Richard and I have a particular sensitivity to relationships with other people, support and transmission. So it was natural for us to sign up for the facilitated immersion programme. The aim of this scheme is to welcome people who want to embark on a project to take over a campsite, to confront them with the realities of the field, to share and exchange ideas and to provide them with information to help them make their decision. After Rudy in 2024, we welcomed Martine in May 2025.
Martine, why this immersion?
The France Travail advisor told me about it, which is ideal for retraining and discovering a new profession. I’ve been teaching French for over thirty years in France and abroad, and it became clear that I wanted to do something else with my partner.
Why camping?
The open-air hotel business quickly became the obvious choice: being outdoors, varied activities, close relationships and peace and quiet.
Why this campsite?
Their site appealed to me and it matched my attractive choices: privileged spaces in the middle of nature, an appropriate size.
How did the immersion go?
It lived up to its name. Lucile and Richard guided me in a very sympathetic way. It was really educational, and I learnt the basics of accounting through real-life exercises. I’m buying my own campsite tomorrow: what do I need to prepare in advance? How much does it cost? And I’ve also got my hands dirty, cleaning, mowing and collecting the cuttings from the green spaces, a bit of communication, a bit of catering, a bit of service – in short, a bit of everything, and that was the aim of this period.
How did it turn out?
It confirmed my desire to manage a campsite. Under what conditions? My tutors gave me plenty of food for thought. I’ve become aware of the reality of this business, of the market, and of how far I still have to go.
