Saying Goodbye To Greece And Hello To Turkey

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By William Coleman

Today was supposed to be a much shorter day because we left Camp Alexandros very early so we could make the most of out time in Gallipoli, Turkey. One thing we did not anticipate was the serious levels of security we would find at the Turkish border.

The drive to the Turkish border was pretty simple and easy. Nice long well kept roads, a little bit too easy. So the decision was made to take a more scenic route. Once we got through the mountains of Greece we descended onto the border.

All the insurance documents, passports and car papers were in order and it was pretty much plain sailing through the first set of security, until we got to the ‘Passport Police’. This is where things got a little bit more intense, not a bad thing really as it shows that the Turkish border is very well protected. The general consensus of the team was that we simply raised suspicion due to convoy and the high value Mercedes Vito.

After 3.5 hours at the border with every vehicles searched and X-Rayed we finally gained entry to Turkey. With entry completed we did not have that long of a drive to our site, Kum Hotel & Camping. A review of the site will be coming tomorrow.

The drive through Turkey down to down to Gallipoli was very smooth sailing, especially when compared the experiences in Albania. Once we got to the site we very quickly pitched up and travelled to the memorial sites to pay our respects.

We arrived with about 30 minutes of sunlight left, which was lucky. Even as the sun started to go down it amplified the mood at Gallipoli, it was a mixture of appreciation and solitude. The names on the plaques that surround the moment have over 2 thousand British names on there and really highlights the impact that World War 1 had on the British nation.

5 Countries In 1 Day Non EU Border Crossing And The Importance Of Paperwork

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By William Coleman

So Monday was an interesting day that brought with it some trials, tribulations and some very good lessons learned regarding having the right paperwork to hand when crosstown borders. Especially non EU countries like Albania and Macedonia.

As we left Dubrovnik we headed toward the border to Bosnia. As we left the city we managed to get some priceless views of entire town and I managed to get my shot of Old Town so I can show off to my friends, silly but worth it. With Croatia ticked off of the 21 country list we needed to cross Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania and then finally Macedonia to stay on track.

We all knew that this day was going to be a mile heavy day and were not too sure what we should face when we came to the non EU borders. Upon arrival at the Bosnian border the way that your paperwork is checked is is done with a bit more paranoia. They seem to not trust anyone whatsoever, something we faced in Albania and Macedonia.

So when travelling through non EU countries so ensure that you have all of your paperwork ready and more importantly make sure that is it correct. Between the very strong language barrier and odd way of the world in these parts border crossings can be a tad troublesome.

Driving through Montenegro and Albania did present some driving challenges. For example none of the native drivers seemed to worry about over taking up a mountain on a completely blind bend. There were some very close one of which was a miracle there was not a high speed head on collision. Some of the road conditions are a bit hit and miss too. One giant pothole causes one of the tow cars’ tyres to blow out which lead to a late evening rain soaked tyre change.

When travelling through Eastern European countries you really do see the clear line between polity and wealth. We drove past a mansion with 2 pools in the front garden while an old man was being pulled along on and half broken kart by a rather thin look horse. It really is the other side of life in Europe. Driving through the capital of Albania was very challenging as it seems that the rules of driving are not followed that strictly. At one point there were 5 rows of traffic with no road markings whatsoever, things got a little bit Mad Max.

Apart from some questionable driving and off houses the natural beauty of Bosnia, Montenegro and Albania are stunning parks of the European continent.

More Stunning Mountains And 2 Days In Dubrovnik

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By William Coleman

Following writing my Camp Solitudo sight review I was able to sit down by myself and watch the world go by and reflect on my 2 days in Croatia. The one thing that I’ve taken away from my camping holiday in Croatia is that this country is in the top two best driving experience I’ve ever had.

Because of this trip I have been able to see and experience parts of Europe that I thought I would never get to and all because I’ve done this trip usig leisure vehicles. If you were to do this using any other holiday method you’d be spending your life’s savings.

We made our way to Dubrovnik from Split and we made sure we took our time to take in all the scenery. What better way to see the world than take the costal route. It did add a couple of extra hours into the journey but it’s was very worth it. I’ve added some of the images to social media and there are some featured in this articles but they really do the scenery justice.

As part of the plan day 2 in Dubrovnik was a 0 mile day so we could have a bit of an evening in Old Town. As the convoy made its way to Camp Solitudo the support vehicle made an airport run to collect 2 of my CaravanTimes colleagues and Truma’s Managing Director, Martin Fitzpatrick. Before we set off for our night out we all sat together and made sure the new guys got fully integrated into the team. The unity of the team is one of the best things about this trip. That’s the beauty of touring holidays, it brings people together from all walks of life.

The team were all dressed to the nines and ready for the amazing evening that was ahead of us. As we approached Old Town there were quite a few new modern hotels but right at the edge of town, just before the castle walls of Old Town, was the impressive Hilton Imperial. The cab driver told me that half of it looks a lot more modern than the other due to it being blown up during the Bosnian War.

The main town does seem to have a modern feel to it, the streets are extremely smooth and sparkly, but the side allies are very old and untouched and remained of long and vertices streets of Positano Italy. The restaurant that was chosen was on the sea front and served very fresh locally sourced sea food. Not usually my first choice but I enjoyed every bite of my grilled squid with garlic.

After the meal the general consensus was that 1 or 2 more beverages were very much needed, after 1700 miles and 6 days non stop the team needed some refreshments. As we walked the streets of Kings Landing, Game Of Thrones fans will get the reference, and we were spoiled for choice. I managed to find a small bar that was full of rock’n’roll memorabilia with all time classic tracks. After that we somehow ended up in 2 different Irish bars, 1700 miles to Croatia and we end up in an Irish bar, you really couldn’t make it up. After that we managed to find a club for a night cap and then off to bed.

Day 2 we all had a good lay in and were able to sort out all of the washing wed accumulated and check over all the kit. We were then joined The Caravan And Motorhome Club’s Director General Nick Lomas. The plan for the day was to settle down for a quieter evening that the night before and have a BBQ. Luckily I know my way round portable kitchen and I nominated myself to be the nights chef.

To be able to travel around this country and then hitch up and then continue touring on foot demonstrates the freedom and variety that touring holidays can afford you. We have another 2 weeks ahead of us and I cannot wait to experience every moment of it.

Site Review 6- Camp Solitudo Dubrovnik, Croatia

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By William Coleman

Out of all the 21 we are going to be visiting Croatia has to be the at the top of my list of destinations I’m am most excited for. So day 2 and 3 we are staying in Camp Solitudo, which is around 10 minutes away from Old Town Dubrovnik were Kings Landing from Game Of Thrones is filmed.

Upon arrival to the camp it was clear that the season is not yes in full swing, something I really do not mind at all. There were s handful of guests scattered around the site and everyone just seemed so calm and relaxed. The camp had that feel throughout.

We were given a nice secluded spot at the edge of the site that overlooked the sea and the bridge. One thing that struck me about this part of the world is just how many islands that are dotted about with houses on them. The dinghy trade must be a tent pole of the local economy. The views from all round the site are fantastic.

The 3 star sire has access to a beach as well as the neighbouring hotel’s pool facilities. The site is quite large and accommodates all forms of touring and static accommodation. Over the 2 nights I slept in both touring and static homes. The static 4 berths are a new addition to the site are a absolutely perfect. It came fully knitted out with everything you need from a kettle all the way to a coffee machine. Ideal for groups who may not all have caravans or motorhomes. Out that front you have a table with 6 chairs, 2 sun lounger and a small child’s rocking horse.

The onsite facilities are very very good. The laundry machines are all top of tor lime Miele machines and there are plenty of them. The young lady at the front desk was by far that friendliest and most helpful person I’ve come across this trip.

Since the launch of Game of Thrones the tourist traffic has grown phenomenally. There is so much to do as see in the area before you been got to Old Town. Once you’re in there make sure you have your camera ready. If you are a fan of the hit tv show then Old Town is for you. There are gift shops and tours to take yet it’s not over the top. If you hadn’t seen the show you would not know that this is a key filming locations as they have very much maintained the towns independents from the show.

Camp Solitudo is the only camp site in Dubrovnik. With its Mediterranean greenery and, sports facilities and onsite restaurant this is an ideal location for anyone travelling to Dubrovnik.

From Croatia To Bosnia And Then Back To Croatia

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By William Coleman

So we are about a week into this epic journey to Bosphorus and back so now is the perfect time to get up early, spring clean the vehicles and do an inventory of what supplies we have and what needs replenishing.

With 8 men spread across 3 touring homes, two tow cars and a support van you’d think that there would be a lot more cleaning needed. Despite how nice and neat we kept our leisure homes we still gave them a complete top to bottom spring clean. All the cupboards were emptied and wiped down, the carpets got a good seeing to due to the mud we gathered in Italy and Bled.

Once we got through our strikt cleaning regime we went on to do the stock take. No surprise really that we managed to eat almost every scrap of food and use up all the team bags. So as soon as we get to Dubrovnik we are going to need to do some serious shopping, cant have the guys running on zero tea intake.

Today was supposed to be a light driving day with only a 125 mile to get through. Once the day was said and done it took 7 hours instead of the expected 3-4. The large delay was not due to my questionable driving skills or the roads around the mountains. What caused it was the content stopping to take in all the scenery Croatia has to offer. You simply cannot get enough of it as it is no mind blowing. We were about 200 meters above the sea yet you could see right to the bottom, gin clear and stunning.

So what was a supposed to be a light day turned into a long drive through Croatia taking in all the scenery, and then there was our detour to Bosnia. There is not too much to report on this little detour as it was extremely brief. To get to Dubrovnik from Split you have to cross the Bosnia border for around 20 minutes and then back.

We finally got to our site in Dubrovnik and were met by a new addition to the team, who you will meet on our Facebook Live broadcast later on. So be sure to keep checking Facebook as well as Bailey’s.

Motorway Driving With Better Weather Inner City Towing And Cooking

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William Coleman

Today I faced a whole new set of challenges with inner city towing and hairpin bends as well as amazing weather and a massive surprise breakfast that could have fed the spartan army.

Upon waking up at Camping Bled the team were presented with 1 hamper for every 2 guests. What was inside the hamper blew me away. 1 large thermos of coffee, 1 whole bag of chocolate croissants and rolls, chicken pasta salad, cheese, 3 different hams, roast beef, salmon, frape cheese, yogurts, salad and spreads. Now times that by 4.

Another mile heavy day today with 345 miles to get through which is around 8-9 hours of driving. The drive from Bled to Split is filled with the most beautiful mountain views. This is scenery that makes you realise just how amazing the world really is.

Half way through the day we stopped off and decided to finish what was left over from breakfast for lunch. As me and the Bailey team sat there we reflected on what the highlights of the trip so far have been. The Camping Bled meal was the dominant opinion.

As we entered Croatia we were met with a rather unfriendly police officer who made us very aware we were in the wrong lane at passport control, but as soon as we got past him the beauty that is Croatia exploded in front of us. It was here I decided it is my time to drive.

Once I was back behind the wheel of the Skodia Kodiaq I felt right at home. It has enough power and steadiness to make towing feel effortless, but then we came to almost vertical dual carriageways down the mountains. At this point my nerves were trying to kick in and tell me to panic as the speed picked up very quickly once we started to descend down through the mountains. I simply slowed it down and took my time, once that was done all was well.

The one thing that did make me feel somewhat uneasy was the very sharp bends. As you know towing a motorhome round bends requires a little bit of skill. Now try it going down and round a Croatian Mountain, it could make the hairs on your arms stand up every so slightly.

As soon as we got into Split we were faced with some heavy traffic which was full of drivers who have clearly adopted the Croatian way of driving. Thankfully the roads in Split are quite wide with concerningly smalls pavements, probably why there were so many people walking in the road.

The challenge had be set for Wes and I to cook the team dinner, some people angled it as CaravanTimes V Bailey but it worked out as more as a team effort than an interpromotional battle. I opted to make the starter, a nice easy Bruschetta, which seemed to go down well. Wes went big with his beef sausage and chestnut mushroom penne pasta.

Making enough food for 8 men can be a challenge when using the kitchen of a caravan, but not today. We worked well as a team and delivered the goods with smiles all round. For pudding there was red wine and Peroi which helped close what was an amazing day.

After a few twists and turn, which were followed by some tricky maneuvers, we arrived at our site. Stay tuned for the Kamp Galeb review.

Site Review 4 Camping Bled in Bled Slovenia

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This is our second site based by an icon European lake in two days and I think I can safely say that Lake Bled is just above Lake Garda, in my humble professional lake rating opinion.

Slovenia is an amazing country. This is my first time visiting the country and I will be coming back for sure. If I didn’t have to travel to another 14 countries in as many days I would spend all my time here. If you like good food, very friendly locals, amazing photo opportunities and picturesque settings then Bled, Slovenia is for you.

The 5 Star Camp Bled is almost directly on the banks of Lake Bled with stunning views of the Bled Island as well as the whole expanse of water. When visiting you will be presented with more activities than you can shake a stick at. From archery to massage therapy Camp Bled has it all.

So let’s start with the onsite restaurant because it’s amazing. In London there are a fair share of great places to eat. The food served at the onsite restaurant is as good as any high end restaurant I’ve eaten at. I really cannot express enough the quality and presentation of the food. Usually on site eateries can be a bit bog standard and deliver what I call “Harvester” style grub, pre cooked and warmed up to order. There is nothing like this here whatsoever. The meal was more of an culinary experience than just an evening meal.

The 5 course extravaganza started with a baked Camembert pie served with toasted crostini slices and smoked garlic chutney. Without trying to be over dramatic but it was mind blowing. The garlic chutney was served in an edible cheese bowl type thing which I think is the way forward, edible dinnerware. From there we had a cheese soup, spicy shrimp tagliatelle, steak, assorted puddings and ended with an espresso and a shot of a local pear schnapps style drink which you certainly felt as it went down into to stomach. Our hostess presented each course and drink with an explanation of the where each thing came from and a little bit of history on foods. 12/10 for service and food. You will struggle to find somewhere this good at home.

Now onto the facilities. With 3, soon to be 4, large wash blocks the site ensures there is more than enough for everyone. Just past the entrance of the site there is a child’s play area, set a nice distance away from the pitches. There was not a slide or swing in sight. Instead the children can use the table tennis tables, 6 large connected trampolines, trampolines harnesses rides, board game shacks and many other things to keep everyone happy. The showers and toilets are immaculate, modern and very spacious. Too often I find that by the time you’ve finished showering your towels and clothes and wetter than you. But with a good amount of space I was able to keep everything dry.

Camp Bled also have free easy access WiFi throughout the whole site. The WiFi is simple to connect to and does not ask for any kind of login details, simply click and connect. No matter where you are the connection stays very strong and never drops out.

The onsite market is very well stocked with everything you will possible need for a very long stay.

You can see why this site is 5 Star. The only issue I found was that the site is currently under development. But if you think this has taken anything away from my visit you’d be wrong. I cannot wait to see what the site will look like when it’s finished.

I do have one admission of guilt. I was offered to stay in one of the sites newly built glamping hut last night. I could not help myself.

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Welsh Park Awarded David Bellamy Special Award For Flying The Flag For Wildlife Conservation.

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By William Coleman

Morben Isaf Holiday Park has been recognised for its work alongside the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust. The David Bellamy special award has been received by the 5 star site based in Derwenlas for its work with the Cor’s Dyfi nature reserve, more specifically for the “Osprey Project”.

The David Bellamy Conservation Award Scheme recognises holiday parks that protect and enhance Britain’s natural environment. The park has held a gold award since 2015 and is also “Honey Bee Friendly”.

Since 2009 the park has supported the local community and volunteers from far and wide in helping to preserve the habitat of the native Osprey, encouraging visitors and holidaymakers to get involved.

The park, owned by Salop Leisure, boasts a plethora of wildlife and has built bridges and pathways to allow tourers to enjoy the scenery and look out for its inhabitants. Here are some pictures from the site.


A Majestic Pair of Osprey


An Inquisitive Water Rail


A Snacking Otter

A Perfect Place to Stay

Sarah Lewis, who manages Morben Isaf Holiday Park with her husband, Ben, said they were delighted to win the accolade.

Rufus Bellamy, who runs the award scheme for his famous botanist father, David, said the assessor had been very impressed by the way the park has collaborated with the wildlife trust to develop the successful osprey project.

“You should take a lot of credit for your positive and enthusiastic approach to this partnership, which is the epitome of good neighbourliness and positive conservation action combined,” he stated in a letter.
Sarah explained: “We are situated in the midst of a number of nature reserves and taking part in the David Bellamy Conservation Award Scheme helps us maintain focus and plan our work to suit the natural environment around us.

“We are keen to promote conservation in all aspects of our business and are enthusiastic about raising awareness wherever possible. Our customers also appreciate our commitment and work with us to meet the standards and requirements set by the scheme.

“Staff, holiday home owners and visitors all contribute to making our park a repeat gold award winner, of which we are very proud. Participating in the scheme means that we always evaluate ideas and plans to ensure that the ethos of conservation is applied at all times. We have certainly seen rewards.

“The variety of wildlife and birdlife seen on the park is amazing and has in turn resulted in new business as more customers are attracted by it. Many comment on our ability to balance the quality of being a five star holiday park whilst working in harmony with and enhancing the natural landscape around us.”

Kim Williams, Dyfi Osprey Project officer, said: “We really value the relationship with the park and all our neighbours. In return for their support, we survey the park’s nest boxes, so the partnership works both ways.”

We think the work being done at Morben Isaf is commendable and will be arranging to go and see them in the coming months, let us know if you’ve been to see any of the fantastic wildlife on offer and what we should keep an eye out for.

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Another Day Another 3 Countries And Extreme Weather Towing

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By William Coleman

So today has been an eventful day to say the very least. We have covered three countries, well started in one then travelled across another 2, we completed our 1000th miles as we drove through Italy, saw some of the most beautiful terrain through the mountains and then towed through rain that was so heavy you could not see 30 feet in front of you. That will get your heart pounding.

I started the day at around 7am with a brisk walk to the showers, while being showered by rain on the way, to get an early start so we could cross another 3 countries and arrive at Lake Bled in Slovenia at a reasonable hour for dinner.

With a 200 mile drive under my belt today I must say towing on an Italian motorway is something that a thrill seeker would love. Being caught between to large lorries who simply will not move did make me a little anxious, but then the training kicked in and i quickly got myself out of an uncomfortable situation. The Skoda Octavia I was driving today was an absolute joy to use. Thanks to the spot on weight balance in the caravan it made to towing feel effortless at times.

After what seemed like an eternity on the motorway we came off a few miles outside of Austria, which is one of our 21 countries. The views that can be seen on the drive from Italy to Austria are some of the most jaw dropping sights so far. The French Alps were amazing but these vast mountain ranges, with a scattering of gargantuan cascading waterfalls may tip the scales in their favour. Driving through the mountains of Italy toward Austria may have to be best driving experience I have ever had. There were quite a lot of rain crowds but that added to the feel of being in the mountains. Surrounded by misty mountains as far as the eye can see, very Lord Of The Rings. Anyone who is thinking about visiting do not hesitate and make this a priority booking.

We entered the tunnel Karavanke through the mountains to cross the border into Austria, I knew we had entered Austria due to a handy text from EE informing me of the high prices they charge for text messages. The tunnel through the mountain was extremely long (around 5 miles) and seemed never ending. Once we exited the we entered an entirely different landscape, still very mountainous but with a completely different feel to the buildings and layout of the houses and streets.

Aside from the huge amounts of open space it seems not one single house or building in Austria are the same. Each house is very large and seems to be located on its own wide open plot of land which makes the whole place seem perfect to live, very different from the towns and cities of the UK.

I know I have said it a lot recently but this place is beautiful. You can tell that they intentionally leave a lot of open space and shy away from over building structures, unlike most countries around the world.

One thing I noticed about the immaculate town of Faak Am See was that there seemed to be quite a lot of shops, bars and restaurants closed. After a small broken English conversation with a local it seemed the town does not re awaken until the 22nd of April. So as we made our way through the smaller roads of Austria we headed toward to border and eventually made our way into Slovenia.

Slovenia is very similar to Austrin in quite a few ways. The one real difference I noticed was that the area is catered a lot more towards its tourists attractions. Slovenia is known for its white water rafting, castles, town squares and of course the picture perfect Lake Bled which is where we are actually staying.

The Lake Bled site is amazing and actually has an impressive 5 star rating. Once you read my review you will see why. So we have just finished our evening meal where we were totally spoilt by the staff while we dined on a 4 course meal with beer, wine and a lovely dolcetto wine with pudding.

All in all today has been totally fantastic all round. From the mountainous drive through italy to Austria to the Italian service station lunch all the way up to the amazing sights and food of Slovenia.

Swift Basecamp Awarded Red Dot Design Award

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by William Coleman
Apple, Ferrari, Porsche, Sony and …Swift?

What do the above eminent brands all have in common? Well they’re all 2018 recipients of the prestigious Red Dot Design Award.

Here’s a little about the Award from the Red Dot team themselves; “The origins of the Red Dot Design Award date back to 1955. Its distinction, the Red Dot, is established internationally as one of the most sought-after quality marks for good design…With the help of the jury, the internationally organised competition “Red Dot Award: Product Design” appraises the best products of the year. In 48 categories, manufacturers and designers can enter their innovations. The jury only awards a Red Dot to products with a high design quality.”

So how are Swift mixing it with the likes of big boys Apple, AEG, Siemens, Vodafone, BMW? It’s all about The Basecamp.

We reviewed the Basecamp back when it was launched in 2016, watch our video above to hear Caravan Adventurer Neil Greentree’s views on it ( you can find part 2 here . Our first impressions were how versatile it was, although sceptical initially of it being marketed as a “Crossover Camping Vehicle” we soon changed our minds after taking it away for a few days.

James Turner, Swift Group Managing Director, said: “As a British manufacturer we are proud to have been recognised in these prestigious global awards that celebrate the world’s best design.
“Swift has been at the forefront of design and technology throughout its history – from developing our intelligent construction system, SMART, in 2012 through to putting control at people’s fingertips with Swift Command, our smartphone and tablet app for controlling lighting, heating and other leisure vehicle functions. The Red Dot reaffirms our long-held commitment to design innovation – and showcases the talent and creativity of our design teams.”

If you haven’t already seen one of Swift’s newly heralded Basecamps, and you fancy a trip to Essen in Germany, you’ll be able to view it an an exhibition being held there by the Red Dot organisers, it’ll be showcased amongst its peers leading global design. Alternatively you can find out about everything that makes the Basecamp an award winner here

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Bristanbul – Site Review 3 Camping Fontanelle Lake Garda Italy

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William Coleman

Lake Garda is considered by many as one of the most stunning locations in Italy. Known for its crystal clear waters and awe inspiring views it is a must visit location when you’re touring the northern Italy. Rumour has it that even Mr. Ocean’s 11 himself George Clooney has a house on the lake. After a quick google I can confirm that George does have a lake house here. It’s ok we are on first a name basis now.

The site itself sits right on the banks of the Lake Garda so you have a view that makes buying an extremely expensive camera more than worth it. With a circumference of 160 kilometres the site has a perfect location to take in the beauty. Our plots were water front so we got to see it all right from our Bailey Pegasus.

Onsite there is restaurant/pizzeria that service quite a large menu of salad, pizza, pasta and main courses with a Italian wine list that would make Pavarotti blush. Not to mention world class home made tiramisu!

For supplies the site has a mini market that serves fresh warm pastries in the morning along with a lot of Italian goods and a hand full of your normal day to day products. The good thing about sites in Italy is they have a lot of local products so you get to taste the real Italy. And if you have a sweet tooth I highly recommend trying a cannoli or some Baci and Venchi chocolate.

Both pet and child friendly, not that I put the two in the same category, so you do not have to worry if you want to bring the little ones or pets with you. An onsite pool, with plenty of bed chairs and seating, will no doubt keep the kids entertained for hours on end. You could even pop to the onsite gift shop and buy a couple of rubber rings and make the most of it yourself. After all it’s yours holiday too.

Of an evening you can sit at the lakeside bar and enjoy an espresso or the Peroni red label beer that’s is pretty much only sold in Italy and is quite different from the Peroni Nastro Azzurro we get in the UK.

Just a stones throw from the site is the local town where you can visit the castles, cafés, pizzerias and my personal favourite the tradition Italian bakery. With plenty of shops and things to see and do you could happily spend a whole week, or two, on the banks of the lake and touring the town sipping espresso and eating pasta and pizza.

The site boasts all touring accommodation as well as cottages, statics and camping areas. So this site is open to any and every keen tourer.

Todays Adventure 3 Countries In 1 Day And Border Crossings

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By William Coleman

Today is a big day on the tour as we embark on our journey to cross 3 countries in 1 day. Although we are only traveling 10 miles more than yesterday we are still managing to tick as many countries off of our list as possible. By the end of today we will be setting up camp at Lake Garda in Italy, which just so happens to be a destination that is right at the top of my bucket list of places to visit. Happy days!

So we set off from Gigny-sur-Saone at around 9am, it would have been earlier but the decision was made to give the team a bit of extra time in bed to recharge the batteries, to start making our way to land that created Velcro, Switzerland. The journey is roughly 272 miles and took around 7+ hours due to the speed limits we face towing.

As we drove through France toward to Mont Blanc tunnel we entered the skiing town of Chamonix which was amazing. You really do have to envy the folk who get to wake up every morning to the massive mountain range that surrounds them. The pictures I took simply not does not do the scenery justice. Absolutely amazing! For me one of the constant highlights of the trip is just how much you see. Europe is such a massive place with so many different terrains and settings that you are constantly gobsmacked at sights around you.

Once to convoy was back together we got down some lunch down us and headed into the Mont Blanc tunnel. I was in the driver’s seat for this. I will be honest and say there were one of two butterflies in the tummy about driving in the tunnel but like most new experiences as soon as you are doing it you realise that there is zero to be concerned with. Take your time, obey the limits and laws, be aware of what is around you and most importantly, enjoy yourself.

Once we left the tunnel we were in the Italy, somewhere close to my heart, in another skiing town. The architecture and buildings in this town are clearly influenced by their French neighbours and is very much a skiing hotspot. The main hotel even calls itself the Mont Blanc Mountain Hotel. The border crossing was simple, just drive into and then out through the tunnel so no issues or stories on that front.

Today has been a pretty driving heavy day but I was able to take in a lot of scenery at it was not constant motorway driving. To best part of today was trying 3 separate vehicles. First off I was I the support vehicle, the ever reliable and luxury Mercedes Vito, where we were able to catch up with the convoy who had a few miles on us as we opted to go shopping for supplies. Sitting very comfortable on the motorway teetering at the speed limit. The best thing about the Vito is how well it performs at high speed. There were 3 of us on board with a full production kit, luggage and all manner of touring essentials provided by Prima, and you would think you were transporting a bag of feathers. Like most Mercedes this is an absolute joy to drive on any road type or surface.
I spent the second half of the day with Lee Davey in the motorhome and opted to drive the whole distance from the Mont Blanc tunnel all the way to Lake Garda, another place that I promised I would visit at least once in my life.

So after a full 13 hour of travelling, we did have some quick pit stops on the way for tea, coffee and sandwiches, we have arrived at our site located on Lake Garda, Italy. I will not go into too much site detail, as I will be posting up a review once I had spent more time on site but one thing I will say is that this part of Italy is a sight to behold. The scenery is something straight out of the pages of a James Bond novel.

We did arrive a bit late to the site, as we had the lay in this morning and the huge traffic delay through Milan, so myself and Wes from Bailey will be making a three course feast for the team. The third of which is a French apple tart so do not tell the Italians! Wes and I fancy ourselves as culinary skilled travellers so and we put our hands up and nominated ourselves to cook for the team. Unfortunately due to the 1 hour stand still traffic on the motorway through Milan we simply did not get enough time in the evening. Something tells me that the team will not forget the self-nomination and hold us to the cooking challenge we set ourselves.

Once we arrived on site we were hit with pretty heavy rain and were pitching up in quite poor light with monsoon like condition, but that is a part of travelling. The reality of it, like every holiday type that exists, is sometimes weather will work against you no matter how glorious the location is.

So in summary we managed to cover 3 counties in one day with a convoy of three leisure vehicles, 2 of which are being towed, and a support vehicles. Tunnels, snowy mountains, blistering sunshine, we saw it all in one day.