Top 4: Camping Routes in LithuaniaBy Angelica Malin
From exploring the mysterious ancient villages of Samagotia to cruising through the Vilnius sky with a hot air balloon, to taking a day off from the road to enjoy some luxurious spa treatments—the compact country of Lithuania has something to offer to the first-time RV owners and hardcore campers alike.
A country as compact as Lithuania is ideal for travelling in a camper van as the distance between the most northern and the most southern points takes only 3 hours to complete. Though there are numerous ways of traversing through its lush nature, culturally diverse cities, and picturesque sea resorts, Lithuania Travel has selected the top 4 camping routes that capture Lithuania’s essence the best.
1. Three Waters in the West
The Lowdown: Dedicated to exploring the western part of the country, this 620km camping route guides to luscious terrains alongside the three most outstanding Lithuania’s water reservoirs: the Baltic Sea, the Curonian Lagoon, and the River Nemunas Delta. The route is best admired at leisure as it reveals natural beauties such as the Curonian Spit — a path of white sand connecting the Baltic Sea and the Curonian Lagoon. Preserved by UNESCO, its beaches have been voted as some of the most beautiful in Europe by Lonely Planet.
Just a short drive away, there is an ancient fishing village Dreverna which also serves as a small vessel harbour that reaches deep into the mysterious Samogitia — the last region in the country to preserve its old pagan traditions.
2. Three Capitals in the South
The Lowdown: The camping route in the South allows exploring the southern part of Lithuania on a 470km stretch and passes through the three capital towns — Vilnius, Kaunas, and Trakai — all of which are marked by different nature, cultural influences, and history.
Along this path, you’ll get the chance to witness Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture transgress into green parks in Kaunas and see the extravagant modern buildings built side-by-side with the high-rising church towers in Vilnius. The camping spots located in Vilnius and Kaunas offer an unusual attraction for the more thrill-seeking travellers — cruising through the Lithuanian sky with an air balloon. And for those looking to relax and bring some comfort to their camping trip, the balneological resorts of Druskininkai and Birštonas offer a vast selection of spa treatments, mud baths, and the opportunity to taste the natural mineral water from the local water springs.
3. Lakes and Manors in the North and East
This 690km route is perfect for avid nature lovers. Here, all camper vans are welcome to be parked near Lithuania’s oldest national park located in the Highlands (Aukštaitija) region. Located away from the street bustle and fast-paced city life it invites everyone to immerse themselves into the forest depths, taste the local bounties —like wild mushrooms and berries — and enjoy some forest bathing.
As for other activities offered along the route, you’re invited to stroll along the treetops in Anykščiai Tree Crown Trail, have a swim in one of the many lakes in Zarasai, and touch a real piece of the Moon in the Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology in Molėtai. Also, those eager to learn more about the region’s history, have the perfect opportunity to explore 19th-century manors. One of them — marked by its characteristic Romantic era elegance — is Astravas Manor in Biržai.
4. Cross-Country Route
As a perfect getaway for 2 weeks, Lithuania Travel suggests choosing a scenic 1400 km camping route around the entire Lithuania. Stopping in 29 towns in total, it goes through the three capitals, reaches the largest Lithuanian island Rusnė, and further leads to the “Paradise Road” winding along the River Nemunas full of castles, manors, and riverside views.
On top of that, you’ll get the chance to discover the famous Lithuanian summer resort— Palanga—situated on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Also, Telšiai—the so-called capital town of Samogitia—invites campers for a ride throughout the 7 hills encompassing the entire city. And finally, near the outskirts of Šiauliai, the legendary Hill of Crosses is known as a popular pilgrimage destination which also makes it a suitable visiting spot for campers.
