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We are considering a holiday to the Italian lakes next year. However, being fairly new to caravaning and towing I'm a bit concerned about a suitable route through the Alps.  Has anyone got any reccomendations on a route that won't over strain a 1.9 diesel Vectra estate towing a 4 berth TEC Travel King with 3 adults.

Oh, and while you're at it, which are the best campsites around lakes Como and Maggiore?

Thanks

Ian

Hi toothfairy,

We went to the lakes this year, Como and Maggiore and it was fantastic. We went via the Rosyth - Zeebrugge ferry which was very convenient for us as it's only 45 minutes drive from home(Dundee).

Our route was through Belguim into France then into Switzerland via the St. Gothard tunnel(sure that's the name,17kilometers - spooky, but fun) and you then drop into Italy just after it. The first Italian lake you come to is Maggiore which is fantastic, we stayed at Camping Conco D'ora and to be honest it is the best site in the area. When we went to lake Como we stayed at Camping La Riva which was at the North of the lake and on the West side, but do NOT be tempted to go by the West side of the lake, the roads can become extremely narrow and not suitable for towing a van.

If you require any further information feel free to call me on 07752019382

Jamsie

Quote: Originally posted by jamsie423 on 16/11/2007

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Hi toothfairy,

We went to the lakes this year, Como and Maggiore and it was fantastic.......... The first Italian lake you come to is Maggiore which is fantastic, we stayed at Camping Conco D'ora and to be honest it is the best site in the area.................

Jamsie

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toothfairy,

I am sure you will enjoy it, the lake is beautiful and the drives North and South of the lake have some fantastic places to visit. Just a word of warning though, we went in the middle of June and we did have quite a lot of rain(especially in Lake Como), the weather was a lot better at Maggiore but we did have a massive thunderstorm which caused lots of small landslides around the lake and the lake itself took the brunt of all the debris and the water level rose considerably. The site staff were fantastic and worked for days to clear all the trees, branches etc. that was washed up on the edge of the site. This didn't put us off and we would go back in a minute but I would probably go mid to late July.

You should also get yourself(via the internet) an ACSI camping card as this will give you a huge discount on your stay as Conco D'oro are in the ACSI group.

Have a great time, you will love the drive through Switzerland, it's stunning.

If you have an email address I will forward you some pictures of the site and the drive through Switzerland if you wish.

P,s. Rostrevor, thank you for the information I remember looking at your reply and recommendation of Conco D'oro prior to us going this year, thanks again.

Jamsie