7 motorhome-friendly lakes in Europe where you want to spend the night

There is nothing like waking up by the water, overlooking snow-capped mountain peaks, a mirror-like lake or rolling vineyards. Europe has countless stunning lakes, but not everywhere you can spend the night with your motorhome. Therefore, we have selected seven beautiful lakes where you can not only enjoy the view, but also stay directly on or near the water. From the sunny beaches of Lake Balaton to the breathtaking fjords of Norway - this is where you'll want to take your motorhome!

Lake Balaton (Hungary) - a Mediterranean atmosphere in central Europe

Lake Balaton is Central Europe's largest freshwater lake and feels like an inland sea. With its warm water, long beaches and ydilian villages, it is a popular destination for sun lovers and motorhomers. The southern shore is known for lively seaside resorts such as Siófok, while the northern shore offers tranquillity and wine regions.

What can you do here?

• Sunbathe and swim - The water is surprisingly warm and shallow, ideal for families. Balatonfüred and Keszthely are popular spots for a day at the beach.
• Visit Tihany - This charming peninsula houses the centuries-old Tihany Abbey and is famous for its lavender fields.
• Wine tasting in Badacsony - Taste local volcanic wines with a view of the lake.
• Sailing or supping - The calm waters make this a perfect spot for a boat trip.
• Excursion to Hévíz - Just 10 km from the lake is the famous thermal Lake Hévíz, where you can relax in warm healing waters all year round.

Badacsony Camping

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"An excellently managed private campsite. Everything is perfectly clean and well-maintained. There is a private beach with nice spots to relax. In front of the campsite you will find a small shop where you can also order sandwiches, and next to it is a cozy restaurant. A trip to the surrounding vineyards is definitely worth it, with plenty of restaurants and wine bars to choose from. We would love to come back here!"

2. Lago di Braies (Italy) - the pearl of the Dolomites

Deep in a valley of the Dolomites lies Lago di Braies, one of Italy's most enchanting lakes. Its turquoise water reflects the surrounding mountain peaks and dense forests, creating many breathtaking views. This mountain lake is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers and photographers, especially in the early morning when peace and soft light make the landscape even more magical.

What can you do here?

• Rent a wooden rowboat and paddle over the crystal-clear water, a unique way to experience the lake.
• Walk around the lake (approx. 3.5 km) and discover idyllic viewpoints and photo spots.
• Visit the historic Pragser Wildsee Hotel, which was a secret hideout for prominent prisoners during WWII.
• Hike into the mountains and combine your visit with a hike at Tre Cime di Lavaredo, one of the Dolomites' most impressive mountain ranges.

Lago di Braies P4

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"Great parking spot for an overnight stay. Tip: drive up around 4pm, as soon as it's free. We noticed that many motorhomers do this. In high season, spots are often full by 4:45pm and the height barrier goes down. Want to avoid the crowds? Then take a walk in the evening or early in the morning 😉"

3. Lake Bled (Slovenia) - a fairytale in the Alps

Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most iconic destinations and seems to come straight out of a fairy tale. In the middle of the lake you will find an island with a church, while Bled Castle towers on a steep cliff. The green hills and Alps in the background complete the picture. This idyllic lake attracts not only nature lovers, but also culture lovers and foodies.

What can you do here?

• Sail on a traditional pletna boat to the island and ring the bell tower for good luck.
• Hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lake.
• Visit Bled Castle, one of Slovenia's oldest castles, and explore its museum and wine cellar.
• Taste the famous kremšnita, a creamy cream cake that is a culinary speciality of Bled.

Bled Campsite

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"Large but neat and quiet campsite right by the lake. The sanitary facilities are clean and well- maintained. You can get fresh brad at the campsite in the morning and the campsite shop has a fine selection, although the choice of meat is a bit limited. The restaurant is highly recommended: good and affordable! In good weather, reservations are advisable. For a fun exploration of the area, the tourist train stops in front of the campsite (€7 for a trip around the entire lake). The area is ideal for hiking and cycling. By the end of May, reservations were already necessary, as the campsite was full by then."

4. Djupvatnet & Geirangerfjord (Norway) - rugged beauty in the fjords

Norway is known for its spectacular nature and mountain lake Djupvatnet, located at 1033 metres above sea level, is a stunning example. Its deep blue water is surrounded by imposing mountain peaks, creating a stunning contrast with the green slopes of the nearby Geirangerfjord. This fjord, which is a UNESCO World Heritag, is one of Norway's most beautiful and offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers.

What can you do here?

• Drive the winding Trollstigen, one of Europe's most spectacular mountain roads, with hairpin bends and insane views.
• Go kayaking through the Geirangerfjord and admire the famous Seven Sisters waterfalls up close.
• Relax in the Fjord Sauna and then dive straight into the ice-cold fjord for a refreshing experience.
• Hike to Dalsnibba and enjoy breathtaking views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.

Geirangerfjorden Feriesenter

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"Highly recommended! We thoroughly enjoyed our 4-day stay here. The location is fantastic with stunning views. The sanitary facilities are modern, spotlessly clean and are cleaned several times a day. In addition, the team is incredibly friendly and hospitable. Truly a top campsite! 😊✨"

5. Lac d'Annecy (France) - the Venice of the Alps

Known as one of Europe's cleanest lakes, Lac d'Annecy offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. Its clear blue water is surrounded by mountains and atmospheric villages, while the town of Annecy, with its charming canals and medieval houses, has an almost fairytale-like appearance. This makes it an ideal destination for both relaxation and activities on and around the lake.

What can you do here?

• Stroll through the old town of Annecy's and explore its narrow streets, colorful houses and romantic bridges.
• Rent a SUP or kayak and enjoy the crystal-clear water and views of the surrounding mountains.
• Visit Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, an impressive castle that is said to have inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty.
• Try tartiflette, a traditional Savoyard casserole with melted cheese, bacon and potatoes, perfect after an active day.

Camping Le Lac Bleu

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"We spent two nights with the motorhome on a spacious pitch (603) right by the lake. The campsite is clean and well-maintained, with all kinds of good facilities. You don't need coins for the showers, the toilet building is clean and there is a separate area with hot water for dishwashing. There is also a small swimming pool with jacuzzi. The surroundings are great! Right behind the campsite is a cycle path which leads to Annecy or you can enjoy a lap around the lake. Nearby is also a meadow where parachutists land - fun to watch. Annecy itself has a beautiful historic centre and is definitely worth a visit."

6. Wolfgangsee (Austria) - an Alpine lake with charm

Located in the beautiful village of Salzkammergut, Wolfgangsee combines crystal-clear blue water with atmospheric villages and green mountain slopes. This lake is less crowded than the famous Hallstätter See, but just as beautiful. St Wolfgang has a cozy historic centre, while St Gilgen is known for its beautiful hiking trails and authentic Austrian atmosphere.

What can you do here?

• Take the historic Schafbergbahn, a steam train that takes you to a breathtaking view at 1783 metres above sea level.
• Take a boat trip on Lake Wolfgangsee and discover the charming villages along the shores.
• Swim in the crystal-clear water or rent a SUP and enjoy the tranquillity of the lake.
• Taste a classic Sachertorte at Café Dallmann in St. Gilgen, a real treat after a day full of adventure.

Seecamping Wolfgangblick

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"We stayed here in June 2021 and had a great time. We had a parking space right by the lake, which was fantastic. The motorhome site has a small shop and a restaurant where you can also enjoy simple dishes and pizza. For more shops, Strobl is about 5 km away. The sanitary facilities are clean and well-maintained. The only downside, according to me, was that people drove pretty fast on the access road. However, the owner and the whole team are incredibly friendly and hospitable!"

7. Lake Geneva (Switzerland/France) - between city and nature

This huge lake stretches across both Switzerland and France and offers a unique combination of impressive nature, charming cities and culinary delights. The Swiss shore is surrounded by the Alps and seaside resorts, while the French side has a peaceful, rural charm. Lake Geneva is a perfect destination for lovers of culture, gastronomy and relaxation.

What can you do here?

• Visit the chic city of Montreux, world-famous for its annual jazz festival (late March-early April) and palm-tree-lined boulevard.
• Explore the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with terraces overlooking the lake.
• Take a boat trip to Chateau de Chillon, a medieval castle located right on the water.
• Enjoy a classic Swiss fondue, an essential culinary experience in this region.

Camping de Rolle

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'"Very friendly welcome, and the owner speaks German. Even in the second row, you still have a great view of the lake. The supermarket has a fine selection and the small restaurant offers plenty of options. The sanitary facilities are clean and you need a code for the showers, instead of coins. However, keep in mind that Switzerland is expensive: for two adults and electricity, including unlimited showers, you pay an additional €50 per day."

Which of these lakes will be your next motorhome destination? Use Campercontact to find the best motorhome sites around these lakes and discover even more hidden gems! With PRO+ you can easily enable the "by the water" filter allowing you to instantly find the best campsites and motorhome sites by a lake or the sea. That way, you'll always reach the best spot for a refreshing swim or a stunning view! 🚐✨