January might not be the most popular month for motorhome travel in France, but for us it marked the start of our January 2026 road trip—and it got dramatic fast.
We dropped off the car and picked up the van, full of optimism and absolutely no idea what was about to unfold. By the time we arrived at Wood Leas Campsite, Aldington, it was dark, cold, and we’d been back in the van for less than two hours when things took a turn.
Firstly, a leaking tap and hose in the bathroom.
And… I accidentally set fire to the oven
Yes. An actual fire. Inside the van.
Thankfully, the fire extinguisher worked perfectly (10/10 for safety equipment), but I would strongly advise against testing one in such a small space. It’s effective—but unforgettable. It’s something we will definitely not be repeating. Thankfully Sylvia the site owner came to our rescue with her hoover so what should have been a quiet evening saw us spend the next three hours trying to clear up smoke and dust.
The next morning involved a quick stop to buy a replacement shower hose before heading for the ferry to France. Either we looked suspicious, or ferry staff were desperately bored, because we were pulled aside and searched before boarding.
Once cleared, the crossing itself was calm and quiet—no drama, no fire extinguishers required.
Arriving in France always feels familiar. No fixed plans, no rigid route just winter van life in France, taken one stop at a time. And still convinced that January sunshine might magically appear, my ever-optimistic driver pressed on in hopes that T-shirts and shorts would soon make an appearance, sadly for him they don’t.
Our first French night was spent in Montreuil, where the newly purchased shower hose was finally fitted successfully. A small repair, but a major morale boost.
Over the next two weeks, we hopped between familiar favourites and brand-new stops. January travel, however, comes with its own challenges—namely that many sites either had no working facilities, no water, or occasionally… nothing at all.
When all else failed, Lidl saved the day with bottled water. Who needs fully functioning services anyway? Washing is probably overrated. Let’s just say winter van life lowers your standards in creative ways.
Despite the persistent rain and the eternal hunt for usable taps, we found beauty in quiet villages, empty aires, peaceful vineyards, and places that felt like they’d been paused just for us.
Don’t try this in your motorhome, this photo was taken half way through trying to get rid of the smoke and dust…thankfully the oven still works
Perhaps they pulled us over at the port because they’d heard about our antics the night before.
Last time we were here it rained… so naturally, we returned to confirm it wasn’t a coincidence.
At Neufchâtel-en-Bray we went out to buy a new fire extinguisher. Came back with Toblerone. Priorities.
Parked up next to the town hall for the night in Nonancourt feeling very official.
A wander around Nonancourt in between the rain showers
Our first visit to Saint-Amant-de-Boixe. Quiet, peaceful, and home to a stunning abbey with a beautiful glass window we didn’t expect to find.
We’ve never seen Brantôme this quiet—but the electric and water worked, so we’re calling it a win.
It’s now the end of January but there’s still signs that Christmas was only a few weeks ago
Tonight’s home: Monbazillac, La Lande vineyard. No sign of Monsieur Camus, no wine tasting… just rain showers and a soggy walk.
Only 280 residents in Monteton and now two motor-homers for the night. Quiet, scenic, and exactly our kind of place.
When the weather refused to improve, we made the sensible decision to stop moving and stay put for a few days. Fontet became our temporary base while the rain did its thing.
Coordinates for Campsites and Aires used in the UK and France
Wood Leas Camping and Caravan Site
Aldington
N 51° 6′ 1
E 0° 57′ 1
Montreuil
N 50° 27′ 34
E 1° 45′ 34
Neufchâtel-en-Bray
N 49° 44′ 14
E 1° 25′ 46
Nonancourt
N 48° 46′ 21
E 1° 11′ 31
Viegne
N 47° 17′ 21
E 0° 44′ 5
Saint-Amant-de-Boixe
N 45° 47′ 57
E 0° 8′ 17
Brantome
N 45° 21′ 38
E 0° 38′ 53
Monbazillac
N 44° 47′ 19
E 0° 29′ 45
Monteton
N 44° 37′ 20
E 0° 15′ 23
Fontet
N 44° 33′ 32
W 0° 1′ 26