Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Touring Europe in a Motorhome

From St Andrews to St Ives, the Peak District to the Pennines, the United Kingdom is rife with areas to explore. Indeed, you could spend every single holiday discovering the many brooks, dells and beaches of the country in your motorhome. But, one of the greatest perks of such travel is the freedom that it gives you to go wherever you please, allowing you to consider countless motorhome holidays in Europe and beyond.

Detailing everything you need for a comfortable trip before listing the best possible destinations, this blog from motorhome experts, Spinney, will give you all the knowledge you need. Dealers of new motorhomes from the very best brands, as well as second-hand motorhomes that retain their quality at a more affordable price, at Spinney we have everything you need to get on the road.

Even if you’re almost ready to wave your home goodbye for the summer, why not visit our branches before you head off to receive a full servicing to make sure you don’t experience any hitches while you’re away?

Motorhome essentials for a European holiday

Committing to a motorhome tour around Europe shouldn’t be considered a stroll in the park – because it isn’t! While choosing a motorhome holiday in Europe is an experience you’ll never forget, it should be treated with the necessary precaution, with there being plenty of kit you’ll need for a comfortable trip. While packing your bags and the boot of your motorhome, make sure you include this list of essentials:

• In-date passport – with at least 6 months left before expiry.
• Motorhome insurance that covers European travel (this may require you to purchase a green card).
• Motorhome logbook.
• Valid motorhome driving licence.
• Trailer EU certification (if applicable).
• Animal health certificate for pets (if applicable).
• Mandatory vehicle stickers – including angle morts or blind spot stickers, a ‘UK’ sticker and Crit’Air sticker, if applicable.
• Four winter tires or two snow chains.
• Reflective jackets (1 for each travelling member) and a warning triangle.
• Red and white reflective warning board for any trailer that extends the length of your motorhome – this is applicable if you’re towing a small car behind your motorhome or are carrying an external bike rack.
• First aid kit.
• Headlight deflectors.

Recommended accessories

While we’d say that the items in the previous list are utterly essential for a safe and peaceful motorhome trip in Europe, the following accessories may not be completely compulsory, but they might just save your bacon.

• Camping Card International (CCI). This isn’t essential, but it acts as a passport of sorts for all campers, making booking far easier and cheaper.
• Universal travel adapter.
• A breathalyser – these are no longer mandatory, but drink driving limits are far stricter throughout Europe than in the UK, so it might be a good idea to take one just in case.
• Toll pass – fly through toll bridges with ease across France, Spain and Portugal.
• Solar panels – this is an easy and ecological way to keep your devices charged (especially if you’re travelling in summer).
• An electricity generator (if you’re going to be travelling into the wilderness).
• Motorhome Wi-Fi – this won’t be essential for everyone, but if you’re planning to be a digital nomad in your motorhome, this will be a must.

The best countries to tour when driving in Europe

Europe is one of the most accessible continents to travel by motorhome, with the large majority of countries being easy to access from the UK, depending on exactly how far you’re willing to travel. Understandably, some of the most popular destinations are the ones that are closest to get to from Britain, making them the cheapest and easiest to travel around, but these aren’t the only places available to you.

The best motorhome destinations in Europe

For the accessible infrastructure that has been built to accommodate motorhomes, as well as the diverse range of attractions, these countries are excellent for exploring on the road.

• France – e.g. the Dordogne and the French Riviera.
• Ireland – e.g. Ring of Kerry.
• Italy – e.g. the Dolomites.
• Norway – e.g. Lofoten Islands.
• Spain – e.g. the Mediterranean Coast.

Alternative motorhome destinations in Europe

Want to avoid the crowds of tourists that gather at the aforementioned motorhome hot spots? Consider going to these lesser-visited destinations that are well worth the trip.

• Germany – e.g. the Black Forest High Road.
• Greece – e.g. the Peloponnese Peninsula.
• Iceland – e.g. the Ring Road.
• Portugal – e.g. the Douro Valley.
• Romania – e.g. Transylvania via the Transfăgărășan Highway.

Need more inspiration? Check out the video.

Motorhome holidays in France

The most popular place to take your motorhome from the UK is France, after all, the trip is as simple as the rapid 35-minute Channel Tunnel journey. For more information about driving your motorhome around France, read our dedicated blog on the topic.

Important considerations when driving around France

Driving across France is simple and shouldn’t be stressed over! But, with this being said, there are a few things you should consider before you set off.

• It is illegal to use devices capable of detecting and warning about upcoming speed cameras.
• The legality of using A-frames for towing across Europe is murky – we’d avoid using them at all.
• Throughout the winter, snow chains and four winter tyres must be used in mountainous regions.
• It’s illegal to use headphones while driving any vehicle.
• If your vehicle weighs over 3,500kg, it should not be driven on the outside lane of a three-lane motorway.

Motorhome speed limits in France

Speed limits may vary depending on weather conditions, but the general motorhome speed limits across France for vehicles with a MAM that exceeds 3,500kg are as follows:

• 130 km/h (80mph) on motorways.
• 110 km/h (68mph) on dual carriageways.
• 80 km/h (50mph) on normal roads.
• 50 km/h (30mph) in built-up areas.

The best places to take your motorhome in France

France is one of the many countries in Europe to offer ‘aire de service/stationnement pour camping car’, otherwise known as ‘aires’, which are accessible overnight parking areas. Utilising these can transform how you experience the country, and these particularly beautiful hotspots:

1. The Dordogne: Enjoy stunning valleys and gorgeous vineyards that produce the country’s world-famous wine.
2. The French Riviera: Ride in luxury across the magnificent French Riviera that features some of the country’s most stylish architecture.
3. The Loire Valley: Bask in ‘The Garden of France’, a valley that’s packed with peaceful streams and thick forests.

Motorhome holidays in Ireland

You don’t have to travel to mainland Europe to enjoy an exciting adventure, with Ireland being a largely underappreciated place to take your motorhome, boasting stunning coastlines, magnificent mountains and even some sites of phenomenal natural beauty.

Important considerations when driving around Ireland

Since Ireland is a mere stone’s throw from the UK, there isn’t a whole lot you need to know when taking your motorhome across the Irish Sea.

• While ‘miles per hour’ mph is the standard for roads in the UK, in Ireland (and much of the rest of Europe) it’s ‘kilometres per hour’ km/h.
• Crossing the border from Northern Ireland into the Republic of Ireland (or vice versa) is straightforward and typically doesn’t require a passport check, though it’s always wise to have your passport on hand when travelling internationally.
• If you’re intending to cross the border, remember that Southern Ireland and Northern Ireland are two different countries, meaning they abide by different highway codes.
• It’s always wise to get out some local currency when travelling in your motorhome, but remember that Ireland uses euros, not pounds.

Motorhome speed limits in Ireland

For motorhomes that weigh over 3,500kg MAM, the following speed limits apply:

• 120 km/h (75mph) on motorways.
• 100 km/h (62mph) on dual carriageways.
• 50 km/h (30mph) on normal roads.
• 50 km/h (30mph) in built-up areas.

The best places to take your motorhome in Ireland

Ireland is packed with gorgeous spots to take your motorhome that rival the vistas of even Europe’s most fabulous locations. Film lovers rejoice, there are several iconic locations across the country that have been used in blockbusters and Oscar winners.

1. Cliffs of Moher: These dramatic cliffs are stunning to explore and feature in such classic films as The Princess Bride and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince!
2. The Ring of Kerry: Trace the Iveragh Peninsula with this iconic drive that allows you to explore the timeless Irish coastline and the seaside villages that retain the country’s traditional charm.
3. Lough Leane: Explore the intricate allure of the south of Ireland by touring around Lough Leane and visiting Torc Waterfall, Ross Castle and beyond.

Motorhome holidays in Italy

Drive your motorhome to Italy via France and indulge in the delights of the country known for its history, art and gorgeous cuisine. While it may seem like a long trip, taking your motorhome to Italy is well worth it.

Important considerations when driving around Italy

Motorhome holidays in Europe are generally pretty straightforward, and touring across Italy is no different. But there are just a few things you should keep in mind.

• Bring reflective jackets for every passenger in the car, as well as a warning triangle, in case of an accident.
• The use of radar detectors is illegal, but the use of apps that can detect static speed cameras is not.
• British vehicles should display a ‘UK’ sticker when driving in Italy.
• Headlights should be used at all times on motorways and dual carriageways, even if it’s the middle of the day.
• Headlamp beam defectors should be used, if necessary, for your vehicle.
• Using your horn in built-up areas is frowned upon, so be careful.

Motorhome speed limits in Italy

For motorhomes that weigh over 3,500kg MAM, the following speed limits apply:

• 100 km/h (62mph) on motorways.
• 80 km/h (50mph) on dual carriageways.
• 80 km/h (50mph) on normal roads.
• 50 km/h (30mph) in built-up areas.

The best places to take your motorhome in Italy

Touring Italy in your motorhome is one of the very best ways to soak in the country’s rich culture. You could even take it to the next level by exploring it in the Italian-made Roller Team motorhome range! Consider these three trips if you’re looking for inspiration.

1. Lazio & Rome: Take a trip through two of the most iconic cities in Italy, including the capital itself. Enjoy rich Roman culture, including villas and castles, as well as stunning lakes and beaches.
2. Sicily: Drive across the entirety of Sicily for an utterly magical experience that will have you eating stunning seafood and exploring some of Europe’s most serene beaches.
3. Tuscany: This popular motorhome route will treat you to the entire spectrum of Italian delights, including historical churches and palaces, as well as vineyards and cute, idyllic streets.

Motorhome holidays in Norway

Norway probably isn’t the first place you’d think of to take your motorhome in Europe, but this country is pleading to be explored on the road, with its natural beauty sure to provide unforgettable experiences.

Important considerations when driving around Norway

Scandinavia is one of the globe’s most beautiful regions, but it’s not exactly known for being driver-friendly. But once you get past the narrow, winding roads, you’ll find it a breeze.

• Staying off-grid in Norway isn’t only recommended by us, it’s permitted by the government, giving campers ‘right to roam’ as long as you tread lightly. But if you’re staying off-grid, make sure to stock up on extra supplies like power banks and gas canisters. In addition, take extra precautions to protect against theft.
• Norway can be very expensive, so stock up before you travel where possible.
• Dipped headlights should be used in the daytime, even in built-up areas – headlamp beam defectors may need to be purchased.

• British vehicles should display a ‘UK’ sticker when driving in Norway.
• The drink driving rule is strict, so make sure you stay completely sober if you’re driving.
• Spiked tyres are recommended from November 1st to the first Sunday after Easter in order to winterise your motorhome, since the roads are prone to snow and ice. But, if these are used within major city boundaries, you may have to pay a fee.

Motorhome speed limits in Norway

For motorhomes that weigh over 3,500kg MAM, the following speed limits apply in Norway:

• 100 km/h (62mph) on motorways.
• 90 km/h (55mph) on dual carriageways.
• 50 km/h (30mph) on normal roads.
• 30 km/h (18mph) in built-up areas.

The best places to take your motorhome in Norway

You’re truly spoiled for choice when it comes to taking your motorhome around Norway. Stay in one beauty spot, or tour the country’s many islands, hills and valleys.

Bergen: The southwest of the country offers some utterly unique roads and villages to explore. Bergen’s a good place to base your adventure, with Øygarden well worth a visit thanks to its water sport opportunities and gorgeous ocean views.

Jæren area: The Jæren area in the Stavanger region of Norway is one of the most motorhome-friendly spots in the whole of the country, thanks to its flat terrain. Enjoy a hike across the coast or a serene cycle in a truly peaceful location.

Jotunheimen mountains: The drama of the Jotunheimen mountains is unparalleled, offering keen hikers the chance to experience unique routes. Or, if you want to embrace quieter motorhome life, enjoy stunning vistas around every corner.

Motorhome holidays in Spain

Holidaying in Spain has always been a favourite of us Brits, but taking your motorhome is a lesser-known pleasure. Take to the Basque Country, the Balearic coast or the Costa Brava in the comfort of your own portable hotel.

Important considerations when driving around Spain

Driving around Spain in your motorhome is simple and much like cruising across the rest of Europe, but here are some specific things to remember:

• Reflective jackets are essential for all passengers.
• Drivers should carry two warning triangles in their vehicle.
• Headlamp beam deflectors should be used.

• UK drivers must display a ‘UK’ sticker when driving.
• Radar detectors are illegal, but phone apps that detect static speed cameras are not.
• The drink driving rule is strict, so make sure you stay completely sober if you’re driving.

Motorhome speed limits in Spain

For motorhomes that weigh over 3,500kg MAM, the following speed limits apply in Spain:

• 90 km/h (56 mph) on motorways.
• 80 km/h (50 mph) on dual carriageways.
• 80 km/h (50 mph) on normal roads.
• 30 km/h (19 mph) in built-up areas.

The best places to take your motorhome in Spain

There is a massive variety of locations to take your motorhome in Spain, depending on what kind of holiday you want – a serene sun-soaked trip or a jam-packed adventure.

1. Nerja: If beaches are what you want, then Nerja will be the perfect place for you. Enjoy 8km of beaches and clear water, with the entire coastline up for exploration in your motorhome. A small motorhome might suit you in this region, allowing for quick, spontaneous getaways.
2. Monte Perdido National Park: With something for everyone, Monte Perdido National Park is utterly beautiful, offering both quiet exploration and action-packed activities, including canyoning, mountain climbing and much more.
3. Seville: With three UNESCO World Heritage Sites to its name, Seville is brimming with history waiting to be uncovered. While you’re exploring ancient architecture, why not enjoy a world-famous orange while you’re at it?

Need one last check of your motorhome before you take it on your next European adventure? Or maybe you need an entirely new vehicle? At Spinney, we can help you get prepared, no matter how close your trip is or how much TLC your motorhome needs. No matter if you’re looking for a premium motorhome for your trip or you want to know how to tow your car behind your motorhome, we can help.

We’re a friendly team at Spinney who are here to help you with any query you have, regardless of whether you’re asking about your motorhome, caravan or campervan. To reach out, simply contact us by picking up the phone or filling out our enquiry form.