Vacationing in less-crowded European destinations is growing in popularity
Ireland has witnessed a remarkable 40 percent increase in overnight camping stays, making it an attractive destination for environmentally conscious travellers. The Emerald Isle can be easily reached by motorhome via direct connections from northern French ports of Cherbourg and Roscoff, with a crossing to Cork, Rosslare, or Dublin taking approximately 18 hours.
Following Ireland, Denmark and Norway trail Sweden in terms of overnight camping stays in Northern Europe. Germany could slightly increase and remains in fourth place. The emphasis on sustainability in many Scandinavian countries has made the region a popular choice for campers seeking eco-friendly holidays.
France remains the most popular camping country, with over 141 million overnight stays. However, classic camping countries like the Netherlands had to record noticeable losses. Smaller European countries, including Albania, Poland, Bulgaria, and Ireland, are becoming increasingly popular for camping holidays, with significant increases in overnight stays.
Albania has experienced an increase of over 21 percent, while Bulgaria has increased by around 14.5 percent. Poland has seen a significant increase of nearly 20 percent. The three smaller European countries besides Ireland that are projected to have strong growth in overnight stays for camping holidays by 2025 are Austria, Switzerland, and Corsica (France). Austria and Switzerland are noted for increasing tourist numbers and camping interests, while Corsica is highlighted for its camping sites selection.
Camping Park KΓΌhlungsborn in Germany is Europe's most popular campsite. Spain has around 48 million overnight stays and a slight increase, while even Croatia and Sweden lost camping tourists. Despite a slight decrease of 2.5 percent compared to the previous year, camping holidays in Europe remain popular, with around 405 million tourist overnight stays in 2024.
Travelling to Ireland with a motorhome via Britain is also an option, with connecting ferries that go to Dublin, Rosslare, Belfast, or Larne. A study suggests that camping holidays make you sustainably happy, but the specifics of the study are not provided in the given information.
For more information about safe travel with a motorhome, including proper loading, tire care, vehicle checks, safety with gas bottles and camping stoves, fire safety, finding the perfect campsite, and crucial insurance for van life, you can watch a video featuring international expert Anne-Katrin Schwanitz.
Our website, a German-language service and news portal, keeps readers informed about all aspects of living and working abroad. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach us at [email protected]. The best camping sites in Europe 2025, as chosen by CARAVANING, have not been specified in the provided information.
