The Black Forest is one of the most popular camping regions in German-speaking countries. Dense forests, clear streams, well-developed pitches, and an infrastructure that makes even longer stays comfortable. Those familiar with the region who are looking for similar but new experiences can extend their route south to the Alps and the Mediterranean.
What makes the Black Forest special for campers
The Black Forest covers approximately 6.000 square kilometers, making it the largest contiguous low mountain range in Germany. For campers, this means short distances between campsites and nature. Many sites are located directly on marked hiking trails, including the Westweg, which runs from Pforzheim to... Basel leads and is one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in Germany.
Especially the southern Black Forest around the Feldberg It offers altitudes up to almost 1.500 meters. Campsites here are generally well-developed, often with electricity and water hookups, and are quiet enough outside of peak season for guests seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. Titisee and Schluchsee These lakes are among the most visited destinations in the region, which is clearly reflected in the occupancy rates of the surrounding campsites between July and August. Those traveling by campervan will find the Black Forest High Road to be one of the most scenic panoramic routes in the region. Afterwards, one can embark on a beautiful journey through the Alpine foothills and Camping in Veneto looking forward.
Lake Constance and the Alpine foothills as a natural stopover
Leaving the Black Forest from the south, you quickly reach Lake Constance. Europe's third-largest inland lake offers campsites with direct lake access on the German, Austrian, and Swiss sides. The climate is milder than in the Black Forest, and the growing season is noticeably longer.
From there, the route continues into the Austrian Alps. Campsites in these locations are mostly geared towards mountain hikers, with access to via ferratas, mountain huts, and cycle paths. The infrastructure in many places meets German standards, making the region particularly accessible for first-time campers abroad.
Veneto as the end of the southern route
Those wishing to travel further south from the Alps will cross the Brenner Pass into northern Italy, a region that appeals to Black Forest campers from a completely different perspective. Camping in Veneto combines mountain scenery, lakes, and coastline in a compact area. Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009, offer marked hiking trails through alpine landscapes similar to the Black Forest, but on a different scale: peaks over 3.000 meters, via ferratas with varying levels of difficulty and extensive high plateaus characterize the landscape.
The Adriatic coast around Jesolo and Bibione has developed into one of Italy's most densely populated camping areas. Sites there often boast direct beach access and electrical hookups that meet European standards. The season runs from May to September, with peak occupancy in July and August. Those seeking a bit more peace and quiet should travel in the shoulder seasons, when they will also find more flexibility in choosing a campsite.
For those planning a detailed route from southern Germany to the Mediterranean: The stages can easily be divided into sections of two to three days, depending on how much time is allocated to each stop. The Black Forest and Veneto are just under 700 kilometers apart, which can be comfortably covered in two days of driving at a relaxed pace. However, those who plan more time along the way can turn the southern route into a multi-week camping holiday with very different landscapes. From the cool Black Forest valleys to the warm Adriatic coast, the climate, vegetation, and camping culture change so dramatically that the individual stops hardly feel like parts of the same trip.
