Whether you’re looking to go cheap and park up at a campsite or live a little and get a nice hotel, you’ll always have your car with you in order to travel the local areas, or even go for a day trip to a location that’s perhaps a few miles away. Of course a trip such as this requires a specific budget for petrol or diesel, so getting hold of a Chooseafuelcard.com Fuel Cards might help out with fuel management.

The only problem that ever really occurs is choosing where to go. Here are a few ideas.

Grenoble, France by Jörg Sancho Pernas

South of France

Traveling through the heart of the French countryside, first of all you’ll have a very pleasant journey, but also the chance to stop off at the numerous towns and cities along the way, including Dijon, Lyon and Grenoble.

Once arrived in the southern coast, there is a plethora of locations you can choose from, the next more glamorous than the last. The likes of Nice and Cannes allow great shopping destinations, whilst also taking in the wondrous views of the coastline and the Mediterranean. Monaco is just a completely different experience altogether and seeing the likes of the Casino Square can really open your eyes to a lifestyle only few in this world can enjoy frequently.

Monaco by Georges DICK

Northern Italy

There are a varied amount of destinations in the north of Italy which can offer unique experiences all in one holiday. The main point of call would be the fashion and style hub of Milan for a couple of days in the city, splashing a bit of cash and eating great food. From there, you can make the trip south-west to San Remo and enjoy the great coastline of another stylish location that is similar in some ways to Monaco, not least because of the fancy casino the town has.

If that wasn’t your bag, you could always go further north from Milan and visit the glam of Lake Como and Lake Maggiore on the Swiss border. Going east would see you eventually come across the likes of Verona and even the amazing city of Venice.

Lake Como, Italy by Joyborg

East coast of Spain

This is a trip probably reserved for those die-hard families that love to be together in a car for a very long time, but the east coast of Spain harbours some of the great summer locations Europe has to offer.

First stop would be Barcelona for a great city experience and a number of cliché tourist visits to the likes of the Cathedral, Las Rambles and Camp Nou football stadium. Next up is a drive south to the beautiful coastal city of Valencia for some sunbathing and relaxing.

Further down the coast includes destinations such as Benidorm for a good night out and Alicante for a more of an all-rounder.

Alicante, Spain by Claire (Europe Explored)

About the author: Sam writes for Chooseafuel.com who offer various fuel cards for pretty much everyone on the European continent, whether you need it for a petrol car of a diesel LPG. For more information click here.

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Summer

If you love the sun then this is the ideal time of year to head off to continental Europe. Any country in Europe is beautiful during summer time. The main problem with travelling at this time of year is that the prices tend to be at their highest level. You can get around this by looking for last minute deals or by checking out self-catering holidays. If you choose to go self-catering then the money you save by cooking in your accommodation might be enough for you to make more of your time there and enjoy an unforgettable trip.

Sunset in Sicily, Italy / Photo by admin

Winter

There is a lot to be said for getting away during the coldest months of the year. For a start, if you head off from the north of Europe to the southern part then you will feel a pleasant rise in the temperature once you get there. Apart from that you can usually get hold of cheaper European holidays in winter. Finally, this is a great time for anyone who is interested in seeing some traditional Christmas markets, going skiing or taking lovely strolls around snowy streets while wrapped up in warm clothes.

Spring

The warm weather comes early in places like the Mediterranean coast, so if you want to avoid the really high temperatures and the big crowds then this can be a fantastic time to head to somewhere like Spain or Italy. Prices are often reasonable during the spring season and it is an especially good time to go camping. If you have a look at a specialist site like Keycamp then you will see the variety of things you can in and around a campsite at this time of year.

Autumn

This is when the summer usually starts to die out in places like the UK, but the sun tends to still be shining brightly in more the southerly countries of Europe.  A smart move can be to soak up some sun at home during the summer and then go abroad to places like Berny Riviere in France, Lake Garda in Italy or Catalonia region in Spain to enjoy even more of the good weather when autumn comes knocking. If you hate the thought of the cold weather starting to bite again then this can be a clever way to extend your summer a little bit longer.

Which European country would you really want to go to and on which season would it be best to go there? Share your thoughts!

The post A European Holiday Can Cheer You Up During Any Season appeared first on Europe Explored.

Rennes Cathedral, France by chelmsfordblue

Gayeulles Park is one of the largest in Brittany and a popular destination during the warmer months. It consists of three manmade lakes, pedalos, a swimming pool, an ice rink, a campsite, a miniature golf course, a farm for children and facilities for sports including tennis, squash and several other activities. With so much going on, it’s easy to spend a full day at Gayeulles Park, and it’s guaranteed to keep the whole family happy.

Rennes Cathedral

A trip to the Cathedral is an essential part of any trip to Rennes for architecture lovers. The work of architect Mathurin Crucy, 57 years of work went into its construction. Though the outer façade is quite simplistic and unassuming, the inside of the Cathedral is lavishly adorned with exquisite paintings and gold designs.

Breton Parliament

Breton Parliament represents the link between Brittany and France. The building itself is a sight to behold, made from granite and freestone with gilded characters embedded into the walls as a representation of justice. After a destructive fire in 1994, the Parliament underwent a massive restoration programme and is just as impressive today as it was in the 17th century.

Rennes houses, France by Mitch Altman

The Short Film Festival

The annual Short Film Festival is entirely dedicated to short films in the fantasy genre. It draws fanatics from all over the world to the city of Rennes. Though fantasy was previously a very specific niche, the event is attracting more and more visitors every year and the city has a unique buzz over the duration of the event. It usually runs for four days in October. As is the case for all planned functions, it’s worth booking a hotel well in advance if you plan to stay in Rennes whilst the Short Film Festival is taking place.

Rennes Eco-museum

Rennes Eco-museum, situated in the south of the city, tells the story of thirteen centuries of farming. It’s housed in a beautifully restored farm building and also serves as an observatory of ancient breeds of animals that have been preserved. The region’s history is explored through displays of costumes, tools and farming equipment, as well as reconstructed kitchens and larders. Of course, there are several other museums scattered throughout the city, but the Eco-museum is a fascinating location that provides a real insight into times gone by.

Rennes, France by Mitch Altman

Conclusion

Rennes is a city steeped in history with a diverse mix of attractions for visitors. It may not be one of France’s most obvious holiday destinations, but it can provide an interesting break for tourists.

Rennes is a great place to visit and has a number of great campsites for holiday makers. Especially noteworthy are “Camping des Gayeulles” and “Chateau des Ormes”. So take your camping equipment and pitch up your tent, if you need to buy any new camping items visit the Outdoor World Direct store which stocks all things camping.

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Ibiza sunset, Spain by Steven Straiton

That has just told you roughly how old I am now, and to be honest yes I am forcing myself to calm down a bit and start to act my true age, yet I am still going to be heading out there next year.

The main issue that stops some people from going to Ibiza is that they imagine it is an expensive holiday, and in all honesty it can be. Not so much the flights, as there are plenty of budget options, but the costs of the clubs, the accommodation etc.

It really doesn’t have to be that expensive though, the first time I went, I lived on a campsite. This wasn’t my preferred choice, it was just that the hotel my friend was staying at had some extra alert security so there was no way I was going to be sneaking into his room.

Let Me Give You Some Quick Fire Tips To Enjoying A Cheap Holiday To Ibiza:

• When To Fly Out – You will normally get the best deals on flights in either June or September especially if you book as early as possible. Additionally flights are always cheaper if you fly on either Tuesdays or Thursdays. You will also be able to pick up a cheap hotel in San Antonio for around £20 per night.

• Where To Kip – Depending on your budget you can get excellent deals, whether it is for a hotel, villa, apartment or campsite. For example, in August campsites usually go for around $4 per night, the three most popular campsites are in San Antonio, Cala Bassa and Es Canar.

Another tip is to try and find some last minute deals with people offering private holiday homes browse the internet and see what you can find. I once managed to get a booking for me and 12 of my friends a Villa for just £500 for a week’s stay.

• Cheap Grub – If your budget is tight, simply use supermarkets and spread the cost amongst your friends. You could easily eat pasta during the day and supply your own sandwiches during the day for as little as £20 a week each. If your budget allows for more, then there are some seriously nice restaurants in town.

• Getting Around – Don’t be ashamed to use buses, these are cheap and reliable (the UK could learn something here). If your destination is further afield, share a taxi with your friends to reduce the cost.

• Party Time – This is probably the most expensive part of the holiday, the bigger clubs here really are not cheap. This is most likely the reason why you have been scrimping on every other cost, simply so you can afford the clubs.

However, you do not even need to spend a fortune here; there are many free parties around the Island which even have some of the biggest DJ’s. An idea would be to keep an eye on Ibiza forums; this is where free parties will usually be advertised.

So as you can see a holiday to Ibiza doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, there are ways to have a good time without spending the cash. For cheap flights Ibiza is one of those destinations that is right at the top of the list, so start saving for the clubs from the word go.

The post Holidays on a Shoe String – Ibiza appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo by admin

Ardoer Veluwe in the Netherlands

One highly ranked site in Holland is known as Ardoer. This reasonably priced campsite offers rented accommodation and camping areas. Each of the affiliate campsites is affiliate managed and is open throughout the year. Families can go on hiking trips or just experience the beautiful outdoors. The Veluwe campgrounds are surrounded by endless words and heath. Located near several historic villages and towns, the campsite is also pleasantly close to the local zoo and museums.

Chemin de la Bise in Switzerland

Boasting 29 campsites throughout Switzerland, one of the most popular is Vésenaz-Genève which is situated in Chemin de la Bise, Vésenaz. Visitors can choose to rent accommodations or camp out for the night. Each campsite can use the free WLAN and Internet. The site has also worked to include free hot water for every campground. A restaurant and café are available at Chemin de la Bise. In their free time, visitors can go for a swim, fish, bike or check out some of the local attractions.

Kerstgenshof Campground in Germany

Situated at 158 Marie Baumer Street in Sonsbeck-Labbeck, Germany, this campground is managed by the Ingenlath family. Kerstgenshof Campground offers year-round camping and a children-friendly atmosphere. There are 64 pitches available, a club room, park benches and power hook-ups. For extended stays, the family offers monthly and seasonal prices. Bikers can also camp out inside of the club room and save some money.

Averlour Gardens Caravan Park in the UK

Spanning five acres, this beautiful walled garden area is populated by the local wildlife. Just 500 meters away, visitors can go salmon fishing at the River Spey. The nearby village can provide the special fishing license. This campground is entirely unique due to its proximity to the whisky trail. Visitors can take a short bike ride away and visit one of the local distilleries. Each distillery offers daily tours with samples of the whisky. For the non-drinkers, check out the village nearby where there is a delicious bakery known as Walker’s Shortbread. Visitors can stay at one of the 73 pitches in a tent, motor home or caravan. The tent area provides electricity for half of these sites and allows visitors to bring their pets or barbeques. After setting up camp, travelers can go mountain biking on local trails, horseback riding, fishing, swimming or visit a nearby tea room. Ballandalloch Castle, Moray Firth and the Craigellachie Cooperage are all just a short drive away.

Campsite Colombres in Spain

Boasting of panoramic views and beautiful coastline, Campsite Colombres is the place to stay for travelers in Spain. Situated near the tourist villages of Santillana del Mar, Colombres, Covadonga and Llanes, this camp ground is easy to access and exceptionally well located. The campground has a new pool, children’s park, bungalows, recreation areas and allows pets onsite. The surrounding attractions include Picos de Europa and Altamira Caves. For an entirely unique experience, make sure not to miss out on Campsite Colombres.

This guide was written by the team at Parking Luton Airport. If you’re aiming to fly from Luton to any one of the campgrounds listed above be sure to visit their website www.parkinglutonairport.co.uk for some good deals.

The post European Woodland and Oceanfront campsites appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo by Elliott Brown

Camping at Lake Garda

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Lake Garda is to camp on the lake. There are numerous campsites such as those offered by Eurocamp and Keycamp, which are situated right on the edge of the lake. You can simply step out of your tent and head to the beach for a swim whilst camping at Lake Garda. Here are a few of some the best campsites near Lake Garda.

On the Lake: Fontanelle is a peaceful campsite that is set on the shores of the lake and is also close to some of the area’s main attractions. The facility is well-maintained and offers a swimming pool; fishing and a children’s play area.

Family-Friendly: While not situated directly on the lake, Altomincio Family Park is still close enough for travellers to easily visit the lake. This park is a popular choice amongst families with swimming pools, waterslides, boat trips, twelve playgrounds and a cinema.

Luxury Camping: SelectCamp Camping Weekend is a lovely campsite for both children and adults. The site offers something extra for those who like to camp in comfort. The luxurious lodge tents are spacious, and fully equipped with showers and toilets. On-site amenities include a laundry, swimming pool, children’s pool, Internet café, two playgrounds, satellite TV and a pizzeria.

Gardaland – Italy’s number one amusement park / Spencer Wright

Things to Do at Lake Garda

The large lake offers plenty of activities for those who are adventurous. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you can spend your time at Lake Garda exploring the beaches, windsurfing, hiking, canoeing and horseback riding. If you want a more peaceful holiday, you can spend time taking in the scenery as you stroll along the beach, or you can explore the vineyards and nearby villages.

Nearby Attractions

Some of Italy’s best attractions are located near Lake Garda. Both adults and children will enjoy visiting Gardaland, which is Italy’s number one amusement park. There are plenty of rides and various shows offered throughout the year that are perfect for entertaining children of all ages. Aqua Paradise Park is another popular attraction with families. This water park offers an exciting day in a tropical setting, with waterslides, an erupting volcano and an entire fishing village. While there are plenty of lively attractions close to Lake Garda, there are also quaint villages for exploration and cosy restaurant for dining. Don’t forget to stop at one of the local restaurants for a slice of pizza, cappuccino or ice cream sundae.

The post Lake Garda Holidays: Moments to Remember | Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

Swimming pool in camping in Italy with a great view of the sea / Photo by admin

Whether you are new to camping or a seasoned camper, Eurocamp will provide you with the perfect opportunity to submerge yourself in stunning areas like Lake Garda, Tuscany, or The Italian Adriatic, all for a fraction of the price of a hotel holiday.

While camping in Italy you will have the option of going down the independent route, or you can choose to stay in a campsite that is set up and ready to go. The first option is ideal for those who already have their own camping equipment, RVs or a caravan. The second is great for those who want everything to be available and ready to use from the second they arrive.

Both options will allow you to experience self-catering holidays at their best; once you are settled into your nature filled surroundings, you can choose to eat and explore the rural and urban sites of Italy as and when you want. A stroll on the shores of Lake Garda can be followed by shopping in an Italian meat market, before you end the evening with a glass of Pinot Grigio over authentic Italian food.

Beach in Italy / Photo by admin

Family holidays while camping in Italy are idyllic and filled with fun and adventures. No matter which area of the country you choose to stay in, you can guarantee that you will not be short of things to do.

The Italians are renowned throughout Europe for their sense of hospitality, and often embrace tourists and immerse them in their culture. While visitors to central Italy can expect to be surrounded with historical reminders of the Renaissance, those who head for the south can paddle in the sea at resorts like Lido de Jesolo. No matter where you choose to plan your family holidays in Italy, you can guarantee you will have the trip of a lifetime.

This guest post is contributed by Cassy Johnson, a mum and wannabe travel writer who works within the travel industry and occasionally writes for Eurocamp and Keycamp.

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Street in Alicante, Spain / Illustrative photo by admin

From travel to lodging to food and everything in between, some people aren’t taking vacations because they can’t afford them. Rather than dish out your life savings to go on a trip you really can’t afford, try out these three cheap vacation alternatives.

1. Go Camping

Camping is one of the cheapest vacation options available today. Live off the land for a weekend (or longer, if you can handle it) and enjoy the time spent together without the chaos of the city and the constant need for technology.

If you don’t have camping gear, you will need to spend some money on these items up front, but they will last you for a very long time. If you don’t feel like buying, ask your friends and family members to see if anyone has gear you could borrow. Tents, sleeping bags, blankets, lighter/matches, pillows, toilet paper, cooking utensils—all of these items will help make your camping trip more enjoyable.

If you don’t want to hunt for your food, stick with easy meals that can be prepared over a burning fire. Items such as hot dogs and beans tend to work well, just make sure to bring a can opener with you.

Most campsites allow you to camp overnight for a very minimal fee, usually between $10 and $30 per night, which is much less than the cost of a hotel. You can either visit a campsite somewhere close to home or you can travel a bit further and go out of state. Obviously, the further you go, the more expensive the trip will be due to the price of gas.

There are plenty of activities to do while camping, too. If you camp near a lake, you can go swimming. During the day, you can take hikes and watch wildlife in its natural habitat. And at night, you can sit around the campfire making s’mores and telling ghost stories.

If tents are not your idea of a vacation, campsites also rent out log cabins. Though they’re more expensive than tents, they’re much cheaper than hotels and can provide you with more comfort than the tent but still offer the camping experience.

2. Visit Out-of-State Family and Friends

Visiting friends and family allows you to travel to new parts of the world on a small budget. As long as you are staying with your friends or family, the only cost you’ll really have is that of travel and possibly buying dinner a few nights per week (or at least splurging on groceries and cooking dinner for your hosts).

If you opt for this cheap vacation, make sure you don’t overextend your stay. Even the closest family members and friends can get sick of each other after a while. Make sure to limit your visit to three days maximum so not to be a bother.

It’s also a great idea to pitch in with chores and make sure that you and your family are respectful at all times. Let your host know that even though you are staying in their home, they don’t have to be your cook, maid and tour guide while there. Allow them to continue to live their normal life, and don’t force them to take off work or chauffeur you around .

3. Staycation

This word can take many forms. Some people use staycation to literally stay home, which isn’t a bad thing. Use this time to catch up on a good book, enjoy a community event or take a tour of your own neighborhood. If you live close to a big city, you may want to visit it for the day and take in all the free attractions, such as parks and window shopping.

Set up a tent in your backyard one day, grill out on another day, break out the sprinkler on another day. Staying home doesn’t have to be boring. You can make it fun. Just try to relax and keep yourself from doing too many of your normal chores. Those will still be there when it’s time to re-enter the real world.

Some people use staycation to stay overnight in a hotel close to home. Simply getting out of your house for one night may be the experience your family needs to have a good time. Opt for a hotel that has a pool or other amenity that your family would enjoy. Though you’re still spending money on lodging, you are eliminating the high cost of travel.

If a vacation is on your to do list this year, but you can’t afford to travel somewhere exotic, opt for camping, visiting friends and family or having a staycation. As long as you are with friends or family, and as long as you make the best of it, you could end up having one of the best vacations of your life.

Carrie Johnson lives in Houston and works with a traveling agency.  She likes to travel and recently won a trip to the bahamas island resorts.

The post 3 Cheap Vacation Ideas appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Richard Rutter

About the Park

The Seven Sisters Country Park is a popular place with anyone interested in enjoying outdoor activities in unspoilt countryside. Cycling, canoeing, walking and birdwatching are all popular ways to spend time in the park, both for holidaymakers and educational groups. In the past, there were camping facilities for the general public, but now, the campsite is only available by pre-arrangement for educational groups. People wishing to visit the Seven Sisters Country Park as part of a holiday, will need to stay in one of the nearby towns or villages instead.

Anyone visiting the Seven Sisters Country Park for the first time should pay a visit to the information centre first. Between April and October it is open seven days a week, and contains a wealth of information about the area. Located in an 18th century barn, the helpful and knowledgeable staff can suggest which may be the best walks at different times of year, where various types of wildlife can be found, and other relevant facts.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by David Jones

Local Attractions

There are also many other places of interest to visit nearby to the Seven Sisters Country Park, with Eastbourne being a major tourist attraction. From here, it is possible to visit castles, battle sites and unique churches. Eastbourne is also noted for its seafront, which boasts a Victorian Pier, bandstand, children’s theme park and much more. Endless activities are available here as well such as windsurfing, golf and even sand castle building! For anyone wishing to stay in the area for their vacation, the accommodation in Eastbourne includes hotels, bed and breakfasts and camping options.

Other places of interest within an easy day trip of the Seven Sisters Country Park include Brighton to the west, with its happening atmosphere and great night life, and Hastings to the east, the scene of the famous battle of 1066. It is even possible to visit the Isle of Wight on a day trip if so desired, and whilst a trip to the New Forest National Park is a little further, it would certainly be well rewarded.

Conclusion

The Seven Sisters Country Park can be visited at any time of year, and birdwatchers in particular may wish to base their visits around the migration of various birds during the spring and the summer. For other purposes, the summer months are the most popular period, when the weather is warmer, the days longer, and the views spectacular on a clear day. Access is possible by car, but is actively discouraged in order to preserve the environment, although parking is available at a cost. Entry to the Seven Sisters Country Park is free, and a visit there can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

View A Guide to the Seven Sisters Country Park, Seaford, East Sussex, United Kingdom in a larger map

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Photo by admin

One of the most popular places to go camping in the EU is France. The whole country is set up to welcome campers, whether they are in cars and caravans, campervans or simply with a tent in the boot of the car or attached to their backpack.

Pretty every much commune will have a campsite somewhere and these will often be a ‘camping municipal’ meaning that they are owned and maintained by the local commune (or council). Although this kind of campsite doesn’t have a big swimming pool and entertainment programme, they are always scrupulously clean and well maintained. It is such a vast contrast to many campsites in the UK.

The commercial campsites in France also make a great choice – especially if you have children who are confident enough to go and join in with the entertainment provided. Once you set up your site and introduce the children to the ‘animateurs’ who run the entertainment programmes, you might not see them except for mealtimes and bedtime!

Where to go
Camping near to the Dune du Pyla is a great place to spend a summer week. You have easy access to the beach, and most of the campsites are set in the shady pine forests that are just behind the beaches and dunes. This way you have the best of both worlds – beautiful sunny beaches, yet a shaded place to camp, so that at the end of the day you don’t have to go into a baking hot tent or mobile home.

If you’re a single traveller or a couple, then the most economic option is to take the car and throw your sleeping bags and tent in the boot, so that you can go where you want, but only need to pay the site fees for a tent rather than a caravan or the cost of hiring one of the fixed mobile homes that campsites hire out. Of course, the other option is to hire one of the fixed tents that the campsites also have on offer – far superior to anything that will fit in the back of a car! It really depends on how long you want to stay in one particular place or whether you prefer a holiday on the road.

About the author of this article:
Steve is a camping enthusiast who enjoys taking off for the weekend with his mates and their fully loaded rucksacks.

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