Spring in the air. Trees bud, flowers bloom, and all kinds of animals reappear. The weather is sunny though a bit unpredictable – but that’s exactly what makes camping in spring such an elemental experience. With nature coming alive, here’s 5 dreamy destinations to go camping this spring.
Springtime in Provence is balmy weather mixed with the scent of almond blossom, fruit trees, and wild herbs like rosemary and thyme. Imagine camping in olive orchards at the Alpilles foothills or amidst purple fields of lavender – doesn’t that inspire the impressionist in you?
Actually, don’t expect purple vistas just yet. Spring is a little early for lavender, which blooms from late June. Instead, the Provencal country (like this picturesque organic farm) colors red with poppies and yellow with broom.
Spring in Alentejo feels like summer plus flowering landscapes. While in summer the interior of southern Portugal is a tinderbox of faded fellows lit by a relentless sun, spring shows Alentejo at its most colorful.
Green hills abound in Odemira, where you can wake up in an olive grove overlooking nature. Or partake in an age-old spring ritual, the planting of veggies and herbs, at a permaculture farm in a natural park in Alentejo.
Springtime in Europe means blossoming trees and fields of flowers, and the rural hills of Tuscany are an outstanding example. In the countryside of Florence, Vineyards spark with a fresh green from sprouting leaves and fields turn red with poppies. The iconic Val d’Orcia region is incredibly lush in spring, as is the coast near Livorno – so why not try an Italian road trip?
Another beautiful springtime destination is Austria, with budding flowers, clean air and breathtaking mountain scenery. Spring is arguably the best time to head to the Austrian Alps, offering fantastic skiing in April – plus you’ll miss the busy winter crowds!
Stay in a traditional hut in Hohe Tauern National Park and watch the snow melt from your window. Or experience the Alps on the cheap in a van or car, staying at a campsite in the shadows of Großglockner Mountain.
A sprawl of green rocks perched in the Atlantic, the Azores are a unique destination – no doubt. But spring really brings out the beauty of these strange islands. The volcanic soil of the Azores Island is rich in minerals, allowing exotic plants to thrive in the soft and humid climate. Roads are lined with hydrangea and parks are bursting with plant life.
The island of São Miguel is ideal for long hikes around lakes and in parks. Couple that with a tiny cabin surrounded by nature and you’ll make any nature lover a happy camper. For a different experience, camp in the bay of Praia Formosa on Santa Maria Island. You might spot a whale sipping on your morning coffee.
While these regions might be exceptionally beautiful in spring, so are plenty other outdoor destinations on Campanyon!