Europe's most beautiful coastal routes by motorhome - 10 magical road trips

Writer: Helena Bergström

Travelling by campervan along the coasts of Europe is real freedom. You wake up with the sea on your doorstep, stop when the views are at their most beautiful and let the road set the pace. Here are 10 of Europe's most spectacular coastal routes - from dramatic bridges in Norway to sand dunes in Poland and sun-drenched cliffs in Portugal.

Europe's most beautiful coastal roads

We recommend some of Europe's most beautiful coastal roads, made for a dreamy motorhome adventure. And yes, of course you can also travel by car or motorbike...

1. Norway: Atlantic Road - bridges over the open sea

Let's start with a road we haven't even travelled, but hope to do this summer! The Norwegian Atlantic Road may be short - just over eight kilometres - but the views are monumental. The road winds over bridges between small islands in the open sea and offers an almost unreal coastal landscape. Perfect as part of a longer road trip along the west coast of Norway!

2nd Ireland: Wild Atlantic Way - Europe's epic Atlantic coastline

At over 2,500 kilometres, this is one of the longest continuous coastal routes in the world. Here, cliffs, green hills and small fishing villages alternate along the west coast of Ireland. It's grand, windswept and perfect for a slow motorhome journey filled with nature experiences. But beware, Ireland's roads are narrow and often best suited to smaller motorhomes!

3rd France: Corniche d'Or - The red cliffs of the Riviera

Between Cannes and Saint-Raphaël runs one of the most beautiful coastal roads in France and Europe. Red cliffs plunge into the Mediterranean and the views are ever-present. The road is wider and quieter than many other classic Riviera routes - which makes it extra pleasant with a motorhome. We drove here last summer - fantastic!

4. France: Atlantic Coast - surf, sand and endless beaches

The west coast of France offers a very different feel to the Riviera. Long sandy beaches, pine forests and a relaxed surf culture await you - especially around La Rochelle and Biarritz. The roads are easy to drive and there are plenty of campsites near the sea. There are also plenty of places to visit along the route for those who enjoy food, wine and historic sites.

5. Spain: Costa Brava - dramatic cliffs and turquoise bays

North of Barcelona, the rugged beauty of the Costa Brava begins. Small coastal roads wind between cliffs and hidden coves, with charming towns like Tossa de Mar along the way. A perfect combination of beaches, food and culture. Be sure to check out Empuriabrava, with its delightful network of waterways.

6. Portugal: Algarve coast - golden cliffs in the south

The Algarve coastline stretches along the entire southernmost part of Portugal, from the Atlantic coast in the west to the Spanish border in the east. This coastal strip, which is around 150 kilometres long, is known for beautiful beaches with dramatic rock formations. Here you will find beautiful and pleasant resorts such as Sagres, Lagos, Albufeira, Faro and Tavira.

7. Croatia: Jadranska magistrala - The panoramic road of the Adriatic Sea

The Croatian Coastal Road (D8) follows the Adriatic Sea through a landscape of islands, mountains and crystal clear waters. The stretch between Split and Dubrovnik is particularly spectacular. In addition, you can take your motorhome to beautiful islands such as Brac, Hvar and Pag. The combination of historic towns and bathing bays definitely makes this one of Europe's most beautiful coastal routes.

8. Poland: Polish Baltic coast - sand dunes and wide beaches

Poland's Baltic coastline is one of northern Europe's most underrated gems. Around Słowiński National Park, mighty sand dunes spread out and along the way there are long, wide beaches. Here you travel affordably and with plenty of space. Don't miss pearls such as the Hel Peninsula, Sopot and Gdansk!

9. Finland: Archipelago Road - Island hopping in Nordic nature

There is a unique route through the Turku archipelago with bridges and small ferries between the islands. It is quiet, close to nature and very Nordic. A perfect summer holiday for those who want to combine the coastal route with archipelago life. Don't miss out on visiting the beautiful and historic city of Turku and picturesque and cosy Naantali.

10. Sweden: Bohuslän coastal road - cliffs and fishing villages

The Swedish west coast offers smooth granite cliffs, salty baths and classic fishing villages like Smögen and Fjällbacka. The roads are easy to drive and the distances are short - perfect for a relaxing summer holiday with plenty of stops. Bohuslän is one of our favourite areas in Sweden - such incredibly beautiful nature and so many picturesque towns!

Europe's most beautiful coastal roads ...

Whether you dream of dramatic Atlantic cliffs, sun-drenched Mediterranean bays or Nordic archipelagos, there's a coastal route in Europe to suit your motorhome holiday. The question is: which one do you head for first?