As we move toward summer, getting outside becomes easier and more fun. Why not head to one of these fantastic spots, and pitch a tent, pull up a campervan or rent a little cabin? Here are 10 camping spots around Europe to check out.
Belgium
Camping Ile de Faigneul – Located in the famed Ardennes forest along the banks of the Semois River, this beauty spot offers 130 campsites with plenty of space in between. You can pitch a tent, bring a small camper or, if glamping is more your style, rent a tiny house which sleeps up to four. Hiking trails abound and excellent fishing can be had as long as you obtain the required permit. A communal campfire provides plenty of opportunity to roast marshmallows and make memories.
Camping Memling – A great compromise for families interested in the great outdoors and exploring the medieval city of Bruges, Camping Memling is situated just on the outskirts of town. With plenty of hookups, it’s a good spot for camper vans and motorhomes. Tents can also be pitched in the meadow. Visitors can hike through the serene woods or bike into Bruges and discover the beautiful canals and history.
Germany
Strotzbüscher Mühle – After navigating steep hills and windy hairpin turns, this secluded campsite offers plenty of scenery, peace and quiet. Surrounded by towering beech trees and a babbling creek, the site is car-free — making it the perfect spot for tent camping (although there are a few spaces available for small camper vans). Strotzbüscher Mühle is a little less than two hours north of Kaiserslautern and two hours west of Wiesbaden.
Campingplatz Insel – A mere 4 km from Bamberg, Campingplatz Insel boasts 100 spaces along the scenic Regnitz River. If you’re not keen on staying in a tent or camper, there are a few cabins available to reserve. The family-friendly site offers plenty of activities for kids, including numerous trampolines and playground. The adjacent restaurant serves delicious Franconian favorites and locally brewed beer.
Kanustation Mirow – Up in the northeast reaches of the country approximately two hours north of Berlin is a charming and picturesque campsite nestled on the shores of Mirowersee. Water enthusiasts will enjoy kayaking and canoeing along the calm waters, and children can run their energy out at the huge playground. Make your way across the lake and tour the grandeur of Schloss Mirow.
Italy
Camping Piantelle – Just a little more than an hour west of Vicenza is the stunning Lake Garda. From chalets, mobile homes and cabins to tent and camper pitches available, there is accommodation for all tastes. Enjoy the beautiful shoreline, wander through centuries-old olive groves or catch some sun at the pool on site.
Riva di Ugento – Located on the heel of Italy’s boot is a spectacular spot overlooking the crystalline waters of the Ionian Sea. Offering plenty of amenities including bazaar shopping, restaurants and pools, it may feel a bit more like glamping than camping.
U.K.
Fidden Farm – Hiding in the Hebrides off the western coast of Scotland is this simple yet perfect gem. Located on the Isle of Mull, you’ll need to take a ferry to reach the campground. Outfitted with good facilities, it’s a great spot for tents and camper vans. With clear waters, white sand beaches and postcard-worthy sunsets, it can be hard to remember you’re actually in Scotland.
Low Wray – The Lake District boasts some of the best camping in the U.K. Such is the case with Low Wray, a low-key beautiful spot maintained by the National Trust. Situated on the banks of Lake Windemere, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from, including tree tents suspended mid-air between two trees.
Castle Knights – If you’ve ever fancied pitching a tent on the grounds of a castle, head to Castle Knights in southern Wales. Campers can stay in a large wooden barrel, a yurt, a wagon carriage, or they can bring their own tent or motorhome. The campground is located just outside the walls of Usk Castle. It’s a great jumping off point to explore Welsh castles, fish in the nearby reservoir or enjoy mountain biking through the lush Forest of Dean.