Wild Camping Fines Are Hitting Holidaymakers Across Europe

Holidaymakers heading to Europe for the summer are being warned not to camp on the beach or they could be breaking the law.

Wild camping is illegal or heavily restricted in many summer holiday destinations, with fines reaching hundreds of Euros.

Now the sleep experts at WinstonsBeds.com have put together helpful advice on the regulations in different countries and the alternative options.

They’ve looked at popular destinations for those heading away in a motorhome, caravan or taking a tent for a more cost effective break. 

Some countries, like Spain and Portugal, come down heavily on wild sleepers with fines in popular coastal areas setting rule breakers back by over €1,000.

In others, enforcement can vary but it is always worth checking local rules and regulations and signage before pitching or parking for the night. 

A spokesperson for WinstonsBeds.com said: “Wild camping sounds romantic and the perfect way to spend the night under the stars. It’s not so lovely if you get hit with a hefty fine or are forced to move on.

“As a general rule, sleeping on the beach is prohibited pretty much everywhere although levels of enforcement vary depending on the country you’re in.

“Always check local rules around camping – they can vary within a country depending on where you’re planning to set up camp for the night. Always try to stay on a proper campsite – many of those along the coast will have beach access.”

WinstonsBeds.com guide to wild camping this summer:

Spain

Sleeping on the beach in Spain is a strict no, unless it’s in a designated camping zone. Illegal camping is seen as a public order issue with safety, litter and overcrowding all an issue. If you’re travelling in a motorhome, you can park in designated areas near the beach but cannot set up awnings, tables and chairs or extend your space to the beach. 

Greece

Greece has become much stricter on wild camping and while it is prohibited, enforcement can vary. You’re not allowed to pitch a tent or park a motor home in public places including beaches, coastlines, forests and archaeological sites.

Italy

Italy does have laws against wild camping but many campsites are dotted along the coast meaning you can legally have direct access to a beachfront location.  It is worth checking local regulations but the safest bet is to opt for a reputable campsite. 

France

It is not permitted to sleep on the beach in France but there isn’t a complete ban on wild camping. It’s generally not allowed on the beach, in protected areas and near historical monuments. Like Italy. Many campsites will have direct beach access so opt for them instead.

Germany

Wild camping is generally prohibited in Germany to protect forests, coastal areas and nature reserves. However, in some areas you can rent overnight beach chairs. These waterproof chairs with a hood mean you can sleep under the stars with a clear conscience. 

Turkey

Generally it’s not permitted to camp on beaches in Turkey but the rules aren’t always strictly enforced. This doesn’t mean you should risk it. Look for designated campsites as a much safer option. 

Portugal

Sleeping on the beach in Portugal is a big no. Beaches, especially those in tourist areas, are patrolled and campers will be moved on or issued with a fine. Fines for illegal beach camping can be as high as €600.

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