Van de Matthieu

More spacious than modern vans, just as well equipped and comfortable, with extra style.
Since 2015, L’île aux Combis has been offering several VW camper vans departing from the island of Oléron. These vintage camper vans come with full camping equipment originally installed by Westfalia for autonomous living for 4 to 5 people.

MY EXPERIENCE FOR TOP HOLIDAYS
Benefit from the reliability of a passionate professional renter who has owned VW camper vans for over 20 years. I have been bivouacking on the island of Oléron in a VW camper van for more than 20 years and I share my tips and best spots to help you enjoy a successful holiday on the island and in the surrounding area. You will find great places to park and sleep in nature or by the water without having to go to a campsite every day.

AUTHENTIC VW CAMPER VANS WITH AN OPTIMIZED INTERIOR
These authentic Westy models are maximally optimized, and their layout has inspired many modern camper vans. The VW T3 and T25 are even more spacious than the T4, T5, T6, and other recent vans (up to 45 cm more interior space) thanks to the rear engine specific to VW camper vans. You will find everything needed for independent holidays: fridge, gas stove, sink, shower, shower cabin, 5 beds, etc.

TRY WINTER IN A VW CAMPER VAN – COMFORT ALL YEAR ROUND
Dare to travel in winter: several VW camper vans are equipped with heating, hot water, and even a projector to watch a movie in the evening.

GETTING STARTED WITH THE VW CAMPER VAN – EASY TO DRIVE
The T25 or T3 are the easiest VW camper vans to drive. Rental is possible for young drivers from 18 years old.
For more space or if you are 4 or 5 people, choose a VW T25 rather than a T2 (10 years of driving license required for T2 Bay Window).

VW CAMPER VAN PICK-UP AND DELIVERY
Grand Village Plage on the island of Oléron (arrival by car via the free bridge 24/7).
La Rochelle: possibility to deliver the VW camper van free of charge to Boyardville (20 minutes by boat shuttle from La Rochelle).
By train and bus to Le Château d’Oléron.
Delivery possible to the nearest train stations and airports or anywhere in France.

DISCOVER THE ISLAND OF OLÉRON – AN AUTHENTIC ISLAND
The island of Oléron is a gem of the Atlantic coast, a little larger and wilder than its neighbor, the island of Ré, and benefits from a microclimate that guarantees one of the most consistent sunshines on the Atlantic coast. You will find numerous activities, unique heritage, specific wildlife and flora, the oyster route and its marshes, large Australian-style beaches, surf spots (with my advice depending on wind and tides), many concerts, and a lively nightlife.
Oléron is the largest island in France and has over 50 campsites. There are also many other spots on the island or nearby for spontaneous holidays.

CHOOSING YOUR VW CAMPER VAN
The vans are all quite similar, with a pop-up roof and original camping interior.
Mainly colors and engines differ.
For last-minute bookings during the holidays, it is sometimes better to contact me a little in advance.
For more space or if you are 4 or 5 people, choose a VW T25 rather than a T2 (10 years of driving license required for the T2 Bay Window).

ENGINE OPTIONS
The famous 2L flat-4 air-cooled engine, the same type as in the Porsche 914, highly appreciated by enthusiasts, with a small Harley-like sound depending on the model.
Diesel or turbo-diesel engines are very economical: about 8L/100 km, less than modern vans.
Cruising speed: 80–100 km/h. Take your time and avoid the highway.

VW CAMPER VAN EQUIPMENT
Complete set of kitchen utensils and dishes.

5 sleeping places:
Convertible double bed at the rear
Double bed under the pop-up roof
Front child hammock bed (maximum 12 years)

Bed linen on request
Sink / fridge / gas stove
Shower cabin under the trunk
Swivel seats
Solar panels, USB, etc.
Heating and water heater on some models

L’ILE AUX COMBIS: A SMALL ATLANTIC GEM
The island of Oléron benefits from a microclimate with some of the best sunshine in France. The island is ideal for a VW camper van adventure. You will find great places to park and sleep in nature or by the water without having to go to a campsite every day.
Additionally, thanks to a partner network, you can be welcomed free of charge for 24 hours at vineyards, artisans, or farm campsites (over 10,000 addresses in France).
For more comfort and to set up your camp, a large shaded private field is also available free of charge.

AVAILABLE OPTIONS
Outdoor table and chairs
Portable toilet
Solar shower

On request:
Ukulele, child hammock bed
Bike rack (€10/day)
Surfboards with roof straps (from €10/day)
Secondary fridge (depending on availability and model)
3rd additional battery

PRICES & CONDITIONS
Mileage package included: 60 km/day (more than enough to explore the island and surroundings).

Additional kilometers on request:
Low season (September to June): €0.60/km
High season (July–August): limited extra kilometers €0.90/km

Most people stay to enjoy Oléron and my advice on spots and activities, but you can also choose to leave the island and region if desired.

Please inform me in advance for destinations outside the island of Oléron or outside the department or region, or if you think you may exceed the included mileage package.