Welcome to this comprehensive van tour, where we’ll delve into the luxurious transformation of a Citroen Relay motorhome (L3H2).
This luxury van conversion – ‘Valerie’ – was crafted by the award-winning team at Vanlife Conversions. Based on their popular ‘Kunu’ layout, this campervan sleeps/seats up to three people.
The interior boasts the kind of ambiance that would make a penthouse suite envious—just look at the marble-inspired aesthetics and antique brass fixtures in the shower. And if that isn’t impressive enough, the one-of-a-kind fitness pole upgrade is sure to turn heads!
‘Why don’t you come on over (and tour) Valerie?’ (Sorry, we couldn’t resist).
TL;DR
Take a full video tour of this awesome campervan. It’s gasless, and 3 berth – sleeping/seating up to 3:
Citroen Relay Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Manufacturer: Citroen
↠ Model: Relay L3H2 (LWB)
↠ Year: 2023
↠ Body Style: High Roof Panel Van
↠ Size: 2,524(H), 2,050(W), 5,998(L) mm
↠ Converted by: Vanlife Conversions Ltd
Luxury Campervan Interior
The interior of this Citroen Relay motorhome conversion is elegantly designed with a luxurious and contemporary feel.
We love the gentle warmth created by the colour palette of this camper van. Thanks to the rich dark oak ceiling slats, complemented by scarlet seating, rich emerald green metro tiles, and antique brass accents. This campervan has been transformed into a serene retreat.
The herringbone flooring, a design synonymous with upscale interiors, provides a chic and polished look to the van.
Campervan Conversion Layout
We’ve sung the virtues of the Citroen Relay as a base van for conversions many, many times before (here, here, and here), so we won’t do that again (hint: wider, boxier, cheaper, and lighter than VW Crafters and Mercedes Sprinters). Instead, we’ll just say: This build makes great use of that extra-wide interior.
This 3-berth van conversion masterfully blends fitness with functionality, and luxury with practicality, redefining mobile living.
Key features:
↠ Shower cubicle with Nature’s Head eco toilet.
↠ Table on Lagun table leg swivel system.
↠ Swivel front passenger seats.
↠ Well-equipped kitchen.
↠ Box seating for dining, converts to small single bed.
↠ Fixed bed (sleeps 2).
↠ Rear garage storage area.
Seating & Sleeping
When you’re ready to settle in for the night, Valerie’s versatile design ensures a restful slumber. The bedroom at the rear of the van features a fixed double bed, cleverly recessed to give a length of 190cm (6′ 2″).
What initially appears to be a 2 berth van cleverly converts to a 3 berth, thanks to the cosy dining area. By easily converting into a small single bed, you gain an extra sleeping space without compromising comfort.
The seating area is equally well-thought-out. With a double passenger seat on a swivel base, you can effortlessly create more space for relaxing.
The vibrant box seating in the lounge / diner not only adds a pop of colour but also offers a comfortable spot to unwind after a day of adventures.
Key features:
↠ Fixed rear platform bed (1.35m x 1.90m, sleeps 2).
↠ Convertible dining area bed (160cm long, sleeps 1).
↠ Box seating.
↠ Table on Lagun table leg swivel system.
↠ 3 belted seats.
↠ Double passenger seat on swivel base.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Plumbing & Bathroom
If you’re planning off-grid adventures, a fully equipped washroom with hot water facilities should definitely be a requirement in your camper specification.
This dream Citroën Relay camper van conversion offers a luxurious bathroom setup. The sleek marble-effect shower cubicle features elegant antique brass fixtures, a full-length mirror, and towel hooks.
Additionally, the bathroom doubles as a drying room, thanks to a small heat vent, making it perfect for off-grid living.
For guaranteed fuss-free hot water, Valerie is equipped with a Truma Combi D4E diesel boiler. This efficient system runs off the van’s main fuel tank, eliminating the need for LPG points and ensuring a reliable hot water supply wherever your travels take you.
Key features:
↠ Truma Combi D4E Boiler (diesel).
↠ 82Ltr insulated underslung fresh water tank.
↠ 63Ltr insulated underslung waste water tank.
↠ Undermounted kitchen sink with gold mixer tap.
↠ Nature’s Head composting toilet.
↠ Marble-effect shower panels.
↠ Wooden duckboard shower room floor.
↠ Antique brass shower fittings.
↠ Full-length mirror and towel hooks.
↠ Frost heat element to prevent the freshwater tank from freezing in the winter.
A unique feature we’ve not seen before is the marble-effect in the shower. This is thanks to individual plastic wall tiles in a dark marble look from @dumatiles.
Kitchen
This Citroën Relay campervan boasts a gas-free kitchen that is both stylish and functional, designed to cater to all your culinary needs while on the road. The Mylands ‘Temple Bar’ painted cabinetry brings a nice warmth to the aesthetic.
Key features:
↠ Oak worktops, trims.
↠ Real tiled back splash.
↠ Kitchen worktop with double sink insert.
↠ Twin induction hob.
↠ Vibrant green metro tile backsplash.
↠ CRX50 12V compressor fridge with freezer compartment.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage
This spacious Citroen Relay van offers a wide range of innovative storage solutions, ideal for full-time or part-time vanlife.
We especially appreciate the meticulous attention to detail in this build, from the sleek oak shelves to the convenient and stylish overhead cupboards – all are in the classic, robust style that has become synonymous with Vanlife Conversions‘ signature style.
Key features:
↠ 3 overhead kitchen cabinets (2 with oak shelves).
↠ Various cupboard and drawers, including cutlery drawer.
↠ Cutlery drawer.
↠ Bedside shelf.
↠ 3 overhead bedroom cabinets.
↠ Box seating storage.
↠ Storage over the cab.
↠ Rear garage lined with hardwearing coin rubber flooring.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Lighting
Good lighting can transform the ambiance of a campervan. This Citroën Relay conversion features a range of energy-efficient lighting options, strategically placed at different heights, lighting up the space nicely.
Key features:
↠ Recessed spotlights (ceiling, bathroom, under cabinetry).
↠ Reading lights for added convenience.
↠ LED light in garage.
Heating
This Citroen Relay camper stays toasty warm thanks to a Truma Combi D4E Boiler (diesel).
The Combi 4E system combines space and water heater into one appliance, providing an excellent space and weight-saving solution for motorhomes and campervans. It can warm up a space in just a few minutes and heat water for showering and washing dishes efficiently.
The Combi 4E uses minimal electricity, allowing it to run easily off the 12V leisure battery without draining the vehicle battery. In gas mode, it’s perfect for self-sufficient, wild camping. When at a campsite with electrical hookup (EHU), it operates in electrical mode and can switch to mixed mode for optimal performance in low temperatures.
Heating and hot water are controlled via an easily accessible LCD control panel. This allows you to set timers, turn the water or heating on or off, and set temperatures.
Making the heating go further, the clever team at Vanlife Conversions have added an additional heating vent in the corner of the shower room, so it can serve as a drying room.
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Citroen Relay (L3 H2) Motorhome Exterior
The exterior of this ‘Thunder’ grey Citroen Relay camper van has been adapted to feature:
Fitness Pole & Pull-up Bar
How could we not lead with this? This dream feature – added at the request of the pole enthusiast owner – takes this conversion to new heights.
It has to be seen to be believed…
Essentially, this is an 8ft fitness pole attached to a v-shaped pull up bar (a nice piece of equipment for doing pull-ups) – adapted with plates installed up top and to the footer. The pole has complete stability when extended, and can be easily stored when on the move.
Follow @vanlifevalerie to see this van’s adventures on the road!
Windows & Ventilation
Selecting the best ventilation options should be one of the first steps in any van conversion; it will set the foundation for a more enjoyable living environment.
Key features:
↠ Side sliding window in privacy tint (passenger side).
↠ Rear barn door windows with privacy glass (2).
↠ Half slider to bed (passenger side).
🔍 Click photos to expand
Skylights & Fans
Rooflights or skylights are perfect for natural light and ventilation in campervans. This Citroen conversion has two: one above the bed, and one in the shower/drying room.
A key consideration when adding large skylights is the space they require means there’s less room for solar panels. The skylights on this build are slightly smaller than some we’ve seen, leaving space for a 540W solar panel.
Wheels
Whether you’re navigating through mud, snow, gravel, or sand, the all-terrain tires on this conversion enhance handling and traction. They’ll handle off-the-beaten-track adventures with confidence.
Key features:
↠ Rogue ‘Razor’ alloys in Satin Black.
↠ BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tyres.
Awning
This campervan has a Thule awning fitted.
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Citroen Camper with Off-grid Power Set-up
This Citroen Relay conversion is completely gasless, utilising solar power and lithium batteries for cooking, and a Truma Combi D4E diesel for heating and hot water.
Advanced Gasless Off-Grid Electrical System
This van boasts one of the most beautifully organised electrical setups we’ve seen – all neatly housed behind a sliding Perspex door, in the rear garage. Inside this sleek compartment, you’ll find all the Victron Energy components that make up the off-grid system.
The gas-free set-up itself is extraordinarily powerful, so much so that it’ll power an induction hob and air fryer.
Key features:
↠ Solar panel (540W).
↠ 2 x Victron Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-30A Non-Isolated DC-DC chargers Two DC-DC chargers.
↠ 460Ah LiFePO4 Lithium battery from Roamer (460SMART3).
↠ Victron Energy Cerbo GX & GX Touch 50.
↠ Victron Energy 3000VA MultiPlus inverter.
↠ Truma Combi D4E diesel boiler.
↠ Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 100/50 controller.
↠ Victron Energy Smart BatteryProtect.
↠ Victron Energy Lynx Distributor 1000.
↠ Frost heat element switch for the freshwater tank.
↠ 12V fuse board.
↠ AC consumer unit with RCD protection.
🔍 Click photos to expand
This is not only a superior system from a power harnessing and power generation perspective, it also allows easy power management.
The inclusion of a Victron Cerbo GX isn’t essential, but it actively maximises the performance of your system. Acting as a communication hub, it means you can make decisions to optimise performance for all connected devices, and control them from a single control panel in the van.
Safety Features
All of Vanlife Conversions‘ builds come with a 1 year warranty and the following:
Key features:
↠ Weigh bridge certificate.
↠ Gas Landlord Certificate.
↠ Electrical installation certificate.
↠ Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarm.
Vanlife Verdict
If we were hitting the road, and leaving the daily grind in the dust, it wouldn’t matter whether we were going skiing in The Alps, cruising the Wild Atlantic Way, or exploring the sun-drenched beaches of Andalusia… it’s Valerie we’d want by our side. Not only does she exude a penthouse-like ambiance with high-end finishes and thoughtful design elements, but her off-grid set-up will be the envy of any vanlifer.
Vanlife Hub Team
One of the most striking features has got to be the unique fitness pole and pull-up bar, perfect for those who want to stay active on the road. While it’s a pretty unusual addition, it’s one we’re not surprised to see from Vanlife Conversions. They work closely with their clients, driven by a desire to create personalised off-grid campers, ready for all life’s adventures! They’ve even won awards for their ‘Service Excellence’ (Federation of Small Businesses, East of England Awards 2024).
Our final verdict?
This is the second camper from Vanlife Conversions to be featured on Vanlife Hub (check-out ‘Camperhan’ – a MWB VW Crafter conversion), and it’s an absolute pleasure to see such clean and thoughtful designs hitting the road!
We love the luxurious finish of this Citroën camper, but what truly impresses us is that its beauty goes far beyond the surface! Not only is this the neatest electrical set-up we’ve featured so far, if you look closely, you can even see it’s all labelled up for clarity and ease of use. It’s this kind of attention to detail you can expect from the pros at Vanlife Conversions.
🌟 We absolutely love this chic suite-style adventure van from the team at Vanlife Conversions. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Please note: Vanlife Hub’s campervan reviews are unbiased and unpaid, offering genuine insights into the intricacies of vanlife conversions. Check out more reviews: Campervan Tours and get in touch if you’d like to be featured!
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Citroen Motorhome Conversion Ideas
If you’re looking to build or commission a Citroen motorhome conversion, check-out these for more camper van conversion ideas:
FAQs About Citroen Camper Van Conversions
How much does a Citroen camper van conversion cost?
The cost of Citroen Relay van conversions can vary hugely, depending on a large range of factors.
For more information about the cost of van conversions, check out this article: ‘How much do van conversions cost?‘.
What kind of insulation does this camper have?
This Citroen Relay conversion stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer thanks to PIR insulation board, closed cell foam and soft wool in the cavities.
Additionally it has panelled white walls in poplar ply, a slatted wood ceiling, and Luxury Vinyl Tile floor.
Why are so many van conversions going gas-free?
Historically, LPG has been a popular choice for powering cooking and heating in van conversions and campervans. However, with the declining availability of LPG at petrol stations across the UK, it has become increasingly difficult to access. This, plus a general anxiety about the perceived risks of gas, has led to the growth of gas-free conversions.
Gas Pros
Versatile: can be used for cooking, heating, or hot water.
Economical: cheap to run and install.
Gas Cons
Inconvenience: requires regular refilling, often requiring travel and faff, which can be especially unwelcome in the colder months..
Safety: requires adherence to strict safety regulations.
Electric Pros
Self-sufficiency: as long as conditions are favourable.
Cost-effective: no ongoing refill costs.
Eco-friendly: better for the environment.
Convenience: eliminates the need to find refill stations.
Electric Cons
High initial cost: expensive to install.
Seasonal limitations: solar power yields decrease in winter, requiring more driving or hookup to keep batteries charged.
Compatibility: electric heaters are not ideal for off-grid vans, necessitating alternative heating sources such as diesel heaters or boilers.
Is there a middle ground? Absolutely! Many van owners choose a hybrid approach – using gas for cooking and diesel for heating and hot water. This strategy makes your gas last longer, and reduces the frequency of refills. Diesel is widely available at petrol stations, making it a convenient and reliable alternative.
How do I choose the best off-grid power set-up for my conversion?
Before deciding on the best power setup for your van conversion, consider asking yourself the following questions:
What are my primary energy needs? Will I be using energy mainly for cooking, heating, hot water, or electronics?
How often will I be off-grid? Will I primarily stay at campsites with electrical hook-ups, or will I frequently be in remote locations without access to grid power?
What is my budget for installation? How much can I afford to spend on the initial setup costs for my power system?
How much maintenance am I willing to handle? Am I comfortable with the regular maintenance and refilling required for gas, or do I prefer a more hands-off system like electric?
What is the climate of the areas I will be traveling to? Will I be in regions with plenty of sunlight for solar power, or in colder, less sunny areas where other heating solutions might be necessary?
How important is eco-friendliness to me? Do I prioritise environmentally friendly solutions, such as electric and solar power, over traditional gas setups?
What space do I have? Do I have enough room to install solar panels, batteries, and other necessary components for an electric system?
What is the availability of fuel sources where I plan to travel? Is LPG readily available in my travel areas, or would diesel or electric options be more reliable?
Will I be driving lots of miles? Will I be able to charge my leisure battery / batteries from my engine while I drive?
Do I want a single-source or hybrid power solution? Or am I open to combining different power sources, such as using gas for cooking and diesel for heating?
What are my safety concerns? How important are safety considerations in my decision-making process, particularly regarding gas storage and usage?
How much weight can my van handle? Can my van support the additional weight of batteries and solar panels, etc?
What are my future plans for the van? Do I plan to upgrade or modify my power setup in the future, and how easy will that be with my initial choice?
Which vans are good alternatives to the Citroen Relay for conversion?
If you like the wider body, boxier design, lower weight, and cost efficiency of Citroen Relay vans, other great options are the Peugeot Boxer and Fiat Ducato. These are all essentially the same van. In the US, the alternative is the Ram Promaster.
