7 special activities: a motorhome adventure in winter

Traveling with your motorhome in winter is truly something special. The snowy landscape, fresh mountain air and nparalleled sense of freedom bring a whole new dimension to your motorhome experience. Winter camping might be more challenging than a summer trip, but it offers so much in return: unique activities, breathtaking nature and the peace and space you often miss in other seasons.

In this blog, you will find 7 destinations where winter can be enjoyed at its finest. Think husky sledding through the Norwegian mountains, skiing in the French Alps or snowshoeing in Germany. For each destination, we have selected two great campsites or motorhome stopovers. Save them as favourites in the Campercontact app, or find a site that perfectly suits your needs.

1. Sweden: On snow scooter safari through Lapland

Swedish Lapland is one of Europe's most stunning winter destinations. The landscape is a serene blend of vast snow plains, silent forests and frozen lakes. In winter, this region transforms into a magical snow paradise, offering adventures like snow scooter safaris and reindeer sleigh rides. If you are lucky, the evenings might treat you to the breathtaking Northern Lights at night. Lapland is also home to the Sami, the indigenous people of the far north.

Tip: Make sure you are well-prepared. Temperatures can drop to -30°C, so bring plenty of gas cylinders and equip your motorhome with winter tyres or snow chains for snowy roads. A well-insulated motorhome and warm clothes are essential to ensure a comfortable and safe trip.

Puoltsa Naturrastplats: A beautiful, simple site in the middle of nature, perfect for self-sufficient motorhomers. Here, you'll find a firepit, a Sami hut and a dry toilet. Although facilities are limited, it is a perfect site to enjoy tranquility, spot reindeer and admire the Northern Lights.

Skabram Stugby och Camping: A cozy campsite in Jokkmokk with facilities such as electricity and warm showers. The friendly owners provide a warm welcome. It is an excellent location for winter adventures in the area.

2. Finland: Sleeping under the Northern Lights

Lapland in Finland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The landscape is a serene mix of snowy forests, frozen lakes and absolute tranquility. During the day you can enjoy winter activities such as snowshoeing or dog sledding, while at night the Northern Lights illuminate the sky. For motorhomers, this region offers plenty of opportunities to stay close to nature.

Tip: Pick a campsite or motorhome stopover that is strategically located to view the Northern Lights. For example, look for a site with minimal light pollution for the most spectacular nights under the stars. Additionally, consider downloading an app like My aurora forecast or Auroranotifier to track Northern Lights activity and improve your chances of catching this magical phenomenon.

Vuotson Maja: A small, well-maintained site with motorhome stopovers, a B&B and the option of using a sauna. The location offers a peaceful base to explore the surrounding area, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers.

Wilderness Camp Ivalo: This beautiful site is right by a lake, where you can enjoy stunning views of the frozen landscape in winter. A sauna is available, and the area offers an authentic Lapland experience, complete with husky sledding and vast snowy fields.

3. Norway: Husky sledding around Hardangervidda

The Hardangervidda is one of Norway's most beautiful regions, with a breathtaking landscape of vast plateaus and snow-covered mountains. It is the perfect place for winter adventure activities. A husky sled ride here is a true experience: while a team of enthusiastic sled dogs pulls you through the white landscape, you will enjoy the serene silence and impressive nature. For motorhomers looking for peace and adventure, this is an ideal destination.

Tip: Langedrag Naturpark, near Geilo, offers unforgettable husky sledding tours. Accompanied by experienced mushers, you take a tour through the stunning mountain landscape, a unforgettable way to experience winter in Norway.

Geilo Hytter campsite: This campsite in Geilo offers paved sites with adjacent grass, modern facilities and a nice rain shower. The sanitary facilities are clean and well-maintained, although it can get busy during peak times. The campsite is a 20-minute walk from the centre of Geilo, a lively village with shops, restaurants and a ski resort. It's an ideal base for winter activities.

Røldal Hyttegrend & Camping Caravan: A neat and peaceful campsite where you can choose your own spot. There is a firepit by the water, and wood is available. The sanitary facilities are simple but clean, and showers are included in the price. You can enjoy the sauna. It's a nice place for an overnight or a longer stay.

4. Austria: Winter hike to the Krimmler Waterfalls

The Krimmler Waterfalls are a mesmerizing sight in winter. The waterfalls transform into a gigantic ice palace, surrounded by snow-covered forests and serene mountain landscapes. A hike to the falls is a must for nature lovers, and the route is often passable, even in snow. The region offers plenty of opportunities for motorhomers seeking a combination of peace and nature.

Tip: Many campsites in Austria have special drying rooms for your winter sports and hiking gear. Ask about this on arrival so you can have everything fresh and dry for the next day after a winter walk.

Gasthof Friedburg: This motorhome stopover is located near a guesthouse and offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. Facilities are limited (electricity, water and waste disposal), but the peace and location make up for it. The guesthouse is a great place to enjoy a typical Austrian meal, although it can get crowded at times. The price is affordable and the area offers plenty of hiking opportunities.

Alpencamping Gerlos: A quiet campsite with modern and clean facilities. Its location is ideal: within walking distance of the village of Gerlos and with direct access to hiking trails. The campsite is suitable for a longer stay or as a stopover during your winter trip.

5. France: skiing in Les Trois Vallées

The French Alps are a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts, and Les Trois Vallées is known as one of the largest and most versatile ski resorts in the world. With kilometres of slopes suitable for all levels and breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, this area offers everything for a successful winter sports holiday. Motorhomes are welcome at several sites with easy access to the slopes, making it an ideal location for motorhomers who love winter sports.

Tip: In France, some mountain passes are closed in winter. Check the route in advance and follow signs for ‘hivernales’ roads, to ensure safe travel.

Aire de Camping-Car Plagne Villages: A beautiful motorhome stopover located right on the blue slope. The site offers facilities such as water, electricity and waste disposal. Reservations are highly recommended to avoid disappointment. There is a free shuttle bus and lift to La Plagne Centre. Note that sites are not always clearly marked, which can lead to confusion about available sites when it gets busy.

Campsite Le Pontet: This campsite is located in a stunning location between the mountains and next to a river. It is a perfect base for skiers, with access to the Telecabine de La Gorge just a 2-minute walk away. The atmosphere on the campsite is friendly and lively and the staff is always ready to assist. The village of Les Contamines is a 20-25-minute walk along a lovely path by the river.

6. Switzerland: night tobogganing in Davos

Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Davos is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts and offers a unique activity: night tobogganing. During this thrilling experience, you will glide down an illuminated slope on a sled while the fresh mountain air surrounds you. Thanks to the excellent infrastructure in Davos, both the slopes and the surrounding campsites are perfect for a comfortable winter trip.

Tip: Switzerland can be pricey. Consider a Swiss Travel Pass for discounts on cable cars and other attractions.

RinerLodge campsite: This campsite is located directly next to the Davos Glaris train station and the Rinerhorn lift, with free public transportation included during your stay. The campsite offers simple but clean sanitary facilities and unlimited coin-free showers. Guests receive a Gästekarte, which provides discounts on cable cars and free use of buses and trains. The spots are next to a fast-flowing river, which can be both charming and slightly noisy at the same time.

Gravatscha campsite: Located just outside the village of Samedan, this campsite offers a picturesque location at 1700 meters above sea level. The sanitary facilities are modern and well-maintained. The campsite has direct access to hiking and cross-country skiing trails making it perfect for a stay in the middle of nature. An extra plus: the on-site restaurant serves delicious meals.

7. Germany: Cross-country skiing in the Bavarian Forest

The Bavarian Forest is a paradise for cross-country skiers. This national park offers dozens of kilometres of well-maintained trails winding through the snow-covered forests and hills. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cross-country skier, the serene silence and stunning views make this region ideal for a relaxing winter holiday in nature.

Tip: Check the opening hours of campsites in the region in advance, as many sites have limited opening hours during the winter. At many sites in the Bavarian Forest you can rent cross-country skis if you don't bring them yourself, so you can always be prepared!

Wohnmobilstellplatz Nesselwang: This motorhome stopover is located in the picturesque village of Nesselwang, with facilities such as electricity and waste disposal. It is a quiet site and a good starting point for cross-country skiing tours in the area. Its proximity to the village makes it easy to do some shopping or spend a pleasant evening at a local restaurant.

Alpenwelt Tannheimer Tal campsite: Just across the border in Austria, this campsite offers modern facilities and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. With direct access to cross-country ski trails, this is an excellent option for motorhomers who enjoy winter activities.

Winter camping is becoming increasingly popular, and it is not hard to see why. The silence of snow-covered landscapes, clear starry nights and unique activities like skiing, husky rides or cross-country skiing offer unforgettable experiences. But for those travelling by motorhome in winter, good preparations are important. For example, check the rules regard snow chains in your destination country and make sure your vehicle has winter tyres. A few extra gas bottles and warm clothes can also make a big difference.

Do you prefer no snow, but still want to go out in winter? There are plenty of sites where you can swap the cold season for mild temperatures and longer days. Whatever you choose, the freedom of traveling by motorhome makes every trip unique. Just pay attention to which motorhome stopovers or campsites are open; many close their doors in the off-season. With Campercontact PRO+, you can easily filter to see which campsites are open in the off-season.