Winter is a magical time for motorhomers who dream of fairytale landscapes covered in a sparkling layer of snow. Imagine picturesque villages with smoke rising from chimneys, hot chocolate by a crackling fire and atmospheric lights illuminating the streets. While Christmas markets are always a highlight, there are many more winter destinations waiting to be discovered. Your motorhome will take you effortlessly from one winter wonderland to another: from quaint villages to vibrant adventures in the far north. In this blog, we will share some of the most beautiful destinations and, of course, tipps for the best motorhome sites😉

Colmar, France

In winter, Colmar transforms into a fairytale town with colourful half-timbered houses and narrow streets. Its cosy atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a perfect winter destination for motorhomers. Although the Christmas market here is smaller, the town exudes a unique charm that truly puts you in the winter spirit.

• Stroll through the historic centre and admire the half-timbered houses and picturesque scenery.
• Discover local craft shops and enjoy traditional dishes in one of the cozy restaurants.
• Visit the Unterlinden Museum, which is also open in winter and houses an impressive art collection.

Santa Claus Village, Rovaniemi, Finland

If you are looking for the ultimate Christmas experience, you have to go to Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi. This village, officially recognised as the home of Santa Claus, is a magical place where you will be immersed in the holiday spirit. Surrounded by snowy forests and clear starry skies, this is a destination you definitely don't want to miss.

• Visit the Santa Claus Office and meet Father Christmas himself.
• Join a reindeer sleigh ride and discover Lapland's beautiful winter landscapes of Lapland
• Admire the northern lights on a special excursion or from nearby viewpoints.

The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds are beautiful all year round, but in winter these English villages take on a fairytale feel. Picture winding roads weaving through rolling hills, ancient stone cottages dusted with a layer of snow and cozy pubs where you can warm up by a crackling fire. It's like straight stepping into The Holiday.

• Visit the charming villages of Broadway and Bourton-on-the-Water, where the wintery atmosphere will instantly put you in the Holiday spirit.
• Take a winter walk through the Cotswold Way nature reserve and enjoy stunning views over the snowy landscape.
• End your day with a traditional English dinner at one of the local pubs, where you can enjoy a hot meal and a pint.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is an ideal destination for motorhomers who want to combine the charm of a historic city with the proximity of spectacular Alpine landscapes. In winter, Innsbruck transforms into a fairytale-like city with atmospheric lighting, decorated shopping streets and the mountains as a background.

• Visit the historic centre of Innsbruck, where you can enjoy the beautiful architecture and local delicacies.
• Hit the ski slopes in the surrounding mountains or go snowshoeing through the winter landscape.
• Sample traditional Austrian Apfelstrudel and other delicacies at one of the cosy markets or cafés.

Tromsø, Norway

For those looking for an adventurous winter destination, Tromsø is the perfect place. This city in northern Norway is surrounded by spectacular fjords and snow-covered mountains. Tromsø is known as one of the best places to see the northern lights and in the winter months the city transforms into an enchanting place where nature and culture come together.

• Go on a dog sledding tour or take a snowmobile ride through the snowy forests for an unforgettable experience.
• Admire the northern lights on a special excursion, or search for the perfect site to witness this natural phenomenon yourself.
• Visit the Polar Museum and discover the fascinating history of Arctic expeditions.

Checklist for winter trips with your motorhome

1. Winter tyres and snow chains
   Make sure your motorhome is equipped with winter tyres, which provide better grip on slippery roads. In some countries, they are even mandatory during the winter months. In addition, always bring snow chains, especially if you are heading to mountainous areas. Practice how to put them on beforehand so that you are well-prepared for unexpected situations.
2. Insulation and water pipes
   Protect your water pipes from freezing. You can do this by using insulated covers or by draining the pipes when you are not using the motorhome.
3. Heating
   Bring enough blankets and consider a portable heater for extra warmth. Just make sure the stove is suitable for indoor use and take safety precautions.
4. Supplies and equipment
   Bring a snow shovel and antifreeze. A snow shovel is useful if you need to dig yourself out of the snow and the antifreeze will help prevent your windows and locks from freezing.
5. Safety and gear
   Check your motorhome's battery, as cold temperatures can drain it faster. A mobile charger or power bank is also handy to keep your devices powered.

Whether exploring the enchanting charm of Colmar or admiring the northern lights in Tromsø, winter motorhome trips promise magical moments and breathtaking views. With the filter options in the Campercontact PRO+ subscription', you can easily search for campsites and motorhome sites that are open all year round. This way, you will effortlessly find the perfect spot to spend the night during winter season.