The Ultimate European Road Trip

With summer here, it’s time to start planning your European adventure on the ultimate road trip.

Caravanning and campervanning are great ways to combine spending quality time with your loved ones and seeing a unique side to some of Europe’s best cities. With that in mind, Peter Cue – founder and director of campervan, caravan and motorhome insurance provider, Comfort Insurance – has shared his ideal route across the continent with the best pit-stops for stunning scenery, European culture and outdoor activities.

Germany – City Camping, Berlin

First up on this European expedition is Berlin. A city rich in history with a vibrant culture and a laid-back lifestyle, this place is truly inspirational. Walk along the remains of the Berlin Wall, visit Checkpoint Charlie or gaze at the magnificence of a Prussian palace. Berlin is a fascinating yet unpretentious real-life historical textbook.

If you’re looking to stop for a night or two, then head to City Camping. This campsite has two locations – one based in Siemensstadt, north-west of the city centre, and another in Kleinmachnow, which is south-west. The Siemensstadt camp is situated on a peaceful island between two rivers, offering serene seclusion, a playground for children and fishing. Meanwhile, the Kleinmachnow camp is located beside the waterfront, which has a plethora of pitches for tents, campers and caravans to choose from. It comes fully equipped with Wi-Fi access, a bar and tonnes of space to sunbathe the days away.

Austria – Alpen Camping Mark, Tyrol

Just over seven hours away by road from Berlin is Tyrol in Austria. Head south to the heart of the Alps where the outdoor enthusiast is spoilt with hiking, trekking, cycling, mountain biking, and winter sports come ski season. The National Park Hohe Tauern is well worth a visit to experience the real wilderness of the Alps.

Recommended for an overnight stay is Alpen Camping Mark. A family-run campsite in the heart of Tyrol, this campsite’s location is quiet and hosts epic views of the Karwendel Mountains, the largest range of the Northern Limestone Alps. It’s easily reachable with leisure vehicles and offers plenty of family-friendly activities to keep the little ones occupied. These range from indoor and outdoor playgrounds, football fields, a crafting room, a swimming pool, hill climbing and rafting, along with horse and pony riding.

Italy – Camping Castel San Pietro, Verona

No European venture is complete without stopping in Italy. Head further south for just over three hours and arrive in Verona, northern Italy, a medieval gem and home to Romeo and Juliet. Watch a world-class opera, take a trip to Lake Garda, visit Juliet’s balcony or marvel at Mantus, the glorious old city where Romeo was banished. The city is lined with narrow streets and conquered by impressive Renaissance buildings.

Park up at Camping Castel San Pietro. This campsite is a natural oasis inside the ancient city walls of Verona. Situated on a hill which overlooks the historic city centre, the campsite is leafy green and has a wide range of facilities including an internet point, Wi-Fi, a barbeque area, a mini-market, a bar, showers and a laundry room. Manned by friendly staff, it has a real rustic feel to it.

Spain – Camping Tres Estrellas, Barcelona

Next up on this route is sunny Spain. A half day’s drive from Verona west will take you all the way to Barcelona, an enchanted seaside city. Blessed with a wealth of culture, art, design, shopping and nightlife, this place has it all. Experience Gaudí’s Sagrada Família or Park Güell, and explore the shadowy lanes of the Gothic quarter, past tranquil plazas and soaring 14th-century cathedrals.

For a place to rest and play, Camping Tres Estrellas is ideal. Only a fifteen-minute drive from the city centre, it presents unrivalled relaxation on the beach, as well everything else a city holiday can offer. The campsite boasts fantastic facilities, including a restaurant with a terrace set underneath a beautiful wooden arbour, which serves up delicious local cuisine. There’s also a dedicated barbeque area protected by shade from nearby trees, and a fully stocked bar. Families can take advantage of the abundance of activities available, including tennis, horse riding, swimming, basketball, beach volleyball and sailing.

France – Twin Lakes Caravan Park, Bordeaux

The last stop on the route is arguably the most relaxing. Take to the road up north for just over six hours and discover Bordeaux. The world’s wine capital has a superb selection of bistros, brasseries and world-class restaurants. Join one of the wine tours or soak up the sights of its mighty fine art museums and stunning 18th and 19th century architecture.

For a peaceful night’s sleep, stopover at Twin Lakes Caravan Park. Nestled out in the French countryside, this campsite offers the perfect getaway from the stresses of modern life, with rural style living and a location set in the picturesque region of Charente-Maritime. It’s an area rich in culture, gastronomy and tranquillity. The site is an absolute haven for anglers, as visitors can fish from its two enormous lakes. Although fishing is the main activity here, other sports available include swimming, golf, cycling and mountain biking.