GPS:
56.372252 20.995278
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BALTIC CAMPSITES -
INTERACTIVE
MAP: The interactive map (right) gives the outline location of all 92 campsites used by us during our summer 2018 travels around the Baltic Each campsite links to the chart below which gives details of:
Comments given relate purely to the dates of our stay, often the peak holiday season. Prices per night cover camper pitch, 2 adults and electricity, and are quoted in the local currency, mainly €s Campsites have been rated on a scale
+5
(excellent)
through to
-5 (dreadful)
|
|
Awarded Trip's Best Campsites accolade, rated at +5 |
Highly commended, awarded +4 rating |
NOT recommended: poor hospitality, poor value, or poor facilities |
|
SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
NORTHERN GERMANY |
|||||
Campingplatz Schönböcken, Lübeck |
Steinrader Damm 12, Lübeck-Schönböcken +49 451 893090 GPS: 53.869538 10.630951 |
22~23 April and 21 Sept
|
€23 (inc shower tokens) |
Superbly welcoming, family-run site, convenient to junction 23 of
A1 autobahn; bus outside camp 15 minutes in/from Lübeck Old Town Welcome: smilingly charming welcome at reception, always helpful with info, city map and bus details Setting: large, sloping camping area divided into bays, with grassy pitches, alongside crowded central caravan space and separate tent area; some tree shade but noise from nearby motorway Facilities: high standard WC/showers (tokens from reception; wash-up, washing/drying machine (extra), site-wide wi-fi; bread and beer at reception; supermarket at Citti Park 2kms by motorway exit Price: €23 (inc shower tokens) Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Camp Börgerende, near Rostock |
On coast near to Bad Doberan west of Rostock +49 38 203 81126 GPS: 54.152564 11.899856 |
24 April and 20 Sept |
€27/€34 |
Inhospitable, extortionately expensive, mammoth holiday-camp with
100s of formally laid-out pitches but little impression of nearby Baltic
coastline; Welcome: offensively condescending, surly and ill-mannered staff at reception Setting: tarmac stellplatz for over-nighters by holiday-camp reception; mammoth holiday-camp is out of sight beyond gates Facilities: ultra-modern facilities, but irritating musac accompaniment! Price: outrageously over-expensive at €27 (€34 high season!) upwards |
-5
|
*** WORST CAMPSITE OF TRIP
*** |
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Sund Camping, Altefähr, Rügen Island |
SW coast of Rügen Island, at Altefähr opposite
Stralsund +49 38 306 75483 GPS: 54.332466 13.119843 |
25 April | €20.40 |
Small, family-run site on Rügen; 5 min walk from site
down to Altefähr quay for ferry across sound
to Hanseatic City of Stralsund, but ferry only begins in May Welcome: in April, reception has limited hours; lift barrier with electric push-switch; very taciturn owner books you in Setting: trees bordering site give shelter from wind, but make site dark and gloomy; long, narrow site divided into bays, but largely monopolised now by statics leaving little space for visitors only at far end; grounds tends to be muddy in wet weather Facilities: main block at reception clean but rather old-fashioned, WC/showers and wash-up; 2nd set of more modern WC/showers in hut half-way along site but unheated; outside wash-ups but limited hot water; no wi-fi Price: low season price €20.40, inc local tourist tax |
+3 <Map> |
Krüger Naturcamp, Krüger National Park, Rügen Island |
Next to Krüger National Park in North Rügen +49 38 302 9244 GPS: 54.569574 13.609254 |
26 April |
€21 inc shower tokens |
Rural site 2kms from Krüger
National Park parking area for walk to Königsstuhl chalk cliffs; a
pleasant site spoilt by incomplete and randomly scattered facilities Welcome: pleasant welcome from owner at reception, but little English spoken Setting: Camping areas spread over large area with many beech trees for shade Facilities: several sets of facilities buildings, some antiquated, others modern and clean; but scattered over campsite, with WC/showers separated from wash-ups by some 600m; all very random Price: €21 low season price inc shower tokens NB only in low season, in summer would be very crowded |
+2 <Map> |
Campingplatz Waldcamp, Freest |
Dorstrasse 74, 17440 Freest +49 38 370 20538 +49 174 946 6781 GPS: 54.139208 13.717214 |
27 April |
€22.50 |
A large but welcoming site
looking out over estuary to coast of Usedom Welcome: Friendly and helpful welcome from lady owner Setting: large, open pitches laid out in grid plan, overlooking estuary and distant coast of Usedom Facilities: modern, clean WC/showers and wash-up; washing/drying machines (extra); inc wi-fi at reception Price: €22.50 Convenient for visit to Peenemünde German WW2 secret rocket research station on Usedom Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Naturcamp, Lassan |
Garthof 5-6, 17440 Lassan +49 38 374 559951 GPS: 53.947535 13.856377 |
28 April |
€14 |
Welcoming and good value small site
close to Polish border; ideal as overnight staging camp Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from fluently English-speaking lady owner Setting: camping areas full of statics; good value stellplatz close to reception, grassy and shaded by trees; site in attractive village of Lassan Facilities: clean, modern WC/showers and wash-up; site-wide wi-fi free for 1 hour per day Price: excellent value at €14 for overnight stellplatz stay Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
NORTHERN POLAND |
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SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Camping Marina, Szczecin |
ul Przestrzenna 23, 70-800 Szczecin +48 91 460 1157 GPS: 53.395266 14.636622 |
29~30 April 1 May |
71 zł inc camping card (CC) discount |
A consistently excellent campsite in all respects and
very good value Welcome: helpful and hospitable welcome from English-speaking staff (both on telephone and in person) - city plan and bus/tram details, all well thought-out Setting: large grassy camping area with un-marked pitches, set in parkland with large trees for shade and beautifully tended flower-gardens, alongside marina on Lake Dąbie Facilities: excellent facilities, bar-restaurant on site selling morning bread, full strength wi-fi network covering whole site, camp-fire circle with chopped fire wood; supermarket at Dąbie 2kms Price: 71 zł for small camper inc camping card discount |
+5 <Map> |
Międzyzdroje Camping, Międzyzdroje |
ul Polna 36, 72-500 Międzyzdroje +48 91 328 0275 +48 535 777258 GPS: 53.921982 14.435574 |
2 May |
70
zł inc 10% CC discount |
A straightforward but thoroughly good,
welcoming municipal site which does its job very well,
in the old-fashioned sea-side town of Międzyzdroje;
be sure to enjoy fish and chips from stalls along sea-front and walk
out along Baltic pier Welcome: you could not ask for a more kindly and helpful welcoming hospitality from the ebullient warden, who chatters away in pigeon-German, yet manages to make his meaning clear! Such delightfully old-fashioned courtesy Setting: large open site in outskirts of town (600m from sea-front prom) set alongside attractive woodland Facilities: several WC/showers and wash-up buildings scattered around site, rather old-fashioned but perfectly clean; washing/drying machine (extra); site-wide inc wi-fi; bar at reception; Netto supermarket 300m Price: 70 zł inc 10% CC discount Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Camping Leśny, Łeba |
Brzozowa 16A, 84-360 Łeba +48 598 662811 GPS: 54.762181 17.566173 |
3 May |
70 zł inc CC discount |
Everything you could want from a campsite, which does
its job consistently well: hospitable welcome, lovely setting,
superb facilities and good value price Welcome: helpful and hospitable welcome from German-speaking owners Setting: tree-shaded camping area with ample power supplies, just 10 mins walk from town centre shops and fishing port Facilities: modern and clean facilities with instant hot water, washing/drying machine (extra), water-filling point, free wi-fi internet covering whole campsite Price: 70 zł inc 10% CC discount Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Camping Stogi, Gdánsk |
Ul Wydmy 9, Stogi, 80-656 Gdánsk +48 583 073915 |
4~5 May
|
76 zł inc CC discount |
Much improved since our 2011 stay, perhaps due to
competition from neighbouring site; probably best site available at
Gdansk with nearby #8 tram convenient for city visits Welcome: helpful reception with city plans and details of trams and tickets Setting: set in eastern suburbs of city at Stogi Beach, with tarmaced and grassed pitched in extensive camping areas but crowded with statics and camping-cars Facilities: new facilities building since 2011 with modern, clean WC/showers; outside wash-ups but no kitchen; site-wide but weak wi-fi; Lidl supermarket 1.5kms in Stogi; #8 tram terminus 500m away for 20 min ride into Old Town; Price: 70 zł inc 10% CC discount Gdansk shipyards of historic significance for recent Polish history |
+3 <Map> |
Camping Piaski, Wiślana sandspit |
Piaski village at eastern end of Wiślana
sandspit
+48 552 476113 |
6~7 May |
54 zł |
Welcoming and straightforward little site in beautiful setting on Wislana
Sandspit at Piaski 4kms from Russian-Kaliningrad border; settings don't come better than
this, looking out across Wislana Lagoon with frogs singing in marshes and air
scented by wild roses, a little
bit of heaven on earth, to be enjoyed while it lasts Welcome: hospitable welcome from German-speaking owner, now seems on his own since we were last here, and getting very elderly Setting: now rather run-down; perhaps if we ever return, Piaski Camping would either be closed or changed from its present charmingly straightforward character Facilities: facilities basic but functional; shops and bars in village Price: excellent value at 54 zł Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Elbląg Camping, Elbląg |
ulPanieński, 82-300 Elbląg +48 556 418866 GPS: N-54.153566 E-19.393963 |
8 May
|
50 zł inc CC discount |
Jewel of a small site with very obliging owners; everything you
could need, but crowded with German tourists even in May and Sept; be
sure to see inclined planes on Elbląg Canal Welcome: delightfully welcoming hospitality with information on canal boat trips and town map Setting: set on banks of River Elbląg, 500m from old centre and canal boat anchorage, a green oasis with shady trees in industrial area of town Facilities: facilities limited in number but modern and clean with fully equipped kitchen/wash-up; washing/drying machine (extra), free wi-fi (limited range) Price: excellent value at 50 zł inc CC discount Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Zajazd (Inn) Jurand Gołdap |
ul Stadionowo 3, 19-500 Gołdap +48 876 154935 GPS: 54.314025 22.330449 |
9 May |
80 zł |
Obligingly helpful owner recalled our 2011 stay
camping in inn garden, and happily allowed us to camp again Welcome: helpful and obligingly helpful welcome from ebullient owner at Inn-restaurant Setting: camping in beautifully turfed garden alongside inn with power supply nearby Facilities: WC-shower in ground-floor room of inn and wash-up in kitchen; bar-restaurant, camp-fire circle in garden; free wi-fi network Price: 80 zł or €20 |
+4 <Map> |
LITHUANIA |
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SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Camping Pušelė, Vištytis, SW Lithuania |
Žirgėnų k, 70345 Viikaviškio +370 342 47555 +370 611 51121 GPS: N-54.427820 E-22.749071 |
10 May | €18 |
Beautiful location on eastern shore of Lake Vištytis
looking across lake towards closed border of Russian Oblast of
Kaliningrad; but only early or late season when place empty; in
summer would be heaving with holiday-makers Welcome: met at reception by owner in car; some English but sullen non-welcome Setting: magnificent lake-side setting looking westwards over lake into setting sun towards Russian territory Facilities: facilities semi-closed, but functional WC/showers; no wash-ups or wi-fi Price: charged €18 early season price; would be unduly expensive in summer |
+3 <Map> |
Camping Medaus slėnis, Jurbarkas, Southern Lithuania |
Raseinių g.19, Jurbarkas +370 640 32128 GPS: 55.091115 22.961046 |
11~12 May |
€14 |
Exceptional campsite kept by Mr Ovidijus Jasinskas,
thatcher and bee keeper
hence name of site Honey Valley in Nemunas River valley Welcome: thoroughly hospitable welcome from Mr Jasinskas and family, who will offer tasting of his blossom-honeys to buy, and in Sept take you picking wild mushrooms in woodlands Setting: beautifully turfed flat camping area (open sunny or shade of trees) carved out of surrounding birch~pine forest on side of Nemunas Valley, all created by Mr Jasinskas over years of work Facilities: facilities modern and clean in thatched house with common room, all built from local natural materials; free wi-fi covering site Price: exceptional value at €14 Campsite web site |
+5++ <Map> |
**
JOINT
BEST CAMPSITE OF THE TRIP ** |
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Camping Ventainė, Ventės ragas, Nemunas Delta |
99361 Ventė, Šilutė +370 441 68525 GPS: 55.356015 21.205086 |
13 May |
€20 |
Second rate unwelcoming, over-expensive site, with
poor facilities, but wonderful setting in Nemunas Delta Regional Park near to Šilutė Welcome: perfunctory and unhelpful reception from young staff Setting: wonderful setting towards tip of Ventės ragas peninsula overlooking Curonian Lagoon with fantastic sunsets across lagoon, but weather can be bleak with cold wind blowing across lagoon; avoid summer weekends when site overwhelmed by wind-surfers, day-trippers and boaters Facilities: facilities inadequate and easily overwhelmed, often sandy and dirty; bar-restaurant on site; wi-fi from restaurant extends to camping; nearest shop 2 kms at lighthouse Price: unduly expensive at €20, and that's low season price! |
+2
|
Drevanos Camping, Drevanos |
Pamario g 14, 96240 Drevanos, +370 604 80108 GPS: 55.517523 21.235956 |
13 May | €10 |
New site and marina on NE shore of
Curonian Lagoon established in 2017 and facilities still under
construction; will be better when completed; ok early season but
inevitably crowded in summer with yachting types Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from staff at reception Setting: marina, campsite and huts complex set alongside canalised exit from lagoon; lovely setting looking over lagoon-side reeds towards Curonian Sandspit; 22 camping pitches strung out alongside creek beyond marina; but no shade from hot sun, and site still partially a building site with heavy trucks raising clouds of dust alongside pitches; site open to public access with all and sundry walking past Facilities: limited WC/shower facilities, but still being built, no kitchen or wash-up, and wi-fi not working Price: negotiated reduced price of €10 early season and limited facilities; normal price €21 |
+2
|
Nidos Camping, Nida on Curonian sandspit |
Taikos 45, 93121 Neringa, Nidos +370 GPS: 55.298333 20.982222 |
15~16 May |
€19 inc 5% CC discount |
An average campsite in good location with camping
monopoly on Neringa Sandspit; car-ferry from Klaipėda, 35 kms south along spit at Nida village by
Russian border Welcome: friendly and helpful welcome from staff with plenty of available information/maps Setting: set among pine woods on Neringa Sandspit 2kms from Nida village, 600m from Parnidis Dunes and 4kms from Russian border Facilities: WC/showers and kitchen-wash-ups modern and clean, inc wi-fi; bar-restaurant on site, but Maxima supermarket in Nida along with ATM and TIC with free internet access Price: €19 early season price inc 5% CC discount |
+3 <Map> |
Camping Pajūrio, Klaipėda |
Šlaito gatvė 3, Klaipėda
|
17~19 May |
€16 inc CC discount |
Well-appointed campsite set in beautiful pine woods 4 kms north of city Welcome: pleasantly helpful and friendly welcome from English-speaking staff; information pack prepared for city visitors - city map annotated with bus stops, bus and ticket details, and wi-fi password Setting: tarmac drive to parking bays with grassed sitting area among shaded pine woods, air redolent with scent of pines; only downside is proximity to railway line with frequently passing heavy freight trains Facilities: first class facilities modern and clean, well-equipped kitchen/wash-ups, washing/drying machines (€3 each); inc wi-fi; camp-fire circle; no shops, Iki supermarket 3 kms; #4 buses for city 500m down by beach car park, buy tickets on bus €1 each Price: good value €16 early season price inc CC discount Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Kaunas Camping Inn, Kaunas |
Raudondvario pl 161A, 47168 Kaunas +370602 33444 GPS: 54.934243 23.917776 |
20~21 May |
€22 |
A welcoming but rather expensive site in green
setting on banks of Nemunas River in SW outskirts of second city
Kaunas; opened in 2013; a good site despite traffic noise with
excellent facilities, and frequent public transport service
into city; immeasurably better than Kaunas City Camping Welcome: helpful welcome from staff, with details of trolley-bus services (#7 or 11 from nearby Gervių gatvė bus stop) and city maps Setting: tree-shaded, pleasantly laid-out and grassy camping area on banks of Nemunas River, just off A% in SW suburbs of Kaunas. But overwhelmed with traffic noise from neighbouring highways Facilities: first class modern WC/showers and well-equipped kitchen/wash-up, kept constantly and spotlessly clean by hard-working cleaning lady; site-wide inc wi-fi with strong signal; water filling hose; minimarket across across main road Price: slightly expensive by Lithuanian standards at €22 inc tourist tax; no CC discount Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Antano Gedvilo Sodyba-Camping, Trakai |
Jovariškių k, 21001 Trakai +370 652 42150 +370 685 59630 GPS: 54.656268 24.880978 |
22~23 May | €15 |
A welcoming agrotourist farmstead (Sodyba)
offering accommodation, camping, and school children's holiday
weeks; a lovely rural setting and wholly better alternative for
visiting Trakai than the over-expensive, overcrowded totally
unacceptable Trakai Camping. But rather spoilt by the noise of
school children staying in accommodation for holiday week Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from English-speaking owner, Regina Gedvilience, who responded readily to email enquiry Setting: delightful small camping area among apple trees of lawned orchard, with power supplies Facilities: limited to WC/shower in guest accommodation; NO wi-fi, kitchen/wash-up or washing/drying machine Price: good value at €15 |
+3 <Map> |
Druskininkai Camping, Druskininkai |
Gardino 3, 66204 Druskininkai +370 313 60800 GPS: 54.009111 23.977528 |
24~25 May
|
€17.30 inc 10% CC discount |
Western European style layout campsite, in southern
outskirts of spa town of Druskininkai; Soviet era statue park museum at
nearby Grūtas worth a visit Welcome: pleasant welcome from reception staff speaking only limited English Setting: long linear site (former railway station) set alongside pine forest with formally laid-out, reinforced grass hedge-divided pitches Facilities: WC/showers now rather care-worn with dated rather, institutional air, not modernised since our 2010 stay; well-equipped kitchen/wash-up inc microwave; inc wi-fi at reception; good value bar-restaurant on site Price: €17.30 inc 10% CC discount Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Djūkija National
Park wild camp, Marcinkonys |
Djūkija National Park Centre at Marcinkonys Miškininkų g 61, Marcinkonys 65156 GPS: 54.061358 24.397934 |
26 May | Magnificent peaceful woodland pull-in in pine forest clearing behind Djūkija National Park Centre at Marcinkonys village, with access to public clean dry privvies, but no water supply |
+4 <Map> |
|
Bona Camping, Čižiūnai |
Čižiūnų g 36A, Čižiūnai +370 686 59932 54.369056 24.832179 |
27~28 May | €16 |
A newly established, hospitable and peaceful
family-run small site, but still very basic with good but limited
facilities; almost scarcely viable as campsite, but if you accept
limitations, then really hospitable family, and peaceful site with
air full of bird song and many flies; we had a good stay! Welcome: curiously anonymous access on arrival at seemingly closed gates, with no information on how to reach reception or camping area; you need to cross flimsy-looking, narrow bridge and drive on to reach family house; they seemed unaware of need to welcome guests with signs or information; had to telephone to ask about access; English-speaking daughter responded, but welcomed by non-English-speaking older mother who showed us round, switched on facilities, as if we were first guests to arrive there; in fact despite all this, family were genuinely hospitable, and even gave us bottle of home-made schnapps as a gift Setting: camping area only partly laid-out in rough, uneven un-mown grassy meadow with limited shade from birch trees; long mown grass everywhere attracting flies; limited power supplies for around 12 pitches; although very basic, a peaceful, rustic setting Facilities: very limited - 1 male, 1 female WC/shower; small but well-equipped, modern, clean kitchenette; alleged wi-fi did not reach camping area; if all pitches occupied, facilities would be totally inadequate Price: €16 |
+3
|
Harmonie Camping, Rūdiškės |
21177 Rūdiškės +370 528 59291 +370 614 21560 GPS: 54.507556 24.889733 |
29~31 July |
€20 |
One of the finest campsites ever used in all our
years of camping, in terms of personal welcome, wonderful setting
and standard of facilities;
Harmonie Camping is a little piece of paradise, truly meriting its name;
campsites simply do not come better than this Welcome: the enigmatically bluff but very hospitable ex-pat Dutchman Mr Wim Braun welcomes you personally and shows you round Setting: camp is set deep in pine forests 3kms south of Rūdiškės village, in landscaped pine forest clearing, the result of years of hard work in clearing the ground and planting with shrubs and carved wooden features - totally idyllic Facilities: first class, spotlessly clean WC/showers; washing/drying machine (extra); lovely common room in wooden chalet; wi-fi but limited range in common room; Mr Braun will drive you to and from Rūdiškės railway station for train into Vilnius as part of service to his guests Price: €20 Campsite web site |
+5++ <Map> |
**
JOINT
BEST CAMPSITE OF THE TRIP ** |
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Po Žvaigždėm Camping, Anykščiai |
Kranto g, Anykščiai +370 614 33826 GPS: 55.519333 25.089611 |
1 June | €22 |
Po Žvaigždėm (meaning Under the Stars) is small
municipal site in provincial town of Anykščiai Staff at TIC in Anykščiai
are superbly helpful Welcome: friendly and helpful welcome from young warden in quaintly formal English Setting: camping area spread along banks of small river in residential suburbs of Anykščiai Facilities: modern clean WC/showers and good kitchen/wash-up, all kept regularly cleaned Price: €22 |
+3 <Map> |
Arvydas Gaidelis Homestead-Camping, Palūšė |
Lūšių g 30203 Palūšė +370 698 22056 55.325679 26.097509 |
2~4 June |
€13 |
Small and very hospitable
guest-house/camping among pine woods at
Palūšė village in
Aukštaitija National Park; made totally welcome and a thoroughly
good stay; Aukštaitija National Park close by with lakes, eskers and
hill-forts, and good walking: National Park information Office for
maps in
Palūšė
Palūšė Camping behind village church is now closed, future uncertain Welcome: supremely helpful and hospitable welcome from German/Russian speaking Lithuanian owner Arvydas Gaidelis and his English-speaking son; positive and immediate response to initial email enquiry Setting: family house in Palūšė village being converted to guest-house accommodation; camping space with power alongside house, under tall pine trees; delightful, peaceful setting apart from some traffic noise from nearby main road; completion of guest-house conversion may result in less privacy for camping Facilities: full facilities available in house: bathroom/WC/shower and fully equipped kitchen; washing machine; wi-fi Price: €13 Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Zarasai Camping, Zarasai |
Kauno gatvė
67, Zarasai +370 620 93432 GPS: 55.718336 26.222347 |
5~6 June | €17 |
An altogether delightful small and wonderfully straightforward
municipal site at unpretentious town of
Zarasai in unvisited NW
corner of Lithuania far from the 'tourist spots',
close to Latvian border Welcome: smilingly friendly welcome from friendly and helpful wardens couple, but limited English Setting: set on beautifully levelled, grassy terraces above Lake Zarasai with some trees for shade, close to pleasant town of Zarasai; in summer worth pitching in small tree-lined enclosure in far corner of lower terrace for shade Facilities: facilities modern and clean, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up and common room; camp-fire circle with carved wooden benches; don't miss path down to lake shore with natural fresh-water spring and wonderful sunsets across lake Price: good value at €17 Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Sudeikiai Camping, Utena |
Anykščių g 22, 28248 Sudeiklai, Utena +370 389 34332 GPS: 55.586056 25.680583 |
7 June | €16 |
Lakeside
resort and municipal
campsite camping near to Lake Alaušas at village of Sudeiklai, 15 kms NE of Utena,
generally peaceful unless you coincide with an event Welcome: reception locked but young warden came round for payment, but kitchen/wash-up locked; had to phone and wait for someone to attend and unlock it Setting: lakeside holiday-camp with several gravelled pitches, little tree shade Facilities: facilities modern and adequate, similarly designed to Zarasai but not up to same standard Price: good value at €16 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Biržai Camping, Biržai |
Basanavičiaus g. 69 A 41164 Biržai +370 608 67202 +370 618 89776 GPS: 56.211283 24.772972 |
8~10 June |
€15 |
Delightful small lakeside and very hospitable newly established municipal site on northern
side of Biržai; an interesting historic town with brewing tradition; be sure to
visit
Rinkuškiai Brewery for their quality beers; Karst
limestone country with many sink-holes, particularly the Cow Hole; Biržai
Regional Park Information Office good source of information Welcome: enthusiastically helpful welcome from ebullient and English-speaking young warden Setting: set in northern outskirts of Biržai overlooking Lake Šivėna (lovely sunsets); small camping areas, either in shade of beautiful grove of mature oak trees, or in full sun; tends to be busy summer weekends; football match in neighbouring stadium Friday evenings Facilities: limited in number but brand new and ultra-clean WC/showers, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc wi-fi at reception Price: excellent value at €15 Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Pajiesmenai Camping |
Sodo street 3 Pajiesmenai LT-39449 +370 603 29485 GPS: 56.10850 24.48450 |
|
€15 |
Small village-site in garden of owners' house in NW Lithuania,
1.2kms from E10 Via Baltica to Latvian border We have not stayed there, but good reports from Barry and Margaret Williamson (Magbaz Travels) Campsite web site |
<Map> |
Gražina Guesthouse-Camping, Šiauliai |
Masiuliskiu gatvė 1, 76116 Šiauliai +370 413 99970 +370 699 38735 GPS: 55.971944 23.328056 |
11~13 June |
€18 |
Small family-run site in gardens behind guest-house in northern
outskirts of industrial city of Šiauliai. Don't miss the Hill of Crosses north
of Šiauliai Welcome: friendly and hospitable welcome from the Jocai family, the very epitome of kindness and homely hospitality Setting: set in gardens behind guesthouse; 2 camping areas, one under heavy shade of trees, other in large open grassy area overlooking family's smallholding and vegetable gardens; mother brings fruit and vegetables from their garden, daughter Gražina runs guest-house/camping Facilities: facilities clean and modern; washing/drying machine (extra), inc wi-fi but limited area around house; superb value with homely hospitality. Price: good value at €18 Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Camping Paežerė, Paplatelė, Žemaitija National Park |
Paplatelė village on eastern shore of Lake Plateliai +370 652 83991 GPS: 56.050392 21.882501 |
14-15 June | €16 |
Basic site on eastern shore of Lake Plateliai; only campsite in Žemaitija,
National Park: be sure to visit Soviet Cold
War missile silo site at Plokštinė Welcome: site kept by German/Lithuanian-speaking elderly couple who meet you at gate to extract payment Setting: pleasant setting among pine woods on eastern shore of Lake Plateliai, but in summer filled with rowdy holiday-makers playing car radios from dawn to midnight at excessive volume, making any chance of a pleasant stay impossible Facilities: primitive facilities limited to 2 earth privies, power and bottled water Price: pleasant location but poor value at €16 |
+1 <Map> |
LATVIA | |||||
SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Ergļi Camping, Bernāti near Liepāja |
3471 Bernāti
+371
29295337
GPS: 56.372252 20.995278 |
16~17 June |
€15 |
A hospitably welcoming family-run and peaceful farm camp on
Latvian Baltic coast 50kms north of Lithuanian border and 15kms south of
Liepāja; Latvian Baltic coastal wild beaches
1.5kms in Bernāti
village: campsites do not come better than this,
setting perfect standard of hospitality which others could well follow; Ergļi
in Latvian means Eagle Welcome: genuine hospitable welcome from son of family speaking in fluent English; enterprising family have developed farmstead of camping and accommodation over 15 years, converting old barns to cottages, and thoughtfully laying out campsite; we were presented with dish of freshly picked strawberries from garden as a welcome; hospitality does not come better than this Setting: 2 lawned garden camping areas both with power; large open area with little shade, other smaller more tree-shaded area in orchard; delightful setting with scent of flowers and birdsong Facilities: excellent modern WC/showers regularly cleaned, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; washing/drying machine (€2) wi-fi close to house Price: excellent value at €15 Campsite web site |
+5++
|
**
JOINT
BEST CAMPSITE OF THE TRIP ** |
|||||
Vīnrozes Camping, Liepāja |
Vīnrozes 2, Durbes, 3440 Liepāja +371 292 55854 GPS: 56.618332 21.377501 |
18 June | €20 |
A pretentious, mediocre and unwelcoming lakeside site, expensive
with very limited facilities Welcome: surely, ill-gracious non-welcome from elderly gent; when owner eventually appeared, she simply showed take-it-or-leave-it attitude Setting: limited lakeside pitches, plus larger camping area in sports field alongside huts, with limited power Facilities: totally inadequate facilities, limited to 2 WC/showers, with just an impractical trough-sink (uncovered and exposed to weather) doubling as wash hand-basin and wash-up sink with total lack of work surfaces; paper towel holders and soap dispensers remained unfilled, but tubs of potted plants well-tended! alleged wi-fi non-functioning Price: poor value at €20 with no CC discount |
+1 <Map> |
Nabīte Camping, Kuldīga |
3321 Kuldīga +371 294 58904 GPS: 57.075614 21.813321 |
19 June |
€18 |
Lakeside site just off Route
P108 15kms NW of Kuldīga; OK mid-week, but avoid mid-summer week-ends when
site taken over by noisy parties Welcome: essential to telephone in advance; lady owner welcoming but speaks little English Setting: unsigned and difficult to locate, 2.5kms along narrow, sandy forest track from main P108 road (access at 57.078876 21.787150); when you do eventually arrive, you emerge from dark forest into Lost World open flat lawned terrace overlooking Lake Nabīte, a spectacular setting Facilities: WC/showers not particularly clean with luke warm water; poorly equipped kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi but limited to reception Price: poor value at €18 |
+2 <Map> |
Piejūras Camping, Ventspils |
Vasarnīcu g 56,
3601 Ventspils
+371 63627925 GPS: 57.383817 21.537279 |
20 June |
€23.50 inc CC discount |
An unkempt, over-large, over-crowded, over-expensive seaside
holiday-camp in southern outskirts of Ventspils; Ventspils industrial port now
run down, but worth exploring: take Hercogs-Jēkabs
ferry-boat around harbour to see dockland and oil terminal Welcome: perfunctory non-welcome from young reception staff; city maps, bus details, weather forecast, supermarket location available Setting: enormous seaside holiday-making site set by pine-fringed Baltic coast, marked out large pitches open sunny or shaded by pines, but overwhelmed with camping-car tourists and convoys of German mega-buses; a noisy and unkempt place, and thoroughly unpleasant environment Facilities: limited and care-worn facilities certainly not matching standards expected for a €25/night campsite! WCs grubby and uncleaned, showers lacked any privacy, 2 wash-up sinks inevitably meant queues; wi-fi limited to reception Price: normal price an outrageous €25; managed to extract a begrudgingly CC discount to give €23.50 |
+1 <Map> |
Zaķi Camping,
Jurkalne |
Zaķi,
3626 Jurkalne +371 264 52767 GPS: 57.032385 21.401001 |
21 June | €18 |
A straightforward, but delightfully peaceful and welcoming little
beach-side site by sand-cliffs on Kurzeme West Latvian coast near to Jurkalne village; Jurkalne traditional Midsummer
Festival on night of 21 June, with Latvian singing and dancing, and rolling of
flaming Catherine Wheel down sand-cliffs into Baltic sea Welcome: friendly and helpful welcome from English-speaking girl at reception; also helpful response to telephone enquiry Setting: set immediately behind beach-side 20m high coastal bluffs sand-cliffs; 2 camping areas both with power - 1 closer to beach but open, exposed to wind, and without trees for shade; inner area shaded by pines within circle of huts Facilities: straightforward but clean and functional WC/showers; wash-up sink with hot water Price: €18 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Miķeļbāka Camping, Miķeļtornis |
3601 Miķeļtornis +371 278 84438 GPS: 57.597249 21.964631 |
22 June |
€15 |
Small and friendly site amid coastal pinewoods at Miķeļtornis village
on North Kurzeme Baltic coast off Route P124 Welcome: pleasant and hospitable welcome from youngsters at reception Setting: lovely setting among pine woods of Baltic coastline close to Miķeļtornis village and lighthouse, approached along 2kms of dirt road from P124; large open camping area with some tree shade and surrounded by huts Facilities: basic facilities with warm water in showers and WHBs; local water brown and peaty but clean - don't be put off! Small bar-terrace with free wi-fi Price: €15 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Pie Andra Pitraga Camping, Pitrags |
Pitrags, 3275 Kolka +371 26493087 GPS: 57.700365 22.388443 |
23~24 June |
€12 |
Small homestead at Pitrags village with huts and straightforward
camping area to rear of house and gardens Welcome: limited English spoken but made to feel welcome and shown garden camping area Setting: lovely peaceful setting in garden camping area with trees for shade and camp-fire hearths Facilities: limited to 2 (very smelly!) earth privvies and shower (limited hot water), water stand-pipe but no wash-up or kitchen; phone signal limited, but strong wi-fi from house Price: €12 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Plaucati Camping, Purciems near Kolka |
3279 Purciems +371 264 45124 GPS: 57.581084 22.633209 |
25~26 June | €18 |
A delightful small campsite run by enterprising family and set in
landscaped gardens of their house in coastal village of Purciems Welcome: hospitable welcome from family Setting: 3 lovely close-cropped turf pitches with power and shade of pine trees; huts and tent spaces amid the pines; 350m walk thro' pine woods to beach Facilities: basic and facilities limited to WC and showers, no wash-up; campfire hearths with chopped wood at €1/bundle Price: €18 inc showers |
+4 <Map> |
Saules Camping, Mērsrags |
Bākas iela 28, 3284 Mērsrags +371 277 97555 GPS: 57.357999 23.129455 |
27 June |
€15 |
Small and quiet site on coast of Gulf of Rīga just north of
Mērsrags, convenient for Engures Ezers Nature Park Welcome: friendly welcome from young owner and her noisy young children Setting: open camping area surrounded by well-used huts, but with no shade from any trees; but usable pitches confined to immediate area of facilities hut by limited power supplies, just 2 sockets Facilities: first class, modern, clean WC/showers, well-equipped kitchen/wash-up/common room; inc wi-fi in common room; water-filling hose Price: good value at €15 |
+3 <Map> |
Rīga City Camping |
Kīpsalas iela 8, 1048 Rīga +371 670 65000 +371 670 67519 GPS: 56.956306 24.078388 |
28~30 June |
€18 inc CC discount |
Semi-permanent city-camp set behind exhibition halls on Kīpsala
River Daugava Island, overwhelmed with visitors and poor facilities; confusing
road access but well-signed from River Daugava bridge; walking route into Old
City across Daugava bridge (half hour) Welcome: curt and perfunctory 'processing' by English-speaking reception staff, unhelpful and no supply of city maps Setting: utterly overcrowded main camping area, overwhelmed with convoys of camping-cars over-spilling onto road-ways; small grassy area by entrance, but still over-crowded; very noisy and utterly unpleasant environment Facilities: poor standard facilities, basic and over-stretched WCs in Portakabins; showers at rear of exhibition centre, institutionalised, very steamy from lack of ventilation, and no privacy; outdoor hot water wash-ups; washing/drying machines (extra); water filling hose; Rimi supermarket close to bridge Price: normal price €21, but negotiated CC discount to €18 |
+1 <Map> |
Labirinti Camping, Zorgi, Bauska |
Bērziņi, Zorgi, 3913 Bauska +371 263 20336 GPS: 56.563488 24.168103 |
1~2 July |
€15 |
A hospitable, good value farm-site in delightful garden setting
in Zemgale, Southern Latvia Welcome: genuinely hospitable welcome from enterprising farmer/owner Janis whose son now runs the very successful farm Setting: large camping areas in lovely peaceful gardens behind farm house, with trees, orchard and flower beds; adventure playground for children Facilities: first class, spotlessly clean and homely WC/showers, wash-up/common room, but no cooking facilities; good wi-fi covering area closest to farm house; washing machine (€3) but no dryer Price: excellent value at €15 Campsite web site |
+5++ <Map> |
**
JOINT
BEST CAMPSITE OF THE TRIP ** |
|||||
Sniedzes Camping, Kegums |
5020 Kegums +371 294 25800 +371 265 41285 |
3 July | €18 |
Small site on bank of Daugava River just of Route P85
opposite Ogre;
convenient stop along Daugava Valley;
campsite name in Latvian means
Snow-Bunting Welcome: perfunctory greeting from precocious teenage girl speaking broad Americanese Setting: small and rather neglected site with huts and boat hire, on south bank of Daugava River: 2 camping areas - one open and sunny by river, other shaded by pine woods; both deserted but with plenty of power supplies, and rather overgrown; lovely sunset over river, distant traffic noise from busy A6 on far side of river Facilities: modern, clean WC/showers and well-equipped kitchen/wash-up/common room; washing machine, but no wi-fi Price: €18 |
+3 <Map> |
Ozianna Camping, near
Daugavpils |
Dilevici, Naujenes, 5462 Daugavpils +371 291 82474 GPS: 55.912151 26.797053 |
4 July |
€15 |
Small and hospitable hut/chalet encampment on northern bank of
Daugava River, just east of Daugavpils, a beautiful spot; only known campsite
close to second city Daugavpils Welcome: phone owner (fluently English-speaking) on arrival and he will come in 5 mins to give pleasantly helpful welcome Setting: wonderful location in woodland sloping up from the river bank on northern bank of Daugava overlooking bend in river to forested south bank; limited flat space among pines; small flat terrace alongside common room hut with power supply Facilities: straightforward but functional WC/showers with hot water, kitchen/wash-up/common room; inc wi-fi from router in common room but weak signal Price: good value at €15 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Camping Siveri, Kaziņči,
Latgale |
Kaziņči, 5671 Skaista,
Latgale +371 292 78599 +371 292 58316 GPS: 56.023336 27.399542 |
5 July |
€15 |
Jewel of a small, straightforward site
and very welcoming site, 20 kms north of Krāslava off Route P61,
on shore of Lake Siveri;
welcome and setting could not be bettered Welcome: delightful welcome from German-speaking elderly lady-owner Setting: wonderful setting on shore of Lake Siveri with magnificent sunsets across lake Facilities: straightforward but functional WC/showers with hot water, and small kitchenette/wash-up: wi-fi but weak signal Price: good value at €15 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Jaunsetas Camping, Alūksne |
4301 Alūksne +371 286 50600 GPS: 57.441944 27.053333 |
6~8 July |
€15 |
Campsite attached to lakeside leisure centre and bar-restaurant on shore
of Lake Alūksnes Welcome: helpful response to phone enquiry from fluently English-speaking owner; pleasant and helpful welcome from young staff at bar-restaurant reception; Gulbene~Alūksne preserved narrow gauge railway worth a visit Setting: open, flat camping area with some tree shade Facilities: limited but functional facilities, limited to 2 WC/showers and outdoor wash-hand-basins, but no kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi at bar-restaurant; washing machine but no dryer (extra); Maxima supermarket in Alūksne Price: good value at €15 |
+3 <Map> |
Apaļkalns Camping, Cēsis |
Raiskums, 4146 Cēsis +371 294 48188 GPS: 57.317554 25.148010 |
9~11 and 13 July |
€20 |
A thoroughly well-kept, well-equipped and admirably welcoming
site overlooking Lake Raiskuma near to Raiskums village and Cēsis; Gauja
National Park nearby; one of the finest campsites ever used, but
inevitably attracts hordes of Dutch/German camping-cars Welcome: superbly helpful welcome from laid-back owner, you simply could not ask for more genuine and relaxed hospitality: camp where you like, and help yourself to chopped fire wood for camp-fire; owners must be experienced campers themselves since everything thought of to give their guests a pleasant stay Setting: spread over grassy hill-top plateau overlooking lake 6kms from Cēsis; camping-cars all cluster on formally laid-out pitches by lake, but plenty of open space with power on flat hill top; in hot weather. no trees for shade only downside Facilities: 2 first class and well-equipped facilities buildings, with modern, clean WC/showers, wash-up sinks with piping hot water; kitchen/common room at other building; camp-fire hearths scattered around site with plentiful supply of chopped logs; washing/drying machines (expensive at €9) in much demand, plus covered clothes lines; assured inc site-wide wi-fi; commendable signs banning loud voices and playing of any music; even a compass rose on site plan so you know sun rise/set positions for pitching; small local shop in Raiskums village 500m and supermarkets in Cēsis Price: normally €22, but owner readily offered small camper reduction to €20; excellent value Campsite web site |
+5++ <Map> |
**
JOINT
BEST CAMPSITE OF THE TRIP ** |
|||||
Camping Siguldas Pludmale, Sigulda |
Peldu iela 2, 2150 Sigulda +371 292 44948 GPS: 57.157753 24.837390 |
13 July |
€24 |
An over-expensive, overcrowded site on bank of River Gauja at
Sigulda; noisy, poor value with high prices and grubby overstretched facilities Welcome: perfunctory greeting from young staff at reception Setting: noisy riverside campsite in Gauja National Park 3 kms from Sigulda, attracting large numbers in Gauja National Park; small camping areas on banks of River Gauja, tent area down by river, uneven grassy area with power and tarmaced area above this; very midgy in summer Facilities: facilities hopeless inadequate totally overwhelmed and therefore very grubby despite being cleaned fairly regularly; small kitchen/wash-up; canoe trips down river plus transport back upstream; free wi-fi but range limited to reception Price: outrageously over-expensive at €24 exploiting National Park location, simply not worth it! |
-1 <Map> |
Rakari Camping, Salacgrīva |
Svetciems, 4033 Salacgriva +371 266 64447 GPS: 57.675190 24.372129 |
14~15 July |
€19 |
Pretentious motel-resort on Baltic coast, just off A1 Via Baltica 5 kms south of Salacgrīva
with campsite as afterthought,
close to
Estonian border; convenient staging camp when travelling north or south, but
appalling staff attitudes Welcome: arrogantly indifferent non-welcome from surly staff in motel-reception Setting: formally laid-out line of pitches with lower and water in camping area alongside huts behind motel; large amount of noise from families staying in huts Facilities: just one set of unisex modern, clean facilities, but total lack of privacy with open showers expected to be used by M and F, right next to M urinals; when asked to open second set of WC/showers, churlish staff refused;, eventually managed to obtain a key for shower privacy, but never did get answer to whether they treated their hotel guests in such a contemptuous manner! free wi-fi covering camping area Price: €19 |
+1 <Map> |
ESTONIA | |||||
SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Riisa Rantso Guesthouse- Camping,Riisa, Soomaa National Park |
Riisa küla, Tori, 86815 Pärnu +372 566 94270 GPS: 58.467242 24.986182 |
16 July |
€10 |
Guest-house camping at near hamlet of Riisa in Soomaa National Park, 2 kms from start of Riisa classic bogland board-walk Welcome: helpful response from owner to phone enquiry; she turned up to find us power and arrange access to facilities Setting: camping in orchard by huts with perfect view of storks' nest with growing young on nearby pole-platform Facilities: WC-shower in 1 of huts and kitchen/wash-up; lawns Price: €10 |
+3 <Map> |
Soomaa National Park Visitor Centre Camping, Tõramaa |
Tipu, Soomaa National Park, 71211 Viljandi +372 435 7174 +372 526 1924 GPS: 58.43101 25.030675 |
17 July |
Camping free of charge |
Free of charge camping alongside Soomaa National Park Visitor Centre, Tõramaa,
an exceptional location Welcome: Exceptionally helpful and hospitable welcome from staff at NP Visitor Centre, excellent free maps for NP walks Setting: camping area with power in flat grassy field (soft after rain) or gravelly area next to Centre, wonderful setting looking out across surrounding wetlands and pine~birch forests Facilities: facilities limited to earth privies, taps and power supply, free wi-fi in Visitor Centre; camp-fire circle with chopped logs Price: free of charge National Park web site |
+5 <Map> |
Junsi Puhkekeskkuse (Holiday Centre), Kõpu |
Laane küla,
Kõpu, 71202 Viljandimaa +372 537 37279 GPS: 58.346919 25.266244 |
18 July | €10 |
Small guest-house/conference centre with garden space for
camping, close to
Kõpu on southern side of Soomaa National Park Welcome: place deserted on arrival, but phone owner who arrived by car shortly after; she only spoke a little English, but welcomed us hospitably, and opened up 1 of cottages to give us access to full facilities Setting: lawned garden of guest house with shade of mature trees and power from cottage; we had this lovely setting to ourselves Facilities: homely WC/shower and fully equipped kitchen/wash-up in cottage; no wi-fi; local shop in Kõpu village 2 kms Price: exceptional value at €10 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Vanasauna Guesthouse-Camping, Valma, Lake Vörtsjärv |
Vanasauna, Valma, 70113 Viljandi +372 512 6405 GPS: 58.368135 25.964727 |
19~20 July |
€10 |
Guest-house camping in delightful setting on western shore of
Lake Vörtsjärv at Valma 10 kms east of Viljandi Welcome: hospitable welcome from owner who showed us round, Setting: delightful, second-to-none lake-side camping spot under birches looking out over still waters of Lake Vörtsjärv, with power from nearby hut; wonderful dawn across lake: busy in summer with noise from families staying in huts, but in Sept deserted to enjoy the peace of such a wonderful setting Facilities: homely WC/shower in sauna; kitchen/wash-up in 1 of huts or in owner's house; no wi-fi Price: exceptional value at €10 given magnificent setting Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Kure Turismitalu Külalistemaja (Farm-Guest
House)-Camping, Tartu |
Rahinge village, Kure 4, 61408 Tartu +372 749 4705 +372 504 7412 GPS: 58.406935 26.612073 |
21 July |
€22 |
A quaintly welcoming guest-house with camping in garden at
Rahinge village 6 kms NW of second city Tartu Welcome: lady owner's maladroit attempts at welcoming hospitality (perhaps due to English language limitation) came across as officious, ill-mannered and rule-book bound, and could easily have caused offence Setting: main camping area below guest-house tends to be over-crowded, especially with limited power supplies; but second area in beautifully lawned gardens-orchard above guest-house preferable Facilities: WC/showers in guest-house, and wash-up in guest-house kitchen; inc site-wide wi-fi Price: expensive at €22 |
+3 <Map> |
Waide Motel-Camping, Elva |
Käo küla, 61006
Elva +372 730 3606 GPS: 58.220399 26.369000 |
22 July |
€18 inc CC discount |
A good standard, does-what-it-says-on-the-tin
motel/campsite, alongside busy main A3 road; a worthwhile staging camp on
journey south to Valga Welcome: smilingly friendly and helpful welcome from motel reception Setting: intensive, flat grassy camping area with plentiful power supplies and shaded down one side (am) and other side (pm) by trees; constant traffic noise from adjacent busy main A3 road Facilities: high standard modern, clean WC/showers, wash-up with hot water, washing/drying machines (extra cost) with instructions in English; inc wi-fi at motel reception just reaching nearer camping area; water-filling hose Price: normally €22, but offered CC discount to €18 |
+3 <Map> |
Kalda Tourist Farm -Camping |
Iigaste küla, 68308 Valga +372 767 0512 +372 555 94476 GPS: 57.830220 26.278670 |
23~24 July |
€22 inc CC discount |
An over-expensive and poor value, over-grown, fly-ridden site,
with primitive, care-worn facilities, and ill-mannered owner; campsites don't come
much worse than this! don't believe the
camp's web site - it may have been true once, but place is now long time-expired;
the place allegedly offers Scout/Guide camping! Welcome: curtly ill-mannered greeting from elderly German owner; the place's short-comings soon become evident Setting: over-grown, rough camping area with un-mown grass which in summer attracts swarms of flies, wasps and midges; little shade Facilities: reasonable WC/shower in sauna; no exaggeration to say that so-called kitchen wash-up is simply primitive, with one cold tap and water heated in dixie over industrial burner; despite claims to wi-fi, non-functioning Price: normal price €24, but paid €22 inc CC discount; given short-comings, over-priced and poor value |
-3
|
*** ONE OF TRIP'S WORST
CAMPSITES
*** |
|||||
Aare Majutus (Guest
House)-Camping, Valga |
Kungla 46, 68205 Valga +372 766 1161 +372 528 6446 +372 523 7761 GPS: 57.779912 26.063198 |
25 July |
€15 |
A truly hospitable guest-house in quiet residential suburbs of
Valga offering camping in beautiful gardens-orchard at excellent value price;
all the hallmarks of a top rate camping, such a contrast with
the dreadful Kalda Tourist Farm; if you are in the Valga area, make a point
of staying here Welcome: pleasantly friendly and hospitable welcome from English-speaking owners Setting: camping in beautiful turfed gardens-orchard behind guest-house, a lovely peaceful setting; few trees for shade, but no flies, wasps and midges Facilities: first class facilities - modern, clean WCs, shower shower in one of guest-house rooms (most homely and civilised of whole trip), and fully equipped kitchen/wash-up; inc site-wide wi-fi with strong signal; Rimi, Selva and Maxima supermarkets in Valga centre 1.5kms Price: exceptional value at €15 Campsite web site |
+5++ <Map> |
**
JOINT
BEST CAMPSITE OF THE TRIP ** |
|||||
Wild camp at Karula
National Park Visitor Centre |
66420 Ähijärve, Võru +372 782 8350 GPS: 57.712597 26.506237 |
26 July |
Free of charge |
Wild camp in shade
of a magnificent oak tree at Karula National Park Visitor Centre Welcome: helpful welcome from fluently English-speaking lady at Karula National Park Visitor Centre, who supplied good information and map-leaflets about Ähijärve and Peräjärve walking routes; she also suggested this camp spot by Visitor Centre, and even agreed we could take power for fridge from museum exhibition barn Setting: alongside barn at Karula National Park Visitor Centre under shade of magnificent oak tree Facilities: water supply and trough sink, 2 earth privvies, and power supply from barn; wi-fi in Visitor Centre Price: free of charge Campsite web site This had been kindness itself; we could not have asked for more |
+4 <Map> |
Kubija Hotel-Camping, Vöru |
Männiku 43a, 65603 Vöru + 372 50 45 745 + 372 78 66 000 GPS: 57.814444 27.007778 |
27~29 July |
€15 |
Campsite alongside Kubija Hotel just outside Vöru Welcome: commendable courtesy from ultra-helpful English-speaking hotel reception staff: showed same level of courteous welcome to those staying at attached campsite as to hotel guests, a welcome change Setting: pleasant lawned camping area in grounds of Kubija Hotel, screened off by pine trees, but little shade from afternoon sun; campsite very noisy in peak summer Facilities: high standard WCs/showers and sauna in hotel but no wash-up; laundry service (expensive) from hotel; wi-fi in hotel lounge Price: good value at €15 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Hirvemäe Holiday Centre-Camping, Värska |
Silla 6, 64001 Varska +372 797 6105 +372 524 7217 GPS: 57.955833 27.629444 |
30~31 July |
€15 |
Large holiday centre on outskirts of Värska at southern end of Lake Peipsi; Värska
TIC one of best in Estonia for fascinating history and culture of Setu people in Setumaa; Setu
Farm Museum and Restaurant at Värska; transit of Russian territory without
visas at 'Saatse Boot' to
Saatse village Welcome: no one about at reception but helpful welcome from kitchen staff who showed us around Setting: pleasant lake-side setting surrounded by pine trees; open grassy camping area with power but no shade; managed to camp on hillock overlooking lake with shade from pines Facilities: rather grubby and uncleaned facilities; WC and showers with hot water in WC, wash-up; wi-fi just about reaching camping area Price: €15 |
+3 <Map> |
Hansu Turismitalu-Camping at Kodavere, Lake Peipsi |
Kodavere küla, 49407 Kallaste +372 745 2518 GPS: 58.695504 27.139055 |
1~3 August
|
€15 |
A welcoming guest-house with camping in garden/orchard, at
Kodavere village just north of Kallaste on western shore of Lake Peipsi; be sure to visit Old Believers'
villages with Fish and Onion Restaurant and Old Believers' Museum in Kolkja;
small garden/camping in Kolkja
village but no shade; pleasant looking small campsite with trees for shade
overlooking shore of Lake Peipsi just north of Kodavere, worth investigating Welcome: hospitable welcome from German-speaking elderly owner Setting: pleasant garden camping area behind house with some shade under apple trees in orchard Facilities: rather old-fashioned but functional facilities in basement of house - WC/shower and wash-up; wi-fi close to house but scarcely reaching camping area; limited mini-market in Kallaste Price: €15 |
+3 <Map> |
Toila Spa Hotel-Camping, Toila |
Ranna 12, 41702 Toila, Ida-Virumaa +372 334 2900 GPS: 59.425667 27.514774 |
4~5 August |
€20 |
Campsite attached to Toila Spa Hotel on Baltic coast of NE
Estonia near Jõhvi; Welcome: pleasant welcome at campsite reception Setting: fenced camping area to rear of hotel on cliff-tops, open, flat grassy, sunny open area and shaded area among pine tree by huts; busy and noisy in peak summer, more peaceful in Sept; steps down to Baltic beach Facilities: reasonable facilities, WC/showers modern and clean, fully-equipped kitchen-wash-ups; excellent site-wide wi-fi with strongest signal of trip Price: €20 |
+3 <Map> |
Vana Olgina Mõis-Camping, Narva |
Vana Olgina 10,
Vaivara, Ida-Virumaa +372 50 39 158 GPS: 59.391392 28.105250 |
6 August |
€21 |
Small and straightforward site behind guest-house alongside main
A1 5kms west of Narva, only campsite found close to Narva Welcome: enthusiastic but business-like greeting from owner, speaking in semi-intelligible English/Russian Setting: large rustic camping area, well-shaded by trees, behind guest-house, sufficiently distant from busy A1 to avoid traffic noise Facilities: limited and basic facilities - 1 earth privvie 300m on far side of camping area, 1 outdoor wash-up sink and basic shower both with hot water; wi-fi just about reaching camping area Price: €21, expensive for a basic site |
+3 <Map> |
Saka Cliff Hotel-Camping, Kohtla-Järve |
30103 Saka, Kohtla-Järve +372 336 4900 GPS: 59.437778 27.178611 |
7 August |
€13.50 |
In grounds of Saka Manor Hotel on Saka cliffs, just north of Route A1 Welcome: pleasant welcome from hotel reception staff Setting: camping area with power supplies on grassy lawns on North Estonian Glint cliff-tops, with steps leading down cliff face to Baltic beach 100 feet below; ex-Soviet military search-light tower on cliff-top Facilities: WC-showers modern, clean and well-appointed, but no wash-ups; wi-fi in hotel Price: normal price €15, offered CC discount of €13.50, best value of trip |
+3 <Map> |
Lepispea Camping, Võsu, Lahemaa National
Park |
Lepispea küla, 45501 Võsu +372 324 4665 GPS: 59.575883 25.936389 |
8 August |
€19 inc CC discount |
Welcoming site on shore of Käsmu Bay near Vösu, in Lahemaa in National Park Welcome: smiling welcome from English-speaking owner; first class Lahemaa maps and information sheets (unavailable at the so-called National Park Information Centre), site plan marked with orientation and key features; campsite motto was Treat you dear customers as you would like to be treated yourself, and they truly lived up to this! Setting: 2 separate large open grassy camping areas with trees for shade; short walk through woods to shore of bay Facilities: good facilities with modern, clean WC/showers, and well-equipped kitchen/wash-up including microwave and washing machine (€5), free wi-fi covering site; well-stocked mini-market in Vösu village Price: readily offered CC discount - €19 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Laheema Kohvikann Restaurant-Camping, Palmse,
Lahemaa National Park |
45405 Palmse +372 323 4148 +372 538 77729 GPS: 59.506935 25.962367 |
9~11 August |
€15 |
A charming restaurant-camping at Palmse village in Lahemaa National Park
with superb hospitality and good-value camping Welcome: totally hospitable welcome from owners Dieter and Julia Hölscher Setting: camping area with power supply to rear of restaurant edging onto open fields Facilities: newly installed facilities hut with 2 homely integrated WC/shower bathrooms, but still only an outside cold water wash-up sink; wi-fi in restaurant scarcely reaching camping area; distinctive reasonably priced restaurant menu with all home-cooked meals Price: €15 Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Piibelehe Guesthouse-Camping, Kuressaare, Island of Saaremaa |
Karikra Põik 3, 93815 Kuressaare, Saaremaa +372 453 6206 +372 518 4310 GPS: 58.250556 22.510278 |
12 & 14~15 August |
€19 |
A small, well-appointed and family-run camping (name means
Lily of the Valley in Estonian) in southern outskirts of Kuressaare on Saaremaa Welcome: friendly and pleasant welcome from English-speaking owner Setting: delightful setting with flat grassy camping area in large garden of family home with trees and shrubs for shade and shelter Facilities: good standard of facilities, homely, clean and well-equipped - 2 self-contained WC/showers rooms, 2 wash-ups, all with hot water; site-wide reliable; water filling hose; Rimi and Maxima hypermarkets in Kuressaare Price: €19 Campsite web site |
+5 <Map> |
Muha-Ranna Guesthouse-Camping, Western
Saaremaa |
Riksu küla, 93330 Saaremaa +372 509 2035 +372 533 28538 GPS: 58.196996 22.058869 |
13 August |
€15 |
Guest-house-camping on western coast of Saaremaa Welcome: affable welcome from English-speaking owner; 'Just make yourself at home' was his greeting Setting: small, flat camping area in gardens behind guest-house, enclosed by high juniper hedges and with sound of surf from the nearby Western Saaremaa coastline with superb sunset Facilities: new facilities hut with clean, modern WC/shower and hot water wash-up sink, and even a washing machine (extra) Price: €15 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Kalana Puhkeküla (Guesthouse)-Camping, Kalana Harbour,
Western Hiiumaa |
Kalanana küla, 92230 Hiiumaa +372 538 21844 GPS: 58.921848 22.056373 |
16 August |
€20 |
A hut-camping-guesthouse set among pine woods by Kalana Sadam
(harbour) at western tip of Hiiumaa on Baltic shoreline; wonderful sunsets
across Baltic from nearby beach Welcome: helpful welcome from English-speaking owner Setting: turfed small camping area with power by huts looking out westwards to the Baltic shoreline, soporific background sound of Baltic surf washing onto nearby beach Facilities: facilities modern and clean in wooden huts with hot water in showers and wash-ups; wi-fi in main hut Price: rather expensive for basic site €20, but memorable location makes up for this Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Orjaka Marina-Camping, Kassari, Southern Hiiumaa |
92114 Orjaku, Kassari, Hiiumaa |
17 August |
€15 |
Marina-side camping by
pub-café at Orjaka Marina near village of Kassari in south
coast of Hiiumaa Welcome: helpful welcome from young staff at Orjaka Marina pub-café Setting: camping area on tarmac in lovely peaceful setting at side of yacht marina at Orjaka village with power supply; view out westwards across yacht harbour to sunset Facilities: clean, modern WC/showers at side of pub-café with key-code from café; no wash-up but hot water from showers for washing up at outside pub tables; wi-fi at café not extending to camping area Price: good value at €15 for such magnificent setting Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Voosemetsa Turismitalu-Camping, Voose |
Voose küla, 90118 Pärnu +372 505 2679 GPS: 58.645750, 23.662968 |
18 August | No one about to pay |
Very basic site just off Route 10 10 kms east of Virtsu Welcome: place was deserted, almost as if semi-closed Setting: small camping area with power supplies, in dark gloomy pine woods swarming with flies; grassy areas reserved for tents Facilities: very primitive earth privvies, basic shower and wash-up sink both with hot water Price: ?? No one about to pay |
+1 <Map> |
Puise Nina Külalistemaja (Guesthouse)-Camping, Matsalu Bay |
Puise küla, 90420 Haapsalu +372 514 3994 +372 578 22278 GPS: 58.764616 23.448986 |
19 August |
€19 |
Guest-house with camping at exposed NW tip of Matsalu Bay in
Matsalu national Park Welcome: officious welcome from rule-bound owner, but manner perhaps down to English language limitations Setting: flat grassy camping area on shore of Puise Nina Cape, looking out across Matsalu Bay; magnificent setting looking westwards to sunset, but exposed and breezy Facilities: clean, modern WC/shower and WHB available in guest-house, but no kitchen/wash-up; hot water from shower to wash-up in lobby; wi-fi at guest-house but not reaching camping area Price: €19 |
+3 <Map> |
Pirita Harbour Camping, Tallinn |
Pirita Harbour, 11911 Tallinn +372 639 8800 GPS: 59.467240 24.824161 |
20~22 August |
€24 (inc €2 each for showers) |
City-camping in parking area of yacht-marina at Pirita harbour
3kms east of Tallinn; despite limitations, Pirita Harbour preferable to Tallinn City Camping which is nothing more than
expensive grubby yard enclosed by high buildings Welcome: helpful welcome from young receptionist; city-map, buses details and information on Old Town Setting: busy and noisy tarmaced camping area, with open views looking across the water towards the city skyline; grassy area for tents Facilities: facilities shared with marina, limited and over-stretched with disgustingly stinking WCs; no washing up facilities and just one basic sink for washing; showers in sauna (limited opening hours) 200m from camping area charged separately at €2 each; inc wi-fi but limited range; frequent #1A, 8, 34A or 38 buses (fares of €2 each) along main road into city; Rimi supermarket 1km at Pirita Price: €24 (inc €2 each for showers) |
+1 <Map> |
SOUTHERN FINLAND |
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SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Rastila Camping, Helsinki |
Karavaanikatu 4, 00980 Helsinki +358 9310 78517 GPS: 60.206681 25.120969 |
23~24 August |
€27 inc CC discount |
Pleasant but busy city campsite, convenient for metro into
Helsinki Welcome: helpful and efficient welcome from reception staff; all requirements readily available - city map and guide, metro and ticket details printed out Setting: huge and rather stark camping area with tarmac bays, inevitably busy and noisy; surrounded by city apartments Facilities: clean and modern WC/showers buildings, but poorly equipped kitchen/wash-up; facilities cleaned at times to suit staff ie peak times for campsite users; inc site-wide wi-fi; Metro station for city within 5 minutes walk tickets now €2.90 from coin machine Price: inevitably expensive for busy capital-city campsite at €27 inc CC discount |
+3 <Map> |
Vaalimaa Camping, Vaalimaa |
Hämeenkyläntie 153, 49900 Virolahti/Vaalimaa +358 443 571451 GPS: 60.581111 27.769444 |
25~26 August | €24 |
Small shore-side site overlooking Gulf of Finland just 2kms from Vaalimaa border-crossing
with Russia Welcome: surly and taciturn owner Setting: flat, grassy camping area with power-supplies on shore-side looking out over Gulf of Finland; magnificent sun-set across water Facilities: straightforward and care-worn WC/showers; well-equipped kitchen/wash-up with small washing machine; inc wi-fi but limited range Price: expensive; prices have increased each time we have stayed from €15 (2012), €21 (2015) to €24 (2018) |
+2 <Map> |
Hamina Camping, Hamina |
Vilniementie 375, 49400 Hamina +358 534 59183 GPS: 60.525556 27.253889 |
27 August | €24.50 |
Small lakeside campsite among pine tree with number of statics
approach along 600m of dirt road from Vilniemi
village
5kms SW of Hamina fortress town Welcome: friendly welcome from owners at restaurant Setting: delightful shore-side setting among sandy pine woods looking out south over beautiful small beach across Gulf of Finland, but limited camping space among statics, all deserted late and early in season; beautiful woodland path at rear corner of camping area with lovely wild flora Facilities: WC/showers heated, homely and clean, thoughtfully fitted out with all you could ask for; fully-equipped kitchen/wash-up/ common room; washing machine (€3) but no dryer Price: €24.50 |
+2 <Map> |
Tammisaari Camping, Ekenäs |
Ormnäsvägen, 10600 Ekenäs +358 192 414434 GPS: 59.965833 23.449722 |
28 August | €24 |
Pleasant shore-side campsite, overcrowded with statics Welcome: reception unmanned Setting: pleasantly lawned and tree-lined camping area with plenty of power supplies, but overwhelmed by statics which would be noisy in summer with holiday-makers Facilities: modern and clean WC/showers, fully equipped kitchen/wash-up with good hot water and microwave; no washing machine or wi-fi Price: €24 |
+3 <Map> |
TURKU ARCHIPELAGO and ÄLAND ISLANDS |
|||||
SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Saariston Lomakeskus, Mossala |
Saariston, Mossala Island +358 503 477 658 GPS: |
29~30 August |
€27 inc CC discount |
Expensive (summer season) but very well-appointed site in beautiful setting
on north coast of Mossala, the outermost island of Turku Archipelago; excellent campsite for a relaxing
break, BUT only in May or Sept, avoid June~Aug when overcrowded with holiday-makers Welcome: reception closed early and late season, but phone, settle in, and surly Russian manager will call round for payment Setting: magnificently landscaped and wonderfully peaceful setting, created over last 5 years from previous forest land; multi aspect 'holiday centre' with campsite and small marina set amid parkland, all at ferry dock on Mossala northern coast; part of multi-ferry (free of charge) linked sequence of islands of Turku Archipelago; southern approach from Pargas via Nagu, Korpo, Houtskär open all year, but on-going northern ferries only open June~August Facilities: immaculately clean and modern WC/showers, outdoor wash-up with hot water, free washing/drying machine and saunas; inc wi-fi but weak signal; limited water supply so no fill-up hose; nearest shop 4 ferries away on Nagu so come well-stocked with provisions Price: expensive at €27 inc CC discount (summer season prices until 31 Aug; officious Russian manager would not budge on this! Sept and May price = €24) Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Kittuis Camping, Houtskär |
Houtskarintie 884, 21760 Houtskär +358 440 534 100 GPS: 60.217251, 21.394022 |
31 August | €24 |
A delightful, straightforward little site overlooking sound and
ferry dock at Houtskär Island Welcome: campsite closes end Aug, but owner allowed us to stay, arranged by phone and given location of WC key Setting: beautiful setting overlooking sound and ferry dock at Kittuis on Houtskär Island; small, close-cropped turf camping area above sound Facilities: WC/shower and small but well-equipped kitchen wash-up with microwave and cooker; WC kept locked to avoid mis-use by people queuing for ferry; no wi-fi or washing machine Price: €24 Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Sandvik Camping, Kökar |
Munkvervan, 22730 Kökar +358 457 342 9242 GPS: 59.939604 20.883848 |
1~2 Sept | €21.50 |
Superb campsite, only one on the remote isolated island of
Southern Ålands island of Kökar: but only come
early or late season when site quiet, but be sure to book by phone; mid-summer,
would be busy and full; 8kms circular walk via Bronze Age seal hunting settlers
camp, over scrub-covered granite bed-rock outcrops, way-marked but tricky route
finding with some challenging scrambling, not for inexperienced Welcome: helpful welcome from quietly spoken owner at reception-cum-information hut by water's edge and guest-harbour Setting: 10 camper pitches with power, spread over juniper-scrub-covered outcrops, or flatter grassy pitches, at lane's end 3kms from ferry port Facilities: modern, clean WC/showers and fully equipped kitchen/wash-up plus large common room in newly built facilities hut; water-filling hose; small shop at reception selling basics; shop in Karlby 6kms; no ATM on Kökar Price: good value at €21.50 late season price Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Sandösunds Camping, Vardö |
Sandösund, 22550 Vårdö +358 18 47750 GPS:
|
3~6 Sept | €18 |
Unassuming but welcoming site on remote island of Vårdö on NW
Ålands archipelago; 4.5kms
Lövö Nature Trail (Naturstig) starting and ending from campsite Welcome: friendly, helpful and hospitable welcome from Olof, the much travelled and interesting owner Setting: scattered camping areas among shore-side pine woods, some wet and water-logged after heavy rain Facilities: basic WCs in camping area; 300m walk up to main facilities by reception; WC/showers in heated hut and reasonably equipped kitchen/wash-up; wi-fi internet in café-hut Price: €18 (low season price) Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Puttes Camping, Bomarsund |
Bomarsund, 22530 Sund +358 18 44040 GPS: 60.212155 20.235325 |
7 Sept | €20.50 |
Small site next to Bomarsund Fortress; regrettably the more
welcoming
nearby Prästö Camping now closed Welcome: perfunctory welcome at Bomarsund café, or owner calls round for payment, Setting: open and flat grassy camping area with plenty of power supplies, surrounded by rural woodland Facilities: bleakly impoverished and old-fashioned WC/showers (€1 coin operated), poorly equipped kitchen wash-up with coin-operated machine for hot water Price: €20.50 inc €1 coin-operated showers and for hot water in kitchen; poor value |
+2 <Map> |
Söderhagen Camping, Eckerö |
22270 Torp, South Eckerö +358 18 35896 GPS: 60.171667 19.590833 |
8~11 Sept | €22 |
Campsite created from formerly forested hill-top in South
Eckerö overlooking
Torpfjärden inlet of sea Welcome: wonderfully hospitable welcome from jovial owner, Sven Eklund Setting: magnificent location on flat brow of headland overlooking Torpfjärden backed by pine and birch forest Facilities: modern, clean WC/showers (coin operated), fully-equipped kitchen/wash-up;washing machine (extra); rowing boat available on fjord Price: €22 inc coins for showers Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
SOUTH-EASTERN SWEDEN |
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SITE NAME |
LOCATION and GPS COORDINATES |
DATE of STAY |
COST per NIGHT |
FEATURES and COMMENTS |
RATING +5 excellent ~ -5 dreadful |
Bergby Farm Camping, nr Grisslehamn |
76394 Hallstavik +46 175 31255 GPS: 60.055887 18.753942 |
Not used this trip but would be very convenient for Grisslehamn ferry port for ferries to/from Åland Islands |
<Map> |
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Strängnäs Golf Club Ställplats |
Kilenlundsvägen 3, 64547 Strängnäs GPS: 59.350859 17.021634 |
12 Sept | 140 SEK |
Second rate Ställplats at Strängnäs Golf Club, but served
as staging camp on drive south through Sweden Welcome: Golf Club reception at club house closed Setting: 10 place rather grubby Ställplats by car park and neighbouring woodland and sports field; some distant traffic noise Facilities: power supplies by each pitch; WC/showers in gold club changing rooms 400m from pitches; no wash-up or wi-fi Price: said to be 140 SEK, but depsite our efforts, we could find no one to pay! |
+1
|
Kaffetorpets Camping Oknö,
Möntsterås |
Oknövägen 86 383 92 Möntsterås +46 499 10044 GPS: |
13 Sept | 220 SEK |
Small and welcoming family-run site in beautiful location at tip
of Oknö peninsula
6kms from small port of Möntsterås;
Aronsson family took over in 2015 and used their own camping experience to
create a deliberately straightforward site with none of distractions and expense
of larger sites, so that guests can enjoy peace of the lovely natural
surroundings while respecting presence of other campers; motto is Den lille
Campingen längst ut på Oknö
(The little campsite at the end
of Oknö) Welcome: family live on site in their caravan for peak summer weeks; out of season, telephone for gate code, and Anna will call for payment; welcoming response to phone enquiry Setting: lovely, flat grassy camping area with several secluded nooks, and just a few statics, at furthest end of Oknö peninsula (well past the vastly expensive First Camp if you really want all the tasteless distractions!); camping areas surrounded by coastal pine woodlands, with footpaths leading to reed-fringed bays of sea and islets out in the bay; a wonderfully peaceful place, especially out of season with lovely sunsets across Baltic coast Facilities: straightforward but functional WC/showers, spotlessly clean; basic outside kitchenette/wash-up; no wi-fi or washing machine; nearest shops in Möntsterås 6kms Price: all-inclusive 200kr Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Wikegårds Camping, North Öland |
Frönäsvägen 51, 380 74 Löttorp, Öland +46 485 25131 GPS: 57.079374 16.968169 |
14 Sept | 150 SEK |
A straightforward campsite set in the home-fields of a former
Öland farming croft on the Baltic east coast of the island; a truly magnificent camping experience looking out across Baltic; see campsite's
web site for the farm's tragic history Welcome: warmly friendly welcome from elderly lady owner who chats away in an unintelligible mix of accented Swedish~German Setting: camping area spread among home-fields of the former farmland enclosed by dry-stone walls and sheltered from the brisk wind by tall juniper bushes; magnificent open outlook to Baltic shore-line with a Big Sky huge cloud-scape Facilities: basic but functional WC/showers and kitchenette/wash-up; wi-fi at farmhouse Price: 150 SEK low season price Campsite web site |
+5
|
Gräsgårds Fiskehamn Camping, SE Öland |
380 65 Degerhamn,
Öland 073 438 3499 |
15 Sept | 110 SEK |
Basic little campsite by picturesque fishing harbour at
Gräsgårds Fiskehamn Welcome: book in with fisherman at one the fishing huts at the quay-side (sign says 'Camping 80kr/night'); he will show you toilets, water supply and power; leave money in envelope at his hut Setting: beautiful setting with small grassy camping area with huts next to fishing harbour; basic power supply (socket-boxes covered by plastic fishing crate!) in middle of field Facilities: basic but acceptable, earth-privies, wash-up sink with cold water supply from filling hose, power supply in camping area but no showers Price: 110kr/night with electricity |
+4 <Map> |
Ventlinge Camping, SW Öland |
118 Ventlinge 386 Degerhamn +46 485 661124
GPS: |
16 Sept | 180 SEK |
Small, welcoming and exceptional value site in Ventlinge
village, SW Öland Welcome: wonderfully hospitable and helpful welcome from owner and family; this is the standard of welcome that paying guests should be entitled to expect but rarely receive at campsites Setting: large, flat grassy camping area behind owner's house, opposite church in centre of Ventlinge village, bounded by Öland dry-stone walls and overlooking arable farmland and Kalmar Sound Facilities: brand new totally modern and impeccably clean WC/shower, and wash-up sink (no kitchen); inc site-wide wi-fi; ICA mini-market 2kms in South Möckleby village Price: excellent value at 150kr |
+4 <Map> |
Ångdala Vandrahem and Camping,
Kivik |
277 37 Kivik +46 733 64 84 20 +46 414 74179 GPS: 55.710268 14.169411 |
17~18 Sept | 205 SEK |
A welcoming and peaceful hostel and campsite 2kms
south of Kivik, a pleasant port-village surrounded by apple-growing orchards; Bronze Age burial mound and chamber tomb (Kings Grave) just
north of
village; pocket-sized Stenshuvud National Park 3kms south with woodland walks up
onto headland overlooking Hanöbukton Bay and Baltic; Kivik Market in mid-July and
Apple Fair at end-Sept, but campsite will be crowded then;
Kiviks Familje Camping in village is over-crowded, over-priced holiday-camp full
of statics Welcome: reception unmanned in early Sept but ring owner on and she will advise you to settle in; power boxes and service building open, and she will call round following morning to collect rent Setting: large, open camping area sloping down from hostel/vandrahem with 87 pitches with power; a lovely peaceful meadow-side setting with little traffic noise from nearby Route 9, and red kites soaring overhead above neighbouring downs land Facilities: WC/showers modern and clean, and well-equipped kitchen/wash-up; free wi-fi close to reception/hostel building; well-stocked ICA supermarket in Kivik; Buhres Rökeri (fish smoke-house by Kivik fishing harbour with super smoked fish; apple juice and cider for sale at Kiviks Musteri just south of village Price: 205 SEK low season price Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
Kåseberga Ställplats-Camping,
Skåne |
Ales Väg 271 78 Loderups +46 411 527277 |
19 Sept | 120 SEK |
Ställplats-Camping at
Kåseberga village operated by local football club in parking-field next to
football pitch to raise funds for club;
Would be crowded in summer with Ales Stenar Iron Age stone ship-setting monument
on cliff-tops above village, but mid-Sept peaceful Welcome: phone on arrival; Ronny the football club manager a hospitable and jovial gent who also looks after the ställplats, calls round for payment and welcomes you Setting: parking-field next to football pitch marked out with flat, grassy and well-spaced camping pitches Facilities: straightforward but functional WC/showers in football club changing rooms building; no kitchen/wash-up or wi-fi Price: excellent value at 120kr (without power) Campsite web site |
+4 <Map> |
WEBSITES LISTING CAMPSITES FOR BALTIC STATES
the most useful web sites we found to help with pre-trip planning were:
Another useful publication to carry around is
the Baltic Camping Associations' booklet of affiliated campsites,
listed by the | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
SCANDINAVIAN CAMPING CARD (CAMPING KEY EUROPE)
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