A campervan hire company, “Champervan” has just launched in the Chamonix valley!
Fans of retro and stylish travel can rent a classic VW campervan from the Champervan fleet, and go tour the Alps, the Italian lakes or French vineyards, take one on a climbing trip or go hang out at one of the summer music festivals.
You must visit their website www.champervan.com and try one of theirs vans. You’ll love it!!!
We spoke with Sarah McKearney who has spent the last year setting up Champervan.
Nuno Caetano: So tell us about the campervans!
Sarah McKearney: All the campervans are original Volkswagen T2 Bays – often known as combis. The interior was brilliantly designed by Westfalia in the 70’s; they sit and sleep 4 or 5 people with a double bed downstairs and another in the pop-top roof.
They all have cooker, fridge and sink, loads of storage and their engines and mechanics have all been rigorously reserviced.
Nuno Caetano: What’s included in the rental package then?
Sarah McKearney: Everything you need really for your trip! In the campervans you’ll find tableware, kettle, pots, pans & utensils, cleaning things, roadmaps and books, and table and chairs for outside.
Insurance is included, with a few exceptions notably contents and interior damage. There are also some optional extras to hire such as bike racks, bedding, GPS and hampers.
Nuno Caetano: Sarah, where is Champervan based?
Sarah McKearney: We’re based in Passy, which is 15 minutes from Chamonix and 45 minutes from Geneva. We normally meet clients at St Gervais-Le Fayet train station where they can arrive by train or leave their car. It’s also possible to meet clients at their house.
Nuno Caetano: The campervans are from the 1970’s - you promise they aren’t going to break down?
Sarah McKearney: Sorry I can’t promise! But they are all fully serviced, and breakdown insurance is included. If it can’t be fixed on the spot then we’ll endeavour to get a replacement campervan to you as soon as possible.
Nuno Caetano: Any small print?
Sarah McKearney: There is I’m afraid! Drivers have to be over 21 with a clean European drivers licence held for over 2 years. There’s also a mileage limit of 100km per day, and an insurance excess if you cause an accident.
Also during peak summer season the minimum rental period is 1 week. Apart from that we’re pretty relaxed!
