Naturism & disability

Naturism as a vehicle for inclusion 

Naturism in France can be much more than just a leisure activity: for people with disabilities, it is often a space for self-acceptance, freedom from the gaze of others and true equality. However, there are many challenges to be overcome, both in terms of accessibility and representation.

Testimonial from a naturist with a disability

Béatrice lives in a wheelchair. Her testimony, published on the Handicap.fr website, is part of a #stopbodyshaming campaign led by the French Naturist Federation, in which she states:

"The courage to show yourself and be seen by people who don't judge is important. ... There is no discrimination, no prejudice, in respecting yourself and others." 

Her decision to pose nude for the campaign reflects a desire to affirm the dignity and value of all bodies, including those that do not conform to conventional standards.

Béatrice's testimony shows how naturism can offer a deeply human and egalitarian experience for people whose bodies evolve differently.

Concrete initiatives

• The FFN has created a booklet called "Handi'Nat", which offers best practice guidelines for naturist clubs wishing to better accommodate people with disabilities (depending on the type of disability, needs, etc.). 
• In terms of awareness campaigns, the Handi'Nat commission is working on a photo poster for 2026 featuring around 30 naturists with disabilities, with their first names and disabilities, to celebrate the diversity of naturist bodies. 

Issues and challenges

1. Physical accessibility: while the majority of naturist campsites in France, particularly those belonging to the FEN network, are adapted, some naturist beaches remain difficult to access for people with reduced mobility. 
2. Support: for people with motor disabilities or more significant difficulties, a companion or carer may be necessary – and fear or prejudice can hinder the process. 
3. Visibility and representation: even though initiatives such as photo campaigns are emerging, there is still much to be done to normalise the presence of people with disabilities in naturist circles.

The inclusion of people with disabilities in naturism is not just a question of facilities: it is also a matter of recognising their right to nudity, freedom and equality. Thanks to testimonials such as Béatrice's and concrete projects such as the Handi'Nat booklet, the naturist movement can become a true space for diversity and respect for the body.

But there is still a long way to go: accessibility needs to be improved, training for naturist facilities needs to be promoted, and body diversity needs to be further valued.