Camping

Le Clos du Lac, Provence, France
Perched at 1,485 metres on the edge of Écrins national park, this mountain site offers Instagrammable views from the tent door and a range of picture-perfect outdoor experiences. Serre-Ponçon lake is a short walk away, for swimming or fishing, and the nearby Boscodon forest has a host of hiking trails. At the campsite, there’s a volleyball court, kids’ play area and botanical garden home to nine species of butterfly. 
D’Olde Kamp, Ansen, Netherlands
This woodland site has a choice of open field camping or more private pitches, and finishing touches such as coffee on tap, warm bread to order, fire pits, an outdoor pizza oven and free wifi. It offers all the benefits of a countryside location without the feeling of roughing it. Goats, donkeys, chickens and rabbits are your neighbours – kids can help feed them with the farmer and get a “farming diploma”.
Zur Mühle, Black Forest, Germany
Not to be confused with a site of the same name over in Bavaria, Zur Mühle offers stepped pitches with hillside views between shady trees. The emphasis is on relaxation – this is a peaceful site – with no clubhouses or play areas. There is a stream for paddling, guided walks and cycle routes for the more energetic. With fresh bread available to order and some groceries on site, this is the perfect place to simply pitch up and do nothing at all.
Camping Carso, Trieste, Italy
Run by the same family since 1932, this working organic fruit and the veg farm is a mix of field and woodland, where campers can pick their own produce, or buy supplies, regional wines and local honey from the onsite shop. The green credentials don’t end there: the owners are also keen to do their bit, insisting on saving water and minimising waste.