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The Rugby World Cup kicks off in France this September and here is how you can go to the matches in a campervan or motorhome.
Like all major sporting events, demand to go and watch Rugby World Cup matches will be massive, which means that flights and accommodation close to the grounds will be expensive. But there is a more cost-effective way to get to the games. Go to the Rugby World Cup in a campervan or motorhome.
All the details of Rugby World Cup 2023
The Rugby World Cup is held every 4 years, with South Africa aiming to defend the title they won in Japan in 2019. 20 teams are taking part, with 4 pools of 5 teams each. The top two teams from each pool go through to the quarter finals.
The matches get underway on Friday September 8th, with the hosts, France taking on 3 times winners, New Zealand in a heavyweight opening clash at the Stade de France, Saint-Denis in Paris. The tournament continues throughout September and October, culminating in the final, also at Stade de France, on Saturday October 28th. In total there are 48 matches taking place at 9 different venues across France. It promises to be an amazing festival of rugby.
Who is Playing?
Here are the 4 pools of 5 teams.
- Pool A - Pool A is made up of the hosts and the number 2 ranked team in the world, France, with New Zealand, Italy, Uruguay and Namibia.
- Pool B - A really tough group with one of the three top 5 teams in the world going out. Reigning champions South Africa are joined by current world number 1 and Guinness Six Nations Grand Slam winners, Ireland as well as world number 5, Scotland with Tonga and Romania.
- Pool C - Twice winners Australia are drawn with Wales, Fiji, Georgia and Portugal.
- Pool D - 2019 runners-up England's pool also contains Argentina, Japan, Samoa and Chile.
Stadium guide, where to stay & what to do
Let's take a look at all 9 venues and where you can stay close by in your campervan or motorhome to watch the Rugby World Cup matches. We've also picked out some other things to see and do around the host cities.
Don't forget, your Spaceships Campervan or Motorhome rental includes:
- Unlimited mileage in the UK & Europe
- Up to 4 named drivers over 21
- Free standard insurance
- Free 24/7 UK & Europe Roadside Assistance
- Free membership of the Caravan & Motorhome Club for the duration of your hire
When you've booked your Spaceship, apply for an access code for Caravan and Motorhome Club membership. This will give you access to the club's 2,700 campsites across the UK and Europe at member rates, as well as discounted ferry and channel crossings.
Jump to any of the venues on the links below to find out how to get there, who is playing, where to camp and what else to see while you're there. Take a look at the interactive maps. Just click on the location icons to find details and directions for the stadium, campsites and other places to visit.
- Paris - Stade de France: all info about the spiritual home of the French national rugby in Paris
- Marseille - Stade Velodrome: massive 67,000 seater stadium in Marseille
- Lille - Stade Pierre-Mauray: a modern stadium with a retractable roof in Lille
- Nice - Stade de Nice: it's always nice to go to Nice, especially for RWC2023
- Bordeaux - Stade de Bordeaux: the famous region that has produced many award-winning wines. Will your favourite team be victorious in Bordeaux?
- Lyon - OL Stadium: a relative new stadium with a capacity of over 58,000; it will be a special atmosphere in Lyon.
- Nantes - Stade de la Beaujoire: this stadium in Nantes has hosted some epic internationals in both rugby and football
- St Etienne - Stade Geoffroy-Guichard: a classic stadium in St Etienne that has already hosted matches for RWC 2007 and Euro 2016
- Toulouse - Stadium de Toulouse: travel to the pink city of Toulouse to see some amazing rugby action during RWC2023
Stade de France, Saint Denis, Paris
The spiritual home of the French national rugby and football teams. The Stade de France has already hosted the 1998 FIFA World Cup final as well as the final of Euro 2016.
It's located in the northern suburbs of Paris. It's less than 300 miles from Spaceships London, a journey of around 5 and a half hours.
Who is playing there?
Well, it could be any of the teams. It hosts the opening match between France and New Zealand, with South Africa, Australia, Ireland and Scotland all playing pool games there.
In addition, 2 of the quarter finals, both semi-finals, the third place play off and final are all to be played at the national stadium.
Where to stay
The Stade de France is in Paris, one of Europe's busiest cities, so it would be best to look for camp sites out of the city, then travel by the excellent rail network to get to the stadium.
Camping de Paris
Set in a 7 hectare park on the banks of the River Seine in the 16th arrondissement. The campsite has a shuttle to the Porte Maillot metro station a few minutes away. Campervans and motorhomes are welcome with flat pitches available.
On site features:
- Cafe/restaurant
- Food truck
- Shop
- Metro shuttle bus
- Bakery
- Laundry
- Free Wi-Fi
Camping Paris Est
10km south east of Paris on the banks of the River Marne lies Camping Paris Est. It is 100 metres from Parc du Tremblay, and has 10m x 5m motorhome pitches with electric hook ups.
On site features:
- Bar/restaurant
- Shop
- Free WiFi
- Playground & Table Tennis
- Motorhome waste facilities
- Laundry
- Bike rental
Camping Les Rives de Paris
Located in a peaceful woodland setting between the river Marne and canal, this island campsite is in Neuilly-sur-Marne to the east of Paris. It has some lovely features, including a shared vegetable garden, where campers can pick tomatoes and herbs, collect fresh eggs from the hen coop and cook a meal on the site's electric barbecues.
On site features:
- Playground
- Electric planchas (barbecues)
- Outdoor theatre for events
- Petanque/Boules pitch
- Beach Volleyball court
- Fitness area
- Veg garden & chicken coop
How to get to Stade de France
The best way to travel to the Stade de France from your campsite is by using the RER (Reseau Express Regional) or Regional Express Network. For Stade de France, depart at:
Line B: La Plaine Stade de France
Line D: Stade de France St Denis
The stadium is 45-60 minutes from the campsites by public transport.
What to eat and drink in Paris
Eat: baguettes or croissants
Drink: coffee or Champagne
Exploring in and around Paris
Saint Denis is in Paris, one of the world's most visited cities. So enjoy the cafés and bars as well as the city's attractions like the Eifel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre art gallery and Sacré-Coeur. A Bateaux Mouche boat trip along the river Seine is also recommended.
If you want a fun family day out, Disneyland Paris is just east of Paris, or for some history and architecture, the spectacular Palace of Versaille, former residence of King Louis XIV, is 19kms west of Paris, with the beautiful Chateau de Chantilly 40kms to the north.
A Spaceships motorhome touches down at the Chateau de Chantilly
The Spaceships Motorhomes sleep from 2-7, are fully self-contained with central heating, hot water, shower, toilet and fitted kitchen with oven, hob, sink and fridge/freezer on board. Check out our motorhomes here.
Stade Velodrome, Marseille
Set on the Mediterranean south coast, the Stade Velodrome (also known as the Orange Velodrome) is home to Ligue 1 football team Olympique de Marseille, as well as having hosted matches in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and 2007 RWC.
The 67,000 seater stadium is located in the south of the city on Boulevard Michelet.
Who is playing there?
England open their campaign with a tough match against Argentina on Saturday 9th September, with Scotland facing the current World Champions, South Africa the following day.
France and South Africa have pool games at Stade Velodrome, and the stadium also hosts 2 of the quarter finals on the 14th and 15th October.
Where to stay near Marseille
The port of Marseille is also a busy city, so look for campsites outside or on the edge of the city, with good transport links.
Camping du Garlaban
Set in a 7 hectare pine forest at the foot the 715m Garlaban, a hill that looks out over the Aubagne. Campervans and motorhomes are welcome but must be booked in advance. "Nature" and electric pitches available. The campsite is in area at risk of fire, so there are no cigarettes, charcoal barbecues, campfires or candles permitted on the site.
On site features:
- Bread & pastries for breakfast (to be reserved the day before)
- Grocery store with local products and camping products
- Snack/Bar on site or to take away
- Laundry area: washing machine (€5 per token) and dryer (€3 per token)
- Pizza (delivery on site by the pizza makers of Aubagne)
- Free WiFi zone around the reception and at the bar (not available in the accommodation, 4G everywhere)
- Freezer (for ice cream bars and bottles)
- On loan: hair dryer, iron & ironing board, board games, books, petanque balls, table tennis bats, football or volleyball balls
- For hire: refrigerated lockers, electric barbecues, inflatable kayaks, inflatable paddles (subject to availability)
Camping Les Cigales
In a spectacular cliff top location overlooking the Mediterranean, Camping Les Cigales is in the old fishing port of Cassis. As well as being within reach of Marseille, it is just a 15 minute walk to the nearby beaches. Motorhomes and campervans are permitted and pitches are marked by green hedges.
On site features:
- Hot showers
- Free WiFi
- Shop/grocery
- Licensed bar
- Restaurant
- Wood-fired pizza
- Games for children
Camping La Verdiere
This ecological, natural campsite in Septemes-les-Vallons about 23km north of Marseille has 66 shaded pitches with its own swimming pool, and is also close to the coast. Nearby are supermarkets, restaurants and beaches.
On site features:
- Swimming pool
- WiFi tokens available to buy from reception
- Laundry
- Snack bar
- Petanque pitch
- Playground
How to get to Stade Velodrome
The Stade Velodrome is about 3.5km south of the city centre and around 4.5km from the Saint Charles railway station. From there, use Metro line 2 and take the south bound train, getting off at either Rond-Point du Prado or Sainte Marguerite Dromel (both located at different sides of Stade Velodrome).
The stadium is 45-60 minutes from the campsites by public transport.
What to eat and drink in Marseille
Eat: Bouillabaisse, a classic Marseille fish stew or aioli, a garlic mayonnaise
Drink: Pastis, white Cassis or rosé
Exploring in and around Marseille
Lose yourself in Marseilles historic Vieux Port (Old Port) and take a boat trip to Chateau d'If, the prison made famous in the Alexandre Dumas novel, The Count of Monte Christo. Get out of the city at the Parc National des Calanques. Calanques means Coves, and the coves around Marseille became a 515 square km National Park in 2012.
Also, make sure you don't miss nature's very own spectacle, the amazing sunsets that drop into the Mediterranean each evening.
Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Lille
Lille is north of Paris close to border with Belgium and is just 185 miles from Spaceships London, a drive of under 4 hours.
The Stade Pierre-Mauray is a modern stadium with a retractable roof, like The Principality Stadium in Cardiff and has previously hosted Eurobasket 2015, UEFA 2016 and 3 Davis Cup finals.
Who is playing there?
5 RWC matches are being played there. England play 2 pool games, against Chile on Saturday 23rd September and Samoa on Saturday 7th October. In between those matches, on Saturday 30th September, Scotland also play a pool game against Romania.
Les Blues, France, play against Uruguay on Saturday 14th September.
Where to stay near Lille
There are several campsites close to Lille. One of our listed campsites is within a 15 minute drive of the stadium, with the other two still only about 20-30 minutes away.
Camping Grand Sart
A simple campsite set in the countryside, just 15kms from the centre of Lille, and only 7kms from the Stade Pierre-Mauroy. It has 77 pitches and facilities for motorhomes. You can get to Lille by road, bus, metro or train from a station 2km from the site. You can use the site for short stay motorhome parking.
On site features:
- Heated toilet block
- Motorhome parking & waste facilities
- Laundry room
- Free WiFi
- Petanque area
Greenie Camp
About 20 minutes from the stadium on the N21, Greenie Camp is in Weppes, west of Lille. There is a swimming pool 500m away and a golf course 1 km from the site. Barely more than a golf drive and a couple of long irons!
On site features:
- Grocery/shop
- Petanque area
- Farm animals
- e-bike hire available from the site
Le Camp des Roses
Also 20 minutes west of Lille is Le Camp des Roses, a quiet, wooded site close to some fishing ponds. It has 122 pitches on a 5 hectare site with an indoor heated swimming pool that is open until September.
On site features:
- Snack bar
- Covered swimming pool
- Petanque area
- Volleyball and badminton
- Laundry room
- WiFi available to buy
- Playground
How to get to Stade Pierre-Mauroy
You can get to the Decathalon Arena Pierre Mauroy Stadium using the Metro.
Line 1: depart at Cité Scientifique or 4 Cantons stops. Walk to the stadium.
Line 2: depart at Les Près then take a free shuttle bus to the stadium
What to eat and drink in Lille
Eat: Lille is influenced by Belgian and Flemmish cuisine, so try a hearty beef stew, La Carbonade Flamande, a beef stew with beer, Le Welsh, a ham and beer variation of welsh rarebit or Les Moules-Frittes, a classic Belgian dish of mussels and french fries.
Drink: Craft or Belgian style beer. Lille is the beer capital of France. Try La Capsule near the cathedral, rated as one of the best beer bars in France, with a selection of 28 beers from Lille and the surrounding area.
Exploring in and around Lille
Visit the Palais des Beaux Arts, the second largest museum in France filled with magnificent paintings, artefacts and more contemporary displays. Wander through the Grand Place in the old town, Vieux Lille, and also the bohemian Place aux Oignons.
The impressive Cathedral Notre Dame de la Treille with its marble facade must be seen, and you have to visit Meert, the city's famous chocolate shop that has been making and serving sweets and pastries since 1761.
A Spaceships Campervan is your transport and accommodation for the Rugby World Cup
The custom-designed Spaceships Campervans sleep from 2-4, have fridge or coolbox, water tank and camping gas stoves, with an awning to extend the outdoor space. Check out our campervans here.
Stade de Nice
Nice is in the south of France on the French Riviera. It's the capital of the Cote d'Azur, and situated between the Mediterranean and the Alps is one of the most beautiful cities in France. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it's also ideal for camping.
The Stade de Nice is home to Ligue 1 team OGC Nice and has hosted matches at Euro 2016 and the 2019 Women's World Cup. It has a capacity of early 36,000.
Who is playing there?
It will host 4 matches, with Wales, England and Scotland all playing pool games there. Wales play Portugal on Saturday 16th September, with England taking on Japan the following day. Like England, after playing their first pool game in neighbouring Marseille, Scotland play their second pool game against Tonga in Nice on Saturday 24th September.
Where to stay near Nice
There are loads of campsites around Nice, which is a major tourist area. We've picked a couple near to Nice and the Allianz-Riviera Stade de Nice, and one on the coast.
Le Val Fleuri
Set a few kilometres east of the Stade de Nice is Cagnes-sur-Mer, home to Le Val Fleuri. The campsite is beautifully landscaped over 2 hectares, with large shaded pitches for campervans and motorhomes. The reception is open between 9am - 7pm with a friendly team on hand to help.
On site features:
- Modern toilet block
- Swimming pool
- Bar restaurant with take-aways
- Free WiFi in bar, near reception and swimming pool
- Petanque court
- Ping-pong
- Playground for children
- Laundry facilities
Camping La Rivière
A relaxing family campsite spread over 1.2 hectares with 86 shaded pitches, all with electric hook-ups. 10 minutes from the beaches on the coast and 15 minutes from the centre of Nice.
On site features:
- Toilet block with hot showers
- Swimming pool
- Snack bar, restaurant & pizzeria
- Petanque court
- Table tennis & table football
- Billiards
- Playground for children
- Laundry facilities
L'Hippodrome camping
Located close to the coast in Villeneuve-Loubet, L'Hippodrome campsite has 47 pitches from 80 - 140 square metres in size, each with its own water tap, drainage outlet and optional electricity. Just 200m from the beach, but still only 15 minutes from the Allianz-Riviera Stade de Nice, the campsite makes a great base for your stay.
On site features:
- Heated swimming pool, jacuzzi & solarium
- Group sports sessions
- Playground
- Petanque court
- Table tennis
- Billiards
- WiFi throughout site
How to get to Stade de Nice
You can get to the Allianz-Riviera from the coast or centre of Nice using bus, train or tram.
By bus: take the bus line 95 from the Hôpital Saint-Roch bus stop in the city centre. Depart at Avenue Mimoun (at the foot of the south stairway). After the event, the return bus leaves from Avenue Simone Veil.
By rail: use the SNCF coastal railway or Chemin de Fer de Provence (Railways of Provence), which takes less than 10 minutes from Nice city centre to Saint-Isidore, a few minutes’ walk from the stadium.
By tram: Line 3 of the tramway also goes to the Stade de Nice from the city centre.
What to eat and drink in Nice
Eat: A classic Salade Niçoise is a salad that includes egg, tuna, olives and anchovies. Le Pan Bagnat is like a Salade Niçoise sandwich. Or try Pissaladiere, similar to a pizza but actually a pastry tart with onions, anchovies and olives. Also, Nice is the home of Ratatouille.
Drink: a chilled glass of Provençal rosé, or for something more chic, try a cocktail at one of the many of Nice's cocktail bars.
Exploring in and around Nice
Stroll along the magnificent 7 km Promenade des Anglais, the seafront overlooking the Baie des Anges, before getting lost in the narrow streets of Vieux Nice, the old town.
For art lovers, the Musée Matisse in Cimiez houses some of the great works of former Nice resident, Henri Matisse, while the MAMAC, Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, shows modern and pop art from the likes of Andy Warhol.
The Cours Saleya's Market is in a large pedestrian area of the Old Town, with flowers, antique and food stalls.
The spectacular Promenade des Anglais in Nice l deepakhere.mypixels - CC BY 2.0.
Stade de Bordeaux
Bordeaux is one of the most famous wine growing regions in the world and is located in the south west of France on the Garonne river.
With a capacity of 42,000, Stade de Bordeaux, also known as Matmut-Atlantique, is home to the city's football club and hosted 5 matches at Euro 2016. It was opened in 2015 and lies to the north of Bordeaux close to the European Route E5.
Who is playing there?
Ireland and Wales kick-off their RWC campaigns with their opening pool games against Romania and Fiji on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September respectively. Holders South Africa also face Romania on Sunday 17th September.
Stade de Bordeaux hosts 5 matches, with Samoa v Chile and Fiji v Georgia also taking place there.
Where to stay near Bordeaux
There is a campsite within walking distance of the stadium, an aire offering overnight motorhome parking and a family campsite south of Bordeaux that are all conveniently located for your stay near Matmut-Atlantique Stade de Bordeaux.
Le Village du Lac
This 13 hectare site in a natural lakeside setting is just 3.5km from the stadium. With 100 pitches for campervans and motorhomes, it is the ideal site if you are watching a match at the Stade de Bordeaux. It has great facilities and is just 8km from Bordeaux city centre.
On site features:
- Bar, snack bar & restaurant
- Pizzeria
- Swimming pools
- Shop & bakery
- WiFi throughout the site
- Bike rental
- Petanque court
- Table tennis
- Playground
Le Grain Gironde
In France, aires have less facilities than campsites and are designed for basic overnight stops. Le Grain Gironde has 27 shaded pitches, but you must have toilet facilities in your motorhome to stay - so not suitable for the Spaceships Voyager campervan or Camper Car.
There is a shared cooking area with barbecue and outdoor picnic tables.
On site features:
- Motorhome emptying point
- Water
- Electric hook-ups
- WiFi throughout the site
- Outdoor dish washing area
Camping Beau Soliel
A quiet, wooded site with 31 flat pitches in Gradignan south of Bordeaux. Please note that this site will not accept bookings for September and the RWC until June, and there is a minimum 3 night booking in September.
On site features:
- Toilet & shower block
- Waste emptying points
- Electric hook-ups
- Laundry room with washing machine & dryer
- WiFi throughout the site
- E-bike hire (please book in advance)
How to get to Stade de Bordeaux
The stadium is located north of the city just off the A630 ring road. Exit at junctions 4, 4a or 4b towards Parc des Expositions / Bx Lac. There is plenty of parking space near the stadium.
By tram: Take Tram C running alongside the Garonne river and depart at Parc des Expositions, the last stop. Or, take Tram B to its last stop, Berges de la Garonne, and the stadium is a 30 minute walk away.
What to eat and drink in Bordeaux
Eat: Bordeaux is just 30 miles from the Atlantic coast, so try Arcachon Bay oysters. A classic L'entrecôte Bordelaise is a steak cooked on vine shoots with a red wine, bone marrow, shallot and garlic sauce. Canalés de Bordeaux is the city's favourite pastry, a little bit like a custard caramel with vanilla and rum. Bordeaux is the home of Roquefort, one of the world's best loved blue cheeses.
Drink: Wine. Bordeaux is renowned for its prestigious reds like St Emilion and Haut-Médoc, but also makes sweet wines like Sauternes.
Exploring in and around Bordeaux
Bordeaux is both historic and beautiful and there are a couple of "must-see" city landmarks. The Mirroir d'Eau (Water Mirror) has the largest reflecting pool in the world and is next to the Place de la Bourse, a large square with fountains.
You should also see the Cité du Vins, a contemporary building on the edge of the river. It's a celebration of wine - a museum and an exhibition centre for the region's wine industry.
Finally, if you have time, take in the beautiful beaches of Arcachon, great for surfing and home to delicious oysters and the highest sand dune in Europe - at a staggering 350 feet high. Have motorhome - will travel!
Your motorhome is fully self-contained with everything you need to live on the road
OL Stadium, Lyon
Lyons is a major city 466km south east of Paris and 314km north of Marseille, situated close to the Swiss border in between the River Rhone and River Soane.
The OL Stadium, also known as the Groupama Stadium for sponsorship purposes, is home to Ligue 1 team Olympique Lyonaise, or Lyon, and is situated in the suburbs to the west of the city centre. The stadium was opened in 2016, and hosted matches at Euro 2016. With a capacity of over 58,000, it will be a special atmosphere in Lyon.
Who is playing there?
The first match at the OL Stadium will be Wales v Australia on Sunday 24th September. New Zealand also play 2 pool games there, taking on Italy on 29th September and Uruguay on 5th October. The following day France play Italy at The OL Stadium.
The other pool game played there is Uruguay v Namibia on 27th September.
Where to stay near Lyon
There is a campsite on the edge of Lyon, with another North of the Rhone within 20km of Lyon on the banks of the River Soane. A third site is still within 30 minutes of the stadium.
Camping de Lyon
A 6 hectare park at the gates of Lyon on the north western edge of the city. It has 239 shaded and green pitches with excellent facilities.
On site features:
- Heated swimming pool
- Bar with homemade pizzas
- Small shop with bread & croissants to order
- Renovated shower block
- Petanque
- Playground
Camping de l'Ecluse
Just 20 minutes from the centre of Lyon on the banks of the River Soane, this is actually closer to the OL Stadium than Camping de Lyon. This family run site is spread over 3.5 hectares. With fishing with walking and cycling along the river bank, it has partially shaded pitches for motorhomes.
On site features:
- Pool and smaller children's pool
- Sports ground (football & volleyball)
- Table Tennis & badminton
- Petanque
- Playground
- Games room & table football
- WiFi available
Camping des Barolles
Also 20 minutes from the centre of Lyon with good access to public transport links. You can buy bus and metro tickets from reception. The campsite has 45 pitches and is open all the year round, with free WiFi for guests.
On site features:
- New shower block
- Bar
- Shop
- Laundry
- Local bread available to order
- Free WiFi
How to get to the OL Stadium, Lyon
The OL Stadium (or Groupama Stadium) is 10km east of the City in Décines.
By tram: Take Line 3 from Gare de la Part-Dieu and a special service brings you to the stadium on match days.
You can also take a shuttle from the train station, but the tram service is the most convenient.
What to eat and drink in Lyon
Eat: Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, which tells you just how good the food is! It was home to the chef Paul Bocuse, credited with inventing nouvelle cuisine and twice voted chef of the century.
Try quennelles, a savoury creamy baked dumpling dish, sometimes stuffed with fish - often pike. Lyonnais potatoes are sliced and fried gently in butter and parsley, sometimes with bacon and onions. A Salade Lyonnaise has lettuce leaves, bacon lardons, croutons and poached eggs, and for sweet lovers, the Tarte aux Pralines is a classic dessert from Lyon, easily recognizable by its pink colour from the pink sugar coated caramelised almonds on the top.
Drink: Lyon is famous for Cotes du Rhone red wine, and is also close to Beaujolais, a lighter red. Lyon is a cosmopolitan city, and you can also enjoy beer (even from English and Irish pubs), cocktails and coffee.
Exploring in and around Lyon
Lyon is France's third largest city, so there is plenty to do. Stroll through Vieux Lyon, the old town and visit some of the city's Bouchons, Lyon's bistro cafés.
The Musée des Beaux-Artes de Lyon displays works from Picasso, Van Gogh, Renoir and Cezanne amongst others and is located in a former Benedictine convent. From fine art to cinema, visit the Musée Lumière, the birth of cinema and family home of the Lumière brothers who developed moving pictures in 1895.
Get out of the city and head for the Parc de la Tete D'Or. There is a lake with pedalos and a Zoo, home to over 400 species including the rare Barbary Lion.
Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes
Nantes also lies around 50 kms from the Atlantic coast, but is around 350 kms north of Bordeaux and 380kms south west of Paris. Nantes was named as the European Green Capital in 2013 in recognition for its commitment to eco-responsibility, and all its citizens live within 300m of one of the city's 100 parks or gardens.
The sweeping Stade de la Beaujoire has hosted some epic internationals in both rugby and football, seeing Fiji beat Wales in a 38-34 thriller in RWC 2007, as well as dramatic 3-2 victory for Brazil over Denmark in the quarter finals of the FIFA 98 World Cup. Home to Ligue 1 FC Nantes, the Stade de la Beaujoire will be hoping for more entertaining matches for its 35,500 capacity crowds.
Who is playing there?
There are 4 matches at the Stade de la Beaujoire, with Ireland playing their second pool game against Tonga on Saturday 16th September, and Wales taking on Georgia on Saturday 7th October.
Both the other two matches feature Argentina, with Los Pumas playing Chile on Saturday 30th September and Japan on Sunday 8th October.
Where to stay near Nantes
There are a couple of campsites in Nantes, both within 10km of the Stade de la Beaujoire. Slightly further afield 25 km north of Nantes is our third recommended campsite.
Nantes Camping
This site is in the city, but surrounded by nature. It has fantastic amenities, including bike hire that would be handy for the 6.5km journey to the stadium. It also boasts 3 levels of pitches for campervans and motorhomes: grass pitch, hard standing or their premium pitch that includes sun loungers and an equipped shed! All have water, electricity and WiFi. It has received the Green Key award for sustainable tourism.
On site features:
- Pool and water park
- Restaurant with outdoor seating
- Laundry area
- WiFi throughout the site
- Bike rental
Camping Belle Rivière
Just 10km from Nantes and the Stade de la Beaujoire, Camping Belle Rivière has 110 pitches over 4 hectares on the banks of the river Loire. It is beautifully landscaped with flowers all over the site.
On site features:
- Shop
- Bar with home brewed beer
- Laundry area
- WiFi close to bar/reception
- Playground
- Petanque
- Volleyball
- Table football
Camping La Pindière
Camping La Pindière lies 25km north of Nantes less than 30 minutes from the stadium. It is set over 3 hectares in a wooded setting, with grassy pitches separated by hedges.
On site features:
- Swimming Pool
- Motorhome service area
- Shower block
- Barbecue rental
- Laundry room
How to get to Stade de la Beaujoire, Nantes
The stadium is located 6km north east of the city in the Nantes Erdre district. You can reach the stadium by bus, tram or even by bike or on foot from one of our recommended campsites! There are about 3,000 parking spaces at the stadium, so travel by public transport is the best option.
By bus: from the centre of Nantes, take the C1 or 80 and depart at Ranzay, about 5 minutes from the stadium. Alternatively, take the C6 or 75, depart at batignolles for a similar short walk to the stadium.
By tram: Take Line 1 (Green) and depart at either Beaujoire or Ranzay for a 5 minute walk to the Stade de la Beaujoire.
What to eat and drink in Nantes
Eat: Curé Nantais is a smoky spicy cows milk cheese local to the region. Sweet lovers should also try Gateaux Nantais, a local cake made with ground almonds and rum. It's similar to a rum infused Bakewell Tart in the UK.
Drink: Muscadet is produced in the Loire valley near Nantes and is one of the worlds great white wines. Look for Muscadet Sèvre et Maine, and the words "sur lie" on the label. This means the wine has been aged on its lees.
Exploring in and around Nantes
As with so many of the cities of France, there is a long and fascinating history in Nantes. For history enthusiasts, the Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the dukes of Brittany) is a great way to learn about the history of the area. It has a central location close to the station, and its 7 interconnecting towers and Castle is home to a museum with interactive displays and artefacts.
For an attraction with a difference, see The Giant Elephant at Les Machines de L'Ile, the machines of the Island of Nantes. It's 21m long, 12m high and 8m wide made of over 48 tonnes of steel and wood, and you can climb aboard as it lumbers around the site. Inspired by the work of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci, along with the industrial history of Nantes, it is located on Beaulieu Island in the centre of Nantes.
The Giant Elephant at Les Machines de L'Ile l Ruth and Dave - CC BY 2.0.
Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, St Etienne
St Etienne is in the eastern central region of France, just 60km south west of Lyon. It is gradually changing its old industrial and mining centre heritage to reinvent itself as a design capital for the 21st century.
To the north of the city, with its green seating, the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard is the home of AS St Etienne, who famously play in green and won a record 10 Ligue 1 titles. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, it is the oldest stadium in RWC and has already hosted matches for RWC 2007 and Euro 2016.
Who is playing there?
4 matches will be played at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. Italy open their campaign against Namibia on September 9th, and Australia play 2 of their pool matches in St Etienne against Fiji and Portugal on Sunday 17th September and 1st October respectively.
The other game features 2 of England's opponents in pool D, with Argentina taking on Samoa on Friday 22nd September.
Where to stay near St Etienne
There are a number of campsites around St Etienne, and we've chosen 3 within half an hour of the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. They're all set in beautiful surroundings enjoying the Loire gorges.
Camping Paradis La Val de Coise
Just 20 minutes north of the stadium, Paradis La Val de Coise is a 4 star campsite in Saint Galmier. Enjoy the landscape of the Loire valley when you stay here at the foot of the Badoit water source. There are 91 pitches for motorhomes or campervans, between 80 and 100 square metres in area, shaded or partially shaded.
On site features:
- Pool and paddling pool
- Grocery/store
- Sports ground (football & volleyball)
- Table Tennis
- Petanque
- Table football
- Laundry area
- Paid WiFi
- Bike rental
Camping des Gorges de la Loire
Around 30km and 30 minutes from St Etienne, this site is located 420m above sea level at the Gorges de la Loire. Close to the river and Aurec-sur-Loire, it has 50 pitches with electric hook up and drinking water. It is well situated to enjoy kayaking and hiking around the area.
On site features:
- 3 toilet blocks with laundry facilities
- Small shop
- Snack bar (Friday - Sunday)
- Table Tennis
- Petanque
- Playground
- Free WiFi at reception & snack bar
Camping des Gorges de la Loire
Camping de la Belle Etiole
Also about 30 minutes west of St Etienne, the Camping de la Belle Etoile has 54 pitches in a landscaped site. It is a family run site in Saint-Bonnet le Chateau and features a wide range of facilities.
On site features:
- Swimming & paddling pool
- Shop
- Snack bar - La Guinguette
- Table Tennis
- Tennis
- Petanque
- Playground
- Evening entertainment
- Free WiFi at reception & snack bar
How to get to Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, St Etienne
Stade Geoffroy-Guichard is 2km north of the railway station and the centre of St Etienne. It is about 30 minutes walk from the city centre.
By bus: From Chateauxcreux railway station St Etienne, take bus 9 in the direction of Montreynaud. Get off at Le Marais, from where it is a short walk to the stadium.
By tram: Take T1 or T2 north from the city centre (Place Jean Jaurès). Depart at stop G, Guichard. From there it is a 5 to 10-minute walk to the stadium.
What to eat and drink in St Etienne
Eat: Cheese. There are a variety of local cheeses including Fourne de Montbrison, a blue cheese and and Fromager de Affinois, a soft cheese similar to brie made from cows milk.
Drink: St Etienne brews its own lager of the same name, regarded as one of the finest lagers in France. The beer has been brewed since the early 19th century and is a crisp, refreshing brew made using local spring water and the finest natural ingredients.
Exploring in and around St Etienne
St Etienne is famous for its football team, Les Verts (the Greens) and you can visit the Musée de Verts at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. It contains trophies, memorabilia and the history of one of France's most famous teams.
The Cité du Design showcases the city's design district with striking colours and lines. Climb the 32 foot tower for views over the city.
The Musée de la Mines is St Etienne's mining museum, set in an old mine that was operational until 1973. Learn more about the history of mining in the area, and descend into a reconstructed miners' tunnel, to experience what the conditions were really like.
Stadium de Toulouse
Toulouse, known as La Ville Rose (the Pink City) because of the way the light shines off its local pink coloured stone, is in between Bordeaux and Marseille in the south western corner of France. It is the 4th largest city in France, located on the River Garonne and is rugby mad! Toulouse is arguably the most successful rugby team in Europe, having won the Heineken Cup a record 5 times.
The Stadium is in between two stretches of the Garonne near the centre of Toulouse.
Who is playing there?
Toulouse will host 5 matches, with New Zealand playing Namibia on Friday 15th September. Japan and Portugal each play twice at the Stadium de Toulouse, with Chile, Georgia, Samoa and Fiji also playing pool matches there.
Where to stay near Toulouse
Here are 3 campsite all within 30km and 30 minutes of the Stadium de Toulouse.
Camping de la Bouriette
Just 10 minutes from the Stadium de Toulouse, this simple campsite is a good base for matches in Lyon A water point, waste drainage and electric hook-ups are available for motorhomes and campervans.
On site features:
- Washroom
- Playground
- Laundry
- WiFi
Camping Les Violettes
20 minutes south of the stadium, this well-appointed, tree lined campsite is just 800m from the Canal du Midi. Very much a campsite for families, there are lots of activities and things to do for the kids.
On site features:
- Swimming pool with pool deck
- Playground with slides
- Laundry room & dryer
- Shop
- Breakfast bread & croissant to order
- TV & games room
- Courts for football, tennis & basketball
- Paid WiFi
Le Chemin Verts Camping
A small, quiet, eco-responsible campsite with 40 pitches that is open all the year round. The site uses solar power to provide electricity to heat water and is an LPO refuge (bird protection). It's 25km and 30 minutes from the Stadium de Toulouse on the south western edge of Toulouse.
On site features:
- Heated shower block
- Shaded pitches
- Laundry room
- Library
- Communal fridge & microwave
- WiFi
How to get to Stadium de Toulouse
The Stadium de Toulouse is around 3km from the city centre and 4km from the central train station.
By Metro: take the yellow line and depart at either Empalot and St Michel. The stadium is then a 15 minute walk.
By Bus: from the centre of Toulouse (Pont Neuf) catch bus 12 going to Basso Cambo. Depart at Stadium Est or stadium Ouest, right outside the stadium.
Also, on matchdays free shuttle buses run from train and metro station (red line) Arenes, located in the east of the city.
What to eat and drink in Toulouse
Eat: Toulouse is renowned for its hearty food. Cassoulet is the world famous slow cooked stew of white beans, duck and pork. Also often included in Cassoulet in Toulouse is La Saucisse de Toulouse (toulouse sausage). Not for the faint hearted, Foie Gras d'Oie is a Toulouse pate made from fattened goose liver.
Drink: Red wine from the Languedoc-Rouliion region. look out for Corbières and Fitou, two big hearty reds. You'll also see pastis, an aniseed based aperitif usually drank with water before a meal.
Exploring in and around Toulouse
Visit Place du Capitole, the heart of Toulouse and at its city centre. You can also stroll along the bank of the Garonne river at La Daurade, a promenade along the river. You should also see Pont Neuf, translated as "New Bridge", which is ironic since it is in fact the city's oldest bridge being built in the 16th century. Well, it was new then...
The headquarters of the European Airbus, Toulouse is famous for space and aviation. Visit the Cité de L'Espace, a theme park and museum inspired by space travel. Enter a replica of the Mir space station and see a life size replica of the Ariane 5 rocket.
It's amazing, but you won't see a Spaceship quite like yours in there!
As with all the attractions, booking in advance is advisable.
Pont Neuf as evening falls l maxime.bober - CC BY 2.0.
As well as as watching the best teams in the world, the Rugby World Cup gives you the opportunity to enjoy an amazing road trip through France.
Whether you choose a custom-designed Spaceships campervan, or one of our self-contained motorhomes, you'll be on board with a winning team at the Rugby World Cup!
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