Going on a motorhome adventure in Europe is a unique experience that offers incomparable freedom. We’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot of roads as a family, and it’s a way of travelling that has won us all over! Today, I’d like to introduce you to six original destinations that are off the beaten track. Of course, Europe is full of wonders, so if you’re looking for inspiration, we recommend these six European nuggets that will make your next motorhome trip an unforgettable memory.
Albania: a little-known nugget of the Balkans
Forget preconceived ideas, Albania is an emerging destination that deserves to be discovered, and motorhoming is the ideal way to explore its hidden treasures. This country is particularly appreciated for the wild beauty of its landscapes and the warm welcome of its people. So if you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten track, Albania is the place for you:
- Heavenly beaches along the Albanian Riviera, rivalling the finest Mediterranean coasts.
- Majestic mountains, ideal for hiking and offering breathtaking panoramas.
- Archaeological sites that bear witness to a rich history stretching back thousands of years.
- Authentic villages where time seems to stand still, perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture.
What’s more, wild camping is tolerated in many areas, offering experiences as close to nature as possible!
A few must-sees for your Albanian road trip:
- The Albanian Riviera, with its secret coves and turquoise waters. Imagine waking up facing the Ionian Sea, lulled by the sound of the waves…
- Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an exceptional archaeological site in the heart of a lush natural setting.
- The Albanian Alps, for lovers of hiking and breathtaking scenery.
- The town of Berat, nicknamed “the town of a thousand windows”, with its white houses clinging to the hillside.
Tip: try Albanian cuisine, a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Oriental influences. Local restaurants offer tasty, hearty dishes at very affordable prices.
Albania is a fast-growing destination, so don’t delay in discovering it before it becomes too touristy!
The Azores islands: a natural paradise in the middle of the Atlantic
This Portuguese archipelago, nestling in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, is a real gem for nature lovers.
The Azores are made up of nine main islands, each with its own personality. São Miguel, the largest, offers the best the archipelago has to offer:
- Volcanic lakes with turquoise waters
- Natural hot springs
- Breathtaking hiking trails
- Unique black sand beaches
You’ll be able to park your motorhome facing the ocean, lulled by the sound of the waves. There are more and more facilities for motorhomes, making it much easier to explore these paradise islands. And that’s a good thing!
Don’t forget to try the famous “cozido das Furnas”, a stew cooked in the volcanic fumaroles. It’s a unique culinary experience that will delight the taste buds of the whole family!
Finnish Lapland: a journey to the heart of the Nordic winter
When we think of motorhomes, we often think of summer holidays. But Finnish Lapland offers an unforgettable winter experience:
- Snow-covered landscapes as far as the eye can see
- The chance to see the Northern Lights
- Unique activities such as dog-sleigh safaris
- Encounters with the Sami culture, the indigenous people of the region
Of course, travelling by motorhome in winter requires a certain amount of preparation. Even if we can only recommend that you follow these few tips for tackling winter in a motorhome, it will be essential to choose a vehicle that is suited to winter conditions. A number of companies offer motorhome hire specially equipped to cope with the cold of Lappon.
An experience not to be missed: spending a night in a glass igloo to admire the starry sky and, with a bit of luck, the Northern Lights. It’s a magical moment that your children will never forget!
Slovenia: Europe in miniature
Slovenia is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This small country, nestled between Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, offers a diverse range of landscapes:
- Explore the picturesque streets of the capital, Ljubljana
- Swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Bled
- Admire the Postojna caves, veritable underground wonders
- Taste the wines of the Maribor wine region
What makes Slovenia particularly attractive for a motorhome trip is its compact size. Distances are short, so you can see a lot in a short time.
A word of advice: don’t miss the Triglav National Park. With its rugged mountains, turquoise lakes and spectacular waterfalls, it’s a true paradise for nature lovers. Wild camping is permitted in certain areas, offering an experience of total freedom in the heart of the Julian Alps.
Scotland: mysterious lochs and ancient castles
Scotland offers a unique blend of wild landscapes, fascinating history and warm culture, making it an ideal destination for a family road trip. In fact, we put the wheels of our motorhome down there on our UK road trip.
Scotland lends itself particularly well to motorhome travel thanks to :
- Scenic roads, such as the North Coast 500
- Numerous camping sites, often in idyllic settings
- The possibility of wild camping in many areas
- A welcoming population and facilities adapted to motorhome travellers
Be sure to explore the Highlands, with their breathtaking scenery. Loch Ness is of course a must, but don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten track. The Isle of Skye, with its unique rock formations and picturesque villages, is also well worth a visit.
The Greek islands: a journey to the heart of the Mediterranean
To round off this roundup of original motorhome destinations, we take you to the Greek islands. Although Greece is a popular destination, discovering its islands by motorhome offers a unique perspective and incomparable freedom.
Among Greece’s many islands, we particularly recommend :
- Naxos, with its golden sandy beaches and authentic mountain villages
- Milos, famous for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters
- Kefalonia, a verdant island with a variety of landscapes
- Evia, less touristy but full of natural treasures
What makes travelling by motorhome in the Greek islands so special is the opportunity to combine adventure by land and sea. Many ferries are equipped to carry motorhomes, so you can hop from island to island as you please.
Don’t forget to enjoy the local cuisine. There’s nothing like a meal of freshly caught seafood, enjoyed overlooking the sea from your motorhome. It’s moments like these that make you realise how lucky you are to be travelling this way!
Finally, each of these destinations offers a unique experience for a motorhome trip in Europe. Whether you’re attracted by Nordic landscapes, Mediterranean islands or Scottish castles, you’re bound to find something to suit you. Don’t forget that the beauty of travelling by motorhome lies in its flexibility: don’t hesitate to get off the beaten track and let yourself be guided by what you feel like doing at the time. Enjoy your trip!
