Planning on a global bike adventure any time soon? Aren’t we all. Before plotting your European stretch, take Sophie’s advice and factor in a few nights at one (or all) of the continent’s most beautiful lakeside camping spots…
Lac du Sommelier (Alt. 2993m)
“I came here three years ago during my first ever bike-packing trip. I really struggled and felt quite nervous on that journey but somehow I was first to get eyes on the prize – a beautiful monochrome landscape at the top of the world, with a lake surrounded by snow. The light is magical up there, but the sounds are odd - every noise seems short and sharp. Pack a good sleeping bag because it’ll get cold.”
Lac d’Hossegor (Alt. 0m)
“Hossegor is famous for its waves, but not its beautiful lake. Locals often come here to jog, eat fresh oysters from the cabins, or play pétanque, all against a backdrop of white sand and old pine trees. I always visit with my cousins on the eve of France’s national day so we can watch the fireworks together.”
Lac du Mont-Cenis (Alt. 1974m)
"I reached this French-Italian border lake during my bike-packing trip through the Alps earlier this year. Arriving an hour before dark, we were too exhausted to enjoy the views. But the next day we started pedalling at dawn and got breathtaking scenes – a huge lake bathed in golden sunlight. It felt like we were alone in the world (apart from the doe that was keeping an eye on us). There are many MTB tracks here and local cheesemakers nearby. Just pack bread, and you'll be fine!"
Lac d'Annecy (Alt. 447m)
"One evening, beers with bike-packing friends of mine led to skinny-dipping at 2am in this clear lake! There are great campsites with mountain views, or wild camping if you're adventurous. Every morning in Annecy you’ll find crazy groups of people riding around at high speed, but you should take it easy and stop at every small beach along the way. Enjoy a fondue dinner at one of the cute French restaurants in town, and maybe grab a beer after... who knows where you might end up!"
Lago di Garda (Alt. 65m)
"Northern Italy has plenty of incredible lakes, but Lago di Garda is the one that holds the most special memories for me - I rested up here for a few days after finishing the Veneto Trail. The southern end is filled with big campsites with big campervans and big crowds, but the north is calmer, quieter, and surrounded by stunning huge cliffs. For me, it’s the perfect place to enjoy La Dolce Vita."
