Open from 16th may to 27th september 2026

What is naturism?

Far more than just the absence of clothing, naturism is a philosophy of life built on three essential pillars: respect for oneself, respect for others, and respect for nature. A way of being in the world, simply.

Naturist swimming with sandy beach between Toulouse and Bordeaux - Camping Lislebonne
Definition

Naturism or nudism: what's the difference?

Naturism

It is a comprehensive philosophy of life that combines nudity, connection to nature and humanist values. The naturist seeks harmony with their environment, authenticity in relationships and a healthy relationship with their own body. Nudity is the natural expression, not the goal.

Nudism

Nudism more simply refers to undressing in a specific recreational setting — a beach, a pool, an evening among enthusiasts. It is an occasional practice, without necessarily carrying any particular philosophical or community dimension.

History

A history of more than a century

1778
French doctors Théophile de Bordeu and Jean-Baptiste Luc Planchon mention the term "naturism" for the first time, arguing that the body can naturally restore itself through contact with the elements.
1920–1930
The interwar period marks the first golden age of naturism in France. Brothers André and Gaston Durville found Physiopolis, then in 1931 inaugurate Héliopolis on the Île du Levant — a true "city of the sun" and Europe's first naturist town.
1950
Opening of the Centre Hélio-Marin de Montalivet in the Gironde — the first officially recognised European naturist centre, which still exists today. The movement enters a new dimension with family-dedicated facilities.
Today
France has more than 460 naturist spaces and remains one of the world's leading destinations for naturism. The French Naturist Federation (FFN) brings together hundreds of clubs and campsites across the country.
Values

The fundamental values of naturism

Self-respect

Accepting your body as it is, without artifice or comparison. Naturism invites you to break free from the aesthetic norms imposed by the media and reconnect with an authentic and caring self-image.

Respect for others

Without clothes to signal social status, everyone becomes equal. Naturism erases barriers and creates a space of tolerance, kindness and authentic encounters, where everyone is accepted for who they are.

Respect for nature

Living in direct contact with the elements — sun, air, water — fosters a deep ecological awareness. Naturists often maintain a particularly attentive relationship with their natural environment.

Tolerance & equality

Naturism welcomes all bodies, all ages, all backgrounds. It is one of the rare social spaces where diversity is not only accepted but truly celebrated, far from the judgements of appearance.

Benefits

The benefits of naturism

Those who practise naturism feel it quickly: its effects on self-esteem, body image and the quality of social bonds are deep and lasting.

Mental well-being

People who practise naturism report better self-esteem and greater satisfaction in their lives. Collective nudity reduces body image anxiety and promotes mindfulness.

Positive body image

By mixing with real bodies in all their diversity — without retouching or filters — one realises that the "perfect body" is a myth. This awareness frees one from complexes and establishes a much gentler relationship with one's own body.

Physical benefits

Sun exposure promotes the natural synthesis of vitamin D, essential for the immune system, bone strength and the prevention of seasonal depression. On the shores of Lac de Lislebonne, under the generous sun of Lot-et-Garonne, this direct contact with the natural elements takes on its full meaning.

Authentic social bond

Without the social markers that clothing provides, relationships are more direct and more sincere. At Lac de Lislebonne, this conviviality is felt from the very first hours: a warm atmosphere prevails throughout the season, carried by a community that returns year after year and warmly welcomes newcomers.

For whom?

Naturism is for everyone

Contrary to popular belief, naturism is not reserved for an elite or "initiates". It welcomes families with children, couples, singles, seniors and curious people from all walks of life. The anxiety of the first glance is universal — and it disappears very quickly, within the first few minutes.

  • Taking your first steps? At Lac de Lislebonne, the human scale of the campsite allows you to start gently, without feeling lost in a large structure. On arrival, we take the time to answer all your questions and help you feel at ease — there is no pressure, everyone moves at their own pace.
  • With family? Children adapt naturally and spontaneously — it is often the adults who are more intimidated! The natural setting of the lake, the covered heated pool and the convivial atmosphere make it an ideal place for a first family experience, in a safe and caring environment.
  • The golden rule? Mutual respect, discretion and kindness. Naturism has nothing to do with voyeurism or sexuality — any inappropriate behaviour is strictly prohibited. At Lac de Lislebonne, this atmosphere of respect is felt every day: the community is close-knit and warm, and newcomers find their place naturally.

Want to discover or experience naturism in Lot-et-Garonne?

At Camping naturiste du Lac de Lislebonne, we welcome both seasoned naturist families and those discovering naturism for the first time. Private lake, covered heated pool, restaurant open throughout the season, table football, Nordic bath, ZEN pool activities… An exceptional natural setting to experience this in complete serenity.