Eight special places to add to your ʻmust-visitʼ list p6
Our guide to France’s coastal hotspots, from north to south p38
An epic journey of historical discovery in eastern Spain p56
Find the perfect campsite for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales p78
Camping & Bungalow Park located right at one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bay of Rosas. Offers a large variety of entertainment and activities for all ages, state-of-the-art sanitary facilities and a large shopping centre. AQUAPARK with slides guarantees fun and relax for the whole family.
Editor
Stuart Egan
Design Sarah Medway smedway.co.uk
Advertising ar.camp/advertising
Alan Rogers Travel
Spelmonden Old Oast Spelmonden Road Goudhurst Kent, TN17 1HE
For inspiration, advice, over 8,000 campsites and much more, visit our website alanrogers.com
Visit our sister sites rallies.alanrogers.com worldwide.alanrogers.com
Cover image
Mont-Saint-Michel, France
Nok Lek Travel Lifestyle/ Shutterstock
We would like to thank image libraries iStock, Shutterstock and Getty Images for supplying a number of the pictures used in this magazine.
October 2025 – 15th Edition
ABTA Bonded
Membership No. P7119, Y6434
© 2025 Alan Rogers Travel Ltd Registered in England 3676532. East Grinstead House, RH19 1UA
With winter approaching, now is a great time to start thinking about those all-important 2026 holidays. Hopefully the eight European campsites that we have highlighted at the start of this issue (p6) will provide some inspiration!
If Spain is your preferred destination, be sure to check out the article on Cantabria and the Basque Country (p18) as well as our special look at several historic Spanish sites (p56).
Elsewhere, there are articles about fantastic French coastal spots (p42) and a guide to campsites to stay at if you are attending the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup England & Wales, which takes place in June and July 2026 (p78).
Plus, find out about our escorted Worldwide tours (p26) and check out the latest from the Alan Rogers Rally Service (p74). Enjoy the issue!
Stuart
Editor
Egan
Facebook alanrogerstravel | worldwide.alanrogers
Instagram @alanrogers | @worldwide.ar
8 INCREDIBLE EUROPEAN CAMPSITES
Whether you’re after stunning beaches, picturesque river valleys or cool mountain air, check out this selection of sites…
PAGE 6
Marcus Leach hops off the ferry in Santander, Spain, and revels in the landscapes, cities and culture of Cantabria and the Basque Country
PAGE 18
The latest travel tips and updates
PAGE 40
Find the best destinations for unforgettable travel experiences WORLDWIDE ESCORTED TOURS
PAGE 26
Embark on an epic journey through Spain’s past with Gary Martin
PAGE 56
Discover the exciting tours from the Alan Rogers Rally Service
PAGE 74
Highlighting great campsites from the north to the south of France
PAGE 42
Find campsites in England for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup England & Wales 2026
78
Noticed ar.camp scattered across Destinations Magazine? This is our short URL, a short form of alanrogers.com. It saves you from typing in long and complicated web addresses – handy!
Whether you’re after stunning beaches, picturesque river valleys or cool mountain air, check out this selection of sites…
Are you looking for some holiday inspiration this year? Or perhaps you keep a ‘must-visit’ list of places to go to in the future? Either way, you might want to bear in mind these recommended campsites with a difference before you book your next trip.
We have picked out eight sites across seven different European countries, each of which offers something spectacular. Some combine scenic views and top-notch facilities, others give you a chance to stay somewhere truly unique and memorable. We’ve highlighted a former Danish fort near Copenhagen, sites with direct access to rivers, beaches and lakes and an Austrian spa and wellness campsite. If they’re not already firm favourites, or on your list, then they may well be soon enough…
ar.camp/ES92890
If you’re looking to get away from it all, this site in the Sierra Nevada region is the highest in mainland Spain (reached by a narrow, winding road, it is suitable for tent campers and those travelling in smaller motorhomes). It’s well worth the journey, though: there are spectacular mountain views here, and relaxing while gazing at the stars at night is a real treat. Among the on-site facilities are a swimming pool (pictured below) and restaurant serving local cuisine, while a footpath leads to the pretty village of Trevélez, where you’ll find more places to eat. (Remember to take a torch to use at night.)
With pitches surrounded by pines or situated along a two-kilometre stretch of sandy beach, this camping paradise (above) benefits from a beautiful location on the Isle of Noirmoutier in France’s Vendée.
There are 488 touring pitches in total, all of which have electric hook-up points (10A) – those on the sand dunes have fantastic views across the Baie de Bourgneuf and cost a few euros extra, if you are lucky enough to get one! There are 100 large, wellequipped canvas tents on wooden bases to rent, while nearby there are salt marshes, an aquarium and a water theme park, as well as opportunities to walk, cycle, sail and windsurf.
ar.camp/PO8202
If you love visiting the beach, consider this Algarve campsite in Portugal, run by the friendly Coll family.
Nearby, you’ll find the golden sands of Praia Da Luz, but there are plenty of beaches and beautiful coves to discover along the coast towards the historic city of Lagos –
have fun finding your favourites! On-site, there are 240 pitches for touring units, mainly in rows of terraces, 216 of which have 6/10A electricity, some with shade; 75 deluxe pitches have water and drainage. There are also bungalows which can be rented on the upper terraces, which might prove a good option if you are looking to travel with friends or family.
Turiscampo also boasts an impressive array of swimming pools – including the expansive California pool complex, which is surrounded by a sun-kissed terrace and a bar – and a host of wellness amenities, including a modern gym, sauna and hammam (steam bath).
ar.camp/NL5980
This tranquil, family-run campsite makes the most of its pretty riverside location in Overijssel’s Vecht Valley, near the Dutch border with Germany. The pitches and amenities have been carefully blended into the natural setting by the owners, and you can fish and go boating in the river. There’s also a small beach with a protected area for swimming, plus a helpful list of cycling and walking routes should you wish to explore. Facilities include toilet blocks, launderette, health food shop and tea room (open in the high season), boules area, small playgrounds and free Wi-Fi. To the west is Ommen, famous for its historic windmills as well as the Bissing fair and markets, which are held each July.
As the name suggests, this popular, small campsite near Copenhagen is situated inside a former 19th century fort – it’s possible to pitch up next to one of 12 howitzers, while the kitchen and bathroom are located in the old casemates.
There’s a cafe/bakery, small shop, indoor dining area and kitchen (help yourself to herbs outside!), TV lounge and free WiFi. A regular bus service passes the site if you want to head into the Danish capital to visit the likes of the Tivoli Gardens theme park or colourful Nyhavn, or you could use the excellent cycle network.
ar.camp/DK2265
Promoting sustainable camping and glamping, this site near Sagres and Lagos in the Algarve works with the local community and carefully selected partners in order to showcase organic produce in the restaurant, and, among other ‘green’ initiatives, also encourages a zero waste approach. With 500 pitches spread over two valleys, this is a great one for sunseekers – the golden sand of Salema Beach is just 1.5km away.
ar.camp/SV4405
If you’re after super scenery and fresh, mountain air, this family-owned nature lover’s paradise is situated in the heart of Slovenia’s beautiful Upper Savinja Valley, with plenty of hiking and cycling trails nearby. Swimmers and paddleboarders will find a lake on-site, while the campsite also offers kayaking on the Savinja river. Other facilities include a tree-top zip wire, sauna and bar/restaurant. There are 200 pitches on grassy fields under mature trees – all have 10A electricity.
In need of some pampering? This site on the southern shore of Lake Ossiach – close to the borders with Italy and Slovenia – offers spas, saunas and a range of health treatments.
Once relaxed and settled in, you’ll be ready to explore the attractive countryside of southern Austria on foot, by bicycle or by car. Level touring pitches all have electricity connections, while additional pitches have mobile homes to rent. There’s a playground, a private beach and even a distillery which provides drinks for the restaurant.
MARCUS LEACH HOPS OFF THE FERRY IN SANTANDER AND REVELS IN THE LANDSCAPES, CITIES AND CULTURE OF CANTABRIA AND THE BASQUE COUNTRY
Given the vast majority of those making use of Brittany Ferries’ yearround service to northern Spain immediately head south upon disembarking
at Santander, it would be easy to assume that there’s not much worth seeing nearer to port. This does a huge disservice to regions abundant not
only in culture and history, but also natural beauty and culinary delights. Which is why my family and I decided to stay and explore Cantabria.
Having had the pleasure of watching dolphins swim alongside our inbound ferry at daybreak, we left the city of Santander behind to head east along the Costa de Cantabria. Our first stop is the wonderful Playa Joyel, a campsite that not only has one of the best locations in all of northern Spain, but also boasts its own on-site farm and nature park –two key reasons our kids Harrison and Dorothy wanted to stay here.
find more at ar.camp/cantabria
Camping Playa Joyel (ES90000) is an attractive site 40 kilometres from Santander and 80 kilometres from Bilbao. It is a busy, high-quality, comprehensively equipped site with a superb beach, providing 800 wellshaded, marked and numbered pitches with 6A electricity available. ar.camp/ES90000
While Santander – with its bustling markets, Gothic architecture, excellent museums, art exhibitions and gastronomic hotspots – is only a short drive away, none of us feels instantly compelled to leave the immediate area, especially given what’s on offer. The site has direct access to
Playa de Ris, one of the best beaches in all of Cantabria, as well as the equally beautiful Playa Cuarezo. The children are soon running carefree across the golden sand, my partner Kim and I content to have the warmth of the sun on our faces and the sound of their laughter carried on the breeze.
Our trip is out of season, meaning we practically have the beach to ourselves, bar a few surfers making the most of the rolling waves. We’ve been informed that during low tide it’s possible to walk out to Islote de San Pedro, a small islet that sits at the eastern end of the beach. As is often the case on our adventures, the children lead the way, eager to discover what lies ahead. We scramble up the rocks after them, eventually catching up as they reach the high point of the little islet, from where we are able to marvel at the views.
Back at the campsite the excitement levels remain high as our stay coincides
with one of the twiceweekly openings of the site’s farm to guests. What’s more, we are actively encouraged to join in with the feeding of the animals, and so we fall in behind two wardens wheeling in a huge cart full of stale bread and vegetables.
It’s not long before we are surrounded by an assortment of (largely tame) animals, including goats, sheep, emus, water buffalo, long-horned cows and peacocks, all eager for their share of the spoils. Harrison and Dorothy delight in the chance to be so close to them, but are a little surprised at how cheeky some of them are, nosing at their pockets in search of any hidden treats.
As is the case with young children, it’s not long before they are the ones wanting feeding, and so we take the short walk into Noja. Being a coastal village, the cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea, with the focus very much being on fresh seafood and traditional Cantabrian dishes such as cocido montañés (a traditional stew of pork, beans and greens). It’s not long before our table is a riot of sumptuous sharing dishes, accompanied by the happy sound of the children enjoying their food, set against the backdrop of a slowly setting sun.
There is one major pull away from the immediate area, and that is Bilbao’s iconic Guggenheim Museum, frequently described as one of the most important buildings of the 20th century – and not without good reason. It’s hard not to stop and marvel at Frank Gehry’s curvy, silver goliath of modern architecture. There is a danger with children that certain museums and art exhibitions won’t excite and engage them, but this was not the case with the Guggenheim.
From the moment we arrived they were in their element, especially when Dorothy saw
Jeff Koons’ ‘Puppy’ [pictured right] outside the building, towering over us, resplendent with multicoloured flowers – her only disappointment being that it wasn’t actually real. Inside, it’s Richard Serra’s sculptures that fascinate the four of us the most. It’s hard not to feel small against these vast curved steel sculptures known as ‘The Matter of Time’.
What we have always loved about art is how subjective it is, always open to personal interpretation, and so it fascinates us to see the exhibitions through the eyes of the children, understanding how they see the amazing array
find more at ar.camp/cantabria
of works on display.
Our day in Bilbao finishes with a ride up to the top of Mount Artxanda in the funicular, a mode of transport that always pleases the children. From here we are afforded sweeping views across the city, and the chance to see the Guggenheim in all its majesty.
It’s standing here, listening to the excitement in their voices as they relive their favourite moments from the day, that Kim and I are reminded that the real joy of travel is not always the destination, but the moments that we create together.
That said, the next stop on our visit marries both the beauty of the destination as well as the good times we created there. After the hustle and bustle of Bilbao, the contrast of the utter tranquility to be found at El Molino de Cabuérniga couldn’t be more stark. Set in the Cabuérniga Valley, with the Picos Europa mountains to one side and the Saja River to the other, this is the perfect campsite for those looking to escape into nature.
For us this meant exploring on two wheels and two feet, making the most of the abundance of hiking and cycling trails that criss-cross the valley and surrounding peaks – although Dorothy was left wishing she
was riding one of the magnificent horses in the fields by the campsite. Not that it deterred her from leading the charge on our daily hikes, driven on by the eternal hope of catching a glimpse of the elusive Cantabrian brown bear.
Exploring the landscapes that surround the campsite, meandering through local villages, eating in traditional restaurants and listening to tales from locals gave us an insight into the rich cultural heritage that abounds in this corner of Cantabria, opening our eyes to a more simple way of living, one that is in keeping with the natural rhythms of nature. While each day brings a new adventure, there is a slowing down, with which comes an appreciation of the small things, the ability to see beauty in the minor details of the everyday. It’s a lesson that
ar.camp/cantabria
holds true for all of life; that we should all slow down a little and appreciate the world around us.
It’s with this thought in mind that we eventually say ‘hasta luego’ to Cantabria, grateful for the family memories created and the chance to explore a region of Spain that ought to be everyone’s first port of call once off the ferry.
El Molino de Cabuérniga (ES89640) is situated in a peaceful valley and boasts magnificent views of the mountains beside the Saja River. Just a short walk from the picturesque and unspoiled village of Sopeña, this gem of a site is on an open, level, grassy meadow with trees. ar.camp/ES89640
If you’re thinking about taking the trip of a lifetime in 2026, then consider an escorted tour of Canada, New Zealand or Southern Africa with our Worldwide Caravan and Motorhome Holidays.
Would you like to experience the dramatic glaciers and peaks of New Zealand’s Southern Alps? The chance to see black bears, moose and more in the Canadian Rockies? Or how about visiting Cape Town and its iconic backdrop, Table Mountain? Our Worldwide escorted tours give you the opportunity to see magnificent scenery, abundant wildlife and incredible cities. You’ll also benefit
from the expert knowledge and guidance of friendly, experienced local tour hosts and enjoy the company of like-minded travellers.
Each escorted tour follows a carefully curated itinerary to ensure that you get to see the very best of your destination, but we don’t want anyone to be rushing from one point to another – you can drive at your own pace and make stops along the way, whether you want to enjoy a scenic picnic lunch or capture those incredible, breathtaking views.
We’ve picked out some highlights of five different Worldwide escorted tours on the following pages...
19 JANUARY 2026
(FROM £8,549PP)*
9 FEBRUARY 2026
(FROM £8,649PP)*
DURATION
36 DAYS
ar.camp/discovery
From snow-capped mountains to stunning lakes and coastal spots, there is so much to discover on this escorted motorhome tour across New Zealand.
“The scenery is just stunning, whether inland or along the coast,” said Marj Frazer, who went on the New Zealand Discovery Escorted Tour with her husband, Neil. “It seemed as if yet another jaw-dropping view was around every bend in the road, be it the snow-capped mountains reflected in deep, calm lakes or beautiful sandy beaches and rock formations adjacent to the coastal roads.”
What’s included:
Other highlights of this tour include
Peaks and glaciers of the South Island
Cruise around stunning Milford Sound
Explore the Hawkes Bay wine region
Experience traditional Māori culture
Geothermal hot spots in Rotorua
Bays and beaches to the north and east of Auckland
Return economy flights from the UK to New Zealand; all transfers
2 nights in a central 4-star Christchurch hotel
2 nights in a central 4-star Auckland hotel
28 nights pre-booked powered sites
Welcome dinner in Christchurch
Picton to Wellington Interislander Ferry
Ferry crossings in Bay of Islands
Milford Sound cruise
Skyline Gondola with buffet dinner in Queenstown
Indigenous evening with traditional Hangi feast in Rotorua
Farewell dinner in Auckland
Locally guided by professional New Zealand tour leaders
29 days Maui Ultima 2-Berth Motorhome hire.
1 FEBRUARY 2026 (FROM £14,649PP)*
DURATION 56 DAYS
ar.camp/ultimate
Other highlights of this tour include
Marlborough wine tour
Cruise on Doubtful Sound
Arthur’s Pass
TranzAlpine train
Whale watching experience in Kaikoura
The Art Deco architecture of the city of Napier
This longer tour is the perfect way to unwind and see the very best of New Zealand at a slower pace – combining unmissable spots that are popular with tourists with a host of lesser-known and hidden gems, it truly is the holiday of a lifetime!
Beginning in Auckland, you’ll spend time discovering fantastic coves, beaches, lakes and islands before wending your way south via the likes of Waitomo with its glowworm caves and Whanganui, where you could take a river cruise on the steamer Waimarie, visit interesting museums and pick up a bargain at the river market.
After you cross to the South Island, you’ll be able to explore Abel Tasman National Park on foot or by kayak and see sights such as the famous Split Apple Rock. The scenery gets more and more spectacular as you approach the likes of the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, and Lake Wanaka, the itinerary taking you as far as New Zealand’s southern coast.
There’s plenty more to see as you slowly make your way back north – including the aweinspiring geothermal activity at Rotorua. We recommend checking out the full itinerary online.
What’s included
Return economy flights from the UK to Auckland
All transfers
4 nights in a central 4-star Auckland hotel including breakfast
48 nights prebooked campsites
Ferry crossings across Cook Strait
Welcome and farewell dinners
Te Pa Tu Māori Evening Experience and Feast
Marlborough wine tour
Arthur’s Pass guided day tour including TranzAlpine train
Doubtful Sound cruise with picnic lunch
Queenstown Skyline Gondola and dinner
Bay of Islands ‘Hole in the Rock’ cruise
Locally guided by professional and experienced New Zealand guides
Mobile travel app
McRent Compact Plus motorhome for 49 days
8 SEPTEMBER 2026
(FROM £6,799PP)*
DURATION
26 DAYS
ar.camp/canadianrockies
Other highlights of this tour include
Hot springs at Radium Stunning vistas along the Icefields Parkway The Okanagan Valley vineyards
Marvel at the picture-postcard peaks and clear lakes of Alberta and British Columbia on this incredible tour of the Rocky Mountains. You’ll begin in the city of Calgary before moving on to the likes of Banff and Jasper National Parks. With stunning scenery and wildlife, this is an amazing introduction to western Canada.
What’s included
Return direct economy flights to Calgary
All transfers
3 nights in a centrally located hotel in Calgary including breakfast
21 nights prebooked campsites
Welcome and farewell dinners
BBQ dinner
National Park fees
Professional and experienced Canadian guides
Fraserway C-Small RV hire for 22 days
Gratuities for your tour hosts
Digital road book with travel tips and day-to-day driving itinerary with local area information
Mobile itinerary app with offline maps and real time itinerary updates
14 APRIL 2026
(FROM £7,449PP)*
DURATION 35 DAYS
ar.camp/savannah
With the magnificent Victoria Falls and the diverse wildlife of four different national parks on the agenda, this tour of Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and South Africa is a must for anyone who is enthralled by the natural world.
You’ll be able to visit the expansive, species-rich Okavango Delta, while other highlights include guided game drives in Chobe National Park and Kruger National Park – you could see rhinos, hippos, lions and even the elusive leopard – as well as the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and a scenic drive along South Africa’s Panorama Route.
What’s included
Return economy flights from the UK to Johannesburg
Airport and motorhome depot transfers
2 nights Johannesburg hotel including breakfast
2 nights David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa including breakfast
1 night Francistown hotel including breakfast
31 days Bobo Camper 4-berth motorhome hire including technician travelling with the group, cross-border fee, relocation fee and emissions tax
27 nights on prebooked powered motorhome sites
Welcome and farewell dinners
Panorama Route entrance fees
Full day Kruger National Park guided safari game drive
Fees for Kruger, Marakele, Chobe and Pilanesberg national parks
Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre guided tour including entrance fee
Chobe National Park guided game drive & boat cruise
Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and Nata Bird Sanctuary guided tour
Marakele National Park guided nature walk
Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng & Sterkfontein entrance fees
Professional and experienced South African guides
22 AUGUST 2026
(FROM £7,149PP)*
DURATION
34 DAYS
ar.camp/rainbownation
Enjoy guided game drives in Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park, drive the scenic Garden Route and Panorama Route, visit Swaziland and Cape Town, take a trip to Hluhluwe Umfolozi National Park and enjoy a Hippo and Croc Cruise on Lake St Lucia.
Georgia Small, Operations and Reservations Manager for Alan Rogers, points out the benefits of having tour hosts – “They know the area through and through,” she says – and also highlights the bond that usually forms between tour members. “We set up a WhatsApp group for them prior to departure so they can chat to the hosts and ask questions. They usually stick with the group when they are back in the UK and meet up. Some become friends for life... It doesn’t matter what country – it just seems to happen everywhere, which is lovely.”
Return flights from the UK to South Africa
All transfers
2 nights Cape Town hotel stay including breakfast
2 nights Johannesburg hotel stay including breakfast
Welcome and farewell dinners
27 nights on prebooked powered motorhome sites
Locally guided by professional and experienced South African guides
Full day guided Kruger National Park game drive in open safari vehicles
Hippo and Croc Cruise when staying at Bonamanzi Game Reserve
Featherbed Eco Experience in Knysna including a buffet lunch
28 days Bobo Camper 4-berth motorhome hire
Guided game drive in open safari vehicles in Addo Elephant National Park
National park and conservation fees at Kruger National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Reserve, Bonamanzi Game Reserve, Addo National Elephant Park and Storms River Mouth/Tsitsikamma National Park
Wherever you choose to visit, we’ll support you along every step of your journey, with one of our trusted experts on hand when planning, booking and during your tour. Members of our team have visited many of our destinations and our trusted partners to ensure that everything is of the high quality that you would expect, and also that the travel distances while you are on your holiday are manageable. All campsites are hand-picked and pre-booked, so you can enjoy your time away without having to worry about where you will be staying. We offer free cancellations** if the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises against travel to your destination and our holidays have ABTA and ATOL bonded financial protection.
*Prices quoted in this article are per person based on two people travelling together. A single supplement will apply for solo travellers. All prices and itineraries quoted are correct as of 30 September 2025 but subject to change – see worldwide.alanrogers. com for the latest information.
**Covers holiday cancellations in line with Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advice. Terms and conditions apply.
To read more about all of our escorted tours, including the full itineraries, please visit worldwide.alanrogers.com.
From 12 October 2025, the EU’s new Entry/Exit System launches, which means changes for British citizens. When entering the EU Schengen zone non-EU citizens will have their fingerprints and facial images taken which will extend the time required to pass through border control. Also the date of entry/exit will be automated so that border staff can more easily identify visitors overstaying. To find out more visit gov.uk/guidance/ eu-entryexit-system.
A Spanish regulation change is coming on 1 January 2026, which concerns the use of V-16 luminous lights as a replacement for warning triangles in the event of breakdown. While the use of V-16 luminous lights will be mandatory for Spanishregistered vehicles from this date, non-Spanishregistered vehicles will be able to continue using warning triangles.
The V-16 lights are intended to eliminate the need for a driver to exit their vehicle to place a warning triangle in the road (of course, a driver may still need to leave the vehicle in certain circumstances), and to increase visibility of vehicles that have broken down. When required, the device should be placed high on the vehicle, and will emit a flashing light that can be seen from a distance of 1km. Upon use, a connection will be established between the device and the Spanish traffic authorities, enabling them to alert other road users to the location of the obstruction where possible. Note: the V-16 is not an emergency services alert system so drivers still need to contact the appropriate people to get assistance.
The safety benefits are clear, but you should check before purchasing that the device incorporates a geolocating system and that it is on the list of certified, tested models that comply with the regulation. It is also worth checking the attachment method of the device –some are purely magnetic, while others also come with a suction attachment. More information, including the list of certified models, can be found on the website of
Spain’s General Directorate of Traffic at dgt.es.
There’s something incredibly peaceful about a snow-covered campsite – particularly when you’re warm and snug inside!
Before you travel by road this winter we would recommend that you:
+ Get your car serviced before setting off to make sure everything is in good condition
+ Add antifreeze to the windscreen fluid
+ Take a snow shovel
+ Allow more time for your journey
+ Check your route carefully
+ Check your tyre tread depth and pressure
In some countries it is a legal requirement to use winter equipment such as snow chains or winter tyres. If using snow chains, it’s a good idea to practise fitting these before you need them, as they can often be tricky to fit and remove. There are many online video instructions to help with this. Here is a guide to the full requirements in a number of different countries (correct at the end of August 2025).
This picture is of the international road sign which is used to advise motorists that snow chains or winter tyres need to be used. These signs are normally on the roadside and covered up in good weather. When weather conditions deteriorate and there is snow or ice on the roads, the signs are uncovered.
Austria: Between 1 November and 15 April winter tyres are mandatory when driving in winter conditions (snow, slush or ice). Winter tyres must have a minimum tread of 4mm. Snow chains can be used on summer tyres as an alternative to winter tyres but only if the roads are completely covered with snow and the snow chains will not cause damage to the road surface.
Belgium: No requirements.
Croatia: If there is black ice or more than 5cm of snow, snow chains must be used and motorists must also carry a snow shovel. (It is recommended to carry snow chains and a shovel from November to April).
Czechia: Winter tyres are compulsory from
1 November to 31 March when there is compacted snow or ice on the roads or when the temperature is lower than 4ºC and there is a possibility of snow or ice. Also whenever a blue sign showing a white car with a white snowflake underneath is displayed, regardless of weather conditions. Vehicles up to 3.5t must have winter tyres on all wheels (minimum depth tread 4mm) and vehicles over 3.5t must have winter tyres on the driving wheels (minimum depth tread 6mm).
France: Between 1 November and 31 March winter tyres or snow chains/shoes are compulsory in certain mountainous regions, Alps, Massif Central, Jura mountains, Pyrénées and Vosges. Road signs will show the start and end of each zone and more specific details of the areas can be found here. Wherever the international snow chain sign is present it is compulsory to use snow chains on snowcovered roads at all times.
Germany: In snowy or icy conditions vehicles must be equipped with winter tyres which must display the M+S mark or snowflake. Snow chains are allowed and these vehicles are restricted to a speed of 50 km/h. In mountainous areas the requirement for
snow chains is indicated by the international sign. Ireland: No requirements.
Italy: In the area of Val d’Aosta, vehicles must be equipped with winter tyres or snow chains must be carried in vehicles from 15 October until 15 April. Outside of the Val d’Aosta area, either winter tyres or snow chains must be used when the international sign is used.
Luxembourg: In wintry conditions (frost, compacted snow, slush, ice) all vehicles must be fitted with winter tyres (marked M+S).
Netherlands: No requirements.
Portugal: No requirements.
Slovenia: From 15 November to 15 March (or during winter conditions such as snow or black ice outside of these dates) vehicles must be equipped with winter tyres (minimum depth tread 3mm) or carry snow chains.
Spain: There are no general winter requirements but if the roads are covered in snow and ice, particularly mountain passes, the use of snow chains or winter tyres may become compulsory.
Switzerland: There are no general winter requirements but snow chains are a legal requirement when the international road sign is used.
Join Gary Martin on a tour of France from tip to toe, following the country’s stunning shoreline all the way
Mention France and you may instantly think of culture, fashion, history and wine – but there is a fifth element missing here. With more than 3,000 miles of coastline, the country has many a seaside attraction
to draw in the tourist. Starting at Guînes, near Calais in the north, and finishing in the village of Agay near Cannes in the south, there are plenty of options for coastal connoisseurs. Here is a selection...
Being close to both Calais (six miles) and Boulogne (21 miles), Guînes is an ideal first stop after crossing the Channel and a superb base for exploring the beautiful Côte d’Opale (Opal Coast). Stretching for some 75 miles (120km) between Calais and Berck-sur-Mer, the Opal Coast’s beaches, dunes and cliffs are worthy of discovery. A mecca for activities such as surfing, hiking, cycling, fishing,
ar.camp/FR62010
horse riding and golf, the area also boasts the historic marshlands of Audomarois – part of the stunning Caps et Marais d’Opale Regional Nature Park, which is home to an abundance of rare and endangered birds and insects. Sticking with wildlife, may we also recommend Europe’s largest aquarium, Nausicaá, in Boulogne, where you will find thousands of marine species?
A mature and well-developed campsite on the grounds of a country house dating back to the 16th century. There are around 200 large grassy pitches here, each divided by well-manicured hedges and all with 10A hook-up. The old outbuildings have been sensitively restored and converted to create wonderful modern facilities, notably a superb restaurant and a pool complex.
Some 65 miles south-west of Guînes, Saint-Quentinen-Tourmont sits between Calais and Le Havre within the Somme department of northern France. With a number of clean, sandy beaches nearby, families will be in their element here, while budding David Attenboroughs will find themselves drawn to Parc du Marquenterre, a dune, marshland and forest reserve that attracts some 300 species of migrating birds including purple heron, spotted crake and egret. Continuing the wildlife theme, seals can be observed in their natural habitat at Pointe du Hourdel, while Escargotière du Marquenterre is a farm dedicated to snails, offering tours and tastings.
ar.camp/FR80020
Neuf France, Picardy, Somme, Saint-Quentin-en-Tourmont
Located on the Bay of the Somme, this quiet, eight-hectare site has 197 pitches, 79 for touring, on level grass with 6/10A electricity. The site facilities include a covered pool complex with water slides, a lazy river, waterfalls, flume, whirlpool, fitness room and sauna. During the high season, an extensive array of entertainment is available, with a kids’ club, karaoke evenings, live music and pony rides to name a few.
W HERETO C A MP NEAR B Y
ar.camp/FR50030
Moving on to Normandy in north-west France, the village of Saint-Aubin-desPréaux is just a short drive from a delightful stretch of coastline. The seaside resort of Granville with its long, sandy beach and 19th century villas should be on your itinerary, as should the iconic tidal island and abbey of Mont-SaintMichel, one of the jewels
in Normandy’s glittering crown, some 24 miles south. The most visited tourist attraction in France outside of Paris, this island (and its surrounding bay) was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, and with very good reason. A stunning bridge was built in 2014 to make access to and from Mont-SaintMichel easier.
France, Normandy, Manche, Saint Aubin des Préaux
Set in the grounds of a château, this site enjoys a rural situation, under two hours from Cherbourg. There are 122 touring pitches – all have electricity (10A, Europlug) and 87 have water and drainage. Most of the pitches are good-sized, partly separated by trees and shrubs on flat or slightly sloping, grassy ground overlooking Normandy farmland and a small fishing lake.
Some 35 miles west of Nantes, Saint-Brevin-LesPins lies on the Côte de Jade (Jade Coast) in the Loire-Atlantique region. Don’t be startled on your first visit here by what looks like a giant skeleton of a sea serpent lying scarily in wait in the shallow waters. This 130m-long monster, called Le Serpent D’Océan, is actually an amazing aluminium sculpture by Chinese-French artist Huang Yong Ping. Less frightening, there are numerous lovely beaches hereabouts waiting for you and your family to enjoy paddling in the sea and building sand castles. Just over an hour’s drive south, located in the Bay of Biscay, the island of Noirmoutier with its sandy beaches, 12th-century
Château de Noirmoutier and Sealand Aquarium is worthy of your attention –please note, though, that access via the impressive Passage du Gois causeway is limited to low tide. ar.camp/FR44190
Sunêlia Le Fief France, Pays de la Loire, Loire-Atlantique, Saint Brévin-les-Pins
Sunêlia Le Fief is in a wonderful setting just 900m from a vast sandy beach in the Loire-Atlantique region. Site facilities include an aquapark with outdoor and covered swimming pools, paddling pools, slides, river rapids, fountains, jets and more. The 99 touring pitches are all of a good size with 8A electricity, partly shaded, and with lush, well-established vegetation.
W H ERETO C A MP NEARB Y
ar.camp/FR33110
Heading now into southwest France, HourtinPlage is a stunning sandy beach which runs for six unimpeded miles along the Atlantic coast. Just over seven miles from the town of Hourtin, this beach is not only family-friendly, it is a prime spot for fans of surfing, bodyboarding and kitesurfing. And, providing the perfect end to the perfect day at the seaside, breathtaking sunsets are very much part of the standard fare here. Hourtin is within the famous Médoc wine region, so you’re guaranteed a nice bottle or two during your stay.
Camping de la Côte d’Argent France, Aquitaine, Gironde, Hourtin-Plage
A large, well-equipped site set back a short walk from sandy Hourtin-Plage. Aside from its proximity to the beach, the site’s big draw is its pool complex, with wooden bridges connecting the pools and islands, sunbathing and play areas, plus an indoor heated pool. The site has 618 touring pitches (all with 10A electricity), arranged under shady trees with some on sand. The huge Landes pine forest encloses the site, so walkers and cyclists can explore over 100km of trails and cycle paths.
Saint-Émilion is a fascinating medieval city near Bordeaux, in the heart of the renowned Libournais wine region. You can’t fail to find a bottle of red that tickles your tastebuds here. The city and the surrounding vineyards were made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, owing not only to the region’s history of world-
ar.camp/FR33080
class wine making, but also Saint-Émilion’s Romanesque churches and ruins that stretch along its attractive steep and narrow streets. If sandy shores rather than vine-covered hills are more your thing, you can drive 90 minutes or so west to the Atlantic coast, where you are handsomely rewarded by a number of beaches.
Yelloh! Village Saint Emilion France, Aquitaine, Gironde, Saint-Émilion
Nestled in the heart of the vineyards near Bordeaux, this site is set within 10 hectares of lush greenery, providing a serene environment for relaxation and adventure. On-site facilities include a heated swimming complex with partially-covered pools, and a sports area featuring a multisport field, tennis courts, ping-pong tables, teqball, fitness stations, and a double zip line. Lake activities include canoeing, pedal boating and fishing.
In Labenne you are just 43 miles from the border with Spain. The soft and inviting sands of the Labenne-Océan beach stretch for nearly two miles, so whether you are a sandcastle constructor, sunbather, surfer or swimmer, you can while away a relaxing, long, sunny day here. Should you be
ar.camp/FR40200
looking for something more adventurous and active, the Landes pine forest boasts a plethora of trails ideal for hikers and mountain bikers alike. Seasonal markets in Labenne give you the opportunity to sample some authentic French fare.
Yelloh! Village le Sylvamar France, Aquitaine, Landes, Labenne-Océan
Just a kilometre from the endless sandy beach of LabenneOcéan, this site’s 242 touring pitches are level and separated mainly by low hedges. All have electricity (10A), water and drainage; some have private sanitary facilities, and premium pitches with pergolas are available. The extensive pool complex features several pools, a wild water river, toboggans, slides and a spectacular ‘volcano’. There’s also an excellent bar/restaurant, 800-seat amphitheatre and all-weather sporting facilities, including tennis court and football pitch.
Just seven miles or so from the Spanish border, the village of Urrugne in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department is close to the most south-westerly point of mainland France. Part of the traditional Basque province of Labourd, Urrugne not only has the ocean for company but is also in the shadow of the first mountains of the Pyrenees, making it the ideal outdoor playground. Once you’re tired from surfing, hiking or mountain biking, enjoy the peace and solitude of the Chapel of Notre Dame de Socorri atop the hill overlooking Urrugne – a popular place of pilgrimage, this 17th-century chapel offers stunning panoramic views.
ar.camp/FR64180
Camping Larrouleta France, Aquitaine, Pyrénées Atlantiques, Urrugne
This open-all-year site has been developed around a 2.5-hectare lake which has a sandy beach and is ideal for fishing. On-site amenities include a swimming pool, covered in low season. There is also a bar/restaurant specialising in local cuisine and where occasional Basque folk evenings are held in high season. The 327 touring pitches are of a good size. Choose between standard with 5A electricity and ‘Grand Confort’ pitches with 10A electricity, water and drainage.
Sandwiched between Saint-Tropez and Cannes, two popular playgrounds of the rich and famous on the French Riviera (Côte d’Azur), Agay is a fitting place to end this ‘tour’.
Located in one of the most beautiful natural harbours on France’s southern coast with the vibrant red rocks of the stunning Esterel
FR83700 ar.camp/FR83700
Massif as a backdrop, Agay is served by three fabulous sandy beaches and plenty of shops and restaurants.
Add the small marina of Port d’Agay, hiking trails and sweeping sea views into the equation, and Agay makes for a fabulous holiday destination.
France, Côte d’Azur, Var, Agay/Saint Raphaël
The 113 touring pitches, which have electric hookup points available, are generally open plan, under tree shade, but very dry and dusty due to the Mediterranean climate. The site has a private pebble beach with a beautiful view across the bay, an outdoor heated pool with a bar/restaurant and an entertainment area, a well-stocked supermarket, a takeaway outlet, as well as live shows, pool tables and a multi-sports pitch with kids’ clubs available.
info@laplagedudramont.com www.laplagedudramont.com
Embark on an epic journey of discovery in eastern Spain. Gary Martin is your guide.
Italy, Greece, France and the UK are all well recognised as boasting rich and varied histories that have shaped not only the European landscape, but have also influenced every other continent.
Mendigorría
But there is a glaring omission from this illustrious list – Spain is another European giant in terms of historical significance. Take the country’s east, for instance, where ancient towns and cities are waiting to amaze and delight in equal measure. Starting from the magnificent town of Mendigorría in the north-east and culminating in awesome Almería some 560 miles to the south, this enthralling journey through eastern Spain enjoys some notable and fascinating stops along the way.
About a two-hour drive from the busy port city of Bilbao, Mendigorría is located in the heart of the Navarre region.
Set alongside the River Arga, Mendigorría not only contains fascinating ruins of a Roman village and an aqueduct but it was also the site of a significant battle during the First Carlist War –
ar.camp/ES90430
a civil war that lasted from 1833 to 1840.
Some 17.5 miles north-east of Mendigorría is Pamplona, best known for hosting the running of the bulls during the San
Fermín festival each July, but also a city of historical significance – its city walls, cathedral and Gothic-style churches all worthy of exploration.
Camping El Molino de Mendigorría Spain, Navarra, Mendigorría
This is an extensive site set by an attractive weir near the town of Mendigorría alongside the River Arga. It takes its name from an old water mill close by. It features a spa, sauna and heated indoor pools as well as a cycling touring facility, which includes a bike repair shop, cleaning station, garage, equipment and information. A Roman aqueduct (4km) is well worth a visit, perhaps by bike. July is very busy due to the bull running festival in Pamplona (28km).
Known as the ‘City of the Four Rivers’ –it is situated on the confluence of the Ter, Güell, Galligants and Onyar – Girona is found in northeast Catalonia and is renowned for its wellpreserved medieval architecture and Roman remains.
About 20 miles from the Costa Brava coast and 60 miles north-east of Barcelona, Girona has a wealth of historical attractions – including the Catalan Gothic cathedral, ancient walls and towers, and the Romanesque-style monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants.
Add the Barri Vell historic quarter (or Girona Old Town) with its steep stone staircases, 12th-century Arab Baths, the Cases de l’Onyar (picturesque and colourful houses on the banks of the River Onyar) and El Call (the
Jewish quarter that is a labyrinth of narrow streets and courtyards) into the equation, and Girona is a city that will demand your attention for more than a day. Should your thirst for
history not be quenched by Girona itself, both the Greco-Roman site of Empúries near the harbour town of L’Escala and the Roman fort at Sant Julià de Ramis are not far away.
ar.camp/ES80220
ar.camp/ES80350
ar.camp/ES80300
ar.camp/ES80400
Camping Solmar Spain, CataluñaCatalunya, Girona, Blanes
The Ribas family has run Camping Solmar for over 40 years, and a warm welcome awaits you. The wellequipped site is located 150 metres from a sandy beach in the busy resort of Blanes and is sprinkled with palm trees. The accessible, shaded pitches are 65-85sq.m, and all have 6A electricity connections. On-site amenities include an attractive restaurant, bar, terrace, and a central swimming pool complex with islands and bridges.
Camping l’Amfora Spain, Cataluña-Catalunya, Girona, Sant Pere Pescador
Michelle, Josep and their daughter run this spacious, friendly site, which is always a popular destination. It is spotlessly clean and well-maintained, and the owners operate the site in an environmentally friendly way. Some 872 level grass pitches (720 for touring units) are laid out in a grid system, all with 10A electricity.a visit, perhaps by bike. July is very busy due to the bull running festival in Pamplona (28km).
Camping Nautic Almata Spain, Cataluña-Catalunya, Girona, Castelló d’Empúries
In the Bay of Roses, south of Empuriabrava and beside the Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, this is a high-quality site of particular interest to nature lovers (especially birdwatchers) and families. A large site, there are 1,110 well-kept, large, numbered pitches, all with electricity and on flat, sandy ground. Beautifully laid out, it is arranged around the river and waterways, so will suit those who like to be close to water or who enjoy watersports and boating. It is also a superb beachside site, and there is accommodation for rental.
Camping Las Dunas Spain, Cataluña-Catalunya, Girona, Sant Pere Pescador
Las Dunas is an extensive, impressive and wellorganised resort-style site with many activities and an ongoing programme of improvements. The site has direct access to a superb sandy beach stretching for nearly a kilometre, with a windsurfing school and beach bar. There is also a much-used, huge swimming pool, plus a large double pool for children.
This picturesque port city on the Costa Dorada is home to historical sites, beautiful beaches and Catalan culture, with ancient ruins remaining from its time as the Roman colony of Tarraco.
This ancient heritage is no better highlighted than by the Amphitheatre that looks out over the Mediterranean Sea, the Praetorium (tower), the Circus (which once held horse-drawn chariot races) and the Necropolis – one of the best-preserved cemeteries of the late Roman Empire.
Oh, and don’t miss the Ferreres Aqueduct, an absolute masterpiece of Roman engineering that spans a valley about two miles north of the city – this impressive structure is 817ft (249m) long and 89ft (27m) high. It’s little wonder that Tarragona and its ruins have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
ar.camp/ES85300
ar.camp/ES84000
Playa Montroig Camping Resort Spain, Cataluña-Catalunya, Tarragona, Montroig
Playa Montroig Camping Resort is about 30km from Tarragona, set in its own tropical gardens with direct access to a very long, narrow, soft sand beach. The central part of the site lies between the sea, road and railway (as at other sites on this coast, with occasional train noise on some pitches) with a huge underpass. Aside from a wide range of excellent facilities, notably an impressive aqua park and dining options, Port Aventura theme park is 20km away, making this a highly-desirable location for many families.
Taiga Delta de l’Ebre Spain, Cataluña-Catalunya, Tarragona, L’Ampolla
This campsite is situated on the beach in the small fishing village of L’Ampolla, famous for its gastronomy, peaceful beaches and coves. The site offers 87 large grass shady touring pitches with electric hook-up connections available and fully-equipped bungalows for rent. Ideal for couples, families and anybody who wants lots of activities including fishing, excursions (walking, cycling, horseriding, boats), watersports (windsurfing, kite-surfing, kayaking and waterskiing), as well as good food and relaxation.
Located beside the coast on the banks of the River Turia, Valencia is one of the oldest cities in Spain.
Valencia was founded as a Roman colony way back in 138BC – and is a real treat for history buffs. From the ancient winding streets of the Barrio del Carmen, which contains buildings dating back to periods of control by Roman and Arab empires, to the Gothic-style Silk Exchange market, which UNESCO has declared as a World Heritage Site, Valencia unveils its history at every step and turn. Add the cathedral and its bell tower, the ornate City Hall, the University of Valencia (one of the oldest surviving universities in Spain), the Museum of Fine Arts and
the Sant Joan de l’Hospital church built in 1316 into the mix, and you’ll be strolling the Valencian streets until your feet are sore. By vivid contrast, L’Hemisfèric (IMAX Dome cinema), Palau de
les Arts Reina Sofia (opera house), Assut de l’Or Bridge and Museu de les Ciències Príncipe Felipe (science museum) are some of the finest examples of modern architecture anywhere in Europe.
Kikopark Oliva Spain, Comunidad Valenciana, Valencia, Oliva Kikopark Oliva is a smart site nestling behind protective dunes alongside a Blue Flag beach. There are sets of attractively tiled steps over the dunes or a long boardwalk near the beach bar (suitable for prams and wheelchairs) to take you to the fine white sandy beach and the sea. From the central reception point (where good English is spoken), flat, fine gravel pitches and access roads are divided to the left and right. ar.camp/ES86150
Many tourists are drawn to the Costa Blanca for its plethora of beautiful beaches and secluded coves, but those with an interest in architecture and history are also in for a real treat – hardly surprising when you realise this area has been inhabited for over 7,000 years!
Alicante’s old town, Barrio de Santa Cruz, with its narrow streets and coloured houses is bound to attract your attention, as will the medieval Castillo de Santa Bárbara. This ancient castle stands proudly atop Mount Benacantil offering unrivalled views of the city, the Mediterranean coast
and inland. The pièce de résistance, however, is probably the fascinating archeological site of Tossal de Manises, the location of the ancient city of
ar.camp/ES87435
ar.camp/ES87420
Alannia Costa Blanca Spain, Comunidad Valenciana, Alicante, Crevillente
Alannia Costa Blanca (formerly Marjal) is a fullyequipped site situated 15km inland on the southern Alicante coast, close to the towns of Crevillente and Catral and the Parque Natural de El Hondo. Around 1,200 hardstanding pitches range in size from 9095sq.m, and all have electricity (16A), water, drainage, TV and high-speed internet connections (charged).
La Marina Resort by Samay, Spain, Comunidad Valenciana, Alicante, La Marina
Very efficiently run, Camping La Marina Resort has 450 touring pitches of three different types and sizes ranging from 50sq.m to 150sq.m with electricity (10/16A), TV, water and drainage. Artificial shade is provided, and the pitches are well maintained on level, well-drained ground, with a particular area allocated for tents in a small orchard.
Dominated by the imposing Moorish citadel of Alcazaba, the Andalusian city of Almeria can trace its history all the way back to the year 955. In addition to the fortress that overlooks the city with a protective eye, Almeria has plenty to interest the history buff, from its 16thcentury cathedral with astonishing Gothic ribbed ceiling to the fascinating air raid shelters, a 4.5km underground maze complete with surgery room and food storage which was designed to protect approximately 40,000 people from bombing during the Spanish Civil War of 1936-39.
Taiga Almeria Playa, Spain, Andalucia, Almería, Palomares
Previously known as Camping Cuevas Mar, this is a well-established campsite that proves popular and busy during the warm winter months. The 179 flat pitches on a stone chip are generally 80-100sq.m each with a 6/10amp electric supply. Shrubs and trees (some shade) act as pitch dividers, and those near the road are not overly affected as traffic volume is relatively low. Some areas have shade canopies erected during the hot summer months. Overall, throughout, there is a peaceful atmosphere. ar.camp/ES87510
Do you enjoy travelling and spending time with likeminded people? Perhaps it’s time to join a rally!
Rallies give you the opportunity to spend time with old friends, meet new people, make the most of your leisure time, explore
new places and make lasting memories. Durations vary, from seven nights to just over a month, and you can participate as much or as little as you like.
Rallies also take the stress and strain out of travel; your ferry and pitch bookings
Find out more at ar.camp/club
Auto-Trail Owners Club*
Auto-Trail Owners Club*
Swift Owners Club Rally
Auto-Trail Owners Club*
Bailey Owners Club
Adria Owners Club
Go Pod Owners Club
Seeboard Caravan & Camping Club
Leyland Group
Benimar Owners Club
Adria Owners Club
Alan Rogers Alpine Adventure
The Van Club
Alan Rogers Wonders of Albania
* Auto-Trail Owners Club rallies are open to non-members.
Find out more at ar.camp/owners
will be made for you. With decades of experience when it comes to organising rallies and inspecting and selecting the best campsites across Europe, we’re the experts in European rallies and camping. So what are you waiting for? (All details correct at the time of going to press.)
7/6/2026 25/7/2026
18/8/2026 18/8/2026
1/5/2026 13/05/2026 28/05/26 1/6/2026
8/6/2026
16/6/2026
16/6/2026
17/7/2026
25/7/2026 1/9/2026
6/9/2026
5/9/2026
11/9/2026
Departing 2 April 2026 | Duration 7 nights
Why not join Lincolnshire Centre on a week-long holiday in The Netherlands in the spring? Staying at the Vakantiepark Delftse Hout campsite in Delft, you’ll be able to experience the very best of the region during some fantastic excursions, with some great company along the way. After enjoying a three-course welcome meal with your fellow ralliers, you’ll take a trip to the world-famous Keukenhof gardens (famed for its multi-colour displays of tulips), before attending a flower auction at Allsmeer and Volendam. You’ll also be able to visit the Kinderdijk UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the picturesque complex of windmills and pumping stations stands as a testament to innovative engineering. The rally also includes your return ferry crossing between Dover and Calais with P&O Ferries.
Vakantiepark Delftse Hout Campsite, Delft
Find out more at ar.camp/club i
In 2026, the Auto-Trail Owners Club is organising three separate rallies in Germany and France – if you would like to join, you could choose to go on one, two or all three of them! The rallies are open to everyone and you do not need to be a member of the Auto-Trail Owners Club or own an Auto-Trail vehicle in order to attend.
Rally 1: Bavaria, Germany 1 May 2026 | 8 nights
Staying at the Alpen Caravanpark Tennsee campsite near the Germany-Austria border, this Bavarian rally includes a welcome drink and evening meal as well as a day trip to the city of Munich. Other excursions include trips to the Swarovski Museum, the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle and a gala dinner evening featuring traditional live music.
Rally 2: Provence, France 13 May 2026 | 12 nights
There are even more excursions to enjoy on this rally as you explore the glorious countryside of Provence. This time there are three campsites – Camping Les Prés Hauts near Sisteron, Camping Tomasses in the south of the region and Camping L’Argentière in Cogolin – with an evening meal planned at each. Enjoy trips to the spectacular Gorges du Verdon and Lake of Sainte-Croix, as well as the opportunity to tour the factory of luxury product manufacturer L’Occitane and a day in Toulon (with cable car to Mont Faron). And there’s still time for wine tasting at the Château Saint-Maur Cru Classé before you say your goodbyes!
Rally 3: Corsica, France 1 June 2026 | 19 nights
You’ll stay at five campsites during this tour of the island of Corsica: Camping Dolce Vita, Camping U Prunelli, Camping Les Ilots d’Or, Camping Arinella Bianca and Camping San Damiano. As well as two evening meals, planned excursions include a visit to Bonaficio with its historic clifftop citadel and a day out at the Cap Corse peninsula including lunch. Ferry crossings from the south of France to Corsica are also included.
Find out more at ar.camp/owners i
call our team on 01580 214070
Burrs Country Park Club Campsite
Knaresborough Club Campsite
Chapel Lane Club Campsite
Cheddar Club Campsite
Rookesbury Park Club Campsite
Abbey Wood Club Campsite
In the summer of 2026, England and Wales will host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup – during which some of the world’s best cricketers will battle it out in seven different venues. For those who aren’t aware, ‘T20’ is the 20-over high-octane format of cricket, which sees batting sides attempting to score as quickly as possible in just twenty overs.
The tournament takes place from 12 June to 5 July. As well as England, there will be the chance to see fantastic sportswomen from Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka and the West Indies. You can purchase tickets by clicking here (subject to availability).
Camping is a relatively cheap and easy way to stay close to the action and also to travel around the UK, should you wish to take in a few matches. The following are Caravan and Motorhome Club touring campsites which you can visit with your caravan, campervan, motorhome or roof tent. To secure your spot, we recommend that you book early, as many campsites are busy during the summer months.
A regular host of England’s international test matches and the home ground of the Lancashire Cricket Club, Old Trafford – not to be confused with the nearby football stadium of the same name – is southwest of Manchester’s city centre. Burrs Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is near the market town of Bury, and it is possible to travel from Bury all the way to the ground by tram.
STAY AT: AR.CAMP/UK4578
Headingley in Leeds is a storied ground which has seen regular test matches since 1899. The home of Yorkshire Cricket Club, Headingley is in the northeast of the city, and can be reached by car from Knaresborough Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite in around 45 minutes.
STAY AT: AR.CAMP/UK4035
Chapel Lane Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is handily placed if you are attending a match at Edgbaston – the home of Warwickshire County Cricket Club is a 20-minute drive away, or just over an hour if you are travelling by public transport. The ground has enjoyed a long relationship with the England team – in 1973 it hosted the inaugural Women’s World Cup final, in which the hosts beat Australia.
This is another characterful ground that is close to a city centre – around an hour’s walk from Bristol’s Temple Meads mainline station, should you wish to stretch your legs, although plenty of public transport options are available. Cheddar Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is around an hour’s drive away, on the southern fringes of the Mendip Hills National Landscape.
STAY AT: AR.CAMP/UK2230
Also known as The Rose Bowl, the home of county team Hampshire underwent significant redevelopment in 2008, and it has subsequently hosted a number of test cricket matches. You can reach the ground in under thirty minutes when driving from Rookesbury Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite. 5
STAY AT: AR.CAMP/UK3260
Lord’s in north London is widely referred to as ‘The Home of Cricket’ for a number of different reasons, but primarily because it is owned by the Marylebone Cricket Club, one of the world’s oldest, which established the laws of the game. The Caravan and Motorhome Club’s Abbey Wood campsite is a great base, as well as being a relatively affordable place to stay in the capital.
STAY AT: AR.CAMP/UK3260
London’s ‘other’ major cricket ground was actually the first in England to host international test cricket, in 1880, and it has also served as the venue for baseball, hockey, rugby and football matches (in fact, the first FA Cup final was held at The Oval). Situated south of the River Thames, it can be reached by public transport in around 45 minutes from Abbey Wood station, which is just a 10-15 minute walk from Abbey Wood Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite.
Situated on Spain’s east coast between the cities of Barcelona and Tarragona, Vilanova Park is a fantastic spot for those who want to explore the southern part of Catalonia and discover its history, culture, sandy beaches and wonderful food.
The site is about 2.5 miles from the bustling coastal town of Vilanova i la Geltrú. Here, a host of shops, cafes and restaurants line either side of the principal thoroughfare, while a number of squares –including the main Plaça de la Vila – come alive at night with the arrival of al fresco diners and locals of all ages. You’ll definitely want to visit the town’s Ribes Roges beach, where there are more
Vilanova Park, Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
places to eat and drink, while regular trains and buses run from Vilanova i la Geltrú’s station to upmarket Sitges as well as Barcelona and Tarragona.
The campsite’s restaurant is a beautifully converted Catalan farmhouse dating from 1908 – just one aspect of an impressive range of high-quality amenities and facilities. There’s also a shop, indoor pool (open all year, charged) as well as outdoor pools and new water slides (seasonal), while entertainment could include the likes of yoga, dance fitness and football during the day and music at night, depending on when you visit.
There are 343 marked pitches for touring units in separate areas, all with 6/10A electricity,
while 168 larger pitches also have water and, in some cases, drainage. They are on hard surfaces, gently sloping ground and with plenty of shade. Other facilities include heated toilet blocks with controllable showers, laundry, wellness centre including sauna, jacuzzi and gym, play areas, games room, bicycle hire, tennis, and Wi-Fi throughout (charged).
It’s a fantastic, familyfriendly campsite – for more information see ar.camp/ES83900
