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Exploring serene tranquility: These lesser-known European nations gain popularity amongst outdoor enthusiasts

European Smaller Nations Gaining Favor for Camping; Ireland Witnesses a Surge of Over 40 Percent

Vacationing in less crowded European regions: these underrated nations capture interest
Vacationing in less crowded European regions: these underrated nations capture interest

Exploring serene tranquility: These lesser-known European nations gain popularity amongst outdoor enthusiasts

Our German-language service and news portal is dedicated to keeping readers informed about living and working abroad, and today we're focusing on a popular pastime: camping holidays in Europe.

As we delve into the world of camping, let's start with some exciting statistics. Germany has slightly increased its number of camping overnight stays and remains in fourth place. However, smaller European countries are seeing significant growth. Poland has recorded a significant increase of almost 20 percent, Albania has seen an increase of over 21 percent, and Bulgaria has gained around 14.5 percent.

In contrast, classic camping countries like the Netherlands, Croatia, and Sweden have experienced noticeable losses. But fear not, for other destinations are thriving. Ireland has experienced an increase of over 40 percent in camping overnight stays this year, making it a hot spot for campers.

France remains the most popular country for camping holidays in Europe, with over 141 million overnight stays. Italy, too, has been a favourite, but has had to accept losses in camping overnight stays. Interestingly, small European countries in the Top-10 most popular camping countries in Europe for 2025 include Austria and potentially other smaller nations with lakes and coastal areas favoured by campers, as Austria's lakes are among the leading camping destinations alongside Germany and Italy's Gardasee.

For those planning a camping adventure, a foreign expert, Anne-Katrin Schwanitz, has shared valuable insights in a video. She discusses topics such as loading a camping vehicle, tire care, vehicle checks, safety with gas bottles and gas cookers, fire protection, finding the right campsite, and important insurance coverage for van life.

Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden, lead in overnight stay numbers for camping, followed by Denmark and Norway. These countries emphasize sustainability, making them particularly attractive for environmentally conscious campers.

For those planning to travel to Ireland with a motorhome, direct connections from French ports like Cherbourg and Roscoff offer a convenient route, with crossings to Cork, Rosslare, or Dublin taking about 18 hours. Alternatively, the route can lead via Britain, with connecting ferries to Dublin, Rosslare, Belfast, or Larne.

Our website also provides additional content on camping-related topics such as Camping Park Kühlungsborn, the best campsites in Europe 2025, and why camping holidays make you sustainably happy.

So, pack your bags, pitch your tent, and embark on a sustainable and exciting camping adventure across Europe! For more information, feel free to contact us at [email protected]. Happy camping!

Tagged under: popular camping countries, camping, camping in Europe.

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