind. The pitches are generously spaced, providing ample shade under the canopy of trees, which was perfect during the warm, sunny days. The campsite’s facilities are immaculate; the bathrooms and showers are spotless, reflecting the care and attention to detail that the owners clearly pride themselves on.

Camping in France is less about the amenities and more about the experience, so we don’t let the lack of a pool here put us off, but who needs a pool when you’ve got Roxy, the resident French bulldog, strutting around the campsite with all the authority of a miniature Napoléon? With her squashed little face and air of superiority, she seems to reserve her deepest scorn for anyone who dares to walk by without a treat in hand—or worse, attempts to speak to her in anything other than fluent canine.

One of the unexpected joys of our stay was watching the daily drama of tent setup unfold. For the unseasoned campers, what should be a straightforward task often morphs into a comedic relationship test, complete with disagreements over the placement of poles and pegs. Meanwhile, the seasoned campers, who arrive just after the novices, make the process look like a breeze. Within minutes, they’re sipping Bordeaux, their tents perfectly pitched, leaving the rest of us wondering whether camping is more fun to watch than to do.

The location is nothing short of spectacular. Bagnères-de-Bigorre, a charming spa resort town, is just a short distance away. Situated at the base of the majestic Pyrenees, this town has so much to offer. Its old quarter is a delightful maze of narrow streets and historic houses. We quickly realized that Bagnères-de-Bigorre was more than just a picturesque town—it’s a place brimming with culture and history.

One of the town’s main attractions is the thermal baths, renowned for their curative properties. For those seeking a bit of excitement, the local casino adds a touch of glamour to the town’s laid-back vibe.

Exploring the area further, John took the opportunity to cycle through the scenic routes around Bagnères-de-Bigorre, while I preferred to explore on foot, taking in the sights and sounds of this lovely region. Every day revealed something new, from hidden trails along the river to quaint cafes in the town center.

To top it all off, we discovered that the town has been a quiet retreat for notable figures, including Tony Hawks and a celebrated French tenor, adding a touch of celebrity charm to our stay. By the end of our time at Camping Les Fruitiers, we felt completely at home, reluctant to leave the peaceful haven we had found in the heart of the Pyrenees.

Camping Les Fruitiers where we spend six nights

Roxy loves to see who is stopping at her campsite

Its an interesting walk along the river and around the city of Bagnères-de-Bigorre

John spotted a Vietnamese/Chinese restaurant and decided we should give it a try. The menu promised “authentic flavors,” but after the first bite of my vegetable spring rolls, I couldn’t help but wonder if “rubbery” was a secret ingredient.

At least John’s starter looked more authentic

So, there I was in a quaint little side street in France, casually walking up to a crossing, soaking in the charm of the cobblestones and croissants. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a lady in a white Transit van barrels towards me like she’s late for a baguette emergency. Instead of slowing down, she just keeps coming, and next thing I know, my toes are getting intimately acquainted with her tires.

As I’m hopping around like a pigeon that found out too late the bread was stale, she just leans out the window, gives me a quick “Pardon, sorry!” like she’s apologising for cutting in line at the bakery, and speeds off as if nothing happened. Only in France could getting run over be so nonchalantly polite! Thankfully only bruised toes!

John rides to the Col d’Aspin a mountain pass in the French Pyrenees that connects Sainte-Marie-de-Campan, in the upper Adour valley, with Arreau, on the River Neste.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Camping Les Fruitiers and the enchanting town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre offer the perfect escape.