Philippe and Geneviève, CAMPING-CAR PARK Ambassadors, share with us their journey through Portugal. On the program: three of the network's motorhome parks, mild weather, and a blend of history, nature and relaxation. A perfect getaway for travelers in search of authenticity, even out of season.
Nestled at an altitude of 650 metres, Pinhel is a Portuguese town with medieval charm, located in the Centro region. ThePinhel CAMPING-CAR PARK offers 23 spacious pitches, all equipped with electricity, a well-designed drainage area and two taps for easy vehicle maintenance.
Philippe and Geneviève particularly appreciated the tranquility of the site, as well as its proximity to amenities. Just 600 meters away, they found an Intermarché for local shopping. The town center is 1.5 km away. A pleasant walk or bike ride leads to the Tour du Château de Pinhel, a vestige of medieval times, and theparish church, testimony to the town's religious importance over the centuries.
And for those who wish to extend their ascent, Guarda, Portugal's highest town, is just 30 minutes away. From there, the panorama of the Serra da Estrela is breathtaking. In winter, the air is crisp, but temperatures remain mild for the season: around 15°C during the day.
How to get to Pinhel
Instant reservationpossible via the CAMPING-CAR PARK app
Second stop : Penacovaa charming village on the banks of the Mondego River, some 30 km from Coimbra. This stopover was a real coup de coeur for our ambassadors. Themotorhome park is located on the banks of the river, in a natural setting conducive to relaxation and contemplation.
With its 32 pitches, the Penacova offers all the essentials for a comfortable stay: service terminals, dumping platform and electrical outlets. Just 2 km from the town center, holidaymakers can stroll through the picturesque alleyways, savour the local gastronomy (the famous chanfanas!) or climb up to the Miradouro Emídio da Silva, for a spectacular view over the valley.
But what really sets Penacova apart is the towpath that runs alongside the Mondego River: ideal for walking or cycling. Philippe and Geneviève spent an entire morning there, punctuated by the sound of water and birdsong. They also recommend a detour to the Mosteiro do Lorvão, a jewel of religious architecture just a few kilometers away.
How to get to Penacova parking area
Download the CAMPING-CAR PARK app to consult practical info, notices, and book your stages in one click.
To conclude their stay in Portugal, our two travelers headed for the Atlantic coast, setting down their wheels in Lavos, a peaceful seaside resort in the municipality of Figueira da Foz. TheLavos motorhome park is a well-equipped little haven, with 63 pitches, two dumping zones (including a state-of-the-art connected terminal) and direct access to the beach, just 100 meters away.
Philippe and Geneviève enjoyed long walks on the wooden footbridges that run along the dunes to the beach. They tell of enjoying a seafood meal in the beach restaurant, with their feet almost in the sand - a rare experience in January.
Lavos perfectly embodies theoff-season spirit: calm, friendly, yet lively. With an average temperature of 15°C even in winter, it's the perfect place to recharge your batteries, read a good book facing the ocean or simply enjoy a moment of tranquillity to the sound of the waves.
See Lavos rest area details
Discover other seaside rest areas in our special "seaside" selection
This trip to Portugal reminds us just how much off-season travel by motorhome can be synonymous with discovery, encounters and comfort. Thanks to the CAMPING-CAR PARK network, Philippe and Geneviève were able to complete the stages in complete autonomy, with a mobile application enabling them to :
- locate your campsite
- book in real time
- manage your stay and access rights
🎒 Download the CAMPING-CAR PARK application
Through their testimonials, Philippe and Geneviève remind us that Portugal can be discovered all year round, and that the network of CAMPING-CAR PARK sites allows great flexibility in your itinerary. Varied landscapes, quality infrastructures, pleasant weather... so many reasons to add these three areas to your road trip.
So, are you ready to follow in their footsteps?
🚐 Download the app, book your first stop, and set off to discover authentic Portugal, at your own pace.
