Europe’s best ski resorts for beginners

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Many people who’d like to try skiing are often put off by how expensive the pastime is perceived to be, but using your leisure vehicle can help keep costs down.

In the past, our very own Dan Cartwright has spoken about the benefits of taking your caravan or motorhome on a ski trip, explaining how it can work.

Now, travel insurance comparison experts at Quotezone.co.uk have put together an index of ski resorts that are perfect for beginners.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Booking a ski holiday is really exciting but there are so many factors to consider that for first-time skiers it can be a bit overwhelming.

“Our research is designed to help point beginners in the right direction, with our ski index taking a look at key factors for learners and ranking them against Europe’s top ski spots.”

So, why not pack up your leisure vehicle and give a new hobby a try?

Ranking factors

The index ranks top-rated ski resorts on a number of factors, such as the total length of beginner slopes, average annual snowfall, airport transfer time, length of the ski season and the cost of a one-day ski pass.

As well as some of the world’s most famous ski resorts, like Val Thorens in the French Alps and Val Gardena in the Dolomites of Italy, it names some lesser-known resorts such as Bansko in Bulgaria and Glenshee in the UK.

Best ski resorts for beginners

Val Thorens – France

The highest ski resort in Europe boasts an incredible 336km of beginner slopes and a season lasting 163 days between November and May.

Val Gardena – Italy

Ranking highly in most factors, Val Gardena enjoys 291cm of average snowfall a year, making it a reliable destination for skiing. 

Trysil – Norway

With a season lasting for 136 days and the cost of an adult one-day ski pass coming in at a reasonable £52.12, Trysil represents a good alternative to the ski resorts found in central Europe.

Les Diablerets – Switzerland

Les Diablerets’ enviable position in the Swiss Alps sees an impressive 338cm of average annual snowfall. While you’re there, experience the only peak-to-peak suspension bridge in the world.

Rifflsee – Austria

Known for its wide selection of family-friendly slopes, Rifflsee’s ski season lasts 136 days, offering plenty of opportunities for everyone to learn the sport.

Bansko – Bulgaria

The largest and most popular ski resort in Bulgaria offers fantastic value for money and a gondola that takes visitors up Bundarishka to a gentle plateau that’s perfect for beginners.

Grandvalira – Andorra

Located in the Pyrenees, Grandvalira has 215km of skiable slopes split across seven sections, with runs suitable for a variety of different competencies, making it a good choice for groups of varying abilities.

Spitzingsee-Tegernsee – Germany

Complete with modern snow-production equipment, you can ski on Spitzingsee-Tegernsee’s 23km of slopes even if there hasn’t been any snowfall.

Rogla – Slovenia

Set within the Pohorje Hills, Rogla offers skiing from late autumn to early spring each year. There’s a large car park near the slopes with space for 40 campervans, with amenities such as water, power and sanitation available.

Glenshee – UK

Closer to home, Scotland’s biggest ski area can be found in the Cairngorms. Spread across four mountains and three valleys, boasting 21 lifts and tows, there’s plenty of chances to get on the slopes.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Melvin Trav



Iconic road trips celebrating anniversaries in 2025

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If you’re looking to plan a road trip in your caravan or motorhome this year, why not choose one that’s having a significant anniversary?

It could be the perfect opportunity to tick off the multi-day adventure in your leisure vehicle that you’ve always dreamed of taking.

Max Schmidt, chief adventurer at one of Europe’s leading camper tour operators, CamperDays, shares a selection of road trips celebrating something special in 2025.

He said: “Let 2025 be a year to travel differently with a road trip to get the most from these iconic spots.

“It’s a great time to visit a destination celebrating a milestone anniversary, as visitors can expect a range of special celebrations to mark the occasion.”

North Coast 500, Scotland – 10 years

It’s hard to believe that the 516-mile loop that makes up one of the most popular long-distance road trips in the UK has only been in existence for a decade.

The North Coast 500 (NC500) begins and ends in Inverness, making its way through over a dozen towns and settlements along some of Scotland’s most beautiful coastline.

This now iconic route celebrates its tenth birthday in March, coinciding with auroral activity expected to be at its peak in 2025, offering a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

And if you’d like to enjoy a quieter road trip this year, here are some alternatives in Scotland that don’t get as much hype as the NC500 but are just as beautiful.

Pennine Way, Lancashire – 60 years

The Pennine Way was the first National Trail when it launched on 24th April 1965 and was the culmination of secretary of the Ramblers’ Association, Tom Stephenson’s call for a “long green trail” in England.

It stretches for 268 miles from the Derbyshire Peak District, through the Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Park, before ending just over the border with Scotland in Kirk Yetholm.

Road trippers can take the easterly A1 passing through Leeds, Durham and Newcastle-upon-Tyne, or the westerly M6 through Manchester and the Lake District, using their leisure vehicle as accommodation for the walk.

Route 66, USA – 99 years

Arguably the most famous road trip in the world, Route 66 covers 2,400 miles and eight states, offering a glimpse of true Americana.

Think quirky roadside attractions, traditional diners and diverse landscapes as you travel from Chicago to California.

Obviously, getting your own leisure vehicle out to the States could be a challenge, so CamperDays can rent you an RV for £37 per person per night. If you do the route in reverse, it works out cheaper.

Caen, France – 1,000 years

The French city of Caen marks its 1,000th birthday this year, making it an interesting stop on a European road trip.

Its celebrations will culminate in the Millennium Parade on May 9th, when more than 1,000 performers will bring the city’s history to life across a five-kilometre stretch.

Explore the castle built by William the Conqueror and the two Romanesque abbeys that sit either side of it high up on the hill.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/john Higgitt

Europe’s most romantic city break destinations

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With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you may be thinking about the most romantic places for a getaway in your caravan or motorhome.

Many of Europe’s cities can be exciting to explore with a loved one, but it’s easy to get stuck on the idea of Paris and not think any further.

With this in mind, travel insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk have put together a list of the continent’s most romantic city break destinations and the City of Love doesn’t get a mention until number four.

Factors taken into consideration included the price of a meal for two, the number of landmarks on offer, spa and wellbeing facilities and picturesque parks to stroll through.

Prague, Czech Republic

At the top of the list is Prague, aptly nicknamed the City of a Hundred Spires, which is blessed with charming baroque buildings.

Enjoy romantic walks through the Old Town to the Astronomical Clock, across the iconic Charles Bridge and to the largest castle in Europe.

To escape the hustle and bustle, seek out one of the many idyllic parks and gardens or set off in your leisure vehicle for a day trip to the fairytale city of Cesky Krumlov.

Rome, Italy

The Eternal City is often associated with love, so it may be no surprise that it was ranked in second place.

Explore the beautiful 17th-century Villa Borghese Gardens, unwind on a dinner cruise down the Tiber and throw a coin into the famous Trevi Fountain for luck.

Legend suggests that tossing two coins into the fountain increases the chance of finding true love, while three coins is said to ensure a marriage!

Istanbul, Turkey

Driving your caravan or motorhome to Istanbul may seem like a bit of an undertaking, but it’s certainly worth it if you have the time.

The Turkish capital is the third-cheapest destination on the list for dining out, while spa lovers can treat themselves to some pampering in one of the many luxurious bathhouses, known locally as hammams.

Admire the magnificent Topkapi and Dolmabahce palaces, experience a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus and soak up the atmosphere in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Souk.

Paris, France

In fourth place, Paris scored highly for its selection of relaxing spas, beautiful outdoor spaces and famous landmarks.

What could be more romantic than sharing a glass of champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower or even with a view of the famous structure?! 

The City of Light was the joint second most expensive city in the index for a meal, while the cost of accommodation is almost twice as much as in Prague, but if you’re travelling by leisure vehicle, then that’s not a problem.

London, England

Closer to home, a night away in London might be a bit more manageable for some caravan and motorhome owners.

London was highly rated for its large number of parks, spa facilities and sightseeing opportunities.

Head to the Big Smoke to catch a show in the West End, take a Thames river cruise or soar above the city aboard the London Eye.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Anthony DELANOIX

Unbelievable staycation stories from Pure Leisure

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It’s not unusual to put a lot of time and effort into planning a staycation, but it’s often the unexpected things that stay longest in the memory.

As a well-established holiday lodge provider in the UK, Pure Leisure has heard some extraordinary tales over the years.

Here, we look at some of the funny situations that have taken place on the brand’s caravan sites.

A close encounter

Pure Leisure team member Anna remembers working in the main office on-site one day when she answered the helpdesk phone to find a concerned guest on the other end.

She requested pest control be sent to her lodge, but in fact what she needed was animal control, as she had returned to her holiday accommodation to find a deer was hanging its head out of the porch window.

Luckily nothing was damaged and the deer was safely herded out of the front door, which wasn’t too difficult as it was quite small.

While seeing wildlife on your staycation is often considered a highlight of the trip, sharing sleeping quarters with it is not ideal.

Those aren’t my flip flops!

One guest recounted the tale of the time she headed back to her lodge to use the facilities at South Lakeland Leisure Village whilst having a few drinks at the bar.

The cocktails must have been stronger than she thought, as it wasn’t until she was sitting on the toilet and reading the ingredients on the back of a conditioner bottle that she realised something was wrong.

Knowing she’d packed coconut conditioner for her staycation, she was perplexed to see that the bottle contained mint.

Looking up and around the room, she spotted a pair of flip flops that weren’t hers, which is when she realised she’d let herself into her neighbour’s lodge and fled quickly.

A romantic camping trip

One couple decided to leave the relative comfort of their lodge one night for a romantic camping trip in the Yorkshire Dales.

While the boyfriend thought he’d planned everything perfectly, down to the wine and chocolates, he unfortunately had no experience in putting up the spacious top-of-the-line tent he’d bought.

Neither of the duo had checked the weather forecast either and it wasn’t until the torrential rain started that they realised they’d erected the tent inside out, rendering the waterproof layer completely useless.

The pair returned to their lodge in the middle of the night, driving back in just their underwear.

Pure Leisure

Pure Leisure is a national holiday park provider, which is suitable for couples, friends and families.

Its parks can be found across the UK, from Wales to the Lake District, and the Highlands of Scotland to Norfolk, offering caravans, camping pods and luxury lodges.



Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben White

Tips for keeping your leisure vehicle free of clutter

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A tidy home may have been at the top of many people’s New Year’s resolutions, but a clutter-free leisure vehicle is just as important.

Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing, has highlighted the importance of removing clutter from your leisure vehicle, emphasising that it’s crucial for safe driving.

He said: “Many of us can be guilty of leaving rubbish on the dashboard – whether it’s empty bottles, coffee cups or even newspapers. If your vehicle becomes too messy, you could face a fine of up to £5,000.

“You could even serve prison time for your clutter.”

Mr Conway added that any clutter lying around on the floor that makes its way into the pedal area could become dangerous.

It’s not unusual for things to move around when a leisure vehicle is being driven, which is why caravan and motorhome owners know to stow things carefully before setting off.

Follow these tips for a safe, pleasant and clutter-free escape in your leisure vehicle every time:

Do a clearout after every trip

Once touring season starts and you’re taking your caravan or motorhome on trips regularly, it’s easy to let clutter accumulate.

While many items may need to stay in place for your next night away, take time after every excursion in your leisure vehicle to remove rubbish and unnecessary objects.

Give everyone a responsibility

Make sure every member of the family is responsible for their area of the leisure vehicle, whether it’s where they sit or where they sleep.

This means they should empty their pockets and put items back where they belong. You could incentivise this with a points system and rewards.

Don’t leave open food in your leisure vehicle

Having your caravan or motorhome stocked for the season sounds like a good idea, but while canned food can safely stay inside when you’re not using your vehicle, open packets can attract unwanted attention.

Mice and other critters can get into your caravan between trips, so take away anything that could invite them in until your next holiday.

Create places for everything

Storage solutions are just as vital in your leisure vehicle as they are in your house. If you don’t have a dedicated place for things, they’ll simply get left lying around.

Pouches on the backs of chairs, hooks and magnetic strips can all help to make the most of storage opportunities in a small space.

Accumulate souvenirs sparingly

It’s tempting to pick up souvenirs from your travels in your caravan or motorhome, but think carefully about where they’re going to be stored long term.

Even leaflets from attractions you visit can quickly mount up, so only take them if you’re going to look at them again, and regularly clear out any you’ve finished with.



Photo credit: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich

The UK’s best car museums to visit on a touring trip

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The UK is home to a number of iconic car museums, and visiting one or even more can be a fantastic family activity on your next caravan getaway.

With this in mind, the specialists at Regtransfers have put together a list of their favourites and the ones they believe you shouldn’t miss.

British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire

If you love classic cars, then this museum in Warwickshire is a must-visit, as it’s home to more than 300 models spanning several decades.

As well as rare prototypes and historic vehicles, there are fun, interactive exhibits designed to engage children.

From July, the museum will host the From Sketch to Street temporary exhibition, exploring how cars are designed and brought to life.

Caravan and Motorhome Club members receive a £2 discount at the British Motor Museum. Nearby Club sites include Manor Farm, Hampton House Farm and Harbury Fields Farm Touring Park.

National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Hampshire

Nestled in the stunning New Forest, the National Motor Museum offers the perfect opportunity to combine a love of cars with a caravan holiday.

Among the highlights of the 250-strong car collection is undoubtedly those vehicles that have featured in films and TV shows.

There’s also Jack Turner’s Garage, a recreation of a 1930s mechanic’s workshop, complete with artefacts, fixtures, fittings and tools.

Campsites near the National Motor Museum include Roundhill, Matley Wood and Lepe Beach, meaning there are plenty of convenient places to pitch up.

Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, Surrey

Brooklands was the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit, making it an important part of automobile history.

The museum here showcases vehicles from the golden age of racing, as well as an aviation collection, which includes a Concorde.

Take a walk on the famous Brooklands track to truly experience the site’s heritage and imagine what it must have been like to race there in its heyday.

The Camping and Caravanning Club recommends its Chertsey site as a great place to stay near the museum.

Haynes International Motor Museum, Sparkford, Somerset

If you’ve always dreamed of owning a bright red Ferrari, head to the Supercar Exhibit at Haynes International Motor Museum.

The attraction is made up of themed zones to help you navigate the 400-plus vehicles, which range from British classics to 1950s Americana.

There are vintage models, muscle cars and cutting-edge supercars to explore, ensuring there’s something to captivate everyone.

Longfield Farm Certified Location offers a cost-effective place to stay nearby if you don’t need many additional amenities beyond those found in your leisure vehicle.

Seatbelt laws every motorhome owner needs to know

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Motorhomes are generally a safe way to travel, but owners must ensure they know the laws around seatbelts in these leisure vehicles.

Due to motorhome layouts differing greatly from cars and other vehicles, seatbelt laws are also not the same and many motorists aren’t aware of the rules and regulations.

To keep yourself and all passengers safe, as well as avoiding fines or legal troubles, it’s important to familiarise yourself with these laws before getting on the road.

Steve Noga, caravan and motor home expert at Auto Finance said: “Just like any other vehicle, motorhomes have seatbelt laws that must be followed in the same way as cars and any other motor vehicle.

“Seatbelts are used primarily for the safety of passengers in a vehicle should there be an accident or collision. Modern seatbelts are designed to reduce the risk of injury in accidents and fatalities in more serious crashes.”

With this in mind, he has shared essential advice every motorhome owner should be aware of when it comes to seatbelts in their vehicle.

Check when your motorhome was made 

Motorhomes built after 2006 are subject to the standard seatbelt laws in place across the UK, with all drivers and passengers restrained when the vehicle is moving.

Specified passenger seats and the driver’s seat must have three-point seatbelts, but any other travel seats can have two-point belts.

If your motorhome was made after October 1st, 1988, Mr Noga advises that the seatbelt rules only apply to forward-facing passengers.

Again, these belts must have three points, but the rest of the restraints in the vehicle can be two-point belts.

Check if you’re eligible to travel in the back of a motorhome

Mr Noga said: “While vehicles that were built before 1965 are not required by law to have seatbelts, however, if seatbelts are fitted in the vehicle you are expected to wear them. 

“Whilst it isn’t required to wear a seatbelt in these older motorhomes, we’d always recommend wearing one to ensure the safety of everyone on board your vehicle. 

“Any vehicles built after 1988 cannot legally have passengers in the back or other designated passenger seats without a seatbelt when in motion.”

Consider your seat position

Side-facing seats are usually only found in older models of motorhome and not recommended for use when the vehicle is moving.

They can be useful for accommodating visitors when you’re pitched up or at mealtimes, but aren’t the safest way to travel.

Ensure there is a three-point belt for children

Under the same rule as cars and other vehicles, all children under the age of 12 or a height of 4 ft 4 in must use a child booster seat and a three-point seatbelt. 

Regardless of the laws on forward, side or backwards seats, wherever a child sits, it must be fitted with a three-point seatbelt.

Always secure pets 

All pets must be suitably restrained using a seat belt harness, pet carrier or dog cage that is secure when a motorhome is in transit.

This is to prevent distractions caused by pets wandering around and ensure the safety of all passengers, including those of a four-legged variety.

Check for medical exemptions

Mr Noga did point out that in some circumstances, wearing a seatbelt may not be possible or can case you more harm if you have a specific disability.

In this situation your doctor will issue you a medical exemption certificate, which must be with you at all times to prove to legal parties like the police that you are legally permitted to be without a seatbelt.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Alexandria Gilliott

Scotland offers glamping in the style of The Traitors

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The Traitors fever has taken over the UK as series three keeps the nation glued to their television sets.

Now, you can enjoy the vibe created by the BBC show on a glamping trip to Scotland. Booking platform Pitchup.com has curated a selection of the most cinematic accommodation for those seeking a castle-core escape.

Culdees Castle Estate, Perthshire

Located within the peaceful grounds of Culdee Castle in Perthshire, this luxurious woodland retreat combines history, comfort and breathtaking scenery.

Local attractions include the formal gardens of nearby Drummond Castle; golf and outdoor pursuits at Gleneagles; or kayaking, hiking and stone-skimming at Loch Earn.

Animal enthusiasts can explore Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre, while Perth is a fascinating city for its galleries and museums.

Scone Palace and Stirling also have strong links to royal history, adding to the charm of this part of Scotland.

Macbeth’s Hillock, Forres

Soak up the atmosphere with a stay at the legendary site where the Thane of Cawdor is said to have encountered the three witches.

Macbeth’s Hillock is a picturesque rural site with cozy wooden cabins nestled among wildflower meadows and expansive views of Scotland’s dramatic scenery.

Each of the private cabins are equipped with modern comforts including a kitchenette, fire pit and picnic bench.

There’s sea fishing, dolphin-spotting or exploring nearby Macbeth-inspired attractions like Brodie Castle and Cawdor Castle.

Paxton House Caravan Park, Berwickshire

Situated on the scenic grounds of a grand 18th-century estate, Paxton House Caravan Park offers a tranquil retreat with exceptional views of the River Tweed.

Just about as far south as you can go and still be in Scotland, the Borders is an underappreciated destination, making it perfect for a glamping getaway.

Visitors can explore the estate’s lush gardens, atmospheric woodlands and the historical Palladian-style mansion steeped in Scottish history, as well as taking walks along the river.

The nearby Union Chain Bridge is the oldest suspension bridge in the UK and spans the Tweed, with Scotland on one side and England on the other.

The Four Sisters Boatel, Edinburgh

For something a bit different to your average glamping experience, The Four Sisters Boatel is moored on the Union Canal in the heart of Edinburgh.

This one-of-a-kind stay captures the charm of Scotland’s historic capital and is perfect for those seeking a cinematic escape.

The luxury houseboat combines modern comforts with a peaceful waterside retreat just minutes from many of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Take advantage of the kitchen, Wi-Fi, shower room and two canopied outdoor decking areas on board this unique glamping option.

 

Photo credit: Pitchup.com



Accessible lodge to be showcased at the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show

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The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show is set to take place next month, with one of its headline sponsors unveiling an accessible lodge.

Border Caravans will be at the SEC in Glasgow from February 6th to 9th, showcasing the bespoke holiday accommodation.

Designed in partnership with Love Holiday Homes, it’s hoped the accessible lodge will be a prototype for future builds at sites across the UK.

Features of the lodge include wider corridors and more spacious rooms, as well as a balcony with ramped access and sliding internal doors.

Jillyanne Glen, show manager at the Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Border Caravans as our headline sponsor. Having collaborated with their team for years, we’ve consistently been impressed by their exhibitions at the show.

“Not only are their products of outstanding quality, but their team is also constantly innovating to bring something fresh and exciting to our guests.

“The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show celebrates flexible holiday-making for everyone, and the introduction of the new accessible lodge exemplifies true flexibility and inclusivity.

“As Scotland’s largest event of its kind, we are deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and hope the new lodge inspires others in the industry to prioritise it in their designs and exhibitions.”

Border Caravans’ accessible lodge aims to address a gap in the holiday market, which makes it challenging for those with additional needs to find suitable accommodation.

The manufacturer hopes to spark a movement towards more inclusive designs across the sector, making holiday parks accessible for all.

Border Caravans operates four award-winning sites throughout the Scottish Borders and is known as one of Scotland’s leading family-owned holiday park operators.

Its parks are Lilliardsedge Holiday Park at Jedburgh, Westlands Country Park at Annan, Riverside Caravan Park at Hawick and Mouswald Lodge Park at Dumfries.

They all boast a variety of accommodation offerings, including holiday homes for purchase and hot tub lodges for hire, while on-site facilities like bars, restaurants, live entertainment and clay pigeon shooting keep everyone entertained.

Fishing lakes, a golf course, tranquil surroundings and Borders Caravans’ very own music festival help to make the parks stand out from the crowd.

The Scottish Caravan, Motorhome and Holiday Home Show will be an opportunity for visitors to explore the newest leisure vehicles on the market and a wide range of accessories.

This year’s show will also feature a climbing wall and the return of the popular farmers’ market, showcasing delicious local produce.



Britain’s best motorway services to stop at on your next touring trip

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Taking regular stops en route to your touring destination is all part of a long caravan trip and we all have our favourites.

Now, Instarmac, with the help of TripAdvisor, has put together a definitive list of the best motorway services across Britain.

This should help you to plan your next journey to ensure you arrive at your campsite feeling rested and most importantly, get there safely.

Gloucester Services

Consistently appearing in the top-ranked service stations in the UK, Gloucester Services is Britain’s favourite according to TripAdvisor.

Its mantra of “bringing you proper food on the motorway” is reflected in home-cooked dishes, which are enough to tempt weary caravanners to take a break.

Add to this its authentic artisan feel and leafy green surroundings, Gloucester Services has become a firm favourite with travelling Brits.

One TripAdvisor reviewer said: “If only every motorway services was like this one!” High praise indeed.

Moto Hospitality Rugby

New to the services scene is Moto Hospitality Rugby, which opened to the public in 2021, so has relatively fewer reviews than others.

It was, however, named the best in the UK in Transport Focus’ 2022 customer survey, so we’re expecting it to keep up the quality as it becomes well known.

Among the reviews Moto Hospitality Rugby has attracted is a nod to how pet-friendly the new facilities are, making it a good stop-off point if you’re travelling with your dog.

Tebay Services

Located on the M6 near Penrith in Cumbria, Tebay Services is run by the same company as Gloucester Services and has an equally winning formula.

It stands out from other services for its commitment to working with local producers within a 30-mile radius.

These 70-plus suppliers stock its farm shop and restaurant, where children can enjoy a hot meal for £1 when purchased with an adult-sized dish.

Extra MSA Cobham

Cobham Services, which can be found between junctions nine and ten of the M25 in Surrey, is famous for being the first motorway services to ever hold a wedding.

The bride and groom were enticed by the food options on offer, including Greggs, Pizza Express and Leon, which are also great opportunities to refuel on the way to your caravan destination.

Cairn Lodge Services

Scotland’s Cairn Lodge Services on the A74, just over half an hour south of Glasgow is said to offer a similar vibe to the Gloucester and Tebay services.

Its name comes from the nearby historic 18th century gatehouse of the derelict Douglas Castle and continues to offer hospitality for travellers looking to break up their journey.

Roadchef Annandale McDonalds

This McDonalds north of the border has much to recommend it alongside just a Big Mac and fries, as it boasts a picturesque lakeside location.

As well as the panoramic views, users of TipAdvisor have commented on the excellent customer service, which elevates a typical fast food experience into something more memorable.

If you’re driving past Annandale near Lockerbie on your way to the Highlands or islands, perhaps, then tap into this little-known gem.

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Joseph Pearson



Camping the Disney way: Fort Wilderness Resort

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Dan Cartwright has over 12 years of experience in the caravan and motorhome industry. He is a judge for a number of prestigious leisure vehicle awards and regularly heads off in his motorhome with his family. Every week, Dan shares his insights with the community. Here’s what he has to say this week.

If you like caravanning and you’re a fan of Disney, then this one’s for you.

I recently went to Disney’s Fort Wilderness and it’s pretty spectacular. To be clear, this isn’t a theme park in the sense of Thorpe Park, with a defined area and a parking space. It’s more akin to a large town or small city. 

The different theme parks at Disney World, Florida require separate transport to get between them. There’s so many things to do, from Downtown Disney with its restaurants, shops and nightclubs, to golf courses and waterparks. On top of this, there are some very expensive Disney resorts, where you can stay within Disney World and access easy transport to all the attractions.

If money is no object, then being accommodated within one of these resorts is the most convenient and hassle-free way of experiencing Disney World. For the rest of us, there’s one of the most incredible campsites I’ve ever seen: Fort Wilderness.

An affordable alternative

Compared to Disney’s hotel accommodation, the campsite is affordable. However, depending on the time of year, prices will vary. You should also be aware of additional costs on top of the pitch, such as golf car rental to get around.

The site is on par with some of the largest sites I’ve seen in Europe, but incredibly well organised and properly well laid out. There are buses laid on to take you between the pitches, on-site facilities and various theme parks.

On-site amenities

It’s a 750-acre site set within a pine forest and I saw all kinds of wildlife there. The facilities are second to none, with plenty of recreation options inside the campsite, including pools with waterslides. It’s pet-friendly, so your dog can come too, if they’re travelling in the US with you.

Being Disney, decorating your pitch is encouraged, so there are lights and inflatable characters at every turn. I was there at Christmas and I didn’t see a single set-up that wasn’t complete with festoon lighting and recognisable faces from the franchise.

Working out the details

A 50-foot by ten-foot pitch (they do things bigger in America) can be priced between $82 (£67) and $200, depending on your needs. These can vary from having a simple tent to a caravan with electric hook-up. The time of year will also affect pricing, with a premium charged during the US school holidays. Going out of season is around 40 per cent cheaper.

If you want to explore Disney for a few days, everything is accessible from the Fort Wilderness Resort campsite. There’s a bus that goes directly to Epcot or a boat to the Magic Kingdom, as well as bars, restaurants and swimming pools on site. It’s also worth it to see how the Americans go all out decorating a campsite!

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Kin Li



2025 to be a year of escapism, says caravan chief

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More people will seek escapism by investing in a caravan holiday home, touring caravan or motorhome in the coming year, according to a caravan chief.

Tony Bywater, chairman of Salop Leisure, has made the prediction following a challenging year for the caravan industry in 2024.

He believes that there will be greater demand for leisure vehicles in 2025 after an uncertain year meant more people were cautious with their spending.

Mr Bywater pointed to the cost of living crisis, political uncertainty leading up to and following the general election and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East for slow sales in 2024.

He added: “It was a challenging year for a combination of reasons, not helped by the doom and gloom that has spread across the media.

“People consequently lost confidence in buying homes and making business decisions, which affected sales of caravans.

“We also had one of the coldest summers in living memory, but nevertheless our parks were very busy.”

With 55 years of experience in the industry, Mr Bywater is well-placed to make such predictions and thinks this January will see record sales, followed by a bumper year for caravans.

His colleague Mark Bebb, managing director at Salop Leisure, agreed with Mr Bywater’s sentiments, suggesting the caravan industry will bounce back in 2025.

He believes taking trips in a caravan is seen as a great way to escape the pressures of everyday life.

Mr Bebb added: “Our industry represents escapism from technology and stress, which are increasingly impacting mental health and anxiety. Our products provide an antidote like no other for individuals and families.”

It’s not just the traditional demographics that understand the benefits of staycations in a caravan or motorhome either, as younger generations are also enjoying the lifestyle.

Salop Leisure has sales centres in Shrewsbury, Machynlleth and Stourport-on-Severn, where prospective buyers can check out models they’re thinking of purchasing.

As well as the caravan and motorhome dealerships, Salop Leisure also owns the Love2Stay glamping and touring resort.

Located in Shropshire, Love2Stay is set within 22 acres of natural countryside, offering a wide range of activities, amenities and nearby attractions.