Top Winter Motorhome Destinations in the UK and Europe
Winter is an enchanting time for motorhome travel. With fewer crowds and breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, the colder months open a new side of motorhome exploration. Whether you're seeking adventure in the snowy mountains, peaceful countryside escapes, or a cosy winter camping experience, the UK and Europe have plenty to offer.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best winter-friendly motorhome destinations, from the dramatic Scottish Highlands to the stunning snowy Alps in Switzerland, with recommendations for motorhome-friendly campsites that welcome winter travellers.
- The Scottish Highlands, Scotland
The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most dramatic winter landscapes in the UK. Snow-capped mountains, serene lochs, and ancient forests make this a perfect destination for a winter motorhome adventure. While some campsites close for the winter, several remain open, providing the ideal base for exploring the Highlands' beauty.
Top winter-friendly campsite: Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park
Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, this campsite is open year-round and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy winter hikes or just cosy up in their motorhome and soak in the scenery.
Winter activities:
- Hiking through snow-dusted trails
- Visiting Loch Ness for a winter boat tour
- Skiing at Nevis Range Mountain Resort
- Exploring the charming town of Fort William
- Lake District, England
The Lake District is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and winter adds a magical touch to the landscape. Frosty mornings, misty lakes, and wintery mountain scenes make it an inviting destination for motorhome travellers who enjoy peace and tranquillity. While many campsites close in winter, several still cater to cold-weather campers.
Top winter-friendly campsite: Park Cliffe Camping & Caravan Estate
Situated near Lake Windermere, Park Cliffe stays open throughout the winter. It offers full hook-ups, excellent facilities, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Winter activities:
- Hiking along quieter trails around Windermere and Derwentwater
- Exploring winter wildlife at RSPB Leighton Moss
- Visiting picturesque villages like Grasmere and Ambleside
- Warming up in local pubs with roaring fires
- The French Alps, France
For motorhome travellers who love skiing and snowboarding, the French Alps are a dream destination. The snowy peaks, charming alpine villages, and world-class ski resorts make the region one of the most popular winter destinations in Europe. Many campsites cater to winter motorhome travellers, providing easy access to ski slopes and other winter activities.
Top winter-friendly campsite: Camping L’Escale, Le Grand Bornand
Located in the heart of the French Alps, this campsite is open in winter and offers pitches for motorhomes with electric hook-ups. It’s an excellent base for skiing in nearby resorts like La Clusaz.
Winter activities:
- Skiing or snowboarding in resorts like Chamonix, Les Deux Alpes, and La Plagne
- Snowshoeing and winter hiking
- Relaxing in alpine spas after a day on the slopes
- Visiting quaint alpine villages and enjoying local cuisine
- Black Forest, Germany
The Black Forest is a magical destination year-round, but it comes alive in winter with its snow-dusted forests and picturesque villages. This region in southwest Germany offers stunning winter landscapes, thermal spas, and outdoor activities. Motorhome travellers will find several campsites open throughout the colder months, providing a peaceful winter retreat.
Top winter-friendly campsite: Campingpark Südheide
This campsite is open all year round and offers motorhome pitches with electric hook-ups. It's well-positioned to explore the Black Forest region's charming villages and winter activities.
Winter activities:
- Exploring the fairy-tale villages of Triberg and Baden-Baden
- Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through the forest trails
- Visiting the famous Triberg Waterfalls, often frozen in winter
- Relaxing in thermal baths and spas, like the famous Friedrichsbad in Baden-Baden
- Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps are a premier winter destination, offering some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Europe. Whether you’re a skier, snowboarder, or simply a lover of snow-capped peaks, this region has something for everyone. With several campsites open in winter, it’s an ideal location for motorhome travellers seeking a winter escape.
Top winter-friendly campsite: Camping Jungfrau, Lauterbrunnen
This campsite is open throughout winter and in the stunning Lauterbrunnen Valley, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. It offers heated facilities and easy access to ski lifts in the nearby resort of Wengen.
Winter activities:
- Skiing in world-renowned resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier
- Taking the scenic train ride to Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe
- Sledging, ice skating, and snowshoeing in the alpine villages
- Visiting picturesque towns like Interlaken and Grindelwald
- The Pyrenees, Spain and France
The Pyrenees offer a quieter alternative to the Alps and are a fantastic winter motorhome destination. Stretching along the border between France and Spain, this region is ideal for those looking for winter sports, beautiful mountain scenery, and more affordable travel. Several campsites stay open, making it a great option for motorhome adventurers.
Top winter-friendly campsite: Camping La Ribera, Sort, Spain
Located in the Spanish Pyrenees, this campsite is open year-round and provides easy access to ski resorts like Baqueira-Beret. It also offers complete motorhome services, including electric hook-up and winterised facilities.
Winter activities:
- Skiing and snowboarding in resorts like Baqueira-Beret and Formigal
- Exploring the beautiful Pyrenean National Parks
- Visiting thermal spas to relax after a day in the snow
- Enjoying hearty mountain cuisine in traditional Pyrenean villages
- Snowdonia, Wales
For a wild and rugged winter adventure, head to Snowdonia in North Wales. Snowdon and the surrounding mountains offer some of the most breathtaking winter views in the UK. While the winter weather can be challenging, the beauty of Snowdonia is worth the trip, and there are campsites open year-round for motorhome travellers.
Top winter-friendly campsite:
Bryn Gloch Caravan and Camping Park
Located at the foot of Snowdon, this campsite stays open in winter and offers facilities for motorhomes, including hook-ups and heated washrooms.
Winter activities:
- Hiking up Snowdon for panoramic winter views
- Exploring the slate quarries and mining towns of Llanberis
- Visiting castles like Caernarfon and Conwy
- Walking along the quiet beaches of the Llyn Peninsula
Winter motorhome travel offers a unique and magical experience, with quieter roads, serene landscapes, and the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful regions in the UK and Europe. Whether skiing in the Alps, hiking through the Scottish Highlands, or soaking in a thermal spa in Germany, these destinations provide the perfect setting for a winter adventure.
So, pack your winter gear, ensure your motorhome is well-prepared for the cold, and embark on a journey to explore these winter wonderlands. There’s no better way to experience the magic of winter than from the comfort of your motorhome.