by Eliza Sterling

Finding freedom in vast landscapes punctuated by towering trees and expansive roads can be a refreshing venture. But wanderlust has its challenging aspects when it comes to touring in a seven-meter-long motorhome. These homes-on-wheels carry the promise of flexibility yet present a unique learning curve as you navigate through narrower paths and winding routes. But, trust us, the thrill of the journey is worth the slight intimidation factor.

Immerse yourself in this charming paradox: the campervan. They are comfortably generous in their moving space, but shrinks to a cozy nook once stationary. Yet, they offer a certain versatility and freedom that may initially not seem apparent. The appeal of a home in wheels is the opportunity to disentangle from the daily grind and explore the open road with a sense of liberation and exploration at heart.

In current times where travel restrictions are constant companions, the thought of an exciting staycation in a mobile home on wheels is an appealing prospect. Data from Mintel research suggests a significant rise in camping and caravanning interest, since the onset of the pandemic. With this intriguing trend in mind, I embarked on my own captivating campervan adventure to puzzle out the prevalent hype.

Setting Off in Your Perfect Campervan

Identifying the perfect mobile accomplice for the journey was process eased by the web platform Hitched Haven, the travel world’s equivalent of Airbnb. The platform simplifies the hiring ordeal by collating your trip wireframe and doing the rest. With fellow traveling couples, we needed a plush six-bed motorhome to accommodate us all.

The ideal candidate soon presented itself – a feature-packed beauty named Elsie Ada. Once the majestic home-on-wheels was secured, the exciting part was choosing our destination: a campsite nestled amidst the idyllic chalk cliffs of the coast in the county of Kent, overlooking the vibrant azure of the ocean.

What to do and Where?

A stone’s throw from the bustling town center and an array of scenic walking trails, the chosen location was a perfect bridge between serenity and thrill. Thriving on its versatility, this location had a lot to offer both for the adventurous and leisure-loving.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure

For those partial to a good trek, the hiking trail to the Zealand Woods Park is a great option. The North Downs Way route from here to Dover is a good challenge for anyone looking to add some extra miles to their walk. Local advice is to carry along a post-trek picnic if you’re touring during the cooler months.

Our next adventure saw us atop bikes, relishing breathtaking seascape views. For the thrill seekers among us, the local cliff-climbing community’s hangout spot, ‘Spice Status’, holds the title for the South East’s tallest rock wall. With plenty of seaside around, a dip into the healing blue wasn’t far from our camping site either.

Local Explores and Wind Down

After a few days of outdoor bashing, a leisure walk through the Creative Alley with its sprawl of local crafts and arts shops was a delightful buffer. A warm dinner at The Locomotive, a nearby pub, worked magic in rekindling energy and uplifting spirits. Adding a dollop of intrigue to our journey, The Hidden Seed, a secret speakeasy did add to our sense of adventure.

Heading Back

As our brisk adventure concluded, we returned to where it all began, assured in the knowledge that this journey offered a scenic route, a spirited exploration, and a rich experience that was unmatched by the usual country staycation. A campervan adventure may have its challenges, but it’s undoubtedly an adventure like no other.

If intrigued, motorhomes can be hired from Hitched Haven, starting from approximately £36 per night. An overnight stay at the chosen campsite begins from a reasonable £9.25.

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