Thursday, January 15, 2026

Spanish Car Parks

Many drivers treat car parks as relaxed spaces where normal road rules no longer apply. This assumption is widespread — and incorrect. In Spain, any car park that is open to the public is considered a public traffic space, meaning that standard traffic regulations remain fully enforceable.

This misunderstanding leads to frequent incidents, disputes, and avoidable penalties.

Traffic Signs Still Have Legal Force

One-way arrows, stop signs, no-entry signs, and give-way markings inside public car parks must be obeyed in exactly the same way as on the road. Ignoring them is a traffic offence, even if the car park appears quiet or informal.

Drivers often justify breaking these rules by saying “it’s only a car park,” but legally, that distinction does not exist.

Priority Rules Still Apply

Priority does not disappear once you leave the road. Vehicles already moving within a marked lane have priority over those joining it, and give-way markings must be respected.

Pedestrians also retain priority in designated crossing areas, and drivers are expected to proceed with caution, especially near entrances, lifts, and payment machines.

Common Car Park Mistakes

The most frequent errors include:

• driving against one-way systems to save time,
• ignoring no-entry signs near exits,
• cutting across parking bays instead of following lanes,
• reversing without checking surroundings properly,
• assuming pedestrians will always stop or move aside.

These behaviours significantly increase the risk of low-speed collisions, which are among the most common incidents reported in urban areas.

Speed and Attention Matter

Although speeds are lower in car parks, hazards are often greater. Visibility can be restricted by parked vehicles, pillars, and tight corners. Children and distracted pedestrians may appear suddenly from between cars.

Drivers should maintain very low speeds, cover the brake, and remain alert at all times.

Responsibility Does Not Change

If a collision occurs in a public car park, responsibility is assessed in the same way as on the road. Ignoring signs, markings, or right of way will weigh heavily against the driver at fault.

Understanding this helps avoid unnecessary disputes and ensures safer behaviour.

A Simple Rule to Remember

If the car park is open to the public, drive as if you are still on the road. Obey signs, respect markings, watch for pedestrians, and proceed with caution.

Following the rules costs nothing, but ignoring them can be expensive — and dangerous.

Source:- N332 https://www.ibexinsure.com

Please note that this information has been compiled for general awareness only. It's not a substitute for professional advice, and we can't guarantee its complete accuracy. For any specific concerns, please consult a qualified professional.

Saturday, November 29, 2025

The EES: A Comprehensive Guide to the EU's New Border System

The EES: A Comprehensive Guide to the EU's New Border System

If you are planning to visit France, Germany, Italy, Norway, or indeed any of the 29 countries within the Schengen Area, you need to be aware of a fundamental change coming to its borders. The Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new automated IT border control system designed to digitally monitor the movements of non-EU citizens. This system will completely overhaul the way travellers from the UK, US, and other "third-countries" enter the Schengen zone, moving from a manual process to a fully digital one.

The key changes are significant:

· It means an end to passport stamps and your entry and exit will be recorded electronically.

· It enables stricter enforcement of the 90/180-day rule. The system will automatically calculate your remaining stay, eliminating accidental overstays.

· It introduces much tighter and more efficient border controls through the use of biometric data.

· And, especially in the initial phases, it is anticipated to lead to significantly longer queues at border crossing points.

In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the EES to ensure your next trip into Europe is as smooth as possible.

What Exactly is the EES?

EES stands for Entry/Exit System. It is the cornerstone of the European Union's strategy to create a "Smart Border," enhancing security and improving the management of the external borders of the Schengen Area.

It's crucial to understand the distinction between the Schengen Area and the European Union (EU). The Schengen Area is a zone of free movement without internal border checks. It includes most EU countries (like France, Germany, Italy, Spain) but also non-EU countries like Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Conversely, some EU countries, namely Ireland and Cyprus, are not in the Schengen Area and will not implement the EES. When travelling to these countries, you will continue to receive passport stamps.

The EES is designed specifically for the external borders of the Schengen Zone.

How Will the EES Work in Practice?

The process will differ between your first registration and subsequent trips.

On Your First EES Trip: The Registration Process

When you first cross an external Schengen border after the EES goes live, you will undergo a one-time registration:

1. Passport Scan: Your passport will be scanned as usual, which will create your digital file in the EES database.

2. Facial Image: A dedicated camera will capture a biometric facial image. This is more than a simple photograph; it's a precise measurement of your facial features.

3. Fingerprints: You will be required to provide fingerprints from all four fingers on each hand.

This collected data—your passport details, facial image, and fingerprints—will be stored securely in the EES system for three years from your last recorded exit.

Who does this apply to? It applies to all non-Schengen residents, including children. However, children under the age of 12 are typically exempt from providing fingerprints, though their facial image will still be captured.

On Subsequent Trips: The Verification Process

Once registered, your future border crossings will be faster. You will simply present your passport and look at a camera for a facial recognition check. Your fingerprints may be requested randomly or if the facial scan is unclear. The system will instantly verify your identity, check your remaining allowance under the 90/180-day rule, and log your entry or exit.

Key Impacts and What to Expect

1. The End of the 90/180-Day Guesswork:
The EES will automatically and accurately track your time in the Schengen Area. This eliminates human error from manual stamping and provides a clear, indisputable record. You will no longer have to count days in your passport; the system will do it for you, and border guards will have this information immediately available.

2. Significant Delays and Queues (Especially Initially):
This is the most immediate and noticeable impact for travellers. The registration process takes time. Estimates suggest at least one minute per person. While this seems short, consider the ripple effect:

· A coach with 50 passengers would take over 50 minutes to process, not including the time for passengers to disembark and re-board.

· A family of four in a car could take 5-10 minutes.
This will inevitably lead to substantial queues at major entry points like the Eurotunnel terminal in Folkestone, ferry ports in Dover and Calais, and international airports across Europe.

Advice for Mitigating Delays:

· Travel Off-Peak: If your schedule allows, aim to cross borders late at night or very early in the morning.

· Allow Extra Time: For a fixed-time booking like a ferry or train, plan to arrive significantly earlier than you normally would.

· Expect Disembarkation: At vehicle borders, everyone will need to get out of their car, motorhome, or coach to use the registration kiosks.

3. Increased Scrutiny on Existing Rules:
With a more rigorous digital border, there is an expectation that border guards may enforce other existing rules for non-EU travellers more strictly. Two key requirements to be prepared for are:

· Proof of Sufficient Funds: EU law requires non-EU visitors to have proof of enough money to support themselves during their stay. The required amount varies by country. For example:

o Spain recommends €109 per person per day.

o France requires around €65 per person per day.
You should be prepared to show evidence, such as recent bank statements, a credit card, or access to your banking app.

· Proof of Onward/Return Travel: Border guards may ask for evidence that you intend to leave the Schengen Area before your 90-day limit expires. This could be a return ticket, a booking for a ferry/train out of the zone, or, for motorhomers, a detailed travel itinerary.

EES vs. ETIAS: Clearing the Confusion

It is vital to understand that the EES and ETIAS are two completely different systems.

· EES (Entry/Exit System): This is the border control process you go through at the border. It involves biometrics and tracks your entry and exit. You do not need to apply for it in advance.

· ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System): This is an online pre-travel authorisation, similar to the ESTA for the USA or the ETA for Canada. It is a security check you must complete and pay for (around €7) online before you travel. Your approved ETIAS will be linked to your passport.

Crucially, ETIAS cannot be launched until the EES has been fully operational for several months. The current expectation is that ETIAS will come into effect in mid-2026.

What You Need to Do Now: A Practical Checklist

1. Check Your Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months after your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. The "six-month rule" is a good guideline, as it covers a potential 90-day stay plus the three-month buffer.

2. Plan for Major Delays: Factor in potentially hours of extra time for your border crossing, especially if travelling in the first 6-12 months of the system's operation.

3. Prepare Supporting Documents: While you may never be asked, it is prudent to carry:

o Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements or digital access).

o Proof of onward/return travel (ferry booking, etc.).

o Proof of accommodation for your trip.

4. Stay Informed: The official launch date is currently October 12, 2025, but this has been delayed before. A phased rollout is expected, with full implementation aimed for by April 2026. Always check official government travel advice for the latest updates.

For motorhomers and campers, ensure you also carry all legally required equipment for the countries you're visiting (e.g., breathalysers, warning triangles, headlamp beam deflectors).

The EES represents a new era of travel to Europe. While it may introduce short-term challenges like queues, its long-term goal is a more secure and efficient border. By being prepared and informed, you can navigate this change confidently and focus on enjoying your journey.

More Info:

https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/ees

Sunday, November 23, 2025

Discord , The new Community for the Motorhome World!

The Road Ahead is Digital! The Motorhome Touring Groups are Revolutionising Communities on Discord!

For too long, our fantastic motorhome, caravan, and campervan communities have been spread across different platforms. But now, Motorhome Touring is leading the charge in a brilliant new trend: embracing Discord to build stronger, more cohesive, and more engaging communities!

Why Discord is the Game-Changer:

Discord isn't just for gamers, it's the perfect platform for the dynamic, real-time needs of a touring community:
Real-Time Chat & Voice: Forget waiting for a reply to a Facebook post! Discord channels allow for instant, dedicated conversations. Jump into a voice channel for a live, spontaneous Q&A on a tricky repair, or get instant road-condition updates from someone miles ahead.
Organised Channels: Say goodbye to endless scrolling! Servers can be split into specific channels for everything: Rally Planning, Technical Advice, Route Recommendations, and Photo Sharing.
True Community Cohesion: Discord offers a more personal, 'closed-door' feel than big, public Facebook and Instagram groups, fostering deeper connections and a positive, troll-free environment.

The Art of Coexistence: Integrating Discord with Facebook and Instagram

The real revolution is in how large groups are making Facebook, Instagram and Discord work together—not against each other. Here’s how groups are managing this successful integration:
Facebook as the Front Door: The Facebook group remains the primary recruitment and high-level engagement platform. Use it for broad announcements, stunning photos, group polls, and to attract new members with its powerful viral reach.
Discord as the Deep Dive: Discord is positioned as the premium community hub for discussion, in-depth technical help, and live events. This drives Facebook members who want more personal, immediate interaction to the Discord server.
Bridge Builders: Post regular, compelling updates on Facebook advertising what's happening on Discord. For example:
"Join us in the Discord Voice Channel now for a live Q&A with a campsite owner!"
"Check the #routes-and-sites channel on Discord for our new comprehensive guide to the North Coast 500!"
Dedicated Moderation: Successful large groups are assigning specific moderators to each platform. Facebook mods handle broad-reach posts and new member vetting, while Discord mods focus on channel organisation and live chat interaction.
Focus on Different Content: Facebook is for curated, high-value, static content (guides, rules, long-form stories), while Discord is for dynamic, real-time, channel-specific chat. By giving each platform a clear purpose, you prevent content cannibalisation.

This is more than just another social media platform—it's a revolution in community management. By using Discord effectively alongside Facebook and Instagram, Motorhome Touring group is setting the trend for how the modern touring enthusiast connects, shares knowledge, and maintains interest between trips!

What do you think? Have you thought about integrating Discord with your touring community? Share your experience in the comments! 👇

Motouring Touring Scotland - Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe

Join our growing community at Motorhome Touring on Discord https://discord.gg/kz7dGQtzZg

#MotorhomeTouring #Discord #VanLife #Campervan #Caravan #CommunityBuilding #SocialMediaTrend #FacebookGroups #DigitalNomad

Thursday, November 20, 2025

ACIS Off-Season Camping in Europe

ACSI Card: Your Ticket to Low-Cost, Off-Season Camping in Europe

If you've ever planned a caravan, motorhome, or even a tent-camping trip around Europe, you've likely heard whispers of the "ACSI card." For many seasoned travelers, it's an essential piece of kit, as vital as their levelling ramps or electric hook-up cable.

But what exactly is it? How does it save you money? And is it right for you? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the CampingCard ACSI scheme.

What is the ACSI Card?

ACSI (which stands for Auto Camper Service International) is a Dutch company that has become a European camping authority. They inspect and review thousands of campsites across the continent.

Their most popular product is the CampingCard ACSI, a discount card that allows you to camp at a fixed, low nightly rate during the "low season" or "shoulder seasons."

It's not just a card; it's a complete package. When you purchase the product, you typically receive:

A physical discount card: This is the card you show at reception. It's valid for one calendar year.
A comprehensive guide (or app access): This is the crucial part. It's a detailed directory of all 3,000+ participating campsites across Europe, showing their location, facilities, and—most importantly—the exact dates they accept the discount card.

How Does It Work? The Simple Version

The process is incredibly straightforward:

Find a Site: Use the ACSI guide or app to find a participating campsite on your route.
Check the Dates: Verify the campsite's specific "acceptance period" for the card. (More on this below, as it's the most important rule!)
Show Your Card: Present your valid ACSI card at reception upon arrival. You can't typically apply the discount after you've already checked in or booked through another platform.
Pay the Fixed Rate: Instead of the campsite's standard nightly rate (which might be €30, €40, or more), you pay one of the fixed ACSI CampingCard rates.

For 2024/2025, these fixed rates are: €13, €15, €17, €19, €21, €23, €25, or €27.

Each campsite in the guide clearly states which of these "price buckets" it falls into. This makes budgeting for a trip incredibly predictable.

What's Included in the Fixed Rate?

This is where the value becomes clear. The fixed ACSI rate covers:

A standard pitch (for one motorhome, caravan + car, or tent + car).
Two adults.
Electricity (up to 6 Amps or 4 kWh per day).
Hot showers (if the site normally uses tokens, you'll get one per person, per day).
One dog (provided the campsite is dog-friendly).

What's Not Included?

You will almost always have to pay for:

Tourist Tax: This is a local or regional tax charged per person, per night, and is collected separately by the campsite.
Reservation Fees: If you call ahead to book a pitch, the site may still charge you a booking fee.
Extra-Cost Amenities: Things like Wi-Fi, laundry, or renting a private bathroom are not included.
Additional People/Pets: The rate is for two adults. Any extra people (or a second dog) will be charged at the campsite's normal rate.

The Most Important Rule: The "Low Season"

The ACSI card is not a high-season discount card. You cannot show up in Tuscany in the middle of August and expect a discount.

It is designed to help campsites fill their pitches outside of peak times.

The "low season" (or "shoulder season") is defined by each individual campsite. The ACSI guide is your bible for this.

Campsite A (in Spain) might accept the card from January 1 to June 30 and again from September 1 to December 31.
Campsite B (in France) might only accept it from May 1 to June 15 and all of September.

This is why you must check the dates for each site in the guide or app before you go.

How to Get the ACSI Card

You don't just buy the card; you buy the "CampingCard ACSI" package, which includes the guide and the card. You have two main options:

The Physical Guide + Card: This is the traditional option. You buy the guide (which comes in two heavy, information-packed volumes) from a camping accessory shop or online. The physical card is slotted into the cover.
The Digital App Subscription: This is the modern, more convenient option. You purchase the CampingCard ACSI app subscription. This unlocks all the campsite data on your phone or tablet and includes a digital version of your discount card, which campsites accept just like the physical one.

Both are annual subscriptions, valid from January 1 to December 31 of that year.

Is the ACSI Card Worth It?

This is the final, most important question. The answer depends entirely on when you travel.

If you are a family tied to school holidays (July/August): The card is probably not worth it for you, as very few campsites accept it during that peak period.
If you are a couple, a retiree, or anyone who can travel in the spring (April, May, June) or autumn (September, October): The card is an absolute must-have.

Let's do the math:

A CampingCard ACSI package costs roughly €17 - €25 (depending on whether you get just the app or the physical guides).
A standard low-season campsite rate might be €35 per night.
The ACSI rate for that same site might be €23.
You save €12 on your very first night.

The card almost always pays for itself within two or three nights. On a two-week trip, you could easily save over €150.

Summary: Who is it for?

YES: Retirees ("grey nomads"), full-time van-lifers, couples traveling without children, and anyone exploring Europe in the spring or autumn.
NO: Families who can only travel in the peak six weeks of the summer school holidays.

For the right person, the ACSI card is the key to unlocking a much more affordable and predictable European camping adventure.

Happy (and frugal) camping!

#acis #campingcard #cheapercamping

ACIS Digital

ACIS Europe

Camping Card ACIS

Great Little Campsites

Guide to Motorhome Dehumidifiers

Winter Proofing Your Motorhome: The Ultimate Guide to Motorhome Dehumidifiers

As the season changes and many of us look to lay up our motorhomes for the winter, the battle against damp begins. We all know the dreaded smell of a musty van or the sinking feeling of finding mildew on the upholstery in spring.

While ventilation is key, a small dehumidifier can be the single best investment you make to protect your pride and joy during those cold, wet months. But how do they work, and which one should you choose? Let’s dive in.

How Do Small Dehumidifiers Work?

To choose the right unit, it helps to understand that not all dehumidifiers work the same way. For motorhomes, you will generally encounter two main types:

1. Peltier (Thermoelectric) These are the very small, lightweight units often found on Amazon. They work by pulling air over a cold metal plate. The moisture condenses on the plate and drips into a tank.

The Catch: They rely on a temperature difference to work. If your motorhome is cold (below 15°C), they extract very little moisture.

2. Desiccant These use a wheel made of water-absorbing material (like a sponge) to soak up moisture from the air. A heater then warms the wheel to release the water into the tank.

The Benefit: Because they use heat, they work efficiently even in temperatures as low as 1°C. They also blow warm air out, which can help keep the chill off your van's interior.

3. Compressor These work like a fridge, using refrigerant coils to create a cold surface. They are powerful and energy-efficient in warm homes (20°C+) but often struggle in unheated motorhomes during winter, spending much of their time in "defrost mode" rather than drying the air.

Benefits of Using a Dehumidifier During Winter Storage

Leaving a dehumidifier running (assuming you have access to mains hook-up) offers massive advantages:

Prevents Mould & Mildew: By keeping relative humidity below 60%, mould spores cannot grow. This saves your upholstery, curtains, and mattresses from those unsightly black spots.
Protects Electronics: High humidity can lead to corrosion on sensitive electrical contacts and circuit boards within the dashboard and control panels.
Eliminates Odours: That "stale winter smell" is actually caused by damp and bacteria. A dry van smells fresh when you open the door in March.
Preserves Resale Value: A van that is dry and mould-free retains its value significantly better than one with water-stained walls or mildew damage.
Ready to Go: There’s no need to air out the van for days before your first trip; bedding feels dry and crisp immediately.

Pros and Cons of Motorhome Dehumidifiers

Before you buy, weigh up these factors:

Pros

Active Protection: Actively removes moisture rather than just trapping a small amount like passive crystals.
Heat Generation (Desiccant): Desiccant models add a few degrees of warmth to the interior, reducing frost risk.
Continuous Drainage: Most models allow you to attach a hose that drains directly into your sink or shower tray (leave the grey waste open!), so you don't have to visit the van weekly to empty the tank.
Healthier Environment: Reduces dust mites and allergens for the next season.

Cons

Requires Power: You need a reliable 230V hook-up. They will not run off your 12V leisure battery for long without draining it flat.
Running Costs: While efficient, they do add to your electricity bill. Desiccant models use slightly more power than compressor ones.
Monitoring Required: Unless you set up continuous drainage, you must visit the van to empty the tank, or the unit will auto-shutoff and stop working.
Noise: Not an issue for storage, but if you plan to sleep in the van with it on, fan noise can be noticeable.

Top 3 Small Dehumidifiers on Amazon for Motorhomes

( All links are for Amazon I earn a small commission for each sale but the cost to you is the same.)

Here are three distinct options found on Amazon that suit different motorhome needs.

1. The Winter Warrior: EcoAir DD1 Simple (Desiccant)

Best for: Unheated winter storage in the UK.

This is widely considered the "gold standard" for motorhome storage. Because it is a Desiccant model, it doesn't care if it's freezing outside; it will keep extracting moisture down to 1°C.

Why it works: It’s compact, lightweight (6kg), and powerful (extracts up to 7 Litres/day).
Key Feature: It has a "rotary dial" humidistat, so you can set it to a specific level (e.g., "Hi" or "Low") and it will turn itself on and off automatically to maintain that level, saving energy.
Amazon Status: Frequently a top seller in the desiccant category.

Autumn is a spectacular time

Autumn is a spectacular time for a motorhome or campervan adventure in the UK. The crowds have thinned, the landscapes are set ablaze with colour, and there's a crisp, magical atmosphere perfect for cosying up in your van.

Here’s a guide to each of your fantastic locations.

1. Lake District, Cumbria

Why it's fantastic in autumn: The Lake District becomes a dramatic canvas of rust, gold and amber. The fells are often dusted with morning mist, creating breathtaking reflections in the lakes. It's the perfect season for hiking without the summer bustle, followed by a pint in a traditional pub with a roaring fire.
·       Top things to do:
o   Take a scenic drive over the Honister Pass for staggering autumnal views.
o   Enjoy a serene cruise on Lake Windermere or Ullswater, surrounded by fiery woodlands.
o   Hike up Catbells for relatively low-level but spectacular views over Derwentwater.
·       Don't miss: A walk through the ancient woodland of Whinlatter Forest, England's only true mountain forest, where the colours are unparalleled.
·       Campsites:
o   The Quiet Site (Ullswater): A renowned, eco-friendly site with a fantastic pub and stunning location.
o   Park Cliffe Camping & Caravan Estate (Windermere): Offers great facilities and beautiful woodland pitches.
o   Great Langdale Campsite (National Trust): A stunning valley location, perfect for hikers.

2. Peak District, Derbyshire

Why it's fantastic in autumn: The Peak District's rugged moorlands and deep, wooded valleys (or 'dales') look magnificent in the autumn light. The heather may have faded, but the golden birch trees and bracken create a warm, glowing landscape. It's ideal for crisp, clear days of exploration.

·       Top things to do:
o   Walk through Dovedale and cross its iconic stepping stones.
o   Explore the underground wonders of Poole's Cavern in Buxton.
o   Drive across the wild and dramatic Cat and Fiddle Road (A537) from Buxton to Macclesfield.
·       Don't miss: The view from Stanage Edge at sunset, when the gritstone edge glows and the autumn colours in the valley below are sublime.
·       Campsites:
o   North Lees Campsite (Hathersage): Located right at the foot of Stanage Edge, a basic but unbeatable location.
o   Rivendale Caravan & Leisure Park (Buxton): A well-equipped site set in a forest with a great pub.
o   Laneside Caravan Park (Hope Valley): A small, family-run site with immaculate facilities.

3. Northumberland National Park

Why it's fantastic in autumn: Experience true wilderness and solitude. The skies are often crystal clear, and with minimal light pollution, it's one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. The autumn colours in the valleys of the River Coquet and South Tyne are simply stunning.

·       Top things to do:
o   Visit the Kielder Water & Forest Park, home to the largest man-made lake and the largest dark sky park in Europe.
o   Walk a section of Hadrian's Wall Path, such as from Steel Rigg to Housesteads Fort.
o   Explore the charming stone villages like Rothbury.
·       Don't miss: The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre – a fantastic gateway to the park and Hadrian's Wall.
·       Campsites:
o   Battlesteads Campsite (Wark): A certified Dark Sky-friendly site with excellent facilities and a renowned pub.
o   Herding Hill Farm (Hadrian's Wall): Offers glamping pods and great touring pitches close to the wall.
o   Kielder Camping and Caravanning Club Site: For total immersion in the forest and dark skies.

4. Yorkshire Dales, North Yorkshire

Why it's fantastic in autumn: The Dales are defined by their drystone walls, barns, and deep valleys (dales). In autumn, the patchwork of fields is accentuated, and the woodland in places like Wensleydale and Swaledale turns to gold. It’s a classic, pastoral English autumn scene.

·       Top things to do:
o   Marvel at the 30-metre drop of Aysgarth Falls, especially dramatic after autumn rains.
o   Explore the vast underground cathedral of White Scar Cave.
o   Drive through Buttertubs Pass, a spectacular route made famous by the Tour de France.
·       Don't miss: A visit to the market town of Hawes to watch cheese being made at the Wensleydale Creamery – the perfect autumn treat.
·       Campsites:
o   Bainbridge Ings Caravan Park (Wensleydale): Beautiful riverside location within walking distance of Hawes.
o   Stow House Touring Park (Reeth, Swaledale): A small, peaceful site with stunning valley views.
o   Kettlewell Camping & Caravanning Club Site: A great base for exploring Upper Wharfedale.

5. Forest of Dean & Wye Valley

Why it's fantastic in autumn: This is arguably one of the UK's top destinations for autumn colour. The ancient oak woodlands of the Forest of Dean and the steep-sided Wye Valley become a breathtaking tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. It’s a magical, almost fairy-tale landscape.

·       Top things to do:
o   Walk or cycle the family-friendly Sculpture Trail in the forest.
o   Canoe down the River Wye from Ross-on-Wye to Symonds Yat for a unique perspective.
o   Visit the spectacular ruins of Tintern Abbey, beautifully framed by autumn foliage.
·       Don't miss: The view from Symonds Yat Rock over the horseshoe bend of the Wye, winding through a sea of gold.
·       Campsites:
o   Bracelands Caravan & Camping Park: A large, well-equipped site right in the heart of the forest.
o   Christchurch Caravan and Camping Park (Lydney): Beautiful views over the Severn Estuary, close to the forest.
o   Wye Valley Camping: A smaller, more rustic site with direct access to the river.

6. Norfolk Coast

Why it's fantastic in autumn: This is a season for wild, windswept walks and big skies. The summer tourists have gone, leaving vast beaches, nature reserves teeming with migrating birds, and a serene, atmospheric coastline. It's perfect for blowing away the cobwebs.

·       Top things to do:
o   Walk along the vast beach at Holkham Bay and through the pine woods.
o   Spot seals at Blakeney Point (boat trips often run into October).
o   Explore the traditional seaside charm of Wells-next-the-Sea with its colourful beach huts.
·       Don't miss: A trip to the medieval shrine at Little Walsingham or the ruins of Binham Priory for a touch of history amidst the autumn mists.
·       Campsites:
o   Deepdale Camping (Brancaster Statthe): A fantastic, eco-aware site with great facilities, a cafe, and a backpackers' vibe.
o   Pinewoods Holiday Park (Wells-next-the-Sea): Located right by the beach and pine woods.
o   Manor Farm Campsite (Salthouse): A simple, friendly CL site with stunning views over the salt marshes.

7. Cotswolds, Gloucestershire/Oxfordshire

Why it's fantastic in autumn: The honey-coloured stone villages of the Cotswolds look even more enchanting nestled amongst golden trees. It's a season for country pubs with log fires, foraging for blackberries, and exploring historic houses surrounded by stunning parkland.

·       Top things to do:
o   Get lost in the grounds of Westonbirt Arboretum, the UK's finest collection of trees, which is at its absolute peak in autumn.
o   Explore the quintessential villages of Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold.
o   Visit Blenheim Palace to walk through the Capability Brown landscape in its autumn glory.
·       Don't miss: Westonbirt Arboretum. It is an unmissable autumnal spectacle.
·       Campsites:
o   The Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Moreton-in-Marsh: A well-located, formal site within walking distance of the town.
o   Broadings Farm Campsite (nr. Stow-on-the-Wold): A peaceful, adults-only site with beautiful views.
o   Cotswold View Touring Park (Oxfordshire): A well-reviewed site with excellent facilities.

8. Snowdonia / Eryri National Park, North Wales

Why it's fantastic in autumn: The rugged mountains of Snowdonia are dramatic year-round, but autumn adds a softness with its golden bracken and clear, crisp air. The waterfalls are often in full flow, and the tourist hotspots are much quieter.

·       Top things to do:
o   Take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit for panoramic views without the hike.
o   Visit the incredible cascades at Swallow Falls (Betws-y-Coed) or Pistyll Rhaeadr (just outside the park).
o   Explore the epic castles of Harlech and Caernarfon.
·       Don't miss: The stunningly located Llyn Padarn lake near Llanberis, with the mountains reflected in its waters.
·       Campsites:
o   Cae Gwyn Farm Camping (Snowdonia): A simple, back-to-basics site in a stunning, remote valley.
o   Rhyd-y-Creuau Campsite (The Snowdonia Society, Betws-y-Coed): A beautiful, wooded site by a river.
o   Llyn Gwynant Campsite: One of the most beautifully located campsites in the UK, right on the lake.

9. Perthshire, Scotland

Why it's fantastic in autumn: Known as "Big Tree Country," Perthshire is the undisputed champion of Scottish autumn colour. The combination of ancient Caledonian pine forests, majestic lochs, and grand estates creates a truly majestic autumnal experience.

·       Top things to do:
o   Walk through the Hermitage near Dunkeld to see the spectacular Black Linn Falls, surrounded by giant Douglas firs.
o   Visit the picturesque Queen's View over Loch Tummel.
o   Explore the grounds of Scone Palace, the ancient crowning place of Scottish kings.
·       Don't miss: The Pass of Killiecrankie – a deep, wooded gorge where the colours are phenomenal, and you can look for the "Soldier's Leap."
·       Campsites:
o   Loch Katrine Eco Camping (Trossachs): A beautiful, off-grid site on the shores of Loch Katrine (booking essential).
o   Drum Mohr Caravan Park (Muirhead): A well-equipped, family-run park within easy reach of Edinburgh, the Highlands and Perthshire.
o   Dalraddy Caravan Park (Aviemore): A luxurious park set in a mature woodland, perfect for exploring the Cairngorms and northern Perthshire.

10. Cornwall, South West England

Why it's fantastic in autumn: After the summer rush, Cornwall reclaims its wild soul. The Atlantic storms are dramatic to watch from a cosy van, the water is still relatively warm for surfing, and you can explore iconic spots like St Michael's Mount without the queues. It's also the season for food festivals celebrating the harvest.

·       Top things to do:
o   Walk a section of the South West Coast Path, such as from St Ives to Zennor.
o   Visit the world-famous Eden Project, where the outdoor biomes look stunning in autumn.
o   Explore the arty fishing port of St Ives without the crowds.
·       Don't miss: A trip to the Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre carved into the cliffs, which often has autumnal performances.
·       Campsites:
o   Trewan Hall (nr. Newquay): A beautiful, family-friendly site set in a wooded estate.
o   Trevella Park (Crantock): A high-quality park with fishing lakes, close to a fantastic beach.
o   Polmanter Touring Park (St Ives): A well-equipped, award-winning site within walking distance of the town.

A final tip for your autumnal motorhome adventure: Always check the opening times for attractions and campsites, as many switch to winter hours from October onwards. Book your campsites in advance, especially for October half-term. Most importantly, pack warm layers, waterproofs, and be prepared for all weathers – the changing conditions are all part of the magic! Happy travelling.