See Europe in bloom this spring

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It feels like it’s been a long winter, but now little signs of spring are starting to push their way up through the earth.

A great way to celebrate the new season and embrace all the natural colour it brings is to take your caravan or motorhome to one of Europe’s most blooming destinations.

Horticulture experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have put together a list of cities that offer stunning floral displays at this time of year.

Chris Bonnett, founder of the website, said: “With sunny days and warmer temperatures on the horizon, cities in Europe will be transforming into vibrant flower havens. 

“Blooming flowers have a way of showcasing cities at their best, making the atmosphere feel like you’ve just stepped into a postcard or a painting. 

“What makes spring particularly special is that many European cities host flower festivals and seasonal events that celebrate their local blooms.”

Stockholm, Sweden

Japan may be famous for its cherry blossoms, but there’s another destination closer to home where you can witness them in all their glory – Stockholm.

The streets in the Swedish capital come alive in spring with swathes of the little pink flowers brightening up the cityscape. Visit Kungsträdgården Park in the city centre for the best display.

Rose Valley, Bulgaria

Nestled between scenic mountains, Rose Valley has been named for its famous fields of flowers stretching as far as the eye can see.

There’s a Rose Festival held every year in June, allowing visitors to learn about traditions surrounding the blooms and to pick their own roses.

Madeira, Portugal

Spring is the best time to see the stunning flora and fauna that the island of Madeira is famous for all year round.

Its climate is perfect for growing a diverse variety of flowers, which are celebrated with the Madeira Flower Festival in May, featuring beautiful displays, street murals and a parade.

Lisse, The Netherlands

Lisse in the Netherlands is one of the most popular destinations for flower lovers, as it’s home to the Keukenhof Gardens.

Here, vast tulip fields are filled with around seven million bulbs each year and visitors can cycle or walk around the vibrant fields to explore the 800 different tulip varieties.

Vienna, Austria

While Vienna’s grand palaces may be impressive, during spring it’s their gardens that really steal the show.

This is the time when Schönbrunn Palace Gardens and the Belvedere Palace Gardens burst into life with vibrant tulips, roses and magnolias.

Istanbul, Turkey

The arrival of spring in Istanbul is celebrated with an annual Tulip Festival, where millions of tulips can be found in the city’s historic parks.

During the month-long festival in April, the Emirgan Park and Gülhane Park are the best locations to see the spectacle.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany’s rolling hills and picturesque countryside will be covered with a sea of bright red poppies over the coming months.

Don’t miss the poppies in the Val d’Orcia countryside, where seemingly endless fields of the wild flowers create the perfect backdrop for a peaceful walk or a scenic drive.



 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Boudewijn Huysmans

Best holiday destinations you can drive to from the UK

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Whether you’re behind the wheel of your motorhome or towing a caravan, owning a leisure vehicle offers you countless opportunities to escape.

While staycations are great, heading off to the continent is always an enticing option and there are a number of destinations that are easy to drive to.

Ed Sharp, head of car hire at TravelSupermarket, has put together a list of the best of these places, with travellers able to choose between quick and direct routes or more scenic, leisurely journeys.

Calais, the gateway to Europe

The two main options for driving to Europe are the Channel Tunnel or ferry, with the quickest and most convenient of these being the tunnel.

It connects Folkestone in Kent to Calais in northern France and requires check-in at least 30 minutes ahead of departure and no earlier than two hours before.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from a number of ports along the south coast of England, although the most common route is from Dover to Calais.

France

French cities worth exploring within a six-hour drive of Calais include:

  • Lille – Around an hour and a half away, the capital of the Hauts-de-France region boasts a beautiful historic centre.
  • Paris – Approximately three and a half hours from Calais and a cultural hub in need of little introduction.
  • Strasbourg – Six hours from Calais, this city blends French and German influences in its architecture and culture.

Belgium

Once in Calais, Belgium is within easy reach via the A16 and E40 motorways, which may be particularly appealing for caravanners who have already explored France.

Some of the options worth discovering are:

  • Bruges – An hour and a half from Calais, this city is an enchanting mix of canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings.
  • Ghent  – Approximately two hours of driving will bring you to a part of the Flemish region known for its laidback population.
  • Brussels – Two and a half hours’ drive away is an incredible gastronomic city, where you can indulge in waffles, fries and beer, as long as you’ve parked up first.

Germany

All driving routes from Calais to Germany pass through Belgium, so you can stop off at some of the exciting cities mentioned above on the way.

Once in Germany, head for:

  • Düsseldorf – Four and a half hours from Calais and known for its fashion, music and arts scenes.
  • Cologne – Also four and a half hours away, this city has more than 2,000 years of history.
  • Frankfurt – A six-and-a-half hour drive will take you to this culturally diverse metropolis, featuring lots of modern architecture.

 

 

Photo credit: Unsplash/Zhu Yunxiao

Take part in the National Forest Walking Festival with your caravan

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The National Forest Walking Festival is now in its 16th year and is the perfect opportunity to get away and enjoy the countryside in your leisure vehicle.

Caravans and motorhomes are perfect accommodation for those taking part in the annual event, which runs from May 16th to 26th in 2025.

The National Forest is a project connecting two ancient forests – Charnwood and Needwood – spanning 200 square miles across Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire.

Its walking festival aims to encourage walkers of all ages and abilities to explore the environment blending nature, community and sustainability.

Newly planted woodlands, meadows, hedgerows and waterways have transformed an area that was once characterised by coalfields into a green space, teeming with wildlife and biodiversity.

Visitors to the festival can take advantage of a packed itinerary featuring a wide range of guided walks and outdoor experiences.

They’re split into four main categories:

  • Gentle, accessible walks: More than 20 routes, each under three miles in length, making them ideal for families, those with limited mobility or anyone seeking a relaxed exploration.
  • Sensory experiences: Curated walks designed to engage the senses, offering a unique way to connect with nature in a different way.
  • Beginner adventures: Perfect for those new to walking, these guided excursions focus on exploring tree life and wildlife.
  • Challenging treks: Ten-mile routes through iconic landscapes, such as Calke Abbey and its reservoirs, for experienced walkers seeking adventure and spectacular views.

The entire festival is supported by volunteers who bring their local knowledge, enthusiasm and love for the National Forest to guide walkers on routes that showcase the best of the region.

Zoe Sewter, volunteer and wellbeing officer at the National Forest, said: “The festival wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of its incredible volunteers.

“Their hard work ensures that the National Forest Walking Festival continues to grow, bringing together communities and celebrating the Forest’s remarkable transformation from industrial land to vibrant green spaces.”

The majority of walks at the festival are free and don’t require booking. For special events where a fee is charged and booking is required, this is listed in the brochure.

There are a number of caravan sites in South Derbyshire, where you could base yourself for a few days or the entirety of the festival.



Natural outdoor swimming pool proves a hit at luxury glamping site

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Up to 50 people a day are making use of the Biotop natural outdoor swimming pool at the multi-award-winning Love2Stay resort in Shrewsbury.

The chemical-free pool is open to locals, as well as those staying at the luxury touring and glamping resort, which boasts 116 fully-serviced touring pitches for caravans and motorhomes.

Coldwater swimming has become very popular in recent years and can easily be combined with caravanning, as having a leisure vehicle close by to get changed in and warmed up afterwards makes things easier.

Among the apparent benefits of coldwater swimming are:

  • Reduced stress
  • Improved mental health
  • Better fitness, metabolism and circulation
  • Boosted self-esteem
  • Increased immunity
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Higher levels of mindfulness
  • Radiant skin

Mark Bebb, joint managing director at Salop Leisure, which owns Love2Stay, said: “Coldwater swimming is known for improving mental wellbeing, benefitting menopausal women, reduces chronic inflammation and helps to control breathing.

“The natural Biotop pool at Love2Stay is a fantastic resource for outdoor swimmers and anybody interested in cold water immersion.”

Competent swimmers over the age of 16 are invited to use the pool on the site and will be given a safety briefing prior to their session.

Anyone thinking about taking the plunge is encouraged to do their research beforehand and follow advice on acclimatisation techniques.

The natural swimming pool facilities at Love2Stay feature a hot tub, sun loungers and changing rooms.

Swimming is not the only activity you can enjoy at Love2Stay, with kayaking, archery and an assault course all set up on site.

There’s even a dog agility course available, so your four-legged friend can join in, and a wild bee and flower garden for those who are looking for a more sedate pastime.

Love2Stay

The Shrewsbury site is the original Love2Stay location, set within 22 acres of natural landscape, but the owners have taken the same wellness and luxury elements to create a second site in Mid Wales.

Fully serviced touring pitches for caravans, motorhomes, campervans, and trailer tents are available at the site near Caersws.

New app aims to enhance guest experience at 3 award-winning campsites

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Three award-winning campsites that are consistently popular with caravan and motorhome owners are hoping to improve the guest experience further.

Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, near Edinburgh, Herding Hill Farm, close to Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, and Longnor Wood in the heart of the Peak District often top lists of the best sites in the UK.

Now, they’re to benefit from the introduction of a new app with extensive functionality, including:

  • Information on accommodation, site facilities, events and optional extras
  • Reminders and packing lists
  • Interactive maps of the campsites
  • Recommendations for local attractions
  • Information on nearby walking and cycling routes
  • Special offers
  • Managing bookings
  • Leaving feedback
  • Loyalty programme

Guests are encouraged to create personalised holiday itineraries before they arrive using the app, so they can make the most of their trip from the outset.

Enabling pop-up notifications will provide visitors with useful information on everything from emergency road closures nearby and mobile pizza or ice cream vans being on site.

Jo Ritzema, executive chair of WCF, which runs the campsites, said: “Our guests are what make the success of our campsites, and we’re always looking at ways to improve the on-site experience to make their stays even better than before.

“The app boosts the services we already provide and helps ensure that our guests have all the information they need for an enjoyable and relaxing stay.

Each version of the app is branded with the campsites’ names and can be found in the App Store and on Google Play.

There are links to the app from the respective websites and anyone can download it, regardless of whether they’ve booked a pitch.

Award-winning sites

Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site, Herding Hill Farm and Longnor Wood are all five-star rated by the AA, with customer reviews reflecting the high standards of the parks.

Drummohr has been named best campsite in the UK in the Camping Awards 2024, while Longnor Wood won the AA’s Heart of England campsite of the year.

It has also been named the UK’s best adult-only site by Campsites.co.uk for two consecutive years. Meanwhile, Herding Hill Farm has achieved a coveted AA Platinum Pennant Award.

David Lakins, CEO of Holidaymaker, which helped develop the app, said: “Working with the WCF team has been a pleasure, and we’re excited that the Holidaymaker platform is continuing to enhance the guest experience.

“The app is already seeing an impressive number of downloads, enabling guests to better self-serve and fully explore the stunning surroundings.”



What are the rules for travelling with your dog in your motorhome?

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Love Your Pet Day falls on February 20th and raises the question, what are the rules when it comes to taking your dog away in your motorhome?

This is something the insurance specialist Safeguard has tried to answer, helping those planning a getaway with their four-legged friends.

Restraining your dog

Properly restraining your dog is essential when it’s travelling in your motorhome, both for its safety and to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.

Rule 57 of The Highway Code clearly states that drivers are responsible for making sure dogs are “suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly”.

There are a number of ways to do this, depending on your pet’s needs:

  • Pet carrier
  • Seat belt harness
  • Dog cage
  • Dog guard

Travelling with an unrestrained pet in your vehicle could leave you with a fine of up to £5,000 and penalty points on your  licence. In some cases, you can even be banned from driving and face compulsory re-testing.

Mark Sheppard, senior trading manager at Safeguard, told CaravanTimes: “Aside from ensuring your furry friend is safely restrained, there are a few other things you can do to make sure a comfortable and stress-free journey.

“Dogs need regular opportunities to stretch their legs, relieve themselves and burn off excess energy, so plan to stop every couple of hours for toilet breaks and short walks. If your pet tends to get carsick, consult your vet about how you can help them on the road.

“Check that your dog has access to fresh water throughout the journey, but avoid overindulging them right before hitting the road. Maintain a smooth, steady pace, and avoid sudden accelerations, hard braking or sharp turns whenever possible. Erratic driving can not only make your dog anxious, but also increase the risk of injury if they’re not properly secured.”

The EU and Northern Ireland

Before setting off on a motorhome trip to the EU or Northern Ireland, make sure you know the restrictions and legal requirements.

Pets should be microchipped and vaccinated for rabies 21 days before travel. If your dog needs a booster shot, the 21 days is waived as long as the vaccine cover has been continuous.

Another requirement for travel to the EU and Northern Ireland is an animal health certificate from the vet, which is valid for entry into the countries for ten days after issue.

You then have four months’ grace with this document for onward travel and re-entry into Great Britain, which is useful for longer motorhome touring trips.

Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland or Norway

For visits to these countries, dogs must be treated for tapeworm no less than 24 hours and no more than five days prior to arrival.

The treatment must be recorded in either an animal health certificate or a valid pet passport and taken with you when you travel.



Gearing up for the Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025

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The Caravan, Camping & Motorhome Show 2025 is nearly upon us, as it will take over the NEC in Birmingham from February 18th to 23rd.

More than 400 exhibitors will be in attendance showcasing the latest motorhomes, campervans, touring caravans and caravan holiday homes.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a leisure vehicle this year, it’s a great opportunity to step inside the newest models and compare layouts for yourself.

For the first time this year, there’ll be a whole hall dedicated to tents, trailer tents and camping equipment if you’re not looking for a caravan or motorhome.

Those who are already owners can get inspiration for their next getaway with UK and European campsites and holiday parks also represented.

There’s also the chance to take advantage of show-only offers on thousands of accessories and gadgets that will make touring holidays more comfortable.

Standout exhibitors

Among the exhibitors at the show will be some of the leading names from the world of caravanning and motorhoming.

Look out for:

  • Adria
  • Bailey of Bristol
  • Bessacarr
  • Buccaneer
  • Coachman
  • Elddis
  • Eriba Touring
  • Finesse
  • Freedom Caravans
  • Hobby
  • Swift
  • T@B
  • Xplore

What’s on at the Inspiration Theatre?

Head along to the Inspiration Theatre throughout the show to listen to ​​talks from adventurers, travel writers, wildlife presenters and organisations.

These special guests will help you make the most of the great outdoors and provide ideas to fuel future trips in your caravan or motorhome.

The likes of Annabel Croft, Bob Reeves and Martin Dorey will be talking about everything from emerging destinations to caravan cooking.

Caravan and motorhome help and advice

One of the most useful elements of the show for those new to the caravan and motorhome lifestyle is the help and advice available.

The advice hub in Hall 3 will be staffed with industry experts ready to answer visitors’ questions, as well as running its own schedule of events on everything from tyre safety to travelling with pets.

Free caravan towing and campervan test drive sessions are also available at the show, helping newbies and seasoned owners to improve their skills.

Dan Cartwright of CaravanTimes will be at the show next week and has some advice for those looking to buy a new leisure vehicle.

He said: “There’s been a proliferation in motorhomes, caravans and motorhomes being exhibited at the show. You’re never going to see that many caravans in one place anywhere else.

“This gives those looking to buy a unique opportunity to compare options, but don’t get too carried away. Read our previous articles on purchasing a leisure vehicle before you make the commitment.”

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Thirdman

Tips for prepping your caravan ahead of staycation season

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As the days slowly start to get longer and spring doesn’t seem so far away, it’s time to begin preparations for staycation season.

Caravan and motorhome owners who’ve put their leisure vehicles into storage or simply not used them much over the winter months will want to start readying them for use.

Now, the experts from Auto Finance have shared the essential checks travellers need to think about after winter hibernation in time for springtime adventures.

Steve Noga from the company said: “We know that thousands of Brits are planning ahead for their spring adventures, with Google searches for ‘staycation’ already up by almost ten per cent compared to last year.

“There are around 23,000 searches per month right now, and it’s important that travellers prepare their vehicles for the trip ahead.

“The harsh winter weather can wreak havoc on any vehicle, especially when it hasn’t been used in months, so it’s important to make necessary checks before heading on your caravan holiday.”

Assess for damage

Begin by inspecting your leisure vehicle for any damage that might have occurred during the winter, with cracks, damp spots, rust or wear and tear all potential problems.

Don’t forget to check the roof and its seals, as well as around doors and windows, where moisture is particularly prone to collect in the colder months.

Clean the exterior

Without giving your caravan or motorhome a good clean, it can be difficult to see if there are any issues hiding beneath the dirt or grime.

As well as the outside of the leisure vehicle, clean the awning too, as the build-up of mildew on the fabric can shorten its useful life.

Check the tyres

Just because your tyres were in good condition when you put your vehicle into storage doesn’t mean they’re still fit for purpose now.

Check the pressure and inspect them for cracks or bald spots on the tread, as rubber can deteriorate over the winter.

Recharge the battery

Recharging and reconnecting the battery after winter is a crucial job to ensure everything is working as it should.

If your caravan or motorhome runs on solar power, then check and clean the panels too, before testing all the electrics, inside and out.

Flush the water system

Draining the water system is an important job to do before winter hibernation, but it’s just as crucial to flush it when returning your leisure vehicle to use.

This will ensure any stagnant water or antifreeze is removed and it gives you a good opportunity to inspect the pipes, taps and pumps for cracks or damage before sterilising the system once more.

Conduct safety checks

Go around your caravan and motorhome and make checks on essential safety equipment, including:

  • Fire extinguisher
  • First aid kit
  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Towing hitch
  • Brakes

Update your documentation

The new caravan season is a good time to check all your documentation is in order, including caravan or motorhome insurance, breakdown cover and servicing for your towcar.

If you’ve bought a new car since the last time you towed a caravan, then it’s important to make sure it meets the legal standards for towing.

Clean the inside

Get inside your leisure vehicle, open all the windows and give everything a spring clean. This means washing bedding, wiping down surfaces and vacuuming the carpet.

Even if you cleaned carefully before putting your caravan or motorhome into storage, it will still need a thorough going over before being used again.



Photo credit: Pexels/Kampus Production

How to save on overseas caravan trips

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Trips abroad can often see the budget spiralling out of control, but staying in a caravan or motorhome is a good start when it comes to keeping costs low.

For other money-saving travel hacks, the experts at Quotezone.co.uk have offered advice on how best to go about it.

Greg Wilson, CEO at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Despite rising costs on household essentials and annual bills, many of us spend the colder months dreaming of holidays and trips. 

 “When it comes to planning, we suggest travellers get started as soon as possible.”

Withdraw cash in the local currency

ATM machines abroad will always give you the option to withdraw cash in the local currency and this is the right thing to do.

Selecting your own currency means you can be charged at a higher exchange rate, depleting your holiday budget right from the start.

Always remember to choose the local currency when paying by card too, as the same rules apply in these transactions.

Make use of leftover currency

A recent survey conducted by Quotezone.co.uk found that 35 per cent of people have at least £50 of foreign currency left when they come back from a holiday.

Instead of putting it in a drawer and forgetting about it, change it back into pounds so it can be spent.

Alternatively, make it the basis for your next trip’s budget if you’re going away soon. This can work particularly well if both holidays are in the eurozone.

Plan for the tourist tax

Many cities and some countries have introduced a tourist tax recently and while €5 or €10 may not seem like a lot, it can add up.

The taxes are usually per person per day or night, so a week-long trip for a family can put a large dent in your budget.

Plan for this in advance and find out whether tourist taxes apply to your destination to avoid getting a nasty surprise.

Travel during off-season

Even when travelling to and from your destination in a leisure vehicle, and knowing your accommodation is taken care of, there are still bargains to be had during off-season.

Many campsites will charge less for pitches outside of peak times and attractions are often cheaper during these periods too.

Among the benefits of travelling off-season is having popular places to yourself without the crowds.

Purchase travel insurance

Trying to save money by not purchasing travel insurance can be a false economy, as it’s important to be covered should anything go wrong.

This includes health issues, robbery or problems with your leisure vehicle that need to be fixed or see you relayed home.

Uninsured travellers can be left with huge bills that make savings elsewhere almost obsolete.

 

 

Photo credit: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich

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