After a long week of work, do you dream of nature, a big breath of fresh air, and freedom? Why not go bivouac in the mountains? A simple recipe for happiness that will recharge your batteries for sure! Sleeping under the stars or in a tent requires a little preparation and anticipation. Having a successful night in the middle of nature is not easy, which is why Bobee Spot wanted to guide you. Here are 5 essential rules for bivouacking in peace in our magnificent French mountains, and even elsewhere.
1 – Find out about the bivouac location
A mountain is a unique place that must be preserved. This is the reason why there are often regulations regarding wild camping and bivouacs. Wild camping is considered to be longer than bivouac, which usually only takes one night. It is therefore imperative before bivouacking in the mountains to find out about the rules set at the chosen location. France has set up national parks and protected areas, which prohibit bivouacking or accept it under conditions.
For example, the Mercantour National Park informs you that:
- camping is prohibited;
- bivouac is authorized from 7 p.m. to 9 a.m. when the resting place is located more than an hour walk from the road or the boundaries of the Park;
- camper vans, caravans, and roof tents are prohibited, even in bivouacs.
2 – Have the right equipment to bivouac in the mountains
That’s it, you’ve selected the perfect place to go and live this weekend in the heart of nature. But bivouacking in the mountains cannot be improvised! You’ve got to have the right equipment so that you don’t miss anything once there, far from shops and homes.
A little tour of the essentials:
- a backpack of at least 45 liters;
- a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures of minimum -5°C to -10°C;
- a tent that you have to choose according to the season in which you are bivouacking;
- a self-inflating mattress if you want more comfort;
- a stove and a lighter or matches;
- a headlamp for your night outings;
- a first aid kit according to your needs.
Obviously, it will also be important to bring technical clothing adapted to the temperature, food, water, and a garbage bag so you don’t leave anything behind (or even collect waste if you spot any) during your bivouac.
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3 – Choose the most suitable location for the night
To get the best night’s sleep, you shouldn’t overlook your choice of location. The first thing to do to bivouac in the mountains is to find a rather flat surface, in the grass, soil, or on soft-edged stones.
Remember to also make sure you are protected from wind and rockfall.
Then, choose a location close enough to a water source for an easy refill (beware of the water quality, though, and don’t hesitate to boil it before drinking it). A little extra would be to have a very sunny location to keep the heat as long as possible.
Read also : 10 reasons to travel in a specially fitted minivan this summer.
4 – Set up your camp in compliance with regulations
Once the bivouac location has been found and the regulations have been verified, it is time to take action! The building of the tent often scares novices and can take some time. That’s why it’s better that you don’t wait until nightfall to do it. This step should therefore be at the top of your list of things to do in the camp. Remember to orientate the entrance of your tent to the east to take advantage of the sunrise and its morning heat. If the weather conditions make you think it’s going to rain, a small trench around your tent will keep your feet dry!
The campers’ happiness is often the campfire. It brings an unparalleled atmosphere and warmth. It’s also a good way to keep wild animals, that might want to search your trash, away. But then again, compliance with the regulations is very important, you won’t be able to build a fire wherever you want. If campfires are permitted, burn only collected branches and do not cut trees. Above all, do not leave without being sure that the fire is put out.
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5 – Bivouac in the mountains and leave nature untouched
Bivouacking in the mountains is a real pleasure that should not harm nature. It may seem obvious, but you must not leave any waste after your visit (this includes yours, and those that you could have found on-site). Don’t leave any food behind on the bivouac site. It is harmful to the health of wild animals and can give them the habit of coming too close to humans.
Having a successful experience will require a bit of organization, but it will be worth the effort. The nights in bivouac are very often unforgettable, emotional moments. The memory of this beautiful sunrise will stay with you for a long time, as will the heart-to-heart conversations around the campfire. To find an unusual bivouac spot, don’t hesitate to use the bivouac hashtag on Bobee Spot!