This Easter, we set off on a journey that took us from the UK all the way to the sun-soaked heel of Italy—and back again—with Gandalf the campervan as our faithful home on wheels. In just a few weeks, we experienced a rich blend of dramatic coastlines, ancient cities, quiet countryside, and unforgettable moments that made this one of our most memorable road trips to date.
We kicked things off with a brisk, 48 hour drive through France and into northern Italy, pausing to admire the medieval charm of Troyes and the glassy beauty of Lake Annecy. With blue skies and mountain views, it was the perfect place to stretch our legs and cycle along the lakeside before crossing into Italy through the spectacular Alpine passes.
Once in Italy, our first major stop was the Cinque Terre—a cluster of five vibrant cliffside villages on the Ligurian coast. Parked up high in Levanto, we set out on foot and by train and bike to explore the picture-perfect towns, each with its own character. From colourful harbours to dramatic coastal paths, this stretch of the Italian Riviera stole our hearts and set the tone for the adventures to come.
Further south, we immersed ourselves in history with a stay near Pompeii, where we explored the haunting ruins of the ancient Roman city frozen in time. A day trip to Naples added a burst of urban energy—and a few slices of truly unbeatable pizza.
From there, we drifted into a slower pace near Salerno, taking in the views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and catching our breath after the buzz of city life.
Our route then led us to the sun-drenched region of Puglia, where whitewashed towns, olive groves, and coastal beauty unfolded before us. We wandered through Alberobello’s fairytale trulli houses, explored the historic charm of Lecce, and loved every second. Puglia felt like a peaceful pause in the journey—authentic, unspoiled, and deeply relaxing.
Eventually, we made our way north into the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the pace picked up again—along with the romance. From the cliffside elegance of Pienza, where we witnessed a spontaneous proposal, to the medieval towers of San Gimignano and the awe-inspiring architecture of Florence, Tuscany delivered in every way. The food, the views, the light—everything felt timeless.
Throughout the journey, we balanced bustling sightseeing days with quiet evenings cooking in the van, sipping local wine, and soaking in sunsets from campsites with views. From ancient ruins to seaside serenity, cityscapes to vineyard-covered hills, this Easter road trip was a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
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Perfect trip away glad all went well.