5 star camping

Spending the night in a tent or motorhome, barbecuing sausages in the evening and diving into the spa in the morning doesn't have to be a contradiction in terms. More and more campsites are reaching for the stars and offering wellness facilities, water parks and well-maintained sanitary facilities. The ADAC awards campsites that receive 5 stars in the classification with the title ADAC Superplatz for one year. The spacious and beautifully situated campsites with their wide range of leisure activities are perfect for families with children and discerning couples.

Special features of 5-star campsites

5-star campsites are located in the most picturesque and beautiful corners of holiday regions. They are often located directly on a clean beach with private access to the sea or have their own bathing area by the lake. Size is also a decisive factor for glamping - those offering luxury-based camping need plenty of space for exquisite extras such as wellness areas, pools, perfectly equipped sanitary facilities with rain showers or even golf courses. You will find numerous sites for 5-star camping in Germany if you fancy a holiday at home.

The pitches are also generously sized and there are usually larger and smaller glamorously furnished bungalows available. The guest is king is the motto here, and this also applies to any disturbance of the peace. This is why the campsites are not only spacious, but are also preferably located outside the towns. Nevertheless, access to the most beautiful places is never complicated. An in-house shuttle service or bike hire is standard.

Top regions

To earn the 5-star camping category, campsites must have a number of exclusive features. These include the quality and number of sanitary facilities, the size and atmosphere of the pitches, shopping and catering facilities as well as leisure and swimming fun. Most campsites in this upmarket category can be found in southern Europe.

Camping belongs to Italy like cheese on a pizza. In Veneto in particular, the campsites resemble huge holiday paradises. They are located directly on the white sandy beaches of the Mediterranean and offer mega water parks and a comprehensive range of sports and leisure activities.

Tennis, basketball and beach volleyball courts come as standard. There are also surf schools. Parents will be delighted with the varied entertainment programme for teenagers and the childcare for younger guests. Even campers without a mobile home are welcome. Most campsites in Veneto, on the Lido or Lake Garda also offer small bungalows or luxury cottages.

Spain, Croatia and France have adopted the trend towards magnificent and well-equipped campsites and offer the finest camping, especially on their coasts, which is ideal for several weeks of holiday. In northern Europe, there are some enchanting 5-star campsites in the dune landscapes of Denmark. These top campsites offer wellness instead of water parks.

Saunas and whirlpools promise relaxation, while horse riding on the beach and boat hire are on offer. In Germany, there are several 5-star campsites in Bavaria and on the coast. The super campsites impress with surprising offers: from spa treatments to high ropes courses and climbing parks to dog trainers belonging to the campsite.

Top tips

With a few simple tips, your camping holiday will be an idyllic and relaxing time - The campsites in southern Europe tempt you to spend hours having fun in the water. Sun creams with a high protection factor belong in every holiday luggage - Small children should be supervised on the spacious grounds and especially near the pools. Almost all 5-star campsites offer non-swimmers and paddling pools - In the event of an injury or accident, the campsite warden or staff should be informed immediately. Medically trained staff, first aid kits and emergency kits are readily available on site - Campers should adhere to the campsite rules to ensure a conflict-free holiday. This applies in particular to quiet campsites. Youth groups are not welcome at some sites. If you want to party, it's better to choose a lively site or a site with a soundproof discotheque- Campers like to travel with as little luggage as possible. At 5-star campsites, campers with high standards meet and it is definitely advisable to put a smart item of clothing in your suitcase - Ask instead of take: Even though camping fans are happy to share, invite and be helpful, the privacy of neighbours should be considered on campsites - Basic food and alcohol are usually cheaper in the supermarket at home than in the grocery shops in holiday paradises. Dog owners should enquire at the time of booking whether the campsite is really dog-friendly. - Some swimming pools and leisure facilities are only open in season. If you check the operating times, you won't be disappointed.

Activities and excursions

5-star camping always includes a special range of leisure activities, which can vary from holiday region to holiday region.

Water sports

In southern Europe, there is not only great water fun on the campsites - water sports of all kinds are offered on the coast, from water skiing and jet skiing to banana boating. In Bavaria, numerous campsites are located near picturesque mountain and waterways. Kayak, canoe and fishing hire is available at the campsites. Guided hiking, cycling and canoeing tours are also organised by the activity leaders at the sports centres. Beginners can get their fishing licence in many places. Sailing and surfing are popular in the north. Surfing and sailing schools are usually located in the immediate vicinity of the campsite, if not on the campsite itself.

Equestrian sports

Riding or farm holidays are popular with families with children. There are numerous campsites on the North Sea coast and in Denmark that offer riding excursions or have a petting zoo on site.

Off-road tours

Off-road excursions are not only possible on horseback, but also motorised. The hire of motocross bikes, scooters, quads, e-bikes or Segways is now standard at many upmarket campsites. Excursions on mountain bikes or guided bike trail tours are also available. Campers who have travelled without a bike can usually hire one on site.