Touring Europe in our Ineos Grenadier: the best 4x4 on the road

This switchback and steep gradients no problem for the Grenadier

We took our Ineos Grenadier on a journey through Europe, visiting 10 different countries over 21 days. While we slept in the back on our custom-made bed, we also bought an awning tent this time to attach across the rear doors, providing space for storage, cooking, and toilet facilities.

Discover the incredible places we explored, how we managed, and what camp life was like without a campervan or motorhome, but with the best 4x4 available.

Travelling in Europe requires some planning, as each country has its own rules for road travel, emission zones, and overnight parking. Check out our Travel Tips section for truly helpful information.

Ineos Grenadier the best 4x4 on the road: How does it fare driving around Europe?

In 2024, we embarked on a 21-day tour around Europe, visiting 10 countries with our Grenadier Fieldmaster. This vehicle served not only as our means of transportation but also as our sleeping quarters. We covered a total of 3700 miles with 84 hours driving time, and the drive was consistently comfortable never missing a beat. The road conditions varied in terms of quality, gradients and switchbacks all of which it handled brilliantly with an overall mpg of 26. Not bad eh!

We had previously used our car as a bedroom whilst travelling across southern Norway and in a recent tour across the Outer Hebrides. Michael had constructed a bed with storage underneath that occupied the entire back of our car. For details on how he built it, visit our Grenadier page here. After our Norway trip we decided to buy an awning tent to give us extra living space and had trialled this in our tour around the Outer Hebrides 3 months earlier. This was a game changer particularly if we were stopping for more than one night in any place as we could leave our belongings stored which made life a bit easier as we needed to pack up the bed each day we drove the car.

Ok let's get into the detail of the places and countries we visited as we set off Touring Europe in our Ineos Grenadier

1. Belgium

2. Germany

3. Czechia

4. Poland

5. Slovenia

6. Austria

7. Slovakia

8. Italy

9. France

10. UK

Day 1-2 Belgium

Exciting check in at Dover

Taking 5 before we board the ferry at Dover

After departing from Cheshire on Day 1, we drove to Dover, took the ferry to Dunkirk, and then traveled to Bruges in Belgium. We adore this city and stayed for one night at our first ever Vegan Bed & Breakfast. The three-story house is located in the historic center of Bruges, in a building dating back to 1905. The average cost per night is £130 and includes a delicious vegan breakfast in the family kitchen. Free parking is available about 10 minutes away, but you can drop off your luggage at the house first. The location by the river is excellent, with easy access to the picturesque city, offering plenty to see and do.

Our Vegan Bed & Breakfast in Bruges

Gorgeous river side views from our BnB

We arranged a walking tour via Booking.com, which is free to book, and you pay the guide what you feel is fair for their expertise (10 euros per person seemed reasonable). The tour lasted a couple of hours and was enjoyable, informative, and the perfect way to gain insight into the city's development.

• 

  Provinciaal Hof

• 

  The City Hall

• 

  Memorial Arch

• 

  The Belfry

• 

  Entrance to a bike store

• 

  Saint Johns Hospital

• 

  Sculpture in Bruges

• 

  Michael walking into the hospital site

• 

  The Church of our Lady

• 

  Oud St Jans Hospital

We learned about the local industry and how the signs above buildings indicated the type of business, the local hospital, the cathedral, and much more. A walking tour allows you to revisit places at your own pace for further exploration.

One of the highlights that keeps us returning to Bruges is the vegan waffles from Otto Waffle. They are incredible, allowing you to choose your own toppings, including vegan caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, cocoa nibs, nuts, and fruit.

Vegan Waffles with caramel sauce

Bruges also offers numerous cafes and restaurants serving vegan food, so you'll never go hungry.

Day 3-5 Germany (12-15)

Our journey continued as we set up camp in Vaals while driving south through Germany towards Cologne. We spent one night in Vaals and the following night in Hirschhorn (Neckar), with plans to visit Heidelburg, a traditional university city. Despite the slightly overcast and drizzly weather, we took the train from near the campsite into Heidelburg and explored the historic buildings, many of which belong to the university.

Set up camp in Vaals

Vaals Campsite

• 

  Heidelberg University

• 

  The Old Bridge

• 

  Spiral staircase

• 

  The Bridge Monkey

After leaving Heidelburg, we headed to our next campsite at Campingplatz Zum fischer-Michl. It was a charming spot, and even though we arrived late, they managed to find us a pitch. The site had a wonderful community atmosphere with a bar and cafe available.

A perfect evening for alfresco food

Sunset

Day 6-7 Czechia (15-17)

After leaving Germany, we traveled to Czechia and discovered a wonderful family-owned campsite in Vrane nad Vitavou. It was quite crowded when we arrived, but since we planned to stay for two nights, they managed to find us a spot as some guests were leaving the following day. The owner was fantastic, speaking English and offering advice about the trains into Prague. The site featured a bar and cafe, along with excellent self-catering facilities.

• 

  Our journey to Czechia

• 

  Amazing art installations

• 

  Time for tea

• 

  added the vegan sausages

• 

  A cheeky beer

Taking the train to Prague was straightforward, and after our really good experience in Bruges we decided to join another walking city tour. Unfortunately, the experience wasn't as good as expected because the guide extended the tour to four hours which was way too long. Some participants left early, and in retrospect, we should have done the same. We missed the chance to explore Prague on our own and to see in more detail some of its magnificent buildings and museums. We didn't even get to cross the bridge and visit the castle. However, we plan to return to enjoy the many vegan eateries in Prague and explore the city at our own pace. Our recommendation is to explore the city independently and use a guidebook for historical information.

Powder Gate Tower used to store gunpowder. You can climb the 186 seps to the top

The Estates Theatre a beautiful building in Prague was built in 1783

The Gothic 14th Century Old Town Hall

The Cloak of Conscience a bronze sculpture was created to represent the Commendatore. This was to commemorate the 1787 premiere of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's opera Don Giovani. This sculpture was removed in Nov 2025 as it was often a site for public misuse. It is now in the theatre depot awaiting a new site.

The Estates Theatre is very well preserved and closely linked to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the world premiere of his opera Don Giovani

Charles Bridge built in the 14th Century spanning the Vltava River. It was commissioned by King Charles IV in 1357 replacing an older bridge which was destroyed by floods. It was originally lined by 30 Baroque statues depicting saints in the 17th and 18th centuries. What you see today are replicas to protect the originals from the weather. Each end of the bridge are gothic towers with 16 arches in between. The River Vltava is the longest in Czechia over 434 Km long.

Franz Kafka a 20th century writer. He was a Prague born Jewish German language writer. He was born in 1883 and trained originally as a lawyer. It is said that his work (much of which was published after his death aged 40 years of tuberculosis) had a profound influence on modern literature. He is buried in the New Jewish Cemetery in Prague.

Astronomical Clock is mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town Hall. It was installed in 1410 and is the oldest fully working astronomical clock in the world. Every hour from 0800-2300 the clock shows the Twelve Apostles in procession with Christ as mechanical moving figures. There are also figures on the side representing Death (a skeleton which tolls the bell and flips an hourglass), a Turk representing lust/invasion who shakes his head, Miser (holding a pouch of gold) who shakes his walking stick and Vanity who admires himself in a mirror.

The Astronomical Clock displays the positions of the sun and moon in the sky calculating the Babylonian time and the current zodiac signs. In the 15th century the calendar dial was added illustrating the months of the year with the zodiac signs. Whilst the clock is free to view from the outside you can also pay to go inside to see the apostles or to climb the tower.

The House of the Suicide and the House of the Mother of the Suicide sculptures are monuments dedicated to a student Jan Palach who self-immolated in 1969 in protest of the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. The sculpture was originally built in Atlanta and erected in Prague in 1991. The sculptures were inspired by a poem called The funeral of Jan Palach by Professor David Shapiro. The shiny structure with 49 spikes represents Jan whilst the rusty sculpture represents his mother who is flooded with grief.

Roadside art installation originally erected to advertise the Mattoni mineral water company. However commercial billboards are banned near motorways in Czechia and so the company painted these with non commercial fine art designs.

Vegan Pizza for tea watching the world go by

Accompanied by a beer

Day 7-9 Poland (17-19)

After leaving Czechia, we drove to Poland without having reserved a campsite. The first one we encountered seemed quite run-down and didnt feel quite so safe. As our plan was to visit Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines we searched for a campsite within walking distance of either site. In Oswiecim, we found a campsite that was part of the Centre for Dialogue and Prayer, an educational and event space that allowed camping in its gardens. You are able to stay here even if like us you are atheists, it about respect and reflection. It featured bathroom and washing facilities, as well as areas to sit and relax, particularly in the evening sun. It was a perfect quiet space to stay.

Camping at the Centre for Dialogue and Prayer. Our Grenadier had a great spot near the trees for shade and where we could rig a washing line up to dry the clothes we washed in the site machines all included in the night price.

Perfect place to leave our belongings during the day whilst we drove out to the Salt Mines

Great reflections of the Centre for Dialogue and Prayer in our Grenadier windows.

The start of an amazing sunset

The perimeter fence looks stark black against the orange and blue sky.

The peak fiery orange and red sunset

The Wieliczka Salt Mines, a UNESCO World Heritage site, feature vast mines and tunnels. Although the tour covers a lot, it represents only a fraction of the mine's actual size. The mine, established over 700 years ago, reaches a depth of 327 metres, with the deepest point of the tour descending to 135 metres. It includes lakes, sculptures, and unique geological chambers. Visitors must descend 800 steps, but the return to the surface is easier thanks to a compact miners' lift making it accessible to most able-bodied individuals. The tour lasts 2-3 hours, covers 3.5 km, and maintains a consistent temperature of around 18°C. Booking online is advisable due to its popularity among tourists and school groups. Visitors are grouped and scheduled to ensure a relaxed experience, though staying with your group is mandatory to avoid getting lost in the labyrinthine tunnels. Highlights included the engineering marvels, the striking turquoise lakes, and an underground chapel used weekly for local worship. The cost is about £25 per person which offers excellent value for money.

• 

  Karen and Michael

• 

  Michael going down the many steps

• 

  the Salt Mines are several hundred years old

• 

  Tunnelling methods and equipment

• 

  The wooden support structures

• 

  wooden support structures

• 

  Signage to different chambers

• 

  More turn screws

• 

  sculptures seen throughout

• 

  historical facts

• 

  displays of how the mines were secured

• 

  salt sculptures

• 

  The original stone steps

• 

  an underground cathedral

• 

  Sunday services held weekly

• 

  sculpture of the 12 apostles

• 

  intricate carvings

• 

  Underground lagoons

• 

  Michael ascending

• 

  The lift takes you back to the surface

Our second excursion in Poland was to the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum. It is essential to book this visit several weeks in advance online, as tickets for English-speaking guides sell out quickly. The tour, which requires a guide, includes a bus transfer to Birkenau I & II and lasts up to 6 hours. Prepare for a long and reflective day, but it is an important visit to honor the countless lives lost in concentration camps here and worldwide. Tickets cost approximately £30 per person. The museum presents harrowing exhibits that one might prefer not to see, yet they serve as a stark reminder of humanity's potential for atrocity if unchecked. The Polish city Oswiecim was annexed to the Third Reich by the Nazi's and the name changed to Auschwitz. This became the site of the concentration camp and extermination centre for ethnic cleansing of Poland. It was after 1942 that this became the largest Nazi centre for the extermination of the Jewish people.

As you start the tour of Auschwitz I you are transported to dark time in history. You initially walk through the tunnel memorial in sombre silent as the names of the victims are read out.

One of the long low rise buildings used for a variety of functions including execution and torture

The security fencing surrounding the concentration camp with watch towers overlooking the prisoners

The buildings were either dormitories for the prisoners or places of humiliation, work and torture

There were a number of blocks across the camp. Some had been preserved for visitors to see as they would have been used and some held the exhibits which were heartbreaking to see as they were the personal belongings of the prisoners.

Security towers could be seen at ground level and raised above the security fencing

The oppressive security hut reminds you how terrible this was for the prisioners taken to many concentration camps acoss Europe

Block 6 original lamp

The concentration camp was overlooked by the SS

The train tracks at Auschwitz II Birkenau. This camp held over 90,000 prisoners in 1944. The camp was built in 1941 on the site of the village of Brzezinka which was acquired by the Nazis with the polish people being evicted from their homes. The houses were demolished and the camp was converted into a place of mass extermination with the remains of the gas chambers being seen here. The living accommodation was horrendous with the prisioners being subject to extremes of temperature, starvation and squalor.

Prisioners were 'sorted' on the platforms after they arrived with many going straight to the gas chambers (mainly women and children) and others if deemed fit enough sent to work in appalling conditions

Literally the end of the track at Birkenau. The sun was baking on the day we arrived with no shade and at other times of the year the temperatures were sub zero. The prisoners had no protection from either and many died of starvation and hard labour.

The memorial plaques for all the prisoners who endured interment of death at the hands of the Nazis. the plaque reads: For ever let this place be a cry of despair and a warning to humanity where the Nazis murdered about one and a half million men, women and children, mainly jews from various countries of Europe. Auschwitz-Birkenau 1940-1945

Our final night at the campsite offered much-needed rest, as visiting both the salt mines and Auschwitz in one day was likely too demanding both physically and mentally.

Day 10 Slovakia (19-20)

Today, our journey led us into Slovakia and the High Tatra Mountains, which are part of the Carpathian Mountain Range situated between Poland and Slovakia. As we drove into Slovakia the views were stunning and the skies blue. It was a great start to a new country. We travelled to Tatranska Lomnica to take the cable car to Mount Lomnicky Peak, the second highest peak in the High Tatras. At the summit, there are panoramic views and a café.

The Capathian Mountain Range in Slovakia made a gorgeous backdrop along the somewhat rustic roads

The stark contrast between the blue sky, the lush green flora and the slate grey mountains provided a great drive

Our journey up the High Tatras to Mount Lominicky Peak

Always got to have a boot view!

A cable car to ourselves was perfect

The views at the top of Mount Lominicky in the High Tatra Mountains

Always time to stop for refreshments. Michael keeper of the drinks!

Perfect backdrop for a selfie

Chill time watching the birds flying around

This ergonomic recliner was perfect for taking in the views

Honestly we could stay here all day

Time to return to base

We stayed at a Dutch campsite in Brezno, which was a working farm popular with campers and had a truly social atmosphere. You could enjoy your own space and the open countryside, or you could join fellow travellers in the communal buildings experiencing the charming rustic set up created by the Dutch owners.

• 

  Ineos reflections

• 

  Our view for the night

• 

  Vegan cheeseburger

• 

  As the moon shines bright

• 

  Campsite buildings

• 

  rustic showers

• 

  wall art

• 

  Valley views

• 

  lots of artefacts

• 

  A place to cook

• 

  and socialise

• 

  A good fire pit

Day 11 Austria (20-21)

A highlight of our tour was visiting the Vienna Opera House to watch the performance of Swan Lake. We purchased tickets in advance since they tend to sell out quickly. We stayed in an Airbnb nearby and took the train into the city centre on the night of the show. The Opera House is truly stunning, and admiring its architecture was just as thrilling as the ballet itself.

Our first view of the Opera House

In 1857 the city walls of Vienna were demolished to make way for a new ring road lined with important buildings. The first building was the Opera House which was designed after a competition invited architects from across Europe to compete. The building surrounded by controversy was opened in 1869 with its first Opera being Mozart's Don Giovani. Much of the original building was destroyed in WWII with just the main facade, the grand staircase and the foyer remaining. It was finally reopened in 1955 with Beethoven's Fidelio.

The internal structure and frescos are stunning

The building is as stunning as the shows are.

the Opera House was so busy inside as we had tickets for Swan Lake but it would be good to just have a tour of the building itself on a quieter day

The grandeur is palpable

Waiting patiently for the show to begin

WOW!

Date Night ❤️

Beautiful Ballerinas

The stars of the show.

Our stay in Vienna was brief, and there is so much more to explore in this beautiful city that we are certain we will return on our next trip to Austria.

Day 12-13 Slovenia (21-23)

After leaving Austria, we travelled through northern Slovenia to the Kranjska Gora region. This was our first time visiting this beautiful country, and having seen numerous bloggers and YouTubers praise this area, it was on our list of must-visit places.

• 

  Decorating your house with bikes

• 

  Driving through the valley to the Spik Campsite

• 

  Stunning views of the mountains

We stayed at the Spik Campsite, which was likely one of the pricier campsites we visited since it wasn't covered by the ACSI card, as we were a few days beyond the low season. We could choose our own spot to pitch our tent, and although the site was busy, it had a genuine community atmosphere with ample space to spread out. There was also a shop, cafe and bar on site (though the vegan options were limited to pizza) where you could relax in the afternoon/evening sun after exploring the surrounding area.

This is a pinch me moment when you look at the backdrop which changes colour throughout the day.

Perfect Pitch!

Way finding at its best

Is this the most accurate weather station you've seen? 😂

We drove the Vrsic Pass, which at 1,611 meters is the highest mountain pass in Slovenia. This pass, with its 50 hairpin bends, connects Kranjska Gora to the Trenta Valley and is located in the Triglav National Park.

Leaving Camp Spik to drive the Vrsic Pass such a beautiful day

Part of being on tour is to stop many times just to take in the view. Touring is a marathon not a sprint

Just a sample of the switchbacks on this route

We thoroughly enjoyed driving through this pass and stopping at each historical landmark along the way. The cobbled hairpin bends were laid by 10,000 Russian Prisoners of War during WWI, and there are features like a Russian Orthodox Chapel and tunnels carved within the rock. This pass served as an essential supply route during the war, which led to its improvement by the POWs, but it was not without tragedies. The harsh weather claimed the lives of many soldiers, and in 1916, an avalanche killed 300 POWs. The small wooden chapel was built as a memorial to those who perished.

The Russian Orthodox Chapel built in memorial to the POWs who died whilst constructing this road

The Chapel Doors

A beautiful serene place when you arrive before any tour buses befitting the memorial of lives lost

The granite sets laid by the Russian POWs cover many of the bends in this road up the pass, a major supply route during the war

The start of one of the WWI tunnels part way down the Pass. We drove our Grenadier through this and just about got out the other end.

Yes he made it just! There was a large boulder at the exit covered by the undergrowth so the gap was only just wide enough for this expert driver to squeeze through 👌

The views are breathtaking, overlooking the Julian Alps, and within the mountains, there are features to discover if you look closely. There's the Heathen Maiden, a female face seemingly carved from the rock, and the Prisank Window, a hole in the rock measuring 40x80 meters.

The Julian Alps and the Prisank Window

If you look carefully in the middle of this photograph you can see in the beige rock the picture of the Heathen Maiden

The Prisank Window close up

The top of the pass at 1,611 meters offers stunning views and places to rest, but it's very popular, so it can get crowded with the parking lots filling up early as hikers prepare to explore on foot. We travelled in June and so the number of visitors were already increasing with many looking to get their perfect instagram shot.

The obligatory shot at the top of the Vrsic Pass

We spotted this fantastic burgundy Indian motorbike at the top of the Vrsic Pass and its owner allowed us to take a seat. WOW it was amazing except...when you are not a biker you don't realise the exhaust gets red hot so Michael ended up with a serious leg burn requiring medical treatment after a couple of days! (he literally only glanced the exhaust with his leg 😭). still glad we sat on it though

What a place to take a break

We took a break at the top, enjoying lunch and a beer before descending the other side of the mountain to the Soca Valley. The road's twists and turns were equally challenging, but on this side, you drive along the Soca Gorge, observing the brilliant turquoise waters of the Soca River.

Starting our descent into the Soca Valley

We've never seen such beautiful glacial water as we did in the Soca River. The colour was like a mint green and smooth as silk to feel and drink

The cool running water on your feet was heaven

Always take a minute to reflect how lucky we are to be here

Love is in the air

The old wooden bridge crossing the river Soca in the Trenta Valley

Exploring the side of the river bed in the Trenta Valley

This is the life barefoot in the river enjoying the glacial waters

Love this rickety bridge especially when Michael decides to skip across 😂

The Vrsic Pass is manageable if you take your time and don't rush. There are spots to pull over if you need to let others pass, and be cautious of cyclists and motorcyclists, as they can appear suddenly, especially on the descent.

Way to go guys you are going faster than us 🤣

Lake Jasna is located near the Vrsic Pass, where the emerald green waters of two artificial lakes merge. You can stroll along the lake's shore and unwind at one of the bars or cafes, taking in the breathtaking views and reflections. There is plenty of parking available, and you'll find numerous fun and quirky art installations around the lake.

Lake Jasna displaying all the layers of colour and beauty

There are a number of art installations around the lake.

Perfect framing!

Cool seating to watch the world go by

High on a hill is a lonely goat...

The emerald green waters of Lake Jasna

The water wheel alongside the stream of Lake Jasna.

Day 14-15 Italy (23-25)

We travelled from Slovenia across the border into Italy, heading towards Cortina D'Ampezzo, a historic town located in the Dolomite region of Northern Italy. This town gained fame for hosting the Winter Olympics in 1956, and during our visit, we could still see remnants of the ski slopes and jumps. In 2026, it hosted the Winter Olympics once more, and we wish we could have returned to see its current state. Cortina D'Ampezzo is an upscale town, ideally situated for exploring the Dolomite region during both winter and summer.

Our camping spot for the night when it looks like the mountain is literally on fire

Perfect timing for the sunset as we just pitched up and camped

We stayed at Camping Rochetta and although we were a bit cramped in our space, it was only for one night. We would definitely return to explore this region for a longer period.

Touring the dolomites is awe inspiring and we only touched the surface. We didnt manage to hike anywhere which was a shame so we really do need to return and immerse ourselves in this part of Italy.

• 

  Views of the Dolomites

• 

  Driving through the Three Peaks National Parkaks

• 

  The Dolomites

• 

  The dolomites

Continuing in Italy we transferred to Lake Como. As the day progressed we found it difficult to find a place to camp and utlimately found the last room in a hotel at the nothern tip of the lake. This had been a long day and the rest was much needed. We didnt stay around Lake Como any longer but in truth would have enjoyed exploring this area more.

• 

  Lake Como

• 

  An overcast cloudy day

• 

  Low clouds

• 

  A glimpse of the hillside town

Setting off the next morning we continued around the lake and travelled towards the St Gotthard Pass in Switzerland, the next country on our tour.

Day 16-19 Switzerland (25-29)

The Gotthard Pass, situated in the Alps at an elevation of 2106 meters, crosses the Saint Gotthard Massif. While it leads to Lake Lucerne, our next stop, the pass itself was a destination worth visiting. This scenic route, with its numerous switchbacks, offers a delightful drive, stunning views, and a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.

Having driven up from Airlo through the winding roads we cam across the tunnel with its green roof and grazing cows

A viewpoint near the top shows how impressive this pass is as it makes its way up the mountain. There is even a cafe and toilets here

The views of the valley are incredible

What a road to take your Grenadier up from sunshine in the valey and snow at the topl

Snow covered peaks in the summer months

Not what you expect to see...

Upon reaching Lake Lucerne, we checked into campsite xxx. We were fortunate to secure one of the last available pitches, learning that campsites fill up quickly, even early in the season.

Camped at Camping Lido Luzern literally alongside Lake Lucerne

The rain was definitely on it way

After the rain we had a fiery sunset which bodes well for the next day

We spent the day exploring Lucerne, strolling along the lake, enjoying the wildlife and park sculptures, and then venturing into the city to appreciate its architecture and vibrant social scene. We stayed at the campsite for two nights before heading back to the place where we spent our honeymoon over 40 years ago!

From the campsite there is a lakeside path which leads you straight into the centre of the city

A picture of love as the coots are nesting on Lake Lucerne

Some of the sculptures along the lakeside path were stunning

Serenity

it wouldn't be a stopover without a selfie

This is the Chapel Bridge on Lake Lucerne. This was partially constructed in 1333

You can't get tired of looking out on to the lake

The water tower in the middle of the River Reuss is octagonal and built in 1300. It has been used over centurues as a watchtower, a treasury and a prison.

The artwork in the rafters originally dates back to the 17th century and shows the scenes of the Swiss and Lucerne history.

Where the artwork is missing this is because much of the bridge was destroyed by a fire in 1993 but was restored and reopened within 8 months

The 204m long bridge is at the point where the River Reuss flows out of Lake Lucerne and sits in the heart of the Old Town

Bronze sculpture on the lakeside path

The Old Town of Lucerne dates back to medieval times

Our honeymoon was in Interlaken at a 17th-century Gasthof, which still operates today as a guesthouse and restaurant. We visited Gasthof Hirschen and found that while the exterior remains unchanged, the interior has been modernized, with ensuite rooms now available. During our honeymoon stay we had to request a bathroom key and extra towels! We enjoyed lunch outdoors, reminiscing while admiring the Jungfrau, the famous mountain that turns pink at dusk just before sunset.

Gasthof Hirschen built in 1663 and was the place we stayed for our honeymoon in 1982. It had no ensuite facilities, you had to ask for the bathroom key and you were woken by the sound of cowbells in the adjacent field.

Enjoying refreshments outside in the garden of Gastof Hirschen

The Jungfrau, The Eiger and The Monch W e had the privilege of seeing these glow pink when we were last here in 1982

Great to be back and to see all the improvements they've made. It's still an authentic Swiss chalet Guesthouse

Interlaken is literally the town between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It is a cool place to be with expensive shops and hotels but also traditional Swiss activities and shops. The paragliders can be seen landing frequently in the town field as they glide off the nearby hillside. This place is idyllic and is the gateway to many of the famous tourist attractions in Switerland.

A bit sound of musicish...

We camped in Lauterbrunnen, at Camping Jungfrau, a picturesque valley with spectacular waterfalls. Our Grenadier got as much attention here as the waterfalls did. We were asked frequently what car was it and all about our camping set up. We even spoke to a friend of Mark Evans (of 'a car is born' fame on the TV) who then put us intouch with Mark to compare notes!

The Staubbach Waterfall sits at the entrance to the campsite Jungfrau and provides your morning and evening entertainment. It falls 300m and is Switzerlands highest free falling waterfall. There is a walk up the side of this waterfall and its mist regularly covers the vilage.l

What a view from our Grenadier

The village of Lauterbrunnen is so pretty and easy to walk to, to fill up with provisions or just to eat out. The campsite has a bar and eating area too.

Pitched perfectly

Random!

As the evening draws on another day the sky lights up over the hillside.

Lauterbrunnen Village

We stayed for two nights to explore the two lakes (Lake Thun and Lake Brienz) flanking Interlaken. We had cycled around both lakes on our honeymoon, a memorable experience with rented bikes lacking gears and quite uncomfortable. This time, we explored in our Grenadier, a much smoother ride 😂.

Had to share this for Michael not only for the name but also as its a Citroen Panel Van that he would love to own 😂

Brienz is famous for itw wood carving and when we were here 44 years ago there was a studio with a huge carved eagle in the window. This time there were wood carvings dotted around the lakeside and town and this was one of them

What a view and not just our car! The Grenadier sits well here looking out to Lake Brienz

Serene and beautiful

Stunning views of Lake Brienz

Stormy clouds are looming but the flowers alongside the lake are beautiful

The depth of colour looking down the lake is mesmerising

Greater than life wood carvings just perfect for Michael to have a chinwag with

There is so much to see and do in this area that two days are insufficient, but having revisited the area a few years ago, this trip focused on a leisurely tour around Lake Brienz, the village of Lauterbrunnen, and the town of Interlaken.

One of the highlights was walking to the Geissbach Falls where you can walk behind this powerful cascade of water and then look out to the Geissbach Hotel and the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz

First stop is a picnic before we climb to the Geissbach Falls. This picnic area was all set up for campfires too with fire pits and wood available to help yourselves. As long as you left no trace that's all that was asked

Before we started to climb down we had to go up and it was a hot

our first glimpse of stunning turquoise Lake Brienz and the Geissbach Hotel

Standing just behind the waterfall the view out was simply stunning, like a fairytale

Michael on the walkway to the back of the waterfall where you sure got wet from the spray but it was worth it

Just gorgeous

The waterfall has great walkways to the top then around the side to the bottom. Every viewpoint has its own picture

the power and the noise of the water reminds you of the force of nature

Lake Brienz from the roadside is still as turquoise as from above

If you visit, we highly recommend taking the train to Grindelwald and Wengen, and ascending the Schilthorn and Jungfrau mountains. Staying overnight in Interlaken incurs a tourist tax, but your host will provide a Guest Card for free public transport and discounts on lake cruises and some regional rail travel.

The Swiss Travel Pass is another excellent option for saving money, offering unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat, along with discounted entry to some excursions and free admission to over 500 museums. You can purchase the pass for a duration that suits your stay, and Swiss public transport is exceptional—punctual, clean, and safe. Although not cheap, with a 3-day pass costing around £240 per adult, planning your itinerary in advance ensures you make the most of it. For more details, visit www.myswitzerland.com

Day 20-21 France (29-01)

We were sad to leave Lauterbrunnen but it was time to make our way north through France as we started our journey home.

We stayed at Camping Lac d'orient for one night which is a great campsite with lots of amenities including a swimming pool. From here we visited Troyes on our way back to Calais as we were catching the ferry early in the morning. It almost feels sometimes as it is the last couple of nights you are in getting home mode rather than holiday/tour mode. However, we always remind ourselves that this is still part of our tour and to make the most of every minute.

This is van envy! Sooo cute though

The rain has stopped hopefully long enough to get the tent up

Troyes celebrating the rich association it has with cycling

Troyes a mixture of old and modern which can be seen with historic buildings and modern artworks

An understated local community park with a stunning glass fountain

the modern versus ancient depicted here very nicely

Now that's a stabilisation structure

Gorgeous colourful buildings in Troyes

picture perfect i'd say!

The Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in Troyes is one of 11 Catholic Churches in Troyes

More bikes - love it!

Love this playful sculpture next to the river Seine

Our Airbnb was basic but adequate and was sited only about 15 minutes from the port.

• 

  Wall art

• 

  The kitchen

• 

  The sitting room

• 

  The TV

Catching the ferry is so easy and an early start is great for us as landing at Dover mid morning enabled us to return home the same day.

Some of our Tour stats for you to enjoy:

21 Day Tour

84 Hours Driving Time

3700 Miles travelled

10 Countries Visited

Our tour around Europe in our Ineos Grenadier was amazing in every way as we saw things on our bucket list, visited countries and places we'd never been to before and seen some stunning sights. We are really proud of the photographs we've taken with our iPhones too.

If you've enjoyed this blog please give it a like and if you want to see more of our travels consider subscribing to our YouTube channel which we have started and will be uploading videos on a regular basis www.youtube.com/@2ontourexplore