Naturism across France...
Explore naturism across France with our naturist campsites, La Genèse and Le Clapotis. Each of these campsites aligns with the same naturist values of SOCNAT, thus guaranteeing you a stay where respect for nature and conviviality are key…
Our Partner Campsites campings-partenaires (Partner Campsites) The SOCNAT Story
Founded on July 23, 1950, in Gironde on a 23-hectare plot with direct access to the ocean, under the impetus of a couple who were fervent defenders of Living Nude, Albert & Christiane Lecocq, the Centre Hélio Marin de Montalivet can boast of being the first naturist holiday village created in Europe. Firm believers in the benefits of sunbathing in the simplest attire, as well as physical activity in the open air—having experienced it themselves—these early naturists quickly felt the need to share their visionary lifestyle with the greatest number of people.
Sensing the popular and historical success of this movement before anyone else, and aspiring to a life in total harmony with nature, the Lecocqs quickly realized the importance of organizing and designing spaces intended to welcome all those aspiring to the nudist philosophy.
It was in 1954, after 4 years of associative management, that Albert decided to create an organization assigned to the management and operation of naturist holiday centers: SOCNAT was born.
The Société de Financement des Centres de Nature (Nature Centers Financing Company) took over the complete management of CHM in 1963. Subsequently, the offer evolved with the creation of a second naturist campsite, Le Domaine de La Genèse, located in Méjannes-le-Clap in the Gard region, followed by the acquisition of the naturist campsite Le Clapotis in La Palme, Aude, in 2014.
The CHM - Gironde (33)
At the heart of a preserved nature in southwestern France lies a place where the values of naturism come to life, where the authenticity of the place compels humility. This place is the Centre Hélio Marin de Montalivet, or the “CHM MONTA,” a true pioneer of international naturism since 1950. It is a village composed of about twenty districts, with over 3,000 pitches, nestled in 220 hectares of wild pine forest. There is direct access to the ocean: 2 km of naturist beach including 2 supervised swimming areas. On site, 27 businesses (restaurants, shops, services) allow everyone to live entirely within the resort. An aquatic park with a paddling pool, as well as an indoor swimming pool, also allow guests to enjoy the benefits of swimming. Sport and physical well-being are ever-present: activities start in April and finish at All Saints’ Day. Numerous rentals are available, ranging from bungalows to tents, not to mention camping and motorhome pitches.
– Natural Setting: Located at the heart of a vast 200-hectare pine forest, the campsite is integrated into a generous and preserved natural environment.
– Proximity: It has direct access to a large naturist beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
– Atmosphere: It is a very lively and convivial place, with a village atmosphere that encourages meetings and sharing, welcoming multiple generations.
– Eco-responsibility: The values of respect for the environment are central, due to its immersion in a classified pine forest.
– Services: The range of services is exceptionally comprehensive, worthy of a large village: supermarket, restaurants, bars, shops, etc.
– Accommodation: It offers a wide range of options, from traditional camping pitches to chalets and mobile homes.
– Entertainment: The entertainment is numerous and varied, with an aquatic park, shows, concerts, dance evenings, and a rich cultural program.
– Activities: The range of activities is very diverse: water sports, sports activities, cultural activities, and an artisanal village.
– Reputation: It has been an institution of international naturism since 1950, attracting visitors from all over the world. Its reputation is linked to its comprehensive offering.
La Genèse - Gard (30)
Nestled in the heart of the Gard region, near the Cèze river, the La Genèse campsite is a true haven of peace and quiet. In a preserved and green environment, it offers an authentic holiday experience for the whole family. In addition to its shaded pitches, the campsite offers many activities and quality services for a tranquil retreat. It is the perfect place for nature lovers and those seeking calm.
– Natural Setting: The campsite is nestled in an exceptional riverfront site, at the heart of the Gorges de la Cèze, in the Cévennes.
– Proximity: Direct access to the Cèze river is the main asset, offering swimming, canoeing, and freshwater water activities.
– Atmosphere: The atmosphere is family-friendly and calm, favoring a return to basics and disconnection. Terraces and secluded pitches offer great privacy.
– Eco-responsibility: The protection of this classified Natura 2000 natural site is a priority, which attracts clientele sensitive to the environment.
– Services: Essential services are present, such as a restaurant, bar, and a grocery store, while remaining on a human scale.
– Accommodation: It offers traditional pitches, as well as mobile homes and chalets, to adapt to different needs.
– Entertainment: Entertainment is softer than at the CHM, with themed evenings, outdoor film screenings, and cultural activities.
– Activities: Activities are focused on nature: hiking, canoeing, as well as sports tournaments and yoga classes.
– Reputation: The campsite is renowned for its magnificent setting and its tranquillity, ideal for recharging in the heart of nature.
Le Clapotis - Aude (11)
Located on the edge of the Leucate lagoon (étang de Leucate), the Le Clapotis campsite is ideally placed for water sports and swimming enthusiasts. This family naturist campsite is just a few steps from the Mediterranean Sea and fine sandy beaches. Its warm atmosphere and numerous facilities make it a perfect holiday spot to combine relaxation, sun, and sports activities. It is the ideal choice for those who want to fully enjoy the Mediterranean coast.
– Natural Setting: It is located in the Aude department, on the edge of the La Palme lagoon, in a preserved environment.
– Proximity: The campsite has direct access to the lagoon, a renowned spot for board sports. The Mediterranean Sea and its beaches are also nearby.
– Atmosphere: It is a place that attracts a clientele that is both family-oriented and sporty, with an atmosphere that is both relaxed and active.
– Eco-responsibility: The focus is on preserving the ecosystem of the lagoon and the surrounding beaches, which are highly appreciated by naturists.
– Services: The campsite offers basic services (restaurant, bar, grocery store) and a well-being area for relaxation.
– Accommodation: It offers camping pitches and rentals, particularly chalets, with well-sized pitches.
– Entertainment: Entertainment is geared towards leisure and water activities, suitable for a family and sports clientele.
– Activities: Its main asset is the practice of kitesurfing and windsurfing thanks to the constant winds from the lagoon. Other activities such as beach volleyball and tennis are also offered.
– Reputation: It is recognized as the go-to place for naturists who love water sports.