Au Vieux Campeur, Geneva - Image 1
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Au Vieux Campeur Geneva

4.2
·702 reviews·Thonon-les-Bains, France

Your ultimate destination for high-quality outdoor gear, from hiking boots to climbing ropes. Expert advice and a vast selection for every adventure.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better service

CrowdLow
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Au Vieux Campeur, Geneva - Image 1

Au Vieux Campeur Geneva

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better service

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Your ultimate destination for high-quality outdoor gear, from hiking boots to climbing ropes. Expert advice and a vast selection for every adventure.

4.2
(702 reviews)

"A true adventurer's paradise with top-tier equipment and knowledgeable staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

Call Ahead for Availability

If you're looking for a specific item, call ahead to check stock. Staff can often hold items for you. :telephone_receiver:

Bring Your Old Boots

For boot fitting, bring your old hiking socks and insoles for a more accurate mold. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Extensive Outdoor Gear

Extensive Outdoor Gear

Entire store

Discover top-tier equipment for every outdoor pursuit, from hiking boots to climbing ropes. A true adventurer's paradise.

Specialized Book & Map Section

Specialized Book & Map Section

Book and Map Area

Find detailed maps and guides for your next trek, offering invaluable planning resources for explorers.

High-Quality Apparel

High-Quality Apparel

Clothing and Footwear Aisles

Explore a curated collection of durable and functional outdoor clothing and footwear from premium brands.

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Planning Your Visit

Gear Up for Adventure

Au Vieux Campeur is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vast selection of gear for hiking, climbing, cycling, and more. Expect high-quality brands and knowledgeable staff, though prices can be higher than mainstream retailers. It's worth planning your visit to ensure you get the best advice for your specific needs.

Expert Advice is Key

While the selection is impressive, some visitors note that professional advice can be hit-or-miss. If you need specialized fitting or guidance, try to visit during off-peak hours or call ahead to ensure staff availability. Their extensive book and map section is also a valuable resource for planning your next expedition.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better service
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Staff available for advice
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thonon : les recettes d’un lycée hôtelier | Sept à Huit PART1#thonon #les #hôtelier
@hop2773krd
5.6K likes • 101.4K views

Call Ahead for Availability

If you're looking for a specific item, call ahead to check stock. Staff can often hold items for you. :telephone_receiver: Reddit

Bring Your Old Boots

For boot fitting, bring your old hiking socks and insoles for a more accurate mold. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Explore the Map Section

Don't miss the extensive collection of maps and guidebooks – a treasure trove for planning your adventures. :world_map: Reddit

Quality Over Price

Expect higher prices than discount stores, but the quality and durability of the gear are excellent. :moneybag: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Call Ahead for Availability

If you're looking for a specific item, call ahead to check stock. Staff can often hold items for you. :telephone_receiver: Reddit

Bring Your Old Boots

For boot fitting, bring your old hiking socks and insoles for a more accurate mold. :athletic_shoe: Reddit

Explore the Map Section

Don't miss the extensive collection of maps and guidebooks – a treasure trove for planning your adventures. :world_map: Reddit

Quality Over Price

Expect higher prices than discount stores, but the quality and durability of the gear are excellent. :moneybag: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(702 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Au Vieux Campeur is praised for its extensive selection of high-quality outdoor gear and knowledgeable staff, making it a go-to for adventurers. While prices are on the higher side, the durability and brand selection are considered excellent. Some visitors note inconsistencies in service, but the overall community feel and product range are highly valued.

"The shop is part of a chain with various sales points across France. Their offer is wide across many outdoor disciplines, and quality/brands selection is somewhat higher than you would expect from a wholesale distributor.
The store manager Fabien was very helpful in checking product availability over the phone, and putting the item I was looking for aside for me."

Theo Sarvia

"We just discovered this wonderful outdoor supply store called “Au Vieux Campeur”. They have 16 locations in France. Hiking, kayaking, climbing, swimming, cycling, outdoor clothing, boots and shoes. Great high quality brands and a huge book/map section."

A.R.F.

"Just want to say a big thank you to Corinne for her help getting me organised with gear for our GR5 trek. She was knowledgeable, showed us different products and patient while we tried items on and made decisions.
The shop is big and had a lot of good quality items."

Rachael Carter

What People Like

Vast gear selection
High-quality brands
Knowledgeable staff

What People Dislike

Higher prices
Inconsistent service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Au Vieux Campeur Geneva is accessible by public transport. Several bus and tram lines stop nearby. Check the local Geneva public transport website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Parking may be limited in the area, so public transport is often recommended. Reddit

Parking availability can be challenging in the vicinity of the store. It's advisable to check for nearby public parking garages or consider using public transportation to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It's best to check their official website or call the store directly for the most accurate and up-to-date opening times before your visit. TikTok

Yes, Au Vieux Campeur has an online shop, though some users have reported issues with its design and customer service responsiveness. For immediate needs or personalized advice, visiting the physical store is recommended. Reddit

Yes, Au Vieux Campeur is a well-established chain with multiple locations across France, known for its extensive range of outdoor equipment. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Au Vieux Campeur is a retail store, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can browse their extensive selection of outdoor gear freely. Reddit

While specific discount programs aren't widely advertised, keeping an eye on their promotions or signing up for any available newsletters might offer savings. The quality of the products often justifies the price. Reddit

It's possible that some stores offer this service, but it's not consistently highlighted. Calling the store directly to inquire about reserving items for pickup is your best bet. Reddit

Return policies can vary. It's always best to inquire about their specific return and exchange policy at the time of purchase or check their website for details. Reddit

Most modern retail stores aim for accessibility. If you have specific concerns, it's recommended to contact the store directly to confirm their accessibility features. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a comprehensive range of gear for hiking, climbing, camping, cycling, swimming, and winter sports, including apparel, footwear, and specialized equipment. Reddit

Staff expertise can vary. While many are highly qualified practitioners, some visitors have noted inconsistent levels of professional advice. It's wise to be prepared with your own questions. Reddit

Au Vieux Campeur is known for stocking high-quality, reputable outdoor brands, often considered a step up from mainstream sporting goods stores. Reddit

Absolutely! They have a large and impressive section dedicated to maps, guidebooks, and travel literature, which is a significant draw for many visitors. Reddit

Yes, trying on boots and clothing is standard practice. Bringing your own hiking socks can help ensure a better fit for footwear. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Au Vieux Campeur is primarily a retail store and typically does not have in-house dining facilities. You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding Geneva area. Reddit

While their focus is on gear, some locations might carry a small selection of energy bars or hydration products. For a wider selection, nearby supermarkets or convenience stores are your best bet. Reddit

The area around Au Vieux Campeur likely offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Exploring the local streets will reveal many choices to suit different tastes and budgets. Reddit

Yes, as a comprehensive outdoor store, they typically stock camping stoves, cookware, and related accessories for backcountry cooking. Reddit

Geneva has many beautiful parks and lakeside areas suitable for picnics. You can purchase picnic supplies from local shops and enjoy them in a scenic spot after your shopping. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The store itself, with its vast displays of outdoor gear and the impressive book section, can be visually interesting. For outdoor photography, the surrounding Geneva landscape offers stunning views. TikTok

Generally, taking photos for personal use is acceptable in retail stores. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other shoppers or staff. Instagram

The sheer volume and variety of specialized gear, from colorful tents to intricate climbing equipment, can make for dynamic and interesting shots. The well-organized book and map section also offers a unique aesthetic. TikTok

While their primary focus is outdoor adventure gear, they might carry some accessories like waterproof camera bags or basic tripods. For dedicated camera equipment, specialized camera stores would be more appropriate. Reddit

Lake Geneva, the Jet d'Eau, the Old Town, and the surrounding mountains offer incredible photography opportunities. Consider a day trip to the Alps for breathtaking landscapes. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Au Vieux Campeur is a fantastic place for families looking to gear up for outdoor adventures. You'll find a wide range of durable clothing and footwear suitable for children, ensuring they are comfortable and protected during hikes or camping trips. Look for brands known for their resilience and ease of care. Reddit

While the store itself might not have specific play areas, the excitement of choosing new gear can be a great motivator for kids. The extensive book and map section can also be a fun way to involve children in planning family outings, sparking their imagination about future explorations. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to give staff more time to assist with fitting children's gear. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Au Vieux Campeur is known for its high-quality, premium brands, which can come with a higher price tag, budget-conscious travelers can still find value. Focus on essential items that require durability and performance, such as hiking boots or a reliable waterproof jacket. These investments often pay off in the long run by lasting longer than cheaper alternatives. Reddit

Keep an eye out for any potential sales or promotions. Additionally, the store's extensive selection of maps and guidebooks can be a cost-effective way to plan your adventures, saving you money on guided tours or expensive navigation apps. Consider visiting during sale periods or looking for slightly older models of gear that may be discounted. Reddit

🧗‍♀️ Serious Climbers & Hikers

For seasoned climbers and hikers, Au Vieux Campeur is a destination in itself. The store offers a comprehensive selection of technical climbing gear, including ropes, harnesses, protection, and footwear from leading brands. Their knowledgeable staff, often practitioners themselves, can provide expert advice on the latest innovations and best choices for your specific climbing discipline. Reddit

Hikers will appreciate the vast array of performance-oriented footwear, backpacks, and technical apparel designed for demanding conditions. The detailed maps and guidebooks are also invaluable for planning challenging routes and understanding terrain. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations on gear that balances weight, durability, and functionality for long-distance treks or alpine ascents. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Selection: Gear for Every Adventure

Au Vieux Campeur is renowned for its extensive inventory covering a wide spectrum of outdoor activities. Whether you're planning a multi-day hiking expedition, a challenging climbing route, a serene kayaking trip, or a rigorous cycling tour, you're likely to find the specialized gear you need. They pride themselves on offering high-quality brands that are trusted by outdoor professionals and enthusiasts alike, setting them apart from more general sporting goods retailers. Reddit

Beyond the core equipment, the store also boasts a significant collection of outdoor apparel, including technical jackets, durable pants, and specialized footwear. This comprehensive approach means you can outfit yourself from head to toe for almost any environment. The book and map section is another major draw, providing invaluable resources for trip planning, navigation, and learning about local trails and wilderness areas. Reddit

While the selection is a major advantage, it's worth noting that the sheer volume can be overwhelming. If you're new to a particular activity, don't hesitate to ask for assistance. While some visitors have reported varied experiences with staff expertise, many find the personnel to be highly qualified practitioners who can offer practical advice based on their own outdoor experiences. Reddit

The Au Vieux Campeur Experience: Service and Community

The customer service at Au Vieux Campeur is a topic that elicits mixed reviews. On one hand, many customers praise the staff for their knowledgeable advice and willingness to help, citing specific instances where employees went above and beyond to assist with gear selection and fitting. This personalized attention is particularly valued when purchasing items like hiking boots, where proper fit is crucial. Reddit

However, some visitors have experienced less satisfactory service, noting that staff can sometimes be busy or less attentive, especially during peak hours. This inconsistency means that planning your visit during quieter times, like weekday mornings, might enhance your experience. The store's commitment to outdoor pursuits means many staff members are practitioners themselves, offering a unique perspective on the gear they sell. Reddit

Despite occasional service hiccups, the overall sentiment suggests a store that is deeply connected to the outdoor community. The vast selection and focus on quality gear foster a sense of trust among adventurers. It's a place where you can feel confident in the equipment you're purchasing, knowing it's chosen with a passion for the outdoors in mind. Reddit