What are the best campsites for the golden autumn in Europe
The best fall campsites not only offer breathtaking scenery, but also a variety of recreational opportunities suitable for families, couples, and nature lovers. Whether you are looking for the peace and quiet of nature, want to go on unforgettable hikes or simply want to relax and enjoy spa services – these campsites have something to offer for everyone.
The Gitzenweiler Hof is a great campsite in Germany and is located near Lindau on Lake Constance in Bavaria. This site is perfect for camping in autumn as the surroundings are particularly colorful when the trees in the forests around Lake Constance change their leaves. There are numerous leisure options here – from hikes in the Allgäu Alps to trips to picturesque towns such as Lindau or Bregenz. The place is also particularly family-friendly.
The Grubhof campsite in Austria is another excellent choice for fall camping. It is located in a picturesque Alpine setting, directly on the banks of the Saalach in Salzburger Land. The colorful autumn forests and the surrounding mountains offer a fantastic backdrop for hikes and bike tours, while the spacious parking spaces and wellness offers ensure relaxation.
The Recreation Park de Leistert in the Netherlands is a 5-star campsite in the province of Limburg. It offers a wide range of leisure activities, not just for families, and is perfectly equipped for activities even in bad weather. The course is also close to beautiful natural areas that are particularly colorful in autumn.
The Prümtal Camping in the Eifel is nestled in the picturesque Prümtal and offers an idyllic environment that is ideal for hiking and cycling tours. In autumn the landscape transforms into a colorful sea of colors, which makes exploring nature particularly attractive. With modern sanitary facilities and a variety of leisure options, Prümtal Camping is perfect for nature lovers who want to enjoy the peace and beauty of the Eifel in the autumnal atmosphere.
For those who prefer autumn with a slightly milder climate, Sardinia not only offers warmer temperatures, but also colorful landscapes and secluded beaches. For example, this is recommended Camping Laguna Blu. This beautiful campsite on the north coast of Sardinia is ideal for an autumn holiday. The course is located directly by the sea and offers access to beautiful beaches.
What special preparations should you make for camping in the fall?
In order to be able to camp relaxed and comfortably in autumn, it is advisable to make some preparations. Since temperatures can fluctuate greatly in autumn, it is important to adequately insulate the motorhome or caravan. Seals on windows and doors should be checked and possibly replaced. Heating systems such as auxiliary heaters or mobile fan heaters should be checked and ready for operation.
Additional insulation is provided by thermal mats that can be attached to the inside and/or outside of the windshield. For good protection against moisture in the often rainy season, we recommend stretching a tarpaulin over the caravan or using an awning to reduce the moisture inside.
It is also important to pay attention to appropriate tires, because safety is also important here. Depending on the destination and weather conditions, winter tires or at least all-weather tires may be necessary, as slippery conditions can occur early in the fall in many places. Snow chains should also be handy if necessary, especially in mountainous regions.
Since the days become shorter in autumn, it is advisable to take enough lighting with you. Headlamps, flashlights and additional batteries are helpful. For living comfort when camping in autumn, fairy lights or LED candles ensure coziness indoors, even if it is rather uncomfortable outside.
Jenny Krutzinna has a doctorate in philosophy and is a passionate camper. When switching from a tent to a motorhome presented her with challenges in finding a parking space, she quickly developed a digital solution with her partner. They have been running a leading one for eight years Camping appwhich supports hundreds of thousands of campers throughout Europe in finding suitable overnight accommodations for them. Jenny also regularly gives lectures on camping and travel topics at camping trade fairs and vanlife events. She travels in the camper for about six months a year.
How can you prepare your motorhome or caravan for autumn and winter?
Since frost can already be expected in autumn, you should definitely take appropriate precautions in good time to protect the vehicle from damage. This includes, for example, the drainage of the system. Before winter, all water pipes, tanks and heating should be completely drained to avoid frost damage. Some campers also swear by adding antifreeze to wastewater and toilet tanks to prevent residual moisture from freezing.
To protect the battery, it should be removed or charged regularly to prevent deep discharge. An insulated cover can also help in low temperatures. Winter-proof lithium batteries are now also available, which can withstand low temperatures well thanks to their own heating.
If the motorhome or caravan is left standing for long periods of time, thermal mats for the windows and ventilation flaps can help keep the interior warm while preventing moisture build-up. If the motorhome is not used at all over the winter, it may make sense to park it in a garage or under a carport. A protective cover can provide additional protection.
What tips are there for camping rain or shine in autumn?
As is well known, almost any kind of weather can be expected in autumn. Appropriate clothing and equipment will help you enjoy your camping adventure even in changeable temperatures.
You should definitely have rain gear and waterproof equipment with you. Make sure to take waterproof clothing and, above all, shoes. An awning or awning can help keep the outdoor area dry and bring in less moisture.
Damp clothing or equipment should be well ventilated and ideally stored outdoors to avoid moisture build-up indoors. It also increases living comfort when wet shoes and dripping rain jackets do not have to be stored inside the vehicle.
Despite autumnal temperatures, it is advisable to pay attention to sun protection. Even on cool, sunny days there is a risk of damaging the skin. Sunscreen and a cap should be part of your fall camping gear, especially when staying in the mountains.
To keep you in a good mood, we recommend taking the changeable autumn weather into account when planning your activities. It is advisable to plan both outdoor activities and bad weather options (such as museum visits or indoor games). You can often get useful information about exciting leisure activities even in autumn at the campsite reception.