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A Family, Caravan, Road Trip Adventure: Belgium, Holland, Germany and Luxembourg.
Beginning a caravan road trip through Europe is a dream come true for us. The freedom to explore at your own pace, the opportunity to discover hidden gems, and the chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures make this journey incredibly special. This Blog will guide you through an unforgettable road trip, stopping at Brussels, Bruges, Delft, Amsterdam, Rüdesheim am Rhein, and Luxembourg.
Starting Point: Belgium
Close to Bruges – Camping Klein Strand, Jabbeke.
- Belgium, a small but captivating country, is our starting point. Known for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and delicious cuisine, Belgium offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity.
Day 1: Travel Calais to Bruges
- After landing in Calais from Dover by Ferry, we drove 1hr 30 to our first campsite Klein strand Jabbeke’ just outside of Bruges.
Day 2: Adventures at the campsite.
- We have discovered when travelling with families that the most important thing to do is take our time and ensure we have time for rest and lots of fun on the campsites. We therefore always like to save a day to explore our campsite, the local town and the activities available on site.
Day 3: The Medieval Charm of Bruges
Bruges, often referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Known for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval buildings, Bruges is a must-visit.
- Canal Cruise: Start with a canal cruise to get a unique perspective of the city. The boat tours offer insights into Bruges’ history and architecture.
- Belfry of Bruges: Climb the 366 steps of the Belfry Tower for stunning views of the city. The climb is challenging but always worth the effort.
- Market Square: Spend some time at the bustling Market Square. Here, you can visit the Provinciaal Hof and take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
- Michelangelo’s Madonna: Visit the Church of Our Lady to see Michelangelo’s sculpture of the Madonna and Child. It’s one of the few artworks by Michelangelo to leave Italy during his lifetime
Day 4: Exploring Brussels
Our journey continues in Brussels, the capital city. We took the train from Bruges to Brussels for an easy journey to a wonderful city.
- Grand Place: Start your exploration at the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The square is surrounded by opulent guildhalls and the magnificent Town Hall. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the architectural beauty.
- Atomium: If you have time, visit the Atomium, a futuristic structure originally constructed for Expo 58. You can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
- Manneken Pis: Don’t miss the iconic Manneken Pis statue. This small bronze sculpture of a boy urinating into a fountain is a quirky symbol of Brussels. It is a must see if you have children!
- Belgian Chocolate, frites and Beer: Indulge in some Belgian chocolates, frites and sample the local beers. Brussels is home to numerous chocolate shops and breweries, offering tours and tastings.
Next Stop: Holland
On to Delft – Camping Delftse Hout,
Day 5: Travel from Belgium to Holland
Day 6: Discovering Delft
Leaving Belgium, we head to the Netherlands, with Delft as our next destination. Known for its blue pottery and as the birthplace of the painter Johannes Vermeer, Delft is steeped in history and culture.
- Royal Delft: Visit the Royal Delft factory to learn about the city’s famous blue and white pottery. You can see the artisans at work and even try your hand at painting.
- Vermeer Centrum: Explore the Vermeer Centrum to learn about the life and works of Johannes Vermeer. The center provides a comprehensive look at his artistic journey.
- Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk: Discover the Old Church (Oude Kerk) and New Church (Nieuwe Kerk). Both are remarkable for their architecture and historical significance. The Nieuwe Kerk is the burial place of members of the Dutch Royal Family.
- Canal Walks: Stroll along the charming canals, lined with picturesque houses and quaint cafes. Delft’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot.
Amsterdam
Day 7: Amsterdam
Arriving by train from Delft train station, take this opportunity to explore everything this city has to offer.
- Canal Boat tour: Enjoy being guided around Amsterdam on one of the Canal Boat tours.
- Anne Frank Museum: This is a must see for this trip, but be sure to book. Tickets sell out extremely quickly.
- European Quarter: Visit the European Quarter, home to the European Parliament.
- Royal Palace: The Royal Palace of Brussels is open to the public during the summer months. It’s a magnificent building with lavish interiors.
- Cinquantenaire Park: Relax at Cinquantenaire Park, where you can visit the Art and History Museum and the AutoWorld Museum. The park itself is a beautiful place for a leisurely walk or picnic.
- Sablon District: Explore the Sablon district, known for its antique shops and art galleries. The Notre-Dame du Sablon church is also worth a visit for its stunning stained glass windows.
Day 8: Rest at the campsite
Not only is Delft beautiful but just outside of the campsite is a wonderful free farm and paid for waterparks will love on a quiet day.
Germany Awaits, Rüdesheim am Rhein – Camping Rüdesheim am Rhein
Day 9: Wine and Views in Rüdesheim am Rhein
A scenic drive through the German countryside brings you to Rüdesheim am Rhein, a picturesque town on the banks of the Rhine River, famous for its wine and breathtaking landscapes.
- Drosselgasse: Stroll down Drosselgasse, a charming narrow street filled with wine taverns, restaurants, and live music. It’s the heart of Rüdesheim’s social life.
- Wine Tasting: Rüdesheim is renowned for its Riesling wines. Visit a local winery for a tasting session and tour of the vineyards.
- Niederwald Monument: Ride the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument. The journey offers panoramic views of the Rhine Valley, and the monument itself is an impressive sight. Take a short walk along the footpaths and ride the chair lift back down. You can take a return journey back on the river boat, making the perfect day out.
Day 10: Castles in Germany. So many to visit but we went to the Rheinstein Castle. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Rhine, the castle offers stunning views and a glimpse into medieval life.
Day 11: Fun at the campsite and an opportunity to walk back into this beautiful town again.
Final Destination: Luxembourg, Camping Nommerlayen
Day 12: travel to Luxembourg
A short drive to Luxembourg made this campsite perfect especially due to its location so close to the train station.
Day 13: The campsite!
The most wonderful campsite for the kids, filled with activities to do. An indoor pool, outdoor pool, slides and evening entertainment.
Day 14:The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
Our road trip concludes in Luxembourg, a small but fascinating country known for its fortified medieval old town and modern financial district. One of our most surprising, and now one of our favourite European cities.
- Old Town of Luxembourg City: Begin your exploration in the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through the narrow streets, visit the Grand Ducal Palace, and marvel at the blend of old and new architecture.
- Bock Casemates: Discover the Bock Casemates, a network of underground tunnels and galleries carved into the cliffs. These fortifications played a crucial role in the city’s defence. these tickets must be booked in advance as they only allow mall groups of people at at time.
- Mudam Luxembourg: Visit the Mudam, the Grand Duke Jean Museum of Modern Art. The museum showcases contemporary art in a stunning building designed by I.M. Pei.
- Vianden Castle: Take a day trip to Vianden Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. The drive through the Luxembourg countryside is scenic and enjoyable.
Day 15: Travel back to Calais after an incredible 2 weeks.
Practical Tips for Caravan Road Trips around Europe
- Plan Your Route: Use a reliable GPS and map out your route in advance. Ensure your caravan is in good condition and ready for the journey.
- Book Campsites in Advance: Especially during peak seasons, campsites can fill up quickly. Booking ahead ensures you have a place to park and rest. the Caravan and Motorhome Club have a great selection of campsites to choose from.
- Local Currency: While many places accept credit cards, it’s good to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases and in case of emergencies.
- Pack Smart: Bring essentials like food, water, first-aid kit, and basic tools. Also, pack for varying weather conditions as Europe’s climate can be unpredictable.
- Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers your caravan and personal belongings. Again the Caravan and Motorhome club have an excellent insurance specifically for this caravan and motorhome trips.
Top Tips for Caravan Road Trips with Kids
1. Plan Ahead and Pack Smart
Planning:
- Plan your route in advance, including rest stops, meal breaks, and overnight stays if needed.
- Choose kid-friendly destinations and activities to keep everyone entertained.
Packing:
- Pack a variety of snacks and drinks to keep hunger at bay and prevent unnecessary stops.
- Bring essential items like wet wipes, tissues, a first-aid kit, and any medications your children may need.
- Ensure you have a range of clothing suitable for different weather conditions and unexpected messes.
2. Keep Kids Entertained
Entertainment:
- Load up tablets or smartphones with movies, TV shows, games, and audiobooks.
- Bring along favorite toys, books, and travel-friendly games to keep kids occupied.
- Consider investing in travel trays that attach to car seats, providing a stable surface for coloring, playing, and eating.
Engagement:
- Plan interactive activities like car bingo, license plate spotting, or I Spy to engage kids with their surroundings.
- Make a special playlist with their favorite songs or stories for sing-alongs and listening fun.
3. Frequent Breaks
Rest Stops:
- Plan regular breaks every 2-3 hours to let kids stretch their legs, use the restroom, and burn off some energy.
- Choose rest stops with play areas or parks where kids can run around and play.
Flexibility:
- Be flexible with your schedule and allow extra time for spontaneous stops and delays.
- If possible, plan longer breaks around meal times to avoid eating in the car and to give everyone a proper rest.
4. Comfort is Key
Seating:
- Ensure car seats and booster seats are properly installed and comfortable for long durations.
- Provide neck pillows, blankets, and favorite stuffed animals to make the ride cozier.
Climate Control:
- Maintain a comfortable temperature in the car and have sunshades for windows to protect against glare and heat.
- Dress kids in comfortable, layered clothing that can be easily adjusted as needed.
5. Stay Safe
Safety:
- Keep a roadside emergency kit in your car, including items like a flashlight, batteries, a tire gauge, jumper cables, and basic tools.
- Make sure your car is in good working order before you leave: check the oil, tires, brakes, and coolant levels.
Communication:
- Make sure your kids know basic safety rules, like not leaving the car without permission and what to do in case of an emergency.
- Keep a charged mobile phone and a list of emergency contacts readily available.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a fun, comfortable, and safe road trip for everyone. Enjoy your adventure and create wonderful memories with your family!
Conclusion
This caravan road trip through Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and Luxembourg offers a diverse and enriching travel experience. From the medieval charm of Bruges to the modern elegance of Luxembourg City, each stop provides unique sights and activities that cater to all tastes. Enjoy the freedom of the open road, the comfort of your caravan, and the adventure of exploring some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations.
Safe travels and happy adventuring!
