Last summer, I embarked on an unforgettable journey, leaving the familiar behind and diving headfirst into an adventure across Europe. Armed with nothing but an old map, a packed van, and a desire for fun, I set out from Portugal with no set plans, only the open road and a promise to myself—to explore and enjoy every moment.
The First Stop on My Trip Across Europe: Picos de Europa, Spain
My first destination was the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, nestled in the north of Spain. As I drove into the heart of the park, the landscapes exceeded my wildest expectations. Spain had always been a frequent stop on my travels, but this place felt new, like discovering a hidden gem in a place I thought I knew. The towering peaks, lush greenery, and endless hiking trails made it the perfect start to my road trip.
What is stopping my Trip Across Europe: Crossing Borders from Spain to France
Soon, it was time to cross into France—a place I had visited before but was always eager to rediscover. There were no signs marking the border, just a quiet, unassuming road that led me into the next leg of my adventure. Despite the summer crowds in the tourist-heavy coastal towns, I found solace by heading inland, where the roads were emptier and the villages felt untouched by time.
Paris & Strasbourg: A Friend Joins the Journey
After a few solo days on the road, I reached Paris. There, I convinced a friend to join me for a stretch of the journey, and together, we made our way to Strasbourg. The drive eastward was filled with scenic beauty, winding roads, and, of course, a few spontaneous detours.
The French Alps: Where Snow Meets Summer
The French Alps were a dream come true. There’s something magical about seeing snow-capped peaks in the middle of summer while wearing just a T-shirt. Hiking through those trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and camping under the stars reminded me why I had set out on this trip in the first place.
A Fairytale Cabin in Switzerland
After leaving the Alps, we crossed into Switzerland. Here, we stumbled upon a hidden cabin deep in the mountains. It felt like something out of a fairytale—isolated, cozy, and surrounded by breathtaking views. We spent days hiking the Swiss trails, and though the nights were cold, the simplicity of it all made me feel more alive than I had in years.
Venice, Italy: From Nature to the City
After nearly a month of wandering through the mountains, we craved a change. Venice, with its canals, history, and endless gelato shops, was the perfect city escape. It felt good to be around people again, indulging in the best pizza and gelato Italy had to offer. My friend’s holiday was nearing its end, and after nearly four weeks together, we said our goodbyes.
Croatia’s Hidden Beaches
With my friend gone, I continued south, venturing into Croatia. While the coastlines were beautiful, I found the true magic by driving inland, away from the tourist-heavy beaches. One particular morning, I found myself on a quiet, empty beach with crystal-clear waters. There wasn’t a soul in sight—it was pure bliss.
Amalfi Coast: Sketchy Roads & Spectacular Views
My journey eventually brought me to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where the roads were narrow, winding, and not for the faint of heart. Somehow, I managed to park my van in the steepest, sketchiest spot and enjoyed a swim in the Mediterranean waters of Positano. Crowded? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. The best part? Finding the world’s best pizza just a few towns over!
The Journey Home
After more than three months on the road, over 12,000 kilometers, and ten different countries, it was time to head home. The trip back through France and Spain was bittersweet. I had woken up to breathtaking sunrises, swam in the bluest waters, and eaten my way through Europe’s most delicious spots. The van, once a symbol of freedom, now felt like home.
What’s Next for You?
I didn’t know what to expect when I started this road trip, but it turned out to be everything I needed. Life is short, and the world is waiting to be explored. So, what’s your next adventure going to be? Don’t let it pass you by—grab your map, pack your bags, and hit the road.
Final Thoughts This trip was a reminder that sometimes, the best journeys are the ones you don’t plan. Europe is vast, diverse, and full of surprises. Whether you’re wandering through medieval villages, hiking through snowy mountains, or indulging in world-class pizza, every moment is a treasure.
So, get out there and start exploring. Life’s too short to stay in one place.
Check on YouTube