Discover 5 Destinations to explore on your upcoming van road trips
Whether you’re drawn to picturesque landscapes, unique locations, or cultural diversity, Europe offers an endless array of destinations to explore. In this article, we unveil the five must-visit regions that should be at the top of your MUST SEE LIST. Get ready to explore breathtaking landscapes, have unique experiences, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Buckle up and join us for extraordinary road trips across Europe.
#1 THE DOLOMITES, ITALY
The Eldorado for adventure and mountain enthusiasts. This mountain range is internationally renowned for its rugged peaks and lush valleys. Its distinctive rock formations, the Dolomites, give the region its name. If you love adventure, outdoor activities, and stunning landscapes, this destination is undeniably at the top of your road trip list!
Must-see destinations in the Dolomites
1.1. Tre Cime di lavaredo
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo is more than just a mountain range; it’s an iconic symbol of the Dolomites, attracting mountain lovers worldwide for its spectacular beauty and adventure opportunities.
To do: The legendary hike around Tre Cime.
Practical information: The access road to the hiking starting point requires a toll fee (minimum 30 euros).
1.2. Iconic Lakes of the Dolomites
Lago di Braies, with its emerald waters framed by majestic mountains, creates a picturesque canvas. One of the most mythical lakes in the Dolomites, where you can explore the lake shores with a romantic boat ride.
Lago di Carezza, with its ever-changing green reflections and surrounded by fir forests, enchants with its beauty. The lake’s easy and effortless circuit offers astonishing views of the lake and its mountains, casting pink reflections.
Lago di Sorapis, a glacier lake with brilliant turquoise blue waters, is the reward for seasoned hikers seeking to immerse themselves in these breathtaking mountain landscapes. Sorapis Hike infomations
Lago di Fedaia, near the Marmolada, offers a serene atmosphere in the face of this imposing summit.
Finally, Lago di Misurina, the largest natural lake in the Dolomites, presents itself as an alpine marvel at the foot of the majestic Tre Cime di Lavaredo mentioned just above.
On the lake’s shores, you can admire a hotel amidst its splendid landscapes, reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s “Grand Hotel Budapest”!
1.3. Alpe Di Siusi
The largest and one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Europe. Surrounded by majestic peaks, Alpe di Siusi offers panoramic hiking trails and unparalleled views. A paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
#2 THE BARDENAS, SPAIN
A desert just 2 hours from France and 70 km from the Pyrenees
Registered as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Bardenas Reales in southeast Navarre reveals a lunar landscape with sculpted ridges and ravines.
Every kilometer unfolds astonishing geological formations, making it a perfect backdrop for travelers seeking the unusual.
Must-See
- Castildetierra, the iconic rocky peak rising majestically in the middle of the desert plains.
- La Pisquerra: An expanse of badlands that provides incredible panoramas of the desert. La Pisquerra is a place where nature has sculpted ravines, canyons, and fairy chimneys.
- Cabezo de las Cortinillas: That offers a panoramic view of the Bardenas Reales. It’s an ideal spot to appreciate the vastness of the desert landscape and the unique geological formations.
#3 OCCITANIE, FRANCE
Travelling around the world without leaving France
Occitanie boasts unique and diverse landscapes reminiscent of the most famous American deserts, instantly transporting you to the ends of the earth.
Salagou Lake
An exceptional natural site classified as Natura 2000 in Hérault, Lake Salagou is known for its diverse landscapes and striking red and ochre hills. Geological formations sculpted by erosion create a striking contrast with the blue waters of the lake.
To do: Hike to Mont Liausson for a stunning view of the lake and its surroundings, and explore the “Canyon du diable” fifteen minutes to drive from Salagou Lake.
Le Colorado Provençal
An outdoor escapade where artistic nature and geological richness harmoniously blend. Located in the Luberon region of Provence, the “French Colorado” offers a vibrant palette of colors, from deep red to golden ochre.
Access to the site: Near the village of Rustrel, Vaucluse department, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
Prices: From 6 to 10 euros in low season, 8 to 12 euros in high season (depending on your vehicle).
Cevennes national park
If your heart leans towards wild nature, Cévennes National Park reveals diversified landscapes, from rocky ridges to green valleys. Walk ancient trails, breathe in the mountain’s pure air, and be enchanted by the raw beauty of this natural reserve.
Cham des Bondons
Known for its alignments of menhirs, dating back to the Neolithic and the Bronze Age, Cham des Bondons boasts more than 150 standing stones, making it one of the most significant megalithic sites in Europe.
Cirque de Navacelles
Classified as a Grand Site de France for its exceptional beauty and undeniable geological importance, the Cirque de Navacelles is a spectacular canyon carved by the La Vis river over millennia.
Must-see: Easy hike from the village of Navacelle to the Moulins de la Foux, an exceptional site in the heart of the Cévennes.
Chaos de Nîmes-le-vieux
The result of millennia of erosion, Chaos de Nîmes le Vieux is composed of granite rocks sculpted dramatically by water, wind, and other natural forces.
The strange shapes and scattered stone blocks create a chaotic and fascinating landscape. Chaos de Nîmes le Vieux hiking trail
#4 THE ALPS, FRANCE
Embark on an unparalleled adventure amidst the majestic peaks of the Alps, breathtaking panoramas, and picturesque, authentic mountain villages.
4.1. Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval
Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, a nature reserve nestled in the French Alps, unveils a spectacular circus surrounded by imposing peaks. With numerous waterfalls and renowned hiking trails, this site offers an unforgettable immersion into the beauty of the Alpine mountains.
Not far away, don’t miss one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Haute-Savoie, La Cascade du Rouget.
Explore the most beautiful hikes in the Cirque du Fer à Cheval.
4.2. Lake Annecy and its Surroundings (La Tournette)
Lake Annecy, a jewel in the French Alps, captivates with its crystalline waters surrounded by the mountain ranges of Bauges and Aravis. The charming towns of Annecy and Talloires, with their medieval streets and waterfront cafes, add a romantic touch to this enchanting setting. Numerous breathtaking hikes allow you to discover this sublime region.
Must see place around Annecy :
- Explore the Cascade d’Angon
- Sunset view from Col de la Forclaz
- For the most adventurous: The famous Tournette hike, offering a splendid view of the lake and its shores, with the added bonus of lunch at Chalet de l’Aulp, featuring locally sourced products. Link to Visorando
4.3. The Beaufortain
Discovering the Beaufortain by van means immersing yourself in a preserved alpine setting between lakes and mountains. It’s an essential destination for nature lovers with numerous hiking and mountain biking trails.
Lake Roselend
Lake Roselend, a true alpine jewel located in the Beaufortain massif, with its brilliantly blue waters framed by imposing peaks, is an ideal place to stay in a van in an idyllic natural setting. Not to be missed: the mythical viewpoint over the lake, featuring the unexpected presence of an English telephone booth.
Lake Saint Guérin and its Himalayan Footbridge
A small piece of Canada in the heart of Savoie, this alpine lake offers a haven of peace and a privileged destination for hiking and contemplating the natural beauty of the Beaufortain. By circling the lake, you can cross the charming Himalayan footbridge, offering an exceptional viewpoint of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
The “Lac des fées” :
This small mountain lake offers an enchanting setting and a splendid view of the Arêches Beaufort valley. Popular among hikers, it is an ideal destination for those seeking the calm and serenity of Beaufortain landscapes. Easily accessible from Lake Saint Guérin.
#5 THE PYRENEES
Explore the Pyrenees by van and live a nomadic adventure amidst preserved mountain landscapes. Majestic peaks, verdant valleys, and picturesque villages make the Pyrenees an essential destination for vanlifers and mountain enthusiasts.
5.1. Cirque de Gavarnie
The Cirque de Gavarnie is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its vertiginous rock walls framing one of the highest waterfalls in Europe make it an iconic site in the Pyrenees. The hike starts from the picturesque village of Gavarnie.
5.2. Cauterets and the Pont d’Espagne
Cauterets, with its alpine charm and natural springs with health benefits, is a recognized destination.
Nearby, the Pont d’Espagne reveals enchanting trails leading to waterfalls, lakes, and spectacular panoramas, offering an unforgettable natural escapade.
5.3. Pic du Midi de Bigorre
The cable car of Pic du Midi, in the French Pyrenees, offers a dizzying ascent to one of the most iconic peaks. Providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, this stunning journey culminates at an altitude of 2,877 meters, offering a unique experience between sky and earth.
Now that you know the must-visit destinations in 2024, which one will you choose for your next road trip ?
If you want to know the best tips for finding the ideal sleeping spot during your road trips in Europe, read this article now.
