Where is Camping Paradis filmed?
Since its first broadcast on TF1 in 2006, the “Camping Paradis” series has captivated a wide audience. Starring Laurent Ournac as Tom Delormes, it immerses viewers in the friendly atmosphere of a vacation campsite. Each episode combines humor, emotion and typical summer situations.
There’s one question fans often ask: where is the actual filming location for Camping Paradis ? Contrary to what you might think, it’s not a campsite open to the public like any other, but a set created at a very specific location on the Mediterranean coast.
The history and successof the Camping Paradis series
“Camping Paradis” was an instant hit, thanks to its light-hearted tone and summery universe. Viewers are introduced to endearing characters and family stories that evoke the good cheer of the vacations. Each episode tells a new storyline involving holidaymakers who are just passing through.
This success is also due to the series’ ability to transport viewers to a warm, sunny setting. From the very first minutes, it’s like being on vacation. The bright colors, the deckchairs, the tents and the laughter all contribute to this feeling. And yet, behind this seemingly authentic universe lies a meticulous directorial effort.
Where is the actual filming location?
Contrary to popular belief, “Camping Paradis” is not a real establishment. The series is set in the south of France, in Martigues, Bouches-du-Rhône. To be more precise, the cameras set up near the beach of Sainte-Croix, a coastal area with remarkable scenery.
This is where the main set for the series was built. The colorful cottages, the campsite reception, the swimming pool and even the various social areas are actually dummy installations designed to bring Tom and his team’s world to life. These sets have no real function and are not used by campers.
Martigues
: the series’ life-size set
Martigues is often nicknamed the“Venice of Provence” for its canals and Mediterranean charm. Situated between Marseille and the Côte Bleue, the town offers a bright and picturesque environment. It is precisely for this reason that the producers of the series chose this unique site as their setting.
The aerial views and wide shots filmed around Martigues highlight an exceptional coastline. The contrast between the Mediterranean Sea, the surrounding hills and the series’ colorful buildings helps to reinforce thesummer atmosphere.
For the locals, filming has brought a new visibility to their town. Even if the campsite doesn’t actually exist, Martigues has become an inseparable part of theseries’ universe. Each episode adds a new touch of authenticity to this Provencal seaside resort.
Sainte-Croix beach, an idyllic filming location
Sainte-Croix beach is the most representative natural feature of the shoot. Located on the Martigues coastline, it is renowned for its fine sand and turquoise waters. This protected environment is a major asset for the series, as it perfectly embodies the spirit of seaside vacations.
The small chapel of Sainte-Croix, nestling above the beach, further enhances the charm of the location. When the camera pans the horizon, the viewer immediately perceives this unique setting, which plays a key role in thevisual identity of “Camping Paradis”.
Beach scenes shot in this natural setting add a touch of authenticity. Without this Mediterranean landscape, the mood of the series would not be as convincing. It’s this ideal marriage of constructed set and real environment that gives the program its unmistakable aesthetic.
Can we visit the real Camping Paradis?
This is one of the big questions asked by fans. Many would like to book a stay, meet the characters or even put down their suitcases at the mythical campsite. However, Camping Paradis is not a traditional tourist establishment. This means that holidaymakers can ‘t stay there as they would in a traditional campsite.
However, there is some good news for regular fans of the series: it is possible to visit the Camping Paradis sets during the summer. These tours are organized by the Martigues Tourist Office and offer a unique experience. Visitors can discover thekey areas where filming took place: the reception area, the colorful chalets, the swimming pool and some of the emblematic areas seen in the episodes.
Please note that these tours are by reservation only and only during the summer months. They provide a behind-the-scenes look at how fiction is brought to life through the work of staging.
Why was this location chosen for the series?
The choice of Martigues and Sainte-Croix beach as the location for Camping Paradis was no accident. The producers were looking for a sunny, picturesque and relatively unspoilt location, far from the big, overcrowded seaside resorts. Martigues offered the perfect balance: the beauty of Provence, proximity to Marseille, and infrastructures suited to film crews.
What’s more, the region enjoys a favorable Mediterranean climate. The sunny days ensure the visual regularity essential for a series shot on location. It was therefore logical to choose this location as the permanent setting for the adventures of Tom and his team.
Camping Paradis shooting location in brief
Camping Paradis is not shot on a tourist campsite, but in Martigues, near Sainte-Croix beach. This blend of landscaped settings and natural Mediterranean environment forges the unique charm of the series. Good news for fans: every summer, it’s possible to visit the sets with the Martigues Tourist Office and take a behind-the-scenes look at the filming.
Even if you can’t stay there, discovering the beach, the landscapes and the atmosphere allows you to immerse yourself in thesummer spirit that has made the series such a success. Behind each episode, the whole of Provence is expressed, and Martigues is its beating heart.