These are the top European campsites to pitch a tent this summer


Promising a holiday filled with adventure without draining the bank, campsites across Europe are booming. As the trend grows in popularity, the choice of options becomes endless. Zip open the canvas to reveal mountain views, riverside scenes and landscapes wilder than imagination.
One way to whittle down what’s on offer is by cross-referencing consumer reviews.
By analysing user ratings from 1,500 sites, search and booking platform Pitchup.com has compiled a Gold List of Europe’s top camping sites, dominated by France, followed by Italy and Portugal.
Below are a few of the sites to check out.


Boating, birdwatching and butterfly spotting can fill sunny days on a trip to the Marais Poitevin nature reserve. Set halfway between Niort and La Rochelle, close to the Atlantic Ocean, the protected wetland is second only in size to the Carmargue and is woven with canals first constructed by 13th monks. Tents, caravans and motorhomes are all welcome at Le Marais Sauvage, a peaceful campsite with on-site cafe bar, small shop and laundry. Pick up fresh croissants and baguettes in nearby Le Mazeau.
Price: From £14 per night for a grass pitch with electric hookup.


Promising peace and quiet in a river valley shaded by eucalyptus forest, family-owned Quinta Viana only accepts a maximum of nine bookings at a time. Relax in flower-filled gardens, cool off in a saltwater pool and cuddle up to two resident German Shepherd dogs. The coast is easily accessible for beach swims, while entry point Porto is a 45-minute drive away. Hike through sand dunes, horse-ride in the countryside or play a round of golf on the banks of the Cávado river.
Price: From £18 per night for a grass pitch with electric hookup.


Holidays aren’t all about sea and sand in Malaga – although a heavy dose of sunshine is near guaranteed. Far from the crowds of Torremolinos and Fuengirola, Camping El Sur is surrounded by mountains and olive trees a short distance from historic town Ronda. Laze by the pool, play miniature golf or pull up a bar stool to nibble on tapas. Nearby natural wonders include the caves and gorges of Sierra de Grazalema.
Price: From £20 per night for a grass pitch with electric hookup.


Wake up with royalty at Marmolada Malga Ciapela, a mountain campsite in the shadow of Marmolada mountain – nicknamed the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’. Accommodation options range from traditional pitch-up spots to more luxurious glamping set ups; stay in barrel-shaped cabins or tents suspended between trees and dine in a chalet-style restaurant. Use the site as a base to explore Alpine hiking trails or simply sit back and enjoy the regal view.
Price: From £30.97 per night for a grass pitch with electric hookup.
Fins the full list of Gold sites at pitchup.com/review-awards.