Bavaria is a French motorhome manufacturer within Groupe Pilote, known for its distinctive design philosophy that combines elegant materials, harmonious colours and ergonomic layouts. The brand invites owners to travel with style and character.
The current range includes:
The Pacific — low-profile and overcab coachbuilt models offering Bavaria's signature design in practical touring formats.
The Galaxy — A-class integrated models for buyers seeking the most spacious and luxurious Bavaria experience.
Models are built on Fiat Ducato platforms, benefiting from Groupe Pilote's manufacturing infrastructure and purchasing power shared across the group's five brands.
Bavaria's design philosophy distinguishes it from more utilitarian motorhome brands — every model reflects an emphasis on aesthetic quality, material selection and colour harmony that creates living spaces rather than merely functional interiors.
Bavaria was created in 1996 as part of Groupe Pilote, born of a desire to revolutionise the concept of motorhome use. For over 25 years, Bavaria has been developing a brand steeped in character, passion and quality.
Within the Groupe Pilote family, Bavaria sits alongside Pilote (the flagship brand), Frankia (premium German), Le Voyageur (luxury French) and Mooveo (budget). Bavaria occupies a distinctive position focused on superb design, elegant materials and harmonious colours in clever, ergonomic layouts.
Bavaria has been available in the UK market through select dealers, though distribution arrangements have varied over the years. The brand's primary markets are France and continental Europe, where it has established a loyal following among design-conscious buyers.
Design-led philosophy — Bavaria prioritises aesthetic quality, material selection and colour harmony, creating motorhome interiors with a distinctly French sense of style and elegance.
Groupe Pilote engineering — shared manufacturing infrastructure with Pilote, Frankia and Le Voyageur means Bavaria benefits from group-level engineering quality and parts availability.
Ergonomic layouts — clever, well-thought-out floor plans maximise the usability of every square metre while maintaining the elegant aesthetic.
Character and individuality — in a market where many brands look similar, Bavaria stands apart with a strong brand identity focused on the experience of travel.
If design and aesthetics matter — Bavaria's emphasis on elegant materials, colour harmony and design quality creates living spaces that feel genuinely special.
If you want Groupe Pilote quality — the same manufacturing standards and engineering that produce Pilote and Frankia motorhomes.
If you want something distinctly French — Bavaria's Gallic character provides an alternative to the German efficiency-focused approach that dominates the market.
Very limited UK availability — Bavaria has minimal UK dealer representation, and distribution arrangements have been inconsistent.
Predominantly LHD — most Bavaria models are left-hand drive, with very limited RHD production.
Low brand awareness in UK — Bavaria is virtually unknown among British motorhome buyers, significantly affecting resale potential.
Niche positioning — the design-led philosophy may not suit buyers who prioritise equipment specification or raw value for money.
Parts and service — limited UK dealer network means servicing and parts may require specialist sourcing or continental contacts.
Verify UK suitability — confirm gas system, electrical standards and whether the vehicle is LHD or RHD. Most will be LHD continental imports.
Check the Fiat Ducato base vehicle — cam belt, clutch, gearbox as standard.
Conduct thorough damp check — check all walls, windows, doors and rooflights.
Test all systems — heating, water, fridge, electrical circuits. Verify UK mains compatibility.
Check parts availability — verify that replacement parts for the specific model are obtainable in the UK.
Bavaria provides manufacturer warranty through Groupe Pilote. UK warranty support may require liaison with continental dealer network due to limited UK representation.
An independent warranty backed by the RAC is strongly recommended for used Bavaria purchases in the UK, providing domestic coverage.
OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, providing essential UK-based protection on a French-built motorhome.
When buying a used Bavaria, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.