🌊 From Germany to Portugal: A Vanlife Journey Along the Atlantic Coast
This trip has become my favorite road I’ve ever taken, and it’s no surprise—I’ve done it three times now. Each time, I travel by van from Germany to Portugal, hugging the Atlantic coast as closely as possible. It’s not just about the destination, but about chasing waves, landscapes, and the lifestyle that comes with it. Along the way, I stop in France, Spain, and Portugal, sleeping in my van by the sea, discovering remote towns, and reconnecting with nature.
🇫🇷 France: Charm, Surf, and Seaside Towns
We begin in Mont Saint-Michel. This place left me in awe the first time I saw it—and it still does. I’ve stopped here on every trip. Driving across the vast marshland that surrounds it is like entering another world. The little town is touristy but charming, and when the sun sets behind the island, everything turns golden. Parking overnight near the beach gave me a quiet view of the silhouette across the water.
Heading south, we reached La Rochelle, a harbor town filled with salty air and a touch of mystery. It reminded me of scenes from The Witcher, with its old stone towers and flickering lamps at night. We arrived in the afternoon, parked near the port, and took a stroll through narrow streets where seafood and sea breeze fill the air.
Then came the French Atlantic surf coast—and wow. This stretch is a vanlifer’s paradise. We stopped at places like Hossegor, Capbreton, and the Landes region. Every beach had space to park the van, shower, surf, and just breathe. Many people live this way, hopping from one surf spot to the next, creating a kind of rolling surf town on wheels. It’s a community, a way of life, and it felt like home.
🇪🇸 Spain: Quiet Coasts and Lush Greenery
Crossing into Spain, the energy shifted. There were fewer surf vans, and things felt quieter. But Galicia—oh, Galicia. The scenery changed to lush, green hills and moody cliffs. Here, the Atlantic feels raw and untamed. It reminded me of Ireland, with misty skies and dramatic coastlines.
We spent time in Bilbao and Sopelana, where we parked at a viewpoint looking over the ocean. Surfing in Sopelana was peaceful—early mornings, soft waves, and friendly locals. Spain doesn’t get as much love from the van crowd, but for me, it offered the solitude I sometimes crave on these trips.
🇵🇹 Portugal: Surf Mecca and Soulful Shores
Then we arrived in Portugal. It’s hard to explain what this country does to me. The air smells different—like salt, eucalyptus, and sunshine. There’s a rhythm here, a slowness that pulls you in. I feel grounded, relaxed, and inspired whenever I’m here. Like a version of myself I only remember when I’m close to the ocean.
Porto welcomed us with its crumbling tiles, narrow streets, and soulful energy. We parked near the beach and took the tram into the city, wandering among street musicians and riverfront cafés. Every corner felt like a painting.
Next was Nazaré, home to the biggest waves ever surfed. Standing on the cliffs, I watched the ocean rise and fall with a power that’s hard to describe. It made me feel small in the best way.
And then—Ericeira. My favorite place. It’s a surf town with just the right mix of locals, travelers, and longboarders. We parked behind the dunes and fell asleep to the sound of crashing waves. In the mornings, I surfed small glassy waves. In the evenings, I drank wine with new friends, sharing stories and starlight.
🌅 Why I Keep Coming Back
This route—Germany to Portugal—is more than just a trip. It’s a return to myself. Every time I drive down the coast, I remember what matters: freedom, nature, connection. It’s not always easy—showers can be rare, and van maintenance is real—but the rewards are unmatched.
I keep coming back for the sunrises over cold beaches, the smell of surf wax and coffee, the way strangers become friends. I come back to feel alive.