Read the article on the La Provence website

Article written by B.Bu of the newspaper *La Provence*.

Although the campground in Vitrolles first opened by welcoming campers, it gradually expanded its offerings to include caravan rentals and eventually came to offer only mobile homes.

The mobile home originated in the United States in the early 20th century, evolving from trailers used during the Great Depression. After World War II, strong demand for affordable housing in the United States spurred the development of easily transportable prefabricated housing, leading to the emergence of the mobile home. In France, in the late 1970s, a few campgrounds in Brittany and along the Atlantic coast began hosting British mobile homes transported by ferry. They became a more comfortable alternative to caravans for seasonal stays by British and Dutch visitors. By the end of 1980, some campgrounds recognized the benefits of offering mobile homes for weekly rental, as they provided greater comfort, extended the tourist season, and attracted families.

Finally, in the 1990s, French manufacturers began producing their own models, such as IRM, founded in 1992, which is now the European leader. This truly marked the beginning of the professionalization of mobile homes in the outdoor hospitality industry with the development of the 4-star camping concept.

Although the Marina Plage campground in Vitrolles first opened by welcoming campers, it gradually expanded its offerings to include caravan rentals and eventually came to offer only mobile homes. “IRM is our supplier of mobile homes, which retain their wheels and tow bars, unlike the bungalows, which are stationary,” explains Nicolas Feraud.  “They have a lifespan of between 7 and more than 10 years. They are all air-conditioned, have a television, and are equipped with a real traditional oven.”

Marina Plage offers 335 mobile homes for seasonal rental. Forty-five new units were delivered this year, 36 two years ago, and about 20 six years ago. “Regularly renewing the fleet allows us to meet demand,” continues Nicolas Feraud, “with a particular focus on build quality and thermal insulation.” The installation of solar panels was considered, but due to fire safety concerns—specifically the risk of electrocution for firefighters responding to emergencies—they were ruled out. Of course, Wi-Fi is available free of charge. "

The floor area is 40 m², but an exemption has recently been granted. Mobile homes adapted for people with limited mobility are now allowed to be up to 50 m². The Marina already has one available. The latest technological innovation is that the newest models are equipped with charging outlets for electric vehicles.

During the season, check out a new article about our campground every week in the newspaper *La Provence*!