When the cold season begins, many people long for relaxation and retreat - the choice often falls on a wellness hotel or a short trip to a metropolis. Against camping? Most people associate this with summer, sunshine and warm evenings in the open air.
But right now, after all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, camping offers a special form of time out: slowing down, being close to nature and the opportunity to spend your days freely and independently. Whether on mild coasts or in quiet forest regions - winter camping gives you exactly what winter should actually be: a break from everyday life.
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In keeping with this, the travel portal “BeyondCamping“ die11 most popular travel destinations for camping in winter 2024/2025We have selected something that is guaranteed to have something for every camping lover. The Google search queries for the respective travel destination in the winter months were particularly taken into account. We will now introduce you to the top 5 in more detail.
1st place: Lake Garda, Italy
Google searches: 120,400 | Campsites: 127
The largest lake in Italy is not only worth a trip in summer. Because of its northern location and proximity to Germany, it is a popular travel destination for Germans all year round.
Its breathtaking mountain panorama invites you to go hiking, skiing and snowboarding, especially in winter. The Monte Baldo mountain in Malcesine is particularly worth a visit. Here you can easily take the gondola up and enjoy a breathtaking view over the entire lake.
The most popular towns around the lake, such as Bardolino, Sirmione and Malcesine, not only impress with their magical Italian flair in winter, but also with fairytale Christmas markets where you can taste local specialties and buy handmade art.
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2nd place: Lake Constance, Germany, Austria & Switzerland
Google searches: 51,000 | Campsites: 43
The second most popular destination for winter camping is the beautiful Lake Constance. No wonder, because with its 536 square kilometers, it is not only the third largest inland lake in Central Europe, but also impresses with its variety of activities.
The lake is located in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and therefore has a lot to offer, especially in winter. Because our two neighboring countries are absolute Eldorados for everyone who loves winter activities. Whether skiing or snowboarding in the nearby ski areas such as the Bregenzerwald in Austria, ice skating on the surrounding lakes or hiking in the Alps. There is something for everyone here!
3rd place: Sardinia, Italy
Google searches: 38,600 | Campsites: 65
If you want to escape the winter, you will probably head to Sardinia with a camper. Even in the cold season, the Italian island scores with mild temperatures of up to 16 degrees Celsius. Perfect for a break from the icy winter cold in this country.
With your camper you can simply take the ferry across here and start your holiday at one of the 100 campsites. The island particularly scores points with its Caribbean beaches, which are an absolute feast for the eyes even in winter. If you really want to jump into the cold water, you should either be brave or use one of the island's many indoor swimming pools, which also make children's hearts beat faster.
But active holidaymakers also get their money’s worth here. Because nature in Sardinia has many great hiking and cycling trails that are waiting to be explored.
Also interesting:
4th place: Corsica, France
Google searches: 37,400 | Campsites: 107
Sardinia's French little sister Corsica is also absolutely worth a visit in winter. Just like Sardinia, the best way to get there is by ferry. From there you can explore the mountainous and densely forested island with your camper and, if you're lucky, get a cheap parking space in the middle of nature.
The mild climate between 8 and 15 degrees Celsius in particular makes many great outdoor activities possible: hiking, cycling, sightseeing, etc. are among the most popular activities in Corsica. The most famous hiking route is the Monte Cinto hike. The mountain is almost 3000 meters high and can sometimes be covered with a dusting of snow in winter.
5th place: Rügen, Germany
Google searches: 29,400 | Campsites: 27
Germany's largest island is a real magnet for holidaymakers, and not just in summer. Rügen also has a lot to offer in winter and impresses with a unique combination of peace, nature and activities.
The impressive chalk cliffs in the Jasmund National Park are an absolute highlight and invite you to take winter walks where you can enjoy the clear Baltic Sea air and the vastness of nature. A visit to the historic piers, such as in Sellin or Binz, is also worthwhile. If you prefer something more active, you can use the well-developed hiking trails, for example through the Granitz or along the Bodden coast.
Ranked 6-11 most popular winter camping destinations
- 6th place: Hamburg, Germany – 14 campsites
- 7th place: Fehmarn, Germany – 18 campsites
- 8th place: Allgäu, Germany – 39 campsites
- 9th place: Lüneburg Heath, Germany – 33 campsites
- 10th place: Black Forest, Germany – 92 campsites
- 11th place: Achensee, Austria – 5 campsites
