Where to go wild camping: The best spots in Europe

The scenic routes of Sognefjellet and Valdresflye wind through snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, majestic glaciers, and shimmering lakes. Travellers can park their campervans along Route 55 between Skjolden and Lom, and spend the night under the northern sky. The visitor information at the entrance of Jotunheimen National Park, near Lillehammer, provides all you need for a safe bivouac and offers the perfect starting point for tranquil hikes.

Dalarna is a haven for nature enthusiasts. In Sweden, the right of public access— allemansrätten—is protected by law, allowing you to camp on most unfenced land. Let yourself be enchanted by Lake Siljan, viewed from the Vidablick observatory, before spending the night on the island of Sollerön. For the more adventurous, a trek around the lake awaits, where idyllic landscapes blend with quaint villages like Gammelgård, embodying the essence and culture of Dalarna.

For the best bivouac spots in the Pyrenees, head to the lakes. Check out Lake Orédon in the Néouvielle massif or Lake Bouillouses in Cerdagne. Just park your vehicle in a designated area, grab your tent, and set off on foot. Along the GR 10 trail, which stretches from Hendaye to Banyuls, bivouacking is allowed between 7 p.m. and 9 a.m., as long as you’re away from roads and buildings.

Across the border, the rules are quite similar. In all natural parks, you’re allowed to spend the night in many areas, some even equipped for campers. In the province of Huesca, Ordesa and Monte Perdido Natural Park is famous for its spectacular landscapes, impressive gorges, and towering peaks. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers an exceptional backdrop for wild camping. Bivouacking is permitted in the breathtaking Añisclo canyon and in the Benasque valley, just a few kilometres north of the Ventamillo gorge.

Under the Land Reform Act of 2003, campers are free to set up on most uncultivated land. With its breathtaking routes and untamed moors, Scotland is a camper’s paradise. Park your campervan for a night in nature at Trossachs and Loch Lomond National Park, just north of Glasgow, or on the Isle of Skye. From Dunvegan Castle to Kilt Rock, the largest island in the Hebrides offers an ideal setting for a wild, off-the-grid road trip.

In recent months, “wild” overnight stays in campervans have been permitted on Portugal’s roads. Discover the stunning beaches of the Algarve by visiting Faro and its Ria Formosa Natural Park, Lagos and the Ponta da Piedade, and the iconic Cape São Vicente. Unearth hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and golden sands while discreetly camping in natural spots, respecting nature, and local rules.

What are the rules for bivouacking? Where can you pitch a tent? These questions often come up when looking for a wild camping spot. The practice is generally defined—and tolerated—under certain conditions: