Camping for hibernators in Europe

Balmy evenings, gentle sea breezes and the sound of the waves as the only noise far and wide - winter doesn't always have to mean cold, snow and frost. Camping for hibernators is perfect for all lovers of the sun who prefer to spend the cold months in warmer climes.

Special features of camping at campsites for overwintering holidaymakers

If you want to escape the cold winter months in the north and experience Christmas in shorts and a shirt, head south. Mild temperatures and countless hours of sunshine await holidaymakers here. Motorhome and caravan owners are most often drawn to campsites in Italy, Portugal and Spain. The sunny west of Spain on the Mediterranean coast is particularly popular, with campsites on the Costa del Sol in Andalusia or on the Catalan Costa Brava, for example. The south of Italy and the southern part of Portugal are also suitable destinations for overwintering holidaymakers. Campers look forward to a warm, sunny climate and exclusive campsites, which usually offer an extensive leisure programme with wellness and sports. As soon as the leaves fall from the trees, the days get shorter and the nights longer, the campsites also change and show a different side. When the temperatures drop, the operators usually completely change their offer and provide ideal conditions for wintering until spring.

Arrival

• When travelling to the place in the sun, remember to bring snow chains and winter tyres. The journey to your destination could lead through wintry regions despite the expected temperatures.
• A snow shovel and snow shovel are also important companions when travelling south.
• If all water supplies are inside the vehicle and the camper is heated, nothing will freeze during the journey. If the waste water tank is neither insulated nor heated in the lower part of the camper, it is better to drain the water completely before travelling.

Destinations for hibernators

Europe has a number of well-located campsites that are perfect for winter holidays. One of the top destinations is Spain. Campers will find beautiful campsites on the Costa Brava in Catalonia or on the Costa Blanca in Alicante. The Costa del Azahar near Valencia and, of course, the Costa del Sol in Andalusia are also very popular. The majority of Spanish campsites promise a relaxing and eventful time with a wide range of wellness facilities and well-equipped fitness centres. Many also boast heated pool facilities and saunas where holidaymakers can really unwind. Those who are happy to do without the hustle and bustle are in the right place in southern Italy. As many southern campsites here remain open in winter, campers can enjoy plenty of space and wonderful peace and quiet on the campsites. Calabria and Sicily are home to a great selection of campsites that are suitable for winter holidaymakers. Many campsites, similar to those in Spain, offer their adventurous guests an extensive range of activities. The Algarve on the Atlantic coast in Portugal is also one of the top destinations for wintering holidaymakers. The holiday resorts offer a feel-good atmosphere and a wide range of leisure activities. Holidaymakers can take a dip in the heated swimming pool, relax in the whirlpool or work out in the fitness room. Four-legged campers are also well catered for on Portuguese campsites: many of the campsites also welcome dogs in winter.

Top tips

• For longer stays abroad, it is advisable to learn the basics of the local language. You should also check whether there are German-speaking staff at your holiday destination. In some holiday regions, these often only work in the high season.
• If you are spending the winter in the south, you will generally be staying longer than the standard international health insurance policies cover. If necessary, you should therefore take out long-term international health insurance!
• Overwintering travellers usually settle down at a campsite instead of constantly moving from place to place. It is therefore advisable to plan a second vehicle for daily errands or excursions. Many campers prefer a bicycle or scooter for this purpose.
• The packing list should also include warmer clothing such as long trousers and a jumper or two. Even in southern regions with mild winters such as Andalusia, a cold snap with frost in the morning or a chilly wind can be on the agenda.
• Before travelling, make sure you find out how to regulate heating in your destination. German gas cylinders, for example, cannot be exchanged or refilled in some places.
• Reservations are required for some campsites. Suitable pitches with little or no shade are often fully booked in advance by regular guests, which is why it is advisable to plan well in advance. Many campsites also offer their guests discounts for longer stays.

Activities and excursions

For many campers, daily life at the campsite with cosy cooking and relaxing hours in the hammock offers plenty of relaxation. Excursions and explorations in the surrounding area are also varied and worthwhile.

Hiking in the countryside

Depending on the destination, nature lovers and active holidaymakers can look forward to many beautiful hiking trails, walks and cycle tours in the surrounding area. There are always different ways to explore the surroundings. Hikers in Sicily are often drawn to the Parco dellEtna nature park. Beach walkers will be thrilled by the beaches near Conil de la Frontera in Andalusia, which seem endless at low tide and are perfect for long walks. As the sun is not as hot as in summer, many holidaymakers enjoy outdoor activities, especially in winter.

Trips to exciting cities in the surrounding area

Depending on the location, excursions to nearby larger cities are recommended. Those spending the winter in Andalusia, for example, are not far from Marbella or Malaga. Campers in Sicily should not miss out on a trip to Palermo. Here you can marvel at architecturally attractive buildings such as the Norman Palace from the 9th century. In the Algarve, there are many campsites not far from Faro, the cultural centre of southern Portugal. Here, guests can visit the Museu Municipal de Faro, where prehistoric and medieval artefacts are on display.