The 5 destinations to include in your camper holiday itinerary in Italy
On the occasion of the announcement of its presence at the next Parma Camper Show during the last convention in Rome on May 16th, ASSOCAMP, the National Association of Recreational Vehicle and Camping Equipment Operators , reiterated, in the words of its President Ester Bordino , its desire to continue to promote culture on camper holidays, on purchasing, on maintenance for safe travel and on professional rental.
Data shows that approximately 7300 recreational vehicles were sold in Italy in 2021 , a 12% increase over last year. This means that campers, or "traveling homes," continue to be very present on Italian and European roads in this second summer of freedom. According to Assocamp data, a new type of younger enthusiast has begun to embrace campers, whether owned or rented . This trend is commented on by Ester Bordino:
Ester Bordino, President of Assocamp
“We recommend, especially to those approaching a camper holiday for the first time, to clarify all doubts by contacting the experts present in our affiliated sales, rental and assistance points throughout Italy.
First and foremost, regarding safety: whether owned or rented, a camper should have all on-board systems periodically inspected by authorized professionals. It's essential to always check that all documents are in order before setting off, for short or long periods. This is especially true for those renting a camper: by law, insurance coverage for a rental vehicle must include the wording "vehicle rented without a driver" (Art. 84 of the Highway Code), a phrase that must appear on both the policy and the vehicle registration document. "Incorrect insurance could become a serious problem in the event of an accident," says Ester Bordino.
5 DESTINATIONS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR CAMPER HOLIDAY ITINERARY
In view of the summer, to advise all new camper owners, ASSOCAMP has launched a survey for affiliates and customers to ask them what the unmissable camper destinations are for those renting for the first time. In fact, the Association represents over 200 points of sale, almost all of the camper dealers in Italy, and is a point of reference for those who want to travel by camper safely, thanks to the authorized sales and maintenance professionals who are part of it. The interviewees were divided, and it could not have been otherwise given the richness of our country in terms of places to live. The 5 most popular destinations, dedicated to those who rent a camper for the first time and want to go without fail, were:
FOR THOSE WHO LOVE THE SEA AND RELAX – Dedicated to those who love a relaxing camper vacation, Assocamp has no doubts: Sardinia, with the beaches of Is Arutas and Is Arenas, dominates. These places are lesser-known than the classic northern Sardinian coasts, making them highly popular with campers for their greater tranquility. Caribbean-like beaches and crystal-clear seas come with one ironclad rule: respect nature and the animals that live there. Traveling by camper, in fact, involves being a bit "bulky," so the Association recommends—in addition to complying with anti-Covid regulations—extra caution when maneuvering, parking, and stopping. The surrounding area offers many picturesque stops if you decide to explore the area or camp: one prime example is the flamingos at sunset on Lake Cabras.
FOR THOSE WHO LOVE THE SEA ON THE MOVE – Camper drivers take advantage of the space in lockers and garages (some campers even have garages) to bring along sports equipment and two-wheeled vehicles to get around quickly once they arrive at their destination. Far from the classic surfing and windsurfing destinations in Italy, customers who contacted Assocamp members recommend the Vieste coast especially for kitesurfing. The area is also rich in small villages to explore during breaks from surfing and lunch. In this case, a Sicilian destination was also recommended with equal merit: the Syracuse area, Portopalo di Capo Passero, a paradise for various types of sailing, just a few hundred kilometers from the African coast, with a warm and windy climate while remaining in Italy. Both in cities.
FOR MOUNTAIN LOVERS – The Dolomites are a must-see destination, unanimously voted the top mountain destination by 70% of respondents. Virtually everyone agrees: those seeking tranquility after a year of work in a five-star campsite with a spa, and those who love spending the day on two wheels: according to Assocamp members, the Sella Ronda route is a must-see. For the more adventurous, downhill biking is also a great way to relax, emerging as a true stress-relieving, adrenaline-fueled sport.
FOR RIVER AND LAKE LOVERS – Lake Garda is a hotspot for campers, both for its sport-friendly locations and its welcoming outdoor tourism. There are numerous campsites and rest areas, even for those with less experience. The scenic routes overlooking Lake Garda are a favorite destination for cyclists, even non-pros, who want to enjoy the views. And in the Trentino area, highly popular and frequently asked questions are the bike paths that connect many destinations worth discovering, especially from Riva del Garda inland, such as Arco and Tenno, designed for those who choose a camper for leisurely relaxation.
FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR NATURE – Finally, the survey revealed a trend that has been very present over the past two years, given the extended closures, and which will also characterize campers' stops for this new season now approaching: the search for undiscovered natural paradises. Places like the Castelluccio Plain, Uccellina Park, Abruzzo National Park, the Maremma, and even the Oltrepò hills just a few kilometers from Milan offer stress-free ideas when planning your itinerary, whether for long trips or quick weekend getaways. Places completely immersed in nature, often just a few hundred kilometers from home, make you feel like you're still on vacation, even if the holidays are still a long way off.
