Camping Bella Italia
Peschiera del Garda
Verona
Italy

Tel: 00 39 045 6400688
Fax: 00 39 045 6401410

E-mail: bellaitalia@camping-bellaitalia.it

To find site:
Exit autostrada at Peschiera and take SP11 in the direction of Brescia, after about two kilometres turn sharp right as though heading back into Peschiera and campsite is immediately on your left. The entrance is large so difficult to miss!

Bella Italia is not so much a campsite but more of a massive holiday centre which readers may wish to take into account when deciding whether to use this campsite. Quite a bit of thought has gone into the planting of shrubs and flowers along the main routes on the site which adds to the feel. It has a superb location right on the bottom end of Lake Garda.
Being so large it also has superb facilities including a very large leisure pool complex, several restaurants and takeaways and a good selection of shops. The site has a beach area on the Lake shore.
There are numerous large toilet blocks dotted around the site which are to a good standard with seated toilets but no paper provided.
There are about 400 touring pitches of a reasonable size although some can be a bit uneven and where there was once grass could be baked earth. Many have direct connection to water and waste disposal. Electrics are 6 amps via CEE17 connectors. In the main season (including Dutch and German holidays end of May early June) the site is very busy and can be full although there is usually a daily turnover of pitches. If the site is full when you arrive but there will be pitches available the following day they offer you the opportunity to stay overnight on the sports field which does have electrics and water. Those with longer outfits need to plan their route to their pitch carefully (map provided by reception) as some turnings off some pitch access roads can be a bit tight. Reception will require your passports overnight as they don’t accept the Camping Carnet as proof of identity.

Internet access is available but seems to be by fixed terminal but WiFi may be available at one of the Bar’s. Other than touring pitches there are many tour operators on site as well as apartments and bungalows owned by the campsite. No dogs are allowed on this site. This site accepts Camping Cheques.

The attractive fortified town of Peschiera is only a walk from the campsite and it also has good transport links by bus, boat and train if you want to leave the car on site. About two kilometres away is Gardaland, ideal if you have children in the party. About 15 kms from the site on the road to Verona there is a large Auchen supermarket that also sells fuel at excellent prices.

Date of visit late May 2009.

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2009
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping Cisano. Vito
Via Peschiera
48, 1-37011 Cisano di Bardolino
Italy

Tel: +39 045 62290998

Web site: www.camping-cisano.it

To find site:
Exit A22 at Garda Sud. Follow signs for Bardolino/Largo di Garda. In Bardolino take a sharp left on the roundabout towards Lazise. The site is on the right as you enter Cisano and is signed. Do not use a sat nav once off the motorway as you risk being taken down some totally unsuitable roads!

Camping Cisano is a large site on the eastern shore of Lake Garda. There are two pitching areas on either side of the road interconnected by a tunnel for cars and pedestrians, motorhomes and caravans obviously need to use the road route. The associated Camping Vito seems to be either statics or seasonal caravans with only a handful of touring pitches. There is a friendly reception where English is widely spoken. Not only is the site large but also very busy and for anyone wanting a peaceful early season stay it would be wise to avoid the first week of June which seems to coincides with one of the main German school holidays. Apart from camping pitches there is also a wide variety of other holiday accommodation available including Tour Operators. The actual touring pitches vary in size but on average around 80 sq. metres. There are some larger pitches available but these are quickly snapped up, usually by those that bide their time on one of the smaller pitches. There are a fair number of seasonal pitches which can make to site feel crowded. The site is slightly terraced so some on pitch levelling will be require. Some of the site roads are quite tight, particularly with trees and parked cars so you need to take care when arriving and departing. On arrival you are usually taken round the site on a golf buggy to select a suitable pitch for your unit. Electrical connections are via CEE17 blue plugs and are rated at 4 amps although you do have the option of requesting and upgrade to 6 amps at no extra charge. There are no water taps near to pitches and water can only be obtained from the toilet blocks which could mean some distance depending on where you are pitched. The are several sets of toilet blocks which in the main are of a high standard and contain seated pedestal toilets but no paper provided. Washing machines and dryers are also available at the main blocks. The site not only has a beach area on the lake but also an excellent pool complex. Next to Camping Vito is a good sized site supermarket. On site is a Pizza Restaurant which can also be used for takeaway food. The site does have a WiFi service (new this year I understand) however it is expensive and access points are not very reliable. The best place seems to be the side and rear of the main reception building but the site have forgotten to provide any means of sitting down to use the service! Out of the main season the site accepts the ACSI discount card although there are restrictions on what pitches can be used, i.e. not the first three rows by the lake. Camping Cheques are also accepted but during the first week of June there seems to be a substantial additional charge. Dogs are not accepted on this site.

Many people will come here because of the onsite facilities but of course there is much to see and do around the shores of Lake Garda. Verona is about 17 miles away and is worth a visit. Food shopping facilities are a bit limited in the immediate area with a Lidl in Bardolino although if you are willing to travel a little further towards the larger towns you will find more choice.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Campeggio Comunale Estense
Via Gramicia
76-44100 Ferrara
Italy

Tel: 0532 752396

To find site:
Once in Ferrara the site is well signed.

This Municipal Campsite is situated near the old walls of the town of Ferrara. The welcome is professional rather than friendly. There are about 50 pitches which vary in size. They are not numbered but trees delineate the pitching areas. Some have an area of very course hardstanding which I imagine have been put in to support motorhomes. Providing the site is not full you can usually find yourself a bit more room on the end pitches which are a little bigger. Electrical connections are via CEE17 blue plugs and are rated at 6 amps. Water taps are dotted around the site. Toilet blocks are of a good standard with a mix of Turkish and seated pedestal toilets. However when only one block is open it means there is only one men’s and one women’s Western style toilet available for the whole site! Showers have swing saloon type doors so do not provide much privacy as a usual shower cubicle. During the low season there are no other facilities open although it looks as it there could be more available in the high season. The campsite has extensive tree cover which would be a boon in hot weather but would provide a challenge for anyone wanting to get satellite reception. The site tends to get water logged in very wet weather. A small discount is given to holders of the CCI Camping Carnet. WiFi is available at a cost of €1 an hour. The signal covers a reasonable distance from reception but is not site wide. Date of visit, early June 2012

The town/city of Ferrara is only a short bike ride from the site and there seem to be many cycle ways to choose from especially around the extensive walls. This site is convenient as a stopover site for north/south routes through Italy. There is a large supermarket and several fuel stations within a short distance of the campsite.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Camping Ca’Savio
Via di Ca’Savio 77
Cavallino Treporti
Venezia
Italy

Tel: +39 041 966 017

E-mail: Via the web site
Web site: www.casavio.it/en/camping_cavallino

To Find Site:
From Venice (Marco Polo) Airport, which is signed from autostrada A4/A27 follow signs for Jesolo and then Cavalino and Punta Sabbione. On the approach to Ca Savio watch out for signs to Camping Ca Savio which requires a left turn off the main road. From here follow signs. (please note, a new motorway has opened which bypasses Mestre but taking it will require you to double back to the Airport, make sure you follow signs to Airport rather than Venice. The new motorway has been designated the A4 and the old A4 round Mestre is now the A27!)

Camping Ca Savio is a large campsite with in the region of 800 touring pitches plus many others taken up by tour operators and the site’s own units. As a result it can be very busy during school holidays.
It is situated adjacent to a long sandy beach on the Adriatic and it is on this side of the site where the touring pitches are situated so they have easy access to the beach. Pitches vary in size and the most generous seem to be nearer to the reception end with smaller pitches at the furthest end of the site. Most have a good level of shade from fir trees although the large fir cones look a bit menacing!
Electric points are positioned between the rows and have CEE17 connectors rated at 6amps but wise to check for reverse polarity.
One thing that lets this site down is the lack of sufficient water points which are very sparse in some areas. The site has several eating places from takeaway to self service and service restaurants. There is a good site shop selling most things you will need for your stay, including wine sold by the litre! WiFi and fixed terminal internet access is available at several places on the site but it is not site wide unfortunately. Costs are around 5 euros an hour although it does get progressive cheaper.
Reception is open throughout the day but a ’quiet period’ operates between 1.00pm and 3.00pm in the afternoon for vehicle movements which can be inconvenient, although there is a car park at the entrance. Also near reception is a nice swimming pool complex.
Toilet blocks are dotted around the site and are of a good standard. One unusual feature is that cubicles contain toilet/shower/wash hand basin. The toilets are seatless and no paper is provided.
No pets are accepted.
There is a little aircraft noise from planes in and out of Marco Polo Airport.
The site accepts Camping Cheques for a limited period and it can also be booked via the Caravan Club ABS service.

The twin advantage of the location of this campsite is the access to a long sandy beach and the ease of access by ferry from Punta Sabbione to Venice. Ferry/bus tickets are available from reception but they can also be purchased from the ticket office at the ferry with more ticket choices. There are also good cycle ways from the site into Ca Savio and to Punta Sabbione. There is a small supermarket in Ca Savio and larger ones out towards Jesolo.

Date of visit late May 2009.

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2009
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping Tiber
Via Tiberina
00188 Rome
Italy

Tel: 0039 06 33610733

Email: Contact via the web site
Web site: www.campingtiber.com

To Find Site:
Leave Rome ring motorway at junction 6 ( take special care as junction 5 and 6 are very close together and you have to pull off the motorway as others are trying to join!) and follow signs to Prima Porta and then follow signs to campsite. When entering campsite through arch, pull over to lefthandside and report to reception.

Camping Tiber is on the northern side of the Rome ring motorway near to Prima Porta and is situated alongside the river Tiber and is an oasis of calm compared to the frantic suburbs outside the campsite. Like many City sites it is busy with a regular turn round of units as people tend to make relatively short stays. Reception staff are helpful and friendly and all speak excellent English. It is a large site with about 300 touring pitches which are all on grass. Size varies but there are some good sized pitches around if you have the choice. There is one long road through the site from reception and the pitching areas come off this road beyond the permanent accommodation which makes the touring areas a little quieter as they are further away from the very good bar/restaurant. Apart from touring pitches the site has a variety of other accommodation including mobile homes, more basic lodges and a Bunk House. The site is also used by coach tour operators who use the campsite accommodation rather than the camping. Electric connections are by way of CEE17 blue plugs and are rated as 6 amps. A longer lead might be required for some pitches. Water points are dotted around the site but the only options for grey water waste is either the chemical emptying facilities at the main toilet block or at the motorhome service point. Both some way from the furthest pitches. There are two toilet blocks, the main one being at the dividing point between the statics and touring pitches and this one houses the washing machines and dryers. The second, smaller, block is further into the site. Both are of a good standard and contain seated pedestal toilets with toilet paper provided. The site has a small swimming pool in which swimming caps are required. Internet is available for free in the bar but the site also has pay for WiFi and passes can be purchased from reception. Unfortunately it has very limited cover and not the 80% as claimed. Opposite reception is a site shop with a fairly comprehensive select of basics. During our stay several rallies were taking place. During the low season the site accepts the ACSI Card which offers considerable savings on normal prices. Date of stay late June.

The main purpose for visiting this campsite is its proximity to Rome. The campsite provides a regular free shuttle bus service to and from the local station at Prima Porta, from here the train takes you directly to Flaminio Station in Rome which takes about 20 minutes. From here you can connect with the Rome Metro.(please take care of personal security when travelling on the Rome Metro) Tickets for these services are available from either reception or the site shop. You can of course use the site to explore other places around Rome but be aware that the traffic is often quite manic and signing not brilliant! There is a shopping centre, with an Auchen supermarket, about five miles from the site. There is a handy Garden Centre which also sells lots of other things next door to the campsite. The immediate environs of the campsite are not particularly attractive.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Camping Village Mugello Verde
Via Massorondinaio 39
50037 San Piero Sieve
Italy

Tel: 0039 (0)55848511

Email: mugelloverde@florencecamping.com
Web site: www.florencecamping.com

To Find Site:
Exit A1 at Barberino and head towards Borgo San Lorenzo, also follow signs for Mugello Autodrome. The site is well signed along this road. On approach to San Piero a Sieve turn right after Tamoil service station and immediately right again into site access road.

Camping Village Mugello Verde is a rustic and peaceful campsite situated about 20 miles north of Florence in pleasant hilly countryside. The site road forms a large S from reception to the top of the site. This road is quite steep in places especially near the main toilet block. There are about 100 touring pitches with reasonable access but more are available if people were willing to go off the tarmac road onto the terraces, but perhaps only suitable for tenters and small camper vans. They vary in size and anyone with a larger outfit wanting to put up a full awning could struggle to find a suitable pitch. Many of the pitches are longer than they are wide. Some fore and aft and side to side levelling will be required on some pitches. There are a few scrappy permanent vans but not that many. The mobile homes and other units for hire are situated on the lower part of the site nearer to reception. Electrical connections are by way of CEE17 blue connectors and are rated at 6 amps. There are two toilet blocks which look to be of the same vintage. The one right at the top of the site was closed during our visit. The main block is at the start of the touring pitches. Whilst kept clean the actual toilets and showers could do with refurbishment. Toilets in the men’s are an equal mix of Turkish and pedestal , the latter having seats and paper is provided. The ladies’ block has only one Turkish style toilet, plus five pedestals. The block also contains washing machines and dryers which accept coins rather than tokens. There are few water taps around the site and the main source of water is the toilet block which means it is an uphill struggle with water containers to some pitches. All the other facilities are based around the site reception, this includes a restaurant/bar and small shop. There is a nice swimming pool next to the Bar and a tennis court behind this. WiFi is available, at an extra charge, although not site wide. The ACSI Card is accepted in the low season. This campsite is fine for a stay either over night or of a few days. Date of visit early June 2012

This site could be used as a base to visit Florence and there is a limited bus service from the site entrance, the site will provide details. For motorsport fans the Mugello Circuit is about 4 miles away although there seems no access on non-event days. For shopping there is a supermarket in San Piero a Sieve about a mile from the site.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Camping Conca D’Oro
Via 42 Martiri
26 28835 Feriolo di Baveno
Italy

Tel: 00390 323 28538
Fax: 00390 323 28538

E-mail: info@concadoro.it
Web site: www.concadoro.it/eng

To Find Site:
Leave A26 at Baveno and follow signs for Baveno/Verbania. At lake turn left towards Verbania, cross roundabout in Feriolo and the campsite is a few hundred metres further ahead on the right. It is well signed from the roundabout.

Camping Conca D’Oro has in the region on 230 pitches and has a superb location right on the shores of Lake Maggiore. All pitches are on grass and all are of a good size, a little unusual for an Italian campsite. They are marked out by trees and azalea bushes.
The site slopes very gently towards the lake so there may be a need for some side to side levelling. There are a few static caravans at the back of the site and also a few seasonal pitches but the majority of space is given over to touring.

This is a well equipped campsite with a nice looking restaurant, bar, takeaway and small food shop selling most essentials for your stay.
The staff on reception are very pleasant and helpful and most seem to speak excellent English. There is a limited amount of tourist information available from reception. Also available is a WiFi connection. The site has three toilets blocks, two in the middle of the site and a third tucked away in the far corner. All are of and excellent quality but have seatless toilets.

Electrical connections are 6 amps. Water and waste facilities are only available from the toilet blocks( unless you have one of the few serviced pitches which have water but no waste) so you may wish to consider this when deciding on where to pitch. A motorhome service point is situated in the car park immediately outside the main gates. In the low season this campsites offers a useful reduction for holders of the ACSI Card and also the CC&C Freedom vouchers.

There are many opportunities for excursions from the site, only really restricted by the time available. If you like gardens then Giardini Botanici Di Ville Taranto at Verbania is worth a visit. Likewise there are many shopping choices including a new Shopping Centre near the motorway. Feriolo, a small village within walking distance of the site has a small supermarket as well as a couple of restaurants and other shops.

Date of visit mid May 2009.

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2009
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping La Spiaggia
Via Europa
22-06065 Passignano sul Trasimeno
Italy

Tel: +39 075 827246.

Email: info@campinglaspiaggia.it
Web site: www.campinglaspiaggia.it/en/

To find site:Br. Leave A1 motorway signed for Perugia. After about 20 miles take the Passignano Est exit. At end of slip road turn right towards town. After crossing railway level crossing La Spiaggia is the second campsite on the right and is well signed.

Camping La Spiaggia has a lovely situation on the shores of Lake Trasimeno a short distance from the centre of Passignano sul Trasimeno. The people that run the site are friendly and helpful a speak good English. It’s a fairly small site with just over 50 pitches all of which are for touring units, there are no statics on site. The area on the lakeside is kept free of pitches to allow campers space to relax near the Lake. The pitches vary in size but most are quite well sized although the position of some of the very mature trees can make getting the best out of the size a bit difficult, especially those pitches near to the lake’s edge. Pitches are on grass but because of use on some pitches the grass has been destroyed leaving a compacted earth surface. Water points are dotted around the site. Electric supply is rated at 6 amps and connectors are standard CEE17 blue plugs. Best to check for reverse polarity. The toilet block is of a good quality and kept clean although a bit gloomy if the sun is not out during the day. The disappointing aspect is that, in both ladies and gents, of the five toilet cubicles only two have pedestal toilets and the rest are Turkish hole in the ground type. The pedestal toilets do have seats but no paper is provided. Washing machines are provided at an extra charge but no tumble dryer. In the low season bread can be ordered at reception the day before. The site does have a bar, shop and swimming pool but only the bar was open at the weekend during our stay towards the end of May. Given the tree cover on site setting up a satellite could be a challenge, the best places are either near the swimming pool or those pitches overlooking the lake. Free WiFi is available and reception will issue you with a code. It seems to cover most of the site although I did find it a little inconsistent particularly during the evenings. There is a little railway noise but we did not find it very intrusive. La Spiaggia accepts the ACSI Card in the low season.

This is a good spot to just relax by the lake. However excursions to Perugia and Assisi are possible from the site. The town of Passignano is about 1km away and the railway station a bit further. Boats leave the town for the islands in Lake Trasimeno. There is a new supermarket on the way out of town and a couple of filling stations.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Camping Spiaggia
Viale Venezia 1438050
Calceranica Al Lago
Trentino
Italy

Tel: 0461-723037

Email: info@campingspiaggia.net
Web site: www.campingspiaggia.net

To find site:
Leave SS47 signed for Caldonazzo and watch out for campsite signs in town or head towards the Lago, Camping Spiaggia is on the shore of the lake. (If using a sat nav, avoid the temptation when leaving the SS47 of taking the first narrow road to the left but continue as above)

Camping Spiaggia is situated just across a minor road from the southern shore of Lake Calceranica, which is not far from Trento on the main Brenner motorway making the site ideal for a stopover or a longer stay. It is one of several sites clustered along the shore line of the lake. Unlike some of the others Camping Spiaggia is a fairly straightforward site and unlike some of the other sites nearby does not have swimming pool or restaurant. The young couple that run the site are very pleasant and speak good English. The site has around 100 pitches and come in three sizes 80, 100 and 120 sq. mts. In reality the pitches seem a bit larger than actually stated so even the smaller ones don’t feel cramped. We had one of the 80 sq. mts. Pitches and there was room for our 7.3 mts. caravan, sunshade and car. The largest pitches have their own private toilet/shower facilities for which there is an additional charge. Like a lot of Continental camping sites there are long stay units on site and a number of Static caravans which are for hire. The main toilet facilities are fairly recent and of an excellent standard, they have seated toilets although no paper is provided. Included at the main block is a laundry, dishwash area and chemical disposal point. Water points are conveniently dotted around the campsite. Electric points have CEE17 blue connectors and are rated at 6 amps, some reverse polarity may be present. Next to reception is a small shop selling bread and other essentials. The campsite own a small parcel of land right on the lake where customers can access the lake. There is site wide WiFi available at a cost of €1 an hour, but you can log in and log off to make it last. Site fees can be paid by credit card. The ACSI discount card can be used at this site. Date of visit June 2012.

From the site there are opportunities for cycle rides either into nearby Caldonazzo or around parts of the lake. There are numerous restaurants within walking of the campsites. In Caldonazzo there are a couple of supermarkets and fuel stations.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Camping La Riva
Via Poncione 3
1-22010 Sorico
Italy

Tel: 00 39 0344 94571

E-mail: info@campinglariva.com

To find site:
It is advised to approach this site from the eastern side of Lake Como via Lecco on the SS36. (The western side of the Lake from Como is not recommended for towing.) At the northern end of the lake as the road divides follow signs for Como. This requires a left turn in about a kilometre, there is a centre selling garden ornaments on the corner. It should be signed to Como but the sign is quite difficult to see. Continue along this road and after river bridge watch out for signs to site and left turn into site road. There are two campsites on this short approach road, Camping Poncione is the first and La Riva is at the end of the road by the river.

La Riva has a superb location situated on a river about 1 kilometre north of Lake Como and is surrounded by mountains.
All pitches are on grass and level, they vary in size but most are quite generous. Most pitches have easy access to water and waste points which should allow water connection but it would be more difficult to connect to waste as access is via a metal drain covers would be difficult to leave open. There are electricity points close to most pitches and they have CEE17 connectors rated at 6 amps.
There is one toilet block which is of an excellent standard with seated toilets but no paper. For showers you need a token which costs 80 cents.
Reception, where English is spoken, is in the middle of the site and also contains a small bar where bread can be ordered for the morning. Between reception and the toilet block there is a nice swimming pool and sun lounge area.
About a third of the site is taken up by permanent caravans but they are mostly sited the other side of reception. Just outside the site, over a public footpath, along the river bank the campsite maintain an open area between the site and the river where there is space to sit or launch a boat.

From our observations of other sites nearby La Riva is certainly the best in the area. However it is quite expensive, especially as you also have to pay for showers although pricing is not out of place compared to other similar Italian campsites. It can be booked via the Caravan Club which can give you a bit of a saving depending on the exchange rate. The site does not have WiFi but reception did suggest you could use the office computer if it was necessary to check e-mail.

The footpath that runs past the site is handy for cycling/walking into Sorico and along the shore of Lake Como. There are many excursions possible from the site by car. The campsite loans each new arrival with a folder of local attractions which is a nice touch. If you like Gardens then Villa Charlotta at Tremezzo is worth a visit. There is a large supermarket about 4 kms from the site in the direction Sondrio.

Date of visit mid May 2009

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2009
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping Due Laghi
3-38056 Levico Terme
Italy

Tel: +39 0461 706290
Fax: +39 0461 707381

E-mail: duelaghi@camping.it
Web site: www.campingclub.it/index
Web site: www.camping.it/english/

To Find Site:
From Trento on S47 leave at first exit for Levico Terme. The slip road brings you over the S47 where you turn right toward Levico and immediately left as though you were heading back onto the S47 but towards Trento. The campsite entrance in on the slip road and can be clearly seen.

Camping Due Laghi is situated on the edge of the Spa town, Levico Terme and is useful for a stop over or longer stay.

The site has in the region of 400 pitches which are mainly for touring but there are also tour operators on site as well as some site owned units. All pitches are on grass with good shade. There are different categories of pitches some are larger and have water and waste disposal on the pitch and they also have electrical connections rated at 10amp compared to 6amp for the rest. The basic pitches vary in size but are generally good for size, its just a case of looking for one that suits you. If using Camping Cheques you can only use the basic pitches, however for a 6 euros per night surcharge you can upgrade. Electrical connections are via CEE17 plugs.

There is one large central toilet block. In both male and female toilets there is a mix of English and Turkish style. The English toilets are seated but no paper provided. For between 4 and 8 euros (depending on season) you can hire a private bathroom. The site has a nice pool complex and also a play area for younger children. On site there is a small shop selling basics. There is a nice restaurant/bar. Internet access is available from either fixed terminals or a WiFi point near reception, rates are reasonable.
The site own a small area of land with direct access to the lake which customers can use, its few hundred metres from the site.

Within a short distance of the site is a small Netto style supermarket although there is a nicer quality one up in the town. There are possibilities for cycle rides from the site. There is information available on site for excursions further afield.

Date of visit early June 2009.

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2009
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping Miramare--- Second report below
Lungomare Dante Alighieri
29 Punta Sabbioni
1-30010 Venezia - Ca’Savio
Italy

Tel: 0039 041 966150
Fax: 0039 041 5301150

E-mail: info@camping-miramare.it
Web site: www.camping-miramare

If your interest in going to this part of Italy is to visit Venice and explore over several days Camping Miramare is the site for you. It is a 10 minute walk to the ferries to the Lido/St Marks and the Islands. It is a small (by the standards of those nearby) quiet site with no provided entertainment or swimming pool. Immediately across the road from the entrance is a small beach on the Lagoon which is for the exclusive use of campers. The pitches are in neat rows and are of good size with shade to most of them. In separate areas of the site there are a small number of bungalow’s and chalets for hire. There are two toilet blocks, one of older design but the other is very new and to an excellent standard. The site has a very good shop selling both food and wine as well as camping accessories and beach things. The prices were very good but if you want a wider selection there is a supermarket in Ca’Savio about 3 miles away. Alongside the site is a restaurant which offers good value meals. The Adriatic is only a 20 minute walk from the site entrance.

To find the site continue around the Lagoon passing through Jesolo and Cavalino. Pass the Ferry landing stage at Punta Sabbioni and the site is a few hundred yards further on, on the left. The site fees are very reasonable being £5/6 less per night than the larger sites along the road.
The site does not seem to accept advanced booking but will willingly reserve a pitch if you telephone a few days ahead of your visit. In late June there was plenty of room.

Dates of visits June 1992 and June 200

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2000
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping Miramare
29 Punta Sabbioni
1-30010 Venezia - Ca'Savio
Italy

Tel: 0039 041 966150

Email: info@camping-miramare.it
Web site: www.camping-miramare.it

To find site:-
Follow the road around the Lagoon passing through Jesolo and Cavalino. Pass the Ferry landing stage at Punta Sabbioni and the site is a few hundred yards further on, on the left and is easy to see.

We have stayed at this campsite three times over the past 20 years. It is an excellent campsite if your main interest is visiting Venice and the Islands as it is only a 10 minute walk from the ferry at Punta Sabbioni and provides a peaceful retreat compared to other sites nearby. Over those 20 years there have been many changes both internally and externally. Until the building of the Venice Barrage there was a lovely view across the Lagoon to Venice but this view is now obscured. Work is still ongoing although we were not bothered by noise during our stay. The number of pitches has increased since our last visit and now total around 220 for touring units plus a large tent field. Touring pitches vary in size although on average they are around 80 sq. mts although there are some larger ones further into the site. However the campsite does not have all areas available all the time but opens up extra sections as demand increases. The site also has some rental units and bungalows for hire. Electric points are rated at 6 amps and accept CEE17 blue connectors. There are water points dotted around the site and good to see notices, in several languages, pointing out that they are only to be used as drinking water taps! There are two toilet blocks, although only one was fully open during our stay. It was of a good quality and contained seated pedestal toilets with paper provided. Chemical points have been improved and motorhome waste and water top up facilities have been provided. There is a small children’s playground near to the entrance. Receptions sell tickets for the ferry and it is a good idea to get them from the site (same price) as it can be a bit of a scrum at the ferry ticket office. Opposite the reception is a well stocked shop and next to that a TV room which also doubles as a place to use the internet. Use of the WiFi, which is not site wide, has a flat rate charge of €5 regardless of length of stay. Next door to the campsite is restaurant. The campsite will accept payment by credit card but there is a minimum spend of €100 to use this facility. The campsite is not in any of the main discount schemes but it does offer discounts for stays of longer than 5 days as well as a senior’s discount. For those that might find the walk to the ferry difficult there is a free shuttle bus service to the terminal. Miramare does not have the likes of a swimming pool or entertainment, if you want that there are numerous campsites along the road towards Cavalino which provided those facilities.

Apart from crossing over to Venice there is also an excellent bus service along the road to Jesolo. For shopping there is a small supermarket in Ca Savio and a larger one at Cavalino. There are numerous fuel stations along the main road. There is excellent provision of cycleways from the campsite including to the beach on the Adriatic about a mile from the site.

David Klyne. CLIC. 2012
For other reports, and images, from David go to www.davidklyne.co.uk/

Camping Steiner
1-39055 Leifers/Bozen
Kennedystr. 32
Italy

Tel: 0471 950 105
Fax: 0471 951 572

E-mail: info@campingsteiner.com
Web site: www.eurocampings.co.uk/..

This site is south of Bozano not far from the motorway. Coming from the north the Camping Steiner is on the right as you enter the town of Leifers, behind a hotel of the same name. This site makes a useful overnight stop if crossing the Brenner although a longer stay would be worthwhile. The pitches are set out in terraces and are of reasonable size. There are two toilet blocks, one of older design and the other new. Both are of a good standard. The site has both a small covered pool and a larger outdoor one. The children’s playground was extensive and shielded from the pitches buy trees and bushes. The site shop offers a good range of foods and next door is a bar/restaurant. All the usual services can be found in the town of Leifers including transport links to Bozano.

Date of visit July 2000

David Klyne. CLIC. July 2000
For images of this site, and other reports, go to Caravantravels

Camping Villagio Weekend
Via Vallone della Selva
25010 San Felice del Benaco
(Cisano)
Lago del Garda
Italy

Tel: 0039 0365 43712
Fax: 0039 0365 42196

E-mail: info@weekend.it
Web site: www.weekend.it

Date of visit: 15 June to 27 June 2002.

Directions:
Leave motorway at Brescia and follow S45 towards Salo. Then follow signs for San Felice del Benaco.
Page: 362 in Caravan Club foreign guide 2002

This is a fantastic site overlooking Lake Garda in the gulf of Salo.
Set in a former olive grove on the hillside overlooking the lake, about 400 metres from the shore. There is access to a small private beach and jetty if required.
There are around 260 pitches in total but quite a few are taken up by the "rentatent" firms for hire. Access to many of the pitches is very tight for the longer vans and even then it may be necessary to manually manoeuvre your caravan onto the pitch between the olive trees so care is needed. There are some pitches on the top part of the site that are deeper and have easier access. Because of this it is a good idea to book in and then walk around the site to find the pitch of your choice. Reception is at the end of the drive and barrier controlled.

There are three toilet blocks on site and all were kept spotless at all times during our visit. There is a plentiful supply of hot water to the showers and also plugs for razors and hair driers etc. When the site is full in high season I imagine that these facilities may be a little stretched. Also in each block are laundry facilities, dish washing and a chemical disposal point. Tokens for the washing machine are available in reception. There is an excellent small shop on site catering for all needs. There is also a supermarket and garage just one mile from the site.

The bar and restaurant at the bottom of the site provide lovely views over the lake and a varied menu which is just super. The outside garden area is the ideal place to eat. In fact we ate here almost every night we were on the site. The young staff are some of the friendliest and most efficient that I have seen - and that includes trained catering staff.
The games area and children’s playground are adjacent to the restaurant so parents can enjoy a leisurely drink after dinner while the little cherubs run riot! I cannot comment on the quality and entertainment value of these. In high season entertainment is provided in this area also. There is a kids club and organised entertainment at various times.

Just below the restaurant are the pools. There are two - a swimming pool and a "playabout" with slide for the younger set.

All the staff are friendly and helpful. I believe that day trips are organised in high season.

Things to do:
There is of course the Lake with its numerous pretty villages along the shore asking to be explored. Each village has restaurants by the lakeside tempting one to a lingering lunch whilst watching people potter in extremely expensive boats of all sizes.
Then there are all the water attractions such as boats for hire, trips on the ferries, or lazing in a small cove in the sun. Particularly pretty villages that we came across are Desenzano, Sirmione, Torri del Benaco and Salo but there are many more to find.

Other places within easy reach are Milan, Verona, Brescia Maranello and of course Venice.

We had all sorts of plans. However the weather was so good that we ended up staying fairly local and enjoying it rather than driving about car on longer trips. A word of warning - I am not a slow driver but the Italians are absolutely b*****y crackers on the roads!

We had pre-planned two trips and a possible third.
The first was Venice. I had booked an overnight stay here before we left England so that we could spend enough time there without feeling we were being rushed. This gave us almost two days to soak up the unique atmosphere of this famous city. I was lucky in getting a room in a small hotel about 100 metres from St Marks Square for €100 bed and breakfast. Whilst not strictly a site report I will give the name and address and ( Location map) to Ian as I can recommend it if anyone is planning a similar visit. It was spotless, air-conditioned and traditionally Venetian. I will not bore with a diary of Venice but put it on and itinerary because it is fabulous. If any reader wants further information contact me through clic or direct. There are a couple of tips I can offer.

We had also booked tickets for open air Arena in Verona. My partner is a life long fan of opera and ballet so this was special for her if less so for me! However the experience is not to be missed and Verona is a beautiful city. Beware however the performance can be long - five and a half hours in our case so take plenty to drink with you. You can buy shares in Coca Cola cheaper than a small bottle in there!

We had also planned a trip to Maranello to the Ferrari factory. However on the morning we were due to go the outside temperature was 36C at 0930 so we decided to give that one a miss on this trip.

David Cuff. CLIC. September 2002

Venice

Venice is enchanting and fabulous. There is no other word for it. Exploring the small canals and walking round the little streets and piazzas are another world. We did not notice any of the smells and aromas they say Venice is also famous for. St Marks square had been flooded on the high tides a fortnight or so before so the canal system would have been flushed.
The Michelin Green Guide to Venice is a must and reading the ecological story of the city and why modern Venice is literally sinking and destroying itself is very sad.

There are hundreds of places to eat, but stay away from the main tourist squares where it can be expensive.
We bought the "Biglietto turistico" [Tourist tickets] for the "Vaporetto" [water buses.] these give unlimited travel on any routes for twenty-four hours from purchase. They cost €9.30 apiece and were well worth it. We went up the main Grand Canal and just kept getting on and off as we wished.
St Marks Square at night is another must. It is all lit up with the bars and cafes providing musical accompaniment. The other essential is a Gondola ride. Extortionate in price - but what are holidays for and you are only there once.
We had a very full but satisfying day. The hotel - Locanda "Al Leon" was very centrally situated and was air-conditioned which we appreciated as the temperature was 38C.

The following morning we took the waterbus to the Lido. This is the beach side of the lagoon. This is another different part of Venice. There are cars buses and bicycles on this side! We spent a relaxing morning on the beach in the sun writing postcards. We returned on another different waterbus to find somewhere for lunch before taking our gondola ride. Using our tickets for the last time we returned to the Tronchetto car park the long way round and then drove back to San Felice.

Travel tip 1
Beware the spiffs in the car park. They will try to direct you to the unauthorised water taxis to take you over to the main part of Venice. They charge €10 a head that seems reasonable till you find out later that you can get 24 hours for that! Also they tell you it is quicker but it is not by the time they wait to catch enough people to fill their boat.

Travel tip 2
Do NOT use the water taxis [as opposed to the bus] unless cash is no object. They look very sleek and inviting but cost a fortune and they even charge extra for a case or a bag.

David Cuff. CLIC. September 2002

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