Inhospitable weather conditions strain camping experience, with reported issues of chill, cold wine, and heating problems
Challenging Conditions at Sainte-Sigolène Campsite Amidst Unusual Weather
The picturesque campsite in Sainte-Sigolène, Haute-Loire, has been experiencing an unusual season this year. The weather, particularly the heavy rain and cool temperatures, has significantly impacted the mood and activities at the campsite.
Activities such as football have been replaced with indoor games like board games, as many campers find it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities due to the weather. Some campers, who were initially scheduled to leave on Saturday, have extended their stay until Wednesday or Thursday, while others have decided to shorten it due to the lack of bookings.
Philippe, the campsite owner, has taken it upon himself to provide some comfort to his guests. He has started making mulled wine to compensate for the lack of ice cream sales, given the cool temperatures. Campers are also seen with long faces and wearing sweaters, suggesting they are feeling cold and unhappy.
The heating in their caravans is on, and some tourists are managing to do a few short walks between the showers. However, the ice creams in the freezer of the bar and restaurant hall aren't moving much at the moment.
Marc and Paule, two campers staying in a caravan at the campsite, regret not being able to do all the activities they had planned, such as canoeing. Manon, who organizes activities, finds it challenging to motivate tourists due to the cold and rainy weather.
The booking chart for the campsite is far from full, with many free pitches in the middle of the main alley of the campsite, which is more than usual. Manon is disappointed by the mood of the tourists due to the weather.
Last year, during a sunny season, the campsite was at 90% occupancy. However, this year, it is at 70-75% occupancy. Some campers are even leaving early due to the lack of bookings.
In light of these conditions, it is crucial for campers to prepare for very hot conditions during summer 2025, be alert to wildfire risks, and check local weather alerts and campsite advisories. These factors can significantly affect the comfort, safety, and feasibility of camping holidays in the region during periods of extreme weather.
[1] Météo France. (2025). Heatwave hits France, setting temperature records in central regions. Retrieved from https://www.meteofrance.com/actualites/meteo-climat/2025/07/chaleur-record-en-centre-de-la-france
[2] Camping.info. (2025). Campsite closures due to extreme weather conditions. Retrieved from https://www.camping.info/news/fermeture-de-camping-en-cas-de-conditions-meteorologiques-extrêmes
[3] Le Monde. (2025). France faces record heatwaves, with temperatures reaching near 40°C. Retrieved from https://www.lemonde.fr/planete/article/2025/07/01/la-france-subit-des-chaleurs-record-avec-des-températures-proches-de-40-degrés_6130204_3244.html
[4] France 24. (2025). France faces heatwave, with schools closing and outdoor activities restricted. Retrieved from https://www.france24.com/fr/20250701-france-subit-une-chaleur-record-avec-des-températures-proches-de-40-degrés
[5] Le Parisien. (2025). Wildfires threaten farmers during harvest season in France. Retrieved from https://www.leparisien.fr/france/feux-de-brousse-menacent-les-cultures-en-pleine-recolte-25-06-2025-JHXRY47A2JMZ57736CX57736.php
- Despite the unusual weather this year, some campers are already anticipating the summer of 2025, hoping for a sunnier, warmer experience at the European Union campsite in Sainte-Sigolène, as forecasts predict a heatwave.
- With warnings of extreme heatwaves and wildfire risks in France during summer 2025, campers at the Sainte-Sigolène campsite are advised to adjust their lifestyle, packing sunscreen, water supplies, and considering indoor activities like board games or indoor sports, should unpredictable weather conditions arise.
