The history of Le Pin Parasol campsite
A family story
1993, the adventure begins with a capital A for Monique & Guy Martineau! The history of Le Pin Parasol campsite goes hand in hand with that of the Martineau family.
The campsite has been established for 30 years on the family's farmland, nestling above the magnificent Lac du Jaunay in the Vendée. It overlooks a majestic Pin Parasol tree, which gave the campsite its name because, according to Monique, it evokes the sun and holidays, but also and above all because of its history… This magnificent tree was the meeting point for going to the riverside with friends or family.
The Vendée, a source of inspiration
We've lived in the Vendée for over 30 years, and our family was born in La Chapelle-Hermier. We have many memories of the area and are very attached to its history and treasures.
30 years of history in 2024!
Le Pin Parasol celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024. A 30-year family adventure reflecting the human values and high standards that have built it. As with our 20th anniversary, we wanted to celebrate this event in a symbolic way.
We've gone back in time and honoured all those who have played a part in this wonderful story… through a gazette offered to all holidaymakers that bears witness to a superb adventure for all of us and reveals what goes on behind the scenes at Le Pin Parasol.
A special evening for our staff and 2 evenings with our holidaymakers were an opportunity to thank each and every one of you. Your testimonials and your presence made this 30th anniversary exceptional.
30yearstogether #anniversary #happybirthday #history #emotions #memories
From 1994 to 2024: an extraordinary adventure
The beginnings of the campsite
Monique & Guy Martineau, the founders of the campsite, offered customers 62 camping pitches with sanitary facilities that were already very comfortable.
A reception and bar area were also part of the opening. Le Pin Parasol, then a 3-star campsite, welcomed its first holidaymakers in July 1994!
Right from the start, there was a strong desire to preserve this superb natural environment. Le Pin Parasol's peaceful location was an attraction right from the start!
One season, one new feature!
The following years are marked by investment. Each season, the campsite expands to meet the needs of its guests, becoming a pleasant holiday destination with a wide range of services: the first swimming pools, a second sanitary block, then slides, large play areas, sports fields, and takeaway food. This drive to grow Le Pin Parasol has been a tradition and part of its DNA since 1994. By 2004, Le Pin Parasol had 277 pitches and a fourth sanitary block. Guy and Monique are committed to providing quality services: hospitality, cleanliness, information, and the environment…
Quality above all
At the same time, Guy & Monique are recognised for their ambitions, values, and commitment to providing quality services by receiving the "Camping Qualité" label, which highlights outdoor hotels offering high-quality services in areas such as hospitality, cleanliness, information, and the environment. Today, we are "Qualité Tourisme."
The Transfer
The year 2006 marked the takeover of the campsite by Céline Martineau, the daughter of Monique and Guy, and by Patrice Garandeau, her husband. A family story that has been written with authenticity over the years, but also a family adventure that continues with as much passion, commitment, and dedication. These deeply rooted values are now shared by the entire team.
This handover coincided with the creation of a large paddling pool, whose shape and size created quite a sensation! A brand new reception area and additional services for children were also added to the infrastructure, including a games room and a ping-pong table…
Stars in Our Eyes
A 4th star for our campsite comes with new investments, including a new sanitary block and 92 additional pitches. Three years later, in 2011, Le Pin Parasol was awarded a 5th star.
Labels that Reflect Our Commitments
In 2012, we were awarded the European Ecolabel. This represents our constant commitment, which has now evolved into a CSR approach.
The Qualité Tourisme label was also added to our recognitions; it is awarded to tourism professionals for the quality of their welcome and services.
Le Pin Parasol Becomes a Must-Visit in Vendée
From 2012 to 2016, each season brought new infrastructure and/or services. A grocery store, mini-club, hair and nail salon, and 2 water slides, including one that is 80m long! In 2014, we became the first campsite in Vendée to offer such a water park! In 2015, the bar was renovated, offering a panoramic view of the pool area and the surrounding nature; catering services expanded!
An Ideal Location
Our location, just a stone's throw from the large Lac du Jaunay and the many kilometres of cycling paths in Vendée. We are now certified as "Fishing Accommodation" and "Bike-Friendly".
Joining the Yelloh! Village Family
In 2017, Céline & Patrice decided to join this network of high-quality, top-tier campsites dedicated to customer service.
Yelloh! Village stands for authenticity, quality, nature, and above all, the enjoyment of holidaymakers, offering 5-star service. We are now part of the creators of happiness and are proud to be independent owners.
Unprecedented by Nature…
In 2018, Le Pin Parasol became the only outdoor hotel in France to offer two different atmospheres within the same campsite: the Sensations area, where conviviality and fun are key, and the Nature & Sens area, a peaceful haven.
This major project places Le Pin Parasol among the top-tier campsites, offering a unique experience to its holidaymakers.
Travels and innovations benefiting a high-end offering
"Travel enthusiasts, avid spectators of traditions, curious about the solutions and services around us during our getaways and outings, our discoveries and favourites lead to new offerings for Le Pin Parasol!"
In 2019, Le Pin Parasol introduced the "family" area.
In 2020, two sanitary blocks were completely renovated and modernised for the comfort of campers.
In 2022, the rental offering expanded with Premium cottages featuring private spas.
In 2023, a brand-new, spacious and pleasant grocery store was introduced, along with a new hairdressing space and a new bike rental area!
In 2024, a new bar/restaurant "Le Sensations" and the construction of new sanitary facilities for the Sensations water park.
From 2025 onwards: the entertainment area will be entirely revamped with an outdoor stage, seating stands, and new kids' and teens' clubs.
International Recognition
Since its creation, Le Pin Parasol has welcomed French and European holidaymakers. In 2020, we were honoured with the prestigious ADAC - Superplatz award, recognising the best campsites in Europe.
A year later, Leading Camping placed Le Pin Parasol among the top luxury campsites in Europe. LeadingCampings are known for their exceptional quality and hospitality.
In the same years, the Dutch guide ANWB awarded us the title of Top Camping. Swimming pools, leisure activities, grounds, dining, and sanitary facilities: these are the five categories in which ANWB assigns its ranking.