Collaborative Post
The image that a lot of people summon to mind when they think about a caravan holiday is one of older people who want to go somewhere simple. And if you intend to stick to the UK, then many caravan holidays are pretty much like that – sedate and designed for voyagers who don’t intend to go too far – literally and metaphorically. However, travelling with a caravan is not something that you need to wait for retirement to do – and, in fact, the benefits of travelling in this way can open up a range of more exciting destinations.
Let’s be clear about one of the most obvious benefits of seeking caravan finance and taking to the road: wherever you go, you have your accommodation with you. This makes it one of the most economically sound ways to holiday – you don’t need to pay through the nose for hotel rooms or homestays. While you can enjoy local restaurants, you can also bring supplies with you or shop on the road and save by cooking where you’re staying. And because you’re in control of your own accommodation, you also control the itinerary – so you can take advantage of local attractions rather than paying for a package deal.
Finland
It’s easy, but incorrect, to look at Finland as the lesser destination to its neighbours Sweden and Norway. Finland is a little wilder than both, boasting a land border with Russia a reminder of how far east you’ve travelled. However, it’s increasingly looking like the next great destination in Europe – cool nightlife, tons of culture and unbelievable scenery. It’s the last of these that makes it such a great caravan and RV destination. Campers are particularly attracted to Vaasa, a coastal town with an exceptional panorama of the coast by way of a viewing tower at Svedjehamn – but Finland’s laws around camping allow you to pitch up pretty much anywhere as long as you’re not in someone’s garden.
Photo by Blake Wisz on Unsplash
Albania
OK, so let’s just say it: of all the countries in Europe, Albania is not one that frequently makes the list of top holiday destinations. That’s a shame, because many of its destinations are genuinely stunning – and it’s also a very affordable place to stay, though driving there will take a couple of days and border crossings in France, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro. Once there, your best destination is Lake Ohrid, Europe’s oldest lake and a beautiful backdrop for a camping holiday. Albania is also home to some incredible beaches, and Europe’s youngest population; the average age here is lower than 30!
Portugal
Free camping is officially banned in Portugal’s most popular holiday destination, the Algarve. However, if you don’t want to be in a packed tourist destination (and most caravanners don’t!), then there are plenty of places to park up and enjoy the exceptional sights. West-coast spots include Estoril, which can be an excellent place to park and then take public transport if you want to check out the capital Lisbon. In truth, Portugal is an easily navigable country with plenty of facilities wherever you pitch up – just look for signs listing an “Area de servicio para autocaravanas” and you’ll be able to camp for free.