More spacious than modern vans, just as well equipped and comfortable, with extra style.
Since 2015, L’île aux Combis has been offering several Volkswagen models departing from the island of Oléron. These vintage campervans 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 Combis for over 20 years. I have been bivouacking on the island of Oléron in a Combi 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 COMBIS WITH AN OPTIMIZED INTERIOR
These authentic Westy models are optimized to the maximum and their layout has inspired many modern campervans. 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 Combis. You will find everything you need for independent holidays: fridge, gas stove, sink, shower, shower cabin, 5 beds, etc.
TRY WINTER IN A COMBI – COMFORT ALL YEAR ROUND
Dare to travel in winter: several Combis are equipped with heating, hot water and even a projector to watch a movie in the evening.
GETTING STARTED WITH THE COMBI – EASY TO DRIVE
The T25 or T3 are the easiest Combis to drive. Rental possible for young drivers from 18 years old.
For more space or if you are 4 or 5 people, choose a VW T25 Combi rather than a T2 (10 years of driving licence required for T2 Bay Window).
COMBI 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 Combi 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 benefiting from a microclimate that guarantees one of the most consistent sunshine levels on the Atlantic coast. You will find many activities, a 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 more than 50 campsites, and there are many other places on the island or outside it where you can improvise your holiday.
CHOOSING YOUR COMBI
The Combis are all quite similar, with a pop-up roof and an original camping interior.
Mainly the colors and engines that 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 Combi rather than the T2 (10 years of driving licence required for the T2 Bay Window).
ENGINE OPTIONS
The famous 2L flat-4 air-cooled engine, the same type as used in the Porsche 914, highly appreciated by enthusiasts, with a nice small Harley-like sound depending on the model.
Diesel or turbo-diesel engines are very economical: about 8L/100 km, less than most modern vans.
Cruising speed: 80–100 km/h. Take your time and forget the highway.
COMBI 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 old)
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 of Oléron is ideal for a Combi 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.
In addition, thanks to a partner network, you can be welcomed free of charge for 24 hours at vineyards, artisans or farm campsites (more than 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 its 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 the island of Oléron and my advice on spots and activities, but you can also choose to leave the island and the region if you wish.
Please inform me in advance for destinations outside the island of Oléron and outside the department or region, or if you think you may exceed the included mileage package.
