4 fantastic scenic European adventures for you and your motorhome

Winter is in the rearview mirror and your thoughts may be turning to enjoyable ways to make the most of warmer temperatures and longer days.

No doubt some of you may be planning to pack up your motorhome and head to Europe for an adventure. Whether you prefer to plan to the nth degree or fly by the seat of your pants and simply follow the sun, here are four fantastic road trips that may be right up your street.

1. The Ring of Kerry, Ireland

One of Ireland’s most scenic driving routes, the Ring of Kerry takes you through lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and picturesque villages.

Distance: Approximately 111 miles

Duration: It’s possible to drive the route in a single day, but three to five days will allow more time to explore and enjoy some hiking and extra sightseeing along the way.

Scenic highlights:

• Killarney National Park – beautiful forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Muckross House and Gardens is also worth a visit.
• Torc Waterfall – just 200 metres from the car park, this waterfall sits at the base of Torc Mountain. 20 metres high and 110 long, it’s one of Kerry’s most famous sights.
• Ladies View – offers a panoramic view of the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park.
• Ross Castle – a 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane, ideal for a quick photo stop.
• Waterville – A picturesque village with beaches and views over the Atlantic. The area is also famous for its golf course.
• Sneem – it may not sound attractive, but this is in fact a charming and colourful village with lovely walks and plenty of options to while away a day or two.

When to travel: For the best chance of good weather, June to August is optimum, but can prove busy – especially in popular towns like Killarney and Waterville. Meanwhile, May can be mild and the route should prove quieter than the summer months.

2. Route des Vins d’Alsace, France

Running north to south through Alsace, this route meanders through the seemingly endless rolling vineyards of northeastern France. As well as sampling plenty of delicious wine, you’ll also discover charming villages and historical landmarks along the way.

Distance: 105 miles – from the town of Marlenheim in the north to Thann in the south.

Duration: Drive non-stop and you could complete the journey in around four hours, but that would be a huge shame! Instead, stretching the journey over four days (or more) will allow time to explore the area and soak up the stunning scenery, not to mention stopping off for several essential wine tastings.

Scenic highlights:

• Strasbourg – though not directly on the official wine route, a little under 30-minutes away, Strasbourg is worth a visit. The old town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988, and as the home of the European Parliament, it’s a city worth exploring.
• Marlenheim – the official starting point, this small town has lovely vineyard views and walks aplenty. One option: Follow the Riewerle trail, which will take you to the Marlenberg chapel overlooking the town. The return route takes you through the vineyards.
• Andlau Abbey – a beautiful Romanesque church surrounded by vineyards is an absolute-must for history buffs.
• Riquewihr – thought to be one of the most picturesque villages in France, Riquewihr could be straight out of the pages of your favourite fairytale. Expect half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and wine cellars. Plus, the Musee du Dolder (open from 10.30 am on weekends and public holiday, and every day during the high season) offers incredible views of the surrounding area.
• Eguisheim – a beautiful and award-winning medieval village, famous for its circular layout and colourful, well-preserved buildings. The perfect stop-off for lovers of history and wine.
• Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg – a short distance from Sélestat, perched high on the Stophanberch mountain, this medieval castle offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

When it comes to the all-important vineyards and wine-tasting stops, TripAdvisor highlights the top five wineries to factor into your itinerary: Zeyssolff – Au Péché Vigneron, Hugel et Fils, Domaine Gruss & Fils, Domaine Humbrecht 1619, and Maison Wolfberger.

When to travel: Spring (April – June) or autumn (September – October) – not only will you likely enjoy better weather but the countryside will be in its prime and you might even time your visit to coincide with one or two local festivals.

3. Romantic Road, Germany

Winding through picturesque medieval towns and beautiful countryside, the Romantic Road – or Romantische Straße – is the absolute best way to experience southern Germany, specifically Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.

Distance: Approximately 290 miles

Duration: You could drive the entire route in a day, but a leisurely week would allow ample time to explore local towns, visit at least one picture-perfect castle, and enjoy the fantastic scenery along the way.

Scenic highlights:

• Würzburg – a charming city with a stunning Residenz Palace and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss a visit to the Marienberg Fortress on the bank of the river.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber – a well-preserved medieval town, with charming streets. It’s known for its well-preserved city walls and quaint streets. The Medieval Crime Museum is also worth a visit.
• Nördlingen – built inside an ancient meteor crater; you can walk along its circular walls, and scenes for the 1971 version of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory were filmed on location here.
• Hohenzollern Castle – a majestic hilltop castle with not one but three castles to explore, near the town of Hechingen.
• Füssen – The southern-most point of the Romantic Road, this town is known for its Hohes Schloss (High Castle) and close proximity to the stunning Alps.
• Neuschwanstein Castle – a true fairytale castle that has to be seen to be believed, it was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty You could easily spend several hours here; there are two separate castles to visit, a delightful circular lakeside walk, and some great spots for lunch on site, too.

When to travel: April to June can be pretty perfect, allowing you to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the blossoming countryside in mild (and typically relatively dry) weather.

4. Klausen Pass, Switzerland

Passing through the Swiss Alps, get up close and personal with the stunning mountain backdrop and charming Swiss villages. Driving the Klausen Pass – whether in a motorhome, high-powered sports car, or a run-of-the-mill rental – is an experience not to be missed.

Renowned for its scenic beauty, steep inclines, and challenging curves, driving the route is an adventure in itself.

Distance: Approximately 30 miles

Duration: Without stops, you could drive the entire route in under two hours. However, to make the most of the stunning scenery, allow at least half a day. Alternatively, slow right down and pootle around the area for two or three days.

Scenic highlights:

• Schwanden – this charming village at the base of the pass is a great place to start your journey. Visit St Martin’s Church and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, giving you a taste of what’s to come.
• Klausen Pass Summit – at an altitude of 6,394 feet, enjoy panoramic views of the Alps. It’s especially glorious in the summer months, when the surrounding meadows are lush and green.
• Lake Uri – a stunning lake surrounded by mountains. There are plenty of spots to stop, relax, enjoy the views, or take a refreshing dip.
• Trekking and hiking – the route offers various opportunities for short walks or longer treks, including trails that allow views of the towering peaks and valleys below.
• Altdorf – famous for its William Tell monument, the town offers a peaceful pace after a thrilling drive.

When to travel: Although winter can be magical, May to September is ideal for great weather, hiking opportunities, and full access to services.