France 🇫🇷

Our first stop in mainland Europe. A brief overnight stay in Calais before beginning our 2026 campervan adventure through Europe.

France 🇫🇷
Photo by Alex / Unsplash

France was our gateway to mainland Europe on our 2026 adventure in Matilda. After arriving in Calais from Dover, we spent our first night on French soil before continuing into Belgium the following morning.

Although our time in France was brief, it provided a relaxed and stress-free start to the trip. It gave us a chance to settle into life on the road, organise ourselves after the crossing and prepare for the weeks ahead.

Route Through France

Day 1

Dover → Calais

Overnight stop near Calais before continuing into Belgium the following day.

Campsites & Stopovers

Camping-Car Park Calais

A practical overnight stop close to the ferry port and an ideal introduction to motorhome travel in mainland Europe.

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Practical Notes

  • Convenient overnight stop close to the port.
  • Easy onward journey into Belgium.
  • Ideal for settling into the rhythm of a longer European adventure.