General information: 

Note that some sources include Finland as a part of Scandinavia while others do not.  For ease of use, we have included Finland in this section of our camping log due to its proximity to the other Scandinavian countries.

Overnight Locations:

The following information is intended to be an addition to the existing literature on places to camp overnight in Europe.  It is by no means all-inclusive, but simply lists those places we utilized.  If a location is identified as an Aire, it is listed in the Aires Guide published by Vicarious Books for that country (www.VicariousBooks.co.uk).  Similarly, if a location is identified as a Stellplatz, it is listed in one of the Bord Atlas Stellplatz guides (www.bordatlas.de).  If our location description does not include either of these two words, that location is simply a spot we came across on our own or perhaps found based on information gathered from other travelers and is not listed in either of the guides mentioned above.

Listings are shown alphabetically by the name of the nearest town.  The numbers in parentheses indicate the (month/year) we were there.

GPS Coordinates:  We have had excellent results using the GPS coordinates listed in the Aires and Stellplatz books.  Many of these locations can be hard to find relying on the directions given, but by programming in the coordinates we have found each location easily.  Note that the Aires and Stellplatz books each use a different GPS format.  In this log we have standardized all readings to the same format.  We also include elevation (in feet) for locations at higher elevations.   

Propane (LPG) locations: 

RVs (like ours) with chassis mounted propane tanks may go to a different location than those with removable tanks.  In some regions one type of tank may be easier to fill than the other while in other areas the reverse may be true.  Needless to say, in countries where there is any question about availability we try not to let the propane level get too low before filling.

All the Aires in Scandinavia from Vicarious Books gives good information on propane availability in these countries.

Most European countries utilize a 1 3/4” Acme thread for propane.  This is the standard fitting on FIXED propane tanks in the US.  Removable tanks have different fittings.  

Important: before you leave your home country, you should acquire an adapter that will connect to the inlet on your propane tank and then terminates in a pipe thread (of any common size) so that another fitting can be connected to the adapter.  You should then obtain a 1 3/4” Acme adapter (male thread) for your first connection.  Depending on which countries you visit, you should then be able to acquire a fitting that is used in a particular country once you are in that country and connect it to the fitting that fits your tank.  You can also order all the adapters you will need from several online UK sources.

For an article discussing propane systems and connection options Click Here.

For information about propane adapters used throughout Europe Click Here. 

For more discussion of propane availability in Europe, a recent article is at www.magbaztravels.com

Fuel Prices:

These prices give the range of prices observed in each country.  We have a diesel engine; the diesel prices are actual.  We have included the estimated prices for regular unleaded gasoline.  All fuel prices are shown with both the actual local cost and with that cost converted into US gallons and US Dollars at the time of our visit.

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Denmark:

Exchange rate:  Denmark is NOT on the Euro, but uses their own currency, the Danish Kroner, typically referred to as the DKK.  In May, 2012, the exchange rate was 5.8 DKK to one US Dollar.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Denmark officially tolerates overnight stays in areas other than established campgrounds or aires.  You will see some ‘No Camping’ signs, but ‘Camping‘ is defined as putting out an awning or lawn chairs or cooking outside.  If all activity is contained within the vehicle, this is ‘Parking’ and it is allowed unless specifically prohibited by signage banning ‘Overnight Stays’.  As always, such restrictions are most often enforced near major tourist attractions or cities.  During our stay, we spent some nights in Aires but also some in non-designated motorhome areas.  We passed many laybys along secondary roads that did not have any adverse signage and would have made good overnight spots.  We’ve been told that on the major highways there are rest/service areas where motorhomes can spend the night; some of them also have dump and water available.

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary A LOT, more than we’ve observed in any other country.  It is not uncommon to see a variance of one kroner or more per liter between stations only a few miles away (about $0.60/gallon).  Prices are posted clearly, but will change during the day at any given station.  Once we had the price jump a full kroner while we were maneuvering into the station; the amount shown on the sign and the pumps simply changed at the stroke of ten o’clock.  We also could not identify a fuel chain that consistently had the best prices.  All of this makes price watching a real challenge.  You should learn to notice a good price and fill up immediately rather than continue on in hopes of seeing a better one.  Many fuel stops are automated and operate with credit card only.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from DKK 10.07 to 11.73/liter ($6.56 to $7.64/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are higher and ranged from DKK 11.66 to 13.09/liter ($7.59 to $8.52/gallon).  Thus, prices are similar to if slightly higher than in Germany.

Propane:  LPG is generally not available in Denmark.  Fill up in Germany where it is readily available or in Norway where it is also readily available.  In Sweden it is available but difficult to find.

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Aalborg    Parking    16 DKK/hour    N57 02.826  E009 54.860

City parking lot close to old town.  Perhaps could spend the night, but this is a busy area; I’d look elsewhere.  (5/12)

Aalborg    Overnight    Free    N57 04.712  E009 54.784 

We spent a very quiet night in the parking lot of the museum at the Lindholm Høje, across the river from the city.  The stones are accessible at any time.  (5/12)

Hillerød    Overnight    Free    N55 56.534  E012 18.555

Parking area for Fredericksborg castle.  (5/12)

København    Overnight    Free    N55 39.912  E012 31.764

Free parking on side street in front of Carlsberg Brewery.  No restrictions.  Worked out okay, but street slopes; busy area until late evening, but no one bothered us.  Can catch bus into downtown area nearby.  (5/12)

København    Parking    18 DKK/hour  (forgot to get coordinates)

We parked across the street from the Museum of Arts and Crafts, at No. 68 Bredgage.  This is an excellent place to park for the day; close enough to walk to most places.  (5/12)

København area    Overnight    Free    N55 36.963  E012 25.439

Near Brondby Strand, along the wetlands, there is a large parking lot with no restrictions.  Close enough to walk to the metro into town for the day.  Wonderful spot, we counted thirty swans along with many ducks and other birds. (5/12)

Munke Bjergby    Overnight    Free/2 nights max    N55 29.827   E011 32.996

Incredibly lovely country setting created on the property of fellow motorhomers.  Excellent location, but well worth any extra drive to get here.  Room for 8 vehicles; water, dump and electric available for fee.  (5/12)

Tommerup    Overnight    Free    N55 20.425  E010 10.975

Parking lot for soccer fields and small stadium; on the south edge of this small town.  Possible drinking water and toilets when facilities are open. (5/12)

Vejle    Overnight    Free    N55 41.293  E009 39.384 

Small layby a few miles out of town, on south side of the fjord; room for one.  Lovely and quiet.  (5/12)

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Estonia:

Exchange rate:  Estonia has been on the Euro since 2011.   In August, 2012, the exchange rate was one Euro to $1.23 US.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Estonia apparently has no trouble with overnight stays by motorhomes unless signed otherwise.  We certainly had no trouble and have not heard of anyone who has.  .  We had no difficulties finding places to stay each night during our stay. 

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary a small amount and regular gasoline is only slightly higher than diesel.  As always, automated stations provide the lowest price, but only slightly; unlike in Finland, we had no trouble using our credit card at automated stations.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from €1.38 to €1.41/liter ($6.42 to $6.56/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are slightly higher, generally by about €0.015/liter ($0.07/gallon).

Propane:  LPG is not available at fuel stops in Estonia, but can be found occasionally at propane facilities.  Other travelers have reported that many older stations which had been listed on the internet are now closed but that newer facilities are being built.  We saw one such facility in the Tallinn area sited together with a new looking automated fuel stop.  This location used the French/Italian adapter and cost was €0.78/liter ($3.63/gallon).  LPG is more readily available and also less expensive in Latvia, so plan to fill there if you can. 

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Ardu    Overnight    Free    N59 05.834  E25 16.433

We spent a long time trying to find a spot to pull off in this area, before finally staying here, parked in a small pullout across from a deserted house.  It was about 2 miles off Hwy 2, about 3 miles from Ardu.  (8/12)

Kallaste    Overnight    Free    N58 41.499  E27 09.258

Parking area beside church cemetery, short distance off Rd 43, along Lake Peipsi; north of town about a mile or so.  (8/12)

Lahemaa National Park    Overnight    Free    N59 35.144  E26 15.925

This location is near Vainupea, at the end of the roadhead near the lighthouse.  Toilets nearby.  Very quiet and delightful; near the water.  We also found two other possible locations for O/N: at Altja,  N59 34.916 E26.06.710; and at Võsu, N59 34.806  E25 58.092.  Both of these are parking lots that should be suitable. (8/12)

Muskvee    Possible Overnight    Free    N58 50.852  E26 56.839

Large parking lot along the edge of Lake Peipsi.  (8/12)

Pangodi area    Overnight    Free    N58 11.989  E26 34.334

We stumbled onto this delightful small rustic public camping area at the edge of Pangodi Lake; trees, water, lovely.  We were traveling south from Tartu on Hwy 46.  There is no sign for this location, but a couple of miles south there is signage for a larger area at the south end of the lake. (8/12)

Tallinn    Propane    N59 24.872  E24 39.538

We’d been told propane could be difficult to find in Estonia, but located this spot at the southern edge of the city.  Another Tallin location we’d been given: N59 25.063  E24 45.265.  While preparing to take on propane, someone commented that it would be cheaper in Latvia, and since we didn’t need it urgently, we chose to wait, and this turned out to be true.  (8/12)

Tallinn    Overnight    5€/24 hours    N59 26.579  E24 44.647

Parking lot near the train the station, and just outside the walls of the old city.  Perfect spot for visiting the city.  No services.  Note: there is a paved lot on the corner that you will see first, but it has no pay point, only cell phone charges; the location we used is across the street and hidden a bit behind some buildings.  It does have a pay point is is also cheaper.  (8/12)

Turisalu area    Overnight    Free    N59 25.315  E24 19.791

On road along the coast, west of Tallinn.  Large parking lot near the edge of the cliff.  Very noisy and busy, but doable, and with a nice view.  Another pulloff to the northwest of this one is less developed and might be quieter.  (8/12)

Valga    Overnight    Free    N57 46.721  E26 01.696

Large parking lot by the lake downtown; walking paths, play area, etc., very pretty. Quiet overnight.  Large Rima store very near.  Very close to the Latvian border.  (8/12)

Võru    Possible Overnight    FreeN57 51.060  E27 00.130

Large open gravel areas near a grassy field and pond; should work well.  (8/12)

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Finland:

Exchange rate:  Finland is on the Euro.  In July/August, 2012, the exchange rate was one Euro to $1.23 US.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Like the other countries in Scandinavia, Finland is a great place for wild camping as it does officially accept overnight stays by motorhomes.  Any unfenced land is technically available so long as you park at least 150 meters away from any dwelling.  Naturally normal courtesy should be exercised and permission should be asked if you know you are staying on private property.  Any roadside rest area or picnic area is fine for overnights unless there is signage prohibiting it.  Dump facilities are fewer than in Norway, but roadside rest areas continue to have WCs (outhouses) which can be used.  Water is generally available at fueling stations.  When traveling in less developed areas you will have no difficulty finding suitable open spaces along rural roads where overnight stays should be comfortable.

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary some, but not a great deal; the biggest difference is between automated and non-automated locations.  Prices are posted clearly.  Many fuel stops are non-automated and are attached to a store where you can go in to pay.  However, the least expensive outlets are automated, and this situation is complicated by the fact that the card machines in these stations accept only credit cards issued in Finland.  Whether the requirement is that they be issued by a Finnish bank or that they be issued to Finnish residents I don’t know.  The result of this policy is that travelers are forced to buy fuel at real fuel stations, not at automated, “Express” locations.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from €1.48 to €1.59/liter ($6.89 to $7.40/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are about €0.20/liter higher ($0.95/gallon).   Fuel in Finland is indeed less expensive than in Sweden or Norway, so travelers should plan accordingly when possible.  Depending on your direction of travel however, note that fuel, particularly gasoline, is less expensive in Estonia if you are traveling to or from the Baltics.

Propane:  LPG is not available in Finland.  In Sweden it is available at only a few locations.  It is readily available in Norway, but not in the far northeast.  Narvik is probably the furthest north location in Norway where it is available so if you are going north in Norway and then dropping down into Finland you should fill up at Narvik.  Be sure to research LPG locations on line to find updated information before your trip.

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Arpela area    Overnight    Free    N65 59.214  E24 17.581

We were heading for the Swedish border, along Rd 927; we stopped alongside a lake with WC facilities, shelter, and campfire area.  Quiet and lovely, with occasional fishermen for company.  We stayed for 2 days.  (7/12)

Haikko area    Overnight    Free    N60 20.631  E25 36.127

Near town, we spent the night at on the edge of a play area near the marsh; very quiet.  Off the E18 and then Rd 1543 east of Helsinki.  (8/12)

Hattula    Overnight    Free    N61 02.994  E24 23.867

Obtained permission to stay the night in the parking lot for the wonderful medieval church there.  (8/12)

Helsinki    Overnight    Free    N60 09.740  E24 55.844

Parking lot near the West Terminal, free between 7pm-9am; limited to 4 hours otherwise; Zone 2.  Very noisy early evening, but quiet later on.  Worked well for taking the Tallink Line ferry to Estonia the next morning (over night parking at the port is allowed but very expensive).  The Helsinki ferry port is a mess of construction and relocation; be sure you know which terminal your ferry is leaving from.  The following location might be better if you are taking the Viking Line ferry to Tallin, as I believe they are closer:  N60 09.531  E24 57.712.  (8/12)

Huittenen area    Overnight    Free    N61 16.830  E22 33.900

Parking lot at entrance to Puurijärvi-Isosuo National Park.  Earth closet available.  Osprey viewing area.  Located north on Hwy 12, left on 249, left on 2481.  Stayed 2 days; picked blueberries.  (8/12)

Ilomantsi    Overnight    Free    N62 40.847  E30 55.154

Spent the night in the parking lot for the Orthodox church; also had permission to do so at the Lutheran church.  Quiet night.  (8/12)

Inari    Overnight    Free    N68 57.708  E26 57.594

We stopped at a parking lot next to a lake, about 4 miles north of town.  There are lots of No Overnighting signs in town.  This was a quiet location.  (7/12)

Joensuu area    Overnight    Free    N62 33.555  E28 47.235

Spent the night in the parking area for RVs across the lake from the Valmo Monastery complex.  Lovely spot.  Off Hwy 23, west of Joensuu.  (8/12)

Kitinen area    Possible Overnight    Free    N67 51.550  E26 43.756

Along E75-4, there are many possible places to stop, but this was a very large open area, along the river, near the Kitinen settlement, with several rigs parked in various places.  (7/12)

Kotka area/Valkmusa NP   Overnight    Free    N60 34.315  E26 42.306

Quiet night at the trailhead; no services.  (8/12)

Norwegian border area/Neiden    Overnight    Free    N69 37.846  E29 02.966

About 4 miles after crossing the border into Finland (which is now Rd 971), we stopped at the second rest area we came across.  Very large, with WC facilities.  Only very light traffic on this road.  Beside a large pond.  (7/12)

Paattinen    Overnight    Free    N60 35.532  E22 22.662

Gravel parking lot on the edge of a school; off Rd 204.  (8/12)

Petäjävesi    Overnight    Free    N62 15.014  E25 10.907

Spent the night in the parking lot of the old church there (UNESCO site).  Very quiet; earth closet available.  There is also a new paved parking area directly off the main road near the church.  (8/12)

Rauma    Overnight    Free    N61 07.587  E21 29.307

Near the edge of town, we parked in the lot for a recreation area, near a canal.  (8/12)

Rovaniemi    Overnight    Free    N66 28.997  E25 44.767

South of town on Rd 78 we found a turnoff marked Yacht Club parking area.  It was large and quiet, with folks putting boats into the water or fishing.  Shelter and campfire area available.  Delightful.  We stayed for 2 days.  A small amount of road noise.  (7/12)

Tokrajärvi area    Overnight    Free    N62 45.317  E30 34.659

Along Rd 514 we stopped at a secluded pulloff somewhere between Eno and Ilomntsi; it was west of Tokrajärvi.  No services.  (8/12)

Turku    Overnight    Free    N60 26.544  E22 14.940

Found a 12-hour spot in a strip of parking places along the river channel.  It was a bit noisy from local restaurants, but quieter later.  Easy walk to all the sights.  (8/12)

Vikajärvi    Overnight    Free    N66 37.137  E26 10.887

We parked in a lot for the nature reserve, a short distance north of town.  This is a great area for hiking, and right on the river.  It was lovely,  (7/12)

Vuotso    Overnight    Free    N68 06.128  E27 07.792 

On the E75-4, south of Ivalo, pulled off at the canal and parked by the water.  Lots of places to park in the area.  It was quite lovely, and quiet overnight.  (7/12)

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Latvia:

Exchange rate:  Latvia has their own currency, called the Lat or LVL.   In August, 2012, the exchange rate was $1.80 US dollars to one Lat.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Latvia apparently has no trouble with overnight stays by motorhomes unless signed otherwise.  We certainly had no trouble and have not heard of anyone who has.  .  We had no difficulties finding places to stay each night during our stay. 

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary some, but not much.  Fuel stations are less frequent outside of major cities, noticeably more so than in Estonia.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from 0.96 to 0.98 Lat/liter ($6.58 to $6.71/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are higher, generally by about 0.05 Lat/liter ($0.35/gallon).  Contrary to what we had been told, fuel in Latvia was not less expensive than in Estonia, but was about the same.

Propane:  LPG (Autogāze, Gāze, AG) is readily available both at fuel stops and at stand alone LPG stops in Latvia and we saw a number of locations.  We got LPG at a station outside Cēsis.  This location used the French/Italian adapter and cost was 0.429 Lat/liter ($2.95/gallon).  This cost seemed to be pretty standard all over.  

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Āraiši    Possible Overnight    Free    N57 15.269  E25 16.849

Parking lot for church.  Very quiet.  (8/12)

Cēsis    Overnight    Free at night    N57 18.781  E25 16.396

Small parking lot very close to the castle and other sights.  Just about perfect for visiting this lovely town.  Free 5pm-8am; otherwise 0.5Lat/hour. (8/12)

Jūrmala area   Possible Overnight    Free    N56 53.849  E23 31.785

We spotted a parking area near a small lake in the Ķemeri National Park.  The closest town was Kalkis, on the A9, but we were on P101 traveling through the park.  We chose not to stay because there were people around, but I think you would be just fine.  (8/12)

Ķemeri    Overnight    Free    N56 56.733  E23 30.011

There is a nice parking area right on the road through town, next to a park.  Busy during the early evening, but quiet overnight.  (8/12)

Kuldīga    Possible Overnight    Free    N56 58.043  E21 57.348

Open parking area on the west side of town, near shopping and the bus station.  (8/12)

Riga    Overnight    Free    N56 58.252  E24 13.705

Secluded parking lot at the Riga Motor Museum.  Asked/received permission.  Stayed two nights, and used as a base from which to take the bus (#5) into the old town (30 minutes each way).  (8/12)

Salispils    Possible Overnight    Free    N56 52.194  E24 18.328

There is a large, quiet parking lot at the concentration camp memorial south of Riga.  (8/12)

Snēpele    Overnight    Free    N56 51.000  E21 57.413

We spent the night at the cemetery across the road from this tiny village.  It is located on the connector road between P112 and P116; all this is south of Kuldīga.  (8/12)

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Lithuania:

Exchange rate:  Latvia has their own currency, called the Litas or LTL.   In August, 2012, the exchange rate was 2.74 LTL to one US dollar.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Lithuania does not seem to have any trouble with overnight stays by motorhomes if not signed otherwise.  We had no problems and have not heard of anyone who has.  .  We had no difficulties finding places to stay each night during our stay. 

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary some, but not much.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from 4.67 to 4.79 Litas/liter ($6.45 to $6.62/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are higher, generally by about 0.40 Litas/liter ($0.55/gallon).  Contrary to what we had been told, fuel in Lithuania was not less expensive than in either Latvia or Estonia, but was about the same.

Propane:  LPG, also called Dujos, or SND,  is readily available at many fuel stops in Lithuania and we saw a number of locations.  The French/Italian dish adapter appears to be the standard.  Prices ranged from 2.39 to 2.49 Litas/liter ($3.30 to $3.45/gallon).    

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Anykšciai    Possible Overnight    Free    N55 30.862  E25 07.459

There is a large parking area on the east edge of town, along Rd 119, that should make a good overnight stop.  (9/12)

Dūkštos    Overnight    Free    N54 49.290  E24 58.208

Parking lot for church cemetery, along Rd 171 northwest of Vilnius.  (9/12)

Jovanos area    Overnight    Free    N55 00.508  E24 30.429

We parked for the night in the lot for the small cemetery at the edge of the hamlet of Gegužiné.  The hamlet is located in a small loop off Rd 143 along the west bank of the river.  We were about 10 miles southeast of Jovanos.  Very quiet.  (9/12)

Kaunas    Possible Overnight    Free after 6pm    N54 53.996  E23 53.231

Nice parking lot near the castle; perfect for either overnight or day time parking for a visit to this interesting town.  (9/12)

Kernavė    Overnight    Free    N54 53.286  E24 51.091

We spent a quiet night parking at the cemetery, which is away from the center of the village; there are other spots, but we thought this one best.  The town is on Rd 171 northwest of Vilnius.  (9/12)

Moletai    Overnight    Free    N55 14.129  E25 25.568

We spent the night in a parking lot next to the cemetery for the large church on the northeast side of town.  (9/12)

Nemenčine    Overnight    Free    N54 51.152  E25 27.401

We spent the night in the parking lot of a cemetery; okay but too close to noisy road.  (9/12)

Onuškus    Overnight    Free    N54 29.005  E24 35.477

Large parking area in center of the village, on Rt 220 between Vilnius and Alytus.  We were fine, if a bit noisy, but a better location would be N54 29.116  E24 34.906, which was a large paved parking area on out of town along Rt. 4706.  (9/12)

Plungé area    Overnight    Free    N55 58.798  E21 54.368

Parking area with information panels at southeast entrance to Žemaitija National Park; about ¼-mile off Rd 164, at a turn marked Platelliai.  Not far from terrific new Cold War Museum.  (9/12)

Ukmergé area    Possible Overnight    Free    N55 22.410  E24 53.899

North of town a few miles on Rd 120, there is a posted layby that is set well off the road and should make a good overnight stop.  Toilets.  (9/12)

Vilnius area    Possible Overnight    Free    N54 54.478  E25 19.217

Parking lot for the Europos Geographicus Centras, a nice country spot; should work just fine.   About 10-15 miles north of Vilnius.  (9/12)

Vilnius    Overnight    Free on Sunday    N54 41.094  E25 17.593

Perfect spot for seeing the city, this is a small off-street parking area very close to St. Anne’s church.  Cost was 3 lt/hour Mon-Sat from 8-8.  It’s a noisy spot, because there is a lot of traffic, but location cannot be beat.  (9/12)

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Norway:

Exchange rate:  Norway is NOT on the Euro, but uses their own currency, the Norwegian Kroner, typically referred to as the NOK.  In June, 2012, the exchange rate was about 6 NOK to one US Dollar.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Norway is a great place for wild camping as it does officially accept overnight stays by motorhomes.  Any unfenced land is technically available so long as you park at least 150 meters away from any dwelling.  Naturally normal courtesy should be exercised and permission should be asked if you know you are staying on private property.  Any roadside rest area or picnic area is fine for overnights unless there is signage prohibiting it.  In addition, Norway provides dump facilities at many roadside rests with appropriate signage displayed; dump facilities can also be found at some fuel stops and again these are well signed.  When traveling in less developed areas you will have no difficulty finding suitable open spaces along rural roads where overnight stays will be comfortable.

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary and prices are posted clearly.  You should learn to notice a good price and fill up immediately rather than continue on in hopes of seeing a better one.  Most fuel stops appear to be non-automated and are attached to a store where you can go in to pay.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from NOK 11.99 to 13.73/liter ($7.62 to $8.73/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are higher and ranged from NOK 13.69 to 14.99/liter ($8.71 to $9.73/gallon).  Thus, prices are indeed higher than adjoining countries but not as bad as we had expected.  We saw our lowest prices on the outskirts of Oslo and in fact got some fuel there at a lower price than we had been seeing and it turned out to be slightly less than our two fillups in Sweden.  Just shows that you can’t always believe everything you hear.  As you go further north prices will increase, but once more not by as much as we had feared.  As far north as Narvik, we were still paying a fairly reasonable NOK 13.30/liter ($8.45/gallon), and even in Alta, in the far north, prices remained around NOK 13.40/liter ($8.52/gallon); pretty high, but less than we had feared.

Propane:  LPG is easy to find in Norway although it is not found in regular fuel stations.  We got LPG once in Norway using the British bayonet adapter.  Cost was NOK 7.89/liter or about $5.00/ gallon.  Online lists of LPG locations are easy to find and show about 125 locations in the country.  We have passed several of them.  Note however that availability stops, we believe, at Narvik.  North of there we were unable to find any LPG stations.  As LPG is not available in Finland at all, be sure to plan ahead if you are going there after leaving Norway.

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Alta    Overnight    Free    N69 58.890  E23 27.207 

On E6, a couple of miles east of town, we spent the night at a park along the water, a really excellent spot; quiet, lovely view, plenty of room.  Turn towards the water at a sign for Lahtari, and proceed less than a mile.  (6/12)

Alteidet    Overnight    Free    N69 59.317  E22 02.594

A little south of town, about 60 miles west of Alta, at a very pretty layby on E6 right on the water; quiet night and lovely view.  Toilet facilities available.  (6/12)

Ämot area    Overnight    Free    N59 31.168  E008 09.695

About 10 miles east, on E134, just west of where Highway 45 cuts southwest to Dalen.  A gravel road on the north side goes into a secluded area that makes a nice spot for the night, although a bit noisy until late.  After we headed west the next morning, about a mile further on we spotted a large open area that would also make a good location (and easier to find!).  (6/12)

Borgund area    Overnight    Free    N61 03.587  E007 43.750

There is a layby on the old historic road between Borgund and E16, called Galdane.  It is right on the river and close to the waterfall.  Quiet overnight.  This spot is near the Borgund end of the old road; there is another location near the other end of the road.  That one is closer to the main highway and we thought it would be noisier.  (6/12)

Børselv    Overnight    Free    N70 20.582  E25 38.145

Nature reserve parking area a few miles inland from town; brand new; on Highway 98.  Dumping facilities available, also picnic tables.  Lovely spot.  (7/12)

Gaupne    Overnight    Free    N61 24.118  E007 17.619

This is a large paved area across the road but near to the turn-off to the glacier, off Highway 55; turn at the Shell station; there is a sign saying parking.  (6/12)

Graangen area    Overnight    Free    N68 39.933  E17 46.822

North of the turnoff onto Highway 825, there is a large open pulloff with an incredible view; we spent a very quiet night here.  (6/12)

Hattfjelldal    Overnight    Free    N65 35.755  E13 59.348  Elevation: 215 meters

Along Highway 73, off E6, there is a brand new large open space on the edge of town, complete with a dump station and water.  Exposed and chilly, but very quiet.  (6/12)

Havøysund    Overnight    Free    N70 59.843  E24 39.665

We spent the night in this very pleasant fishing village at the end of the road, parked in a town lot very close to the Coop store and the local sports field.  Very quiet.  (6/12)

Hillesøy    Overnight    Free    N69 35.901  E18 01.966

We spent the night in a church parking lot on the south side of the town; we had just come off the ferry from the island of Senja, and were now on the island of Kvaløya, on our way to Tromso.  Quiet overnight and great views.  (6/12)

Kirkenes area    Overnight    Free    N69 42.346  E30 46.043

About 25 miles east of town on Rd 886 toward Grenske Jakobselv (where we could not find room to park), beside a pond; WC facilities.  Large secluded area, very quiet at night.  There are lots of pulloffs along this road, but this was the biggest and let us get away from the road.  (7/12)

Kirkenes area    Overnight    Free    N69 36.512  E29 57.008

About 6 miles south of town, down Rd 885 towards the Øvre Pasvik NP we found a pulloff for the night.  No services.  (7/12)

Lakselv area    Overnight    Free    N70 19.722  E25 04.357

We spent 3 nights parked on this bluff overlooking the water; could have stayed a week.  This great spot is about a third of the way south on E6between Olderfjord and Lakselv.  We were visited by reindeer and the local sheep.  (7/12)

Lofthus    Overnight    Free    N60 19.189  E006 39.272

Parking lot of the Ullensvang church; a bit noisy in early evening as you are close to the road.  Lovely spot, gorgeous church.  Water available in cemetery.  Other open areas available in town as well.  (6/12)

Lom area    Overnight    Free    N61 52.041  E008 47.675

There is a secondary road at the east end of town that crosses the river; then turn right and continue about 9 miles to a level pullout that had room for both us and passing traffic (there was almost none).  Quiet overnight  (6/12)

Nesseby    Overnight    Free    N70 08.749  E28 51.791

Church parking lot out on a point; along E75 about 7 miles east of Varangerbotn.  Terrific spot and the church is lovely in the late evening light.  (7/12)

Oslo    Overnight    200 NOK/24 hours    N59 55.099  E010 40.556

This is the official motorhome parking area for the city; located at a marina with plenty of room.   Quite expensive, but included water, dump and electricity; showers available for additional fee.  Can walk from here to island museums, or take bus into town center.  Convenient for bicyclists and lovely view.  (6/12)

Oslo    Parking    9 NOK/hour    N59 54.117  E010 41.736

Near the Maritime Museum; use the first one you come to as you approach the area, not the second, which is much more expensive.  This could be a good base for using the ferry to go to town center; also walk or bike to both the Viking Museum and the Norwegian Culture Museum.  (6/12)

Oslo    Overnight    Free    N59 55.800  E010  41.967

This is a terrific spot; free 5pm-9am, after 3pm on Sat and on Sunday.  Quiet location at night; inside the Sculpture Park, near the graveyard.  Absolutely perfect. (6/12)

Rossvalnet area    Possible Overnight    Free    N65 48.106  E13 54.006

Observed great spot on Highway 806 along the west side of the lake; between Trofors and Korgen; this road parallels E6.  (6/12)

Snåsa    Overnight    Free    N64  10.107  E12 01.528

On Highway 763 about 13 miles south of town there is a logging area with a large piece of waste ground.  Quiet overnight.  The rest area nearby is no longer free but has been developed with activities being offered, and a fee being charged.  (6/12)

Sørreisa    Overnight    Free    N69 10.478  E18 04.977

We stopped at a rest area along the water on Highway 86; toilets available.  We are next to the town of Sørreisa and about 10 miles from Finnses.  A beautiful spot.  (6/12)

Stanghelle    Overnight    Free    N60 32.995  E005 44.045

This is a small town on the Veafjorden.  Follow the signs to the train station; there is plenty of parking in this quiet spot – the trains are electric. (6/12)

Stiklestad    Overnight    Free    N63 48.839  E11 37.162

Quiet overnight at the wetlands about 2 miles north of town on Highway 759; small parking area tucked back from the road.  (6/12)

Støren    Overnight    Free    N61 01.735  E10 16.130

At this rest area along the highway, we drove all the way to the end; there are tables and a children’s play area; very quiet at night, and away from those just passing through; near the stream.  Full dump/water facilities. (6/12)

Svensby    Overnight    Free    N69 36.443  E19 55.613

About 5 miles from town on Highway 91 there is a nice large pullout; this is on the island of Iddonjargga.  Quiet overnight.  (6/12)

Tømmerneset    Overnight    Free    N67 59.439  E15 58.818

Fairly secluded pulloff from E6 north of town; nothing special but okay.  (6/12)

Trondheim    Overnight    Free    N63  25.572  E10 22.935

Free designated motorhome parking area; no services but no time limit.  Very close to the historic area of town.  We did not stay the night, but were parked there for several hours.  Room for about a dozen vehicles.  Note that parking is free 24/7 in the designated area.  (6/12)

Trondheim    Overnight    Free    N63  21.241  E10 22.531

Parking lot of the Coop supermarket, just south of town along the freeway; there are tons of shopping opportunities here.  We stayed the night (Sunday) in order to be able to shop early the following morning.  (6/12)

Undredal    Overnight    Free    N60 57.003  E007 05.630 

There is a parking area on the edge of this hamlet, next to a stream.  This is on the road that goes north between the 2 long tunnels on Highway E16 east of Gudvangen. (6/12)

Vestby    Overnight    Free    N59 36.176  E010 44.107

Couldn’t quite make it into Oslo, so stopped here in an unmarked parking lot not far from the freeway.  Busy area until late, but no one bothered us; close to a lovely church.  (6/12)

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Sweden:

Exchange rate:  Sweden is NOT on the Euro, but uses their own currency, the Swedish Kronor, typically referred to as the SEK.  In May, 2012, the exchange rate was 7.2 SEK to one US Dollar.  

Overnight parking regulations:  Sweden officially accepts overnight stays by motorhomes unless signed otherwise.  We had no trouble finding places to stay each night during our stay. 

Fuel:  Fuel prices vary some but not a lot; automated stations provide the lowest price but often do not issue a receipt.  Diesel fuel is readily available and prices ranged from SEK 14.24 to 14.92/liter ($7.44 to $7.79/gallon); Regular gasoline prices are higher, generally by about 0.25 SEK/liter ($0.15/gallon).

Propane:  LPG is not available at fuel stops in Sweden, but can be found occasionally at propane facilities.  We have passed a few such facilities along the highway and have purchased LPG once at a location south of Lulea.  We used the French/Italian adapter and cost was 10 SEK/liter ($5.40/gallon)  Motorhomers are advised to fill up in Germany and then in Norway as LPG is readily available in both countries.

Location, Type/Cost and Description

Arctic Circle area    Overnight    Free    N66 35.174  E16 17.827

Nice large pulloff on Highway 95 about 2 miles northwest of the Arctic Circle; we had a quiet night.  there is a rest area at the Circle, but there were a lot of folks around that we didn’t like the looks of, so we moved on.  (6/12)

Falun area    Overnight    Free    N60 33.858  E15 46.788

Terrific spot for the night.  We turned off Highway 266 into the small UNESCO site, Gamla Staberg.  There were several remote parking areas; it was very quiet.  There is also a trailhead to a walking path.  (7/12)

Fattmomakke    Possible Overnight    Free    N65 05.562  E15 05.832

Great probable spot just before the bridge that goes into the Sámi church village.  (7/12)

Föllinge area    Overnight    Free    N63 41.086  E14 40.407

About 3 miles east on Highway 344 we found a nice pull off into an open clearing.  (7/12)

Gammelstad   Overnight    Free    N65 38.887  E22 01.763

We stayed in the parking lot for the church village; it was excellent.  WC is available.  (7/12)

Garpenberg    Overnight    Free    N60 16.034  E16 10.279

About two miles south of the hamlet, on a dirt forest road (in excellent condition), we found a large open area for the night.  This area is within a triangle formed by Highways 70, 68, and 80.  Lots of opportunities in the area.  (7/12)

Kåbdalls area    Overnight    Free    N63 03.652  E20 03.974

South of town, along the E45, not far south of the junction with Rd 374, but before reaching Norden, we stopped at some wasteground well off the road, on the west side; there was another spot on the east side of the road.  (7/12)

Kåseberga area   Overnight    Free    N55 25.044  E013 59.911 

We visited the Ale’s Stones, but decided not to pay for overnight parking at the site, so wandered on a bit.  We settled for a parking lot about 3 miles northwest along the coast.  It was next to an army practice range, although no one seemed to care and no activity was carried on while we were there.  They seemed bemused but not concerned by our presence.  (6/12)

Leksand area    Overnight    Free    N60 49.699  E14 39.797

We drove from Mora toward Leksand along the south side of Lake Siljan.  We found a small pulloff about 18 miles west of Leksand; not great but okay; some traffic.  (7/12)

Lund    Parking    11 SEK/hour    N55 41.959  E013 11.327 

Small parking lot near the cathedral; parking is very hard to find in this lovely town, but well worth the effort.  (6/12)

Malmo area Visitor Center    Overnight    Free    N55 33.573  E012 56.056

Directly after you cross the bridge from Denmark, there is a visitor center on the right.  Alternatively, we had already driven into Malmo, but made our way back to the Center by side streets; we could not access the large parking lot from the side street, but parked behind the buildings; no restrictions after 6:00 pm, and quiet overnight.  Toilets available.  (5/12)

Marsliden area    Overnight    Free    N65 01.805  E15 23.476    Alt: 557 meters

About one mile from the trailhead at the end of the gravel road into this small hamlet we found a place to pull off the road, opposite the Welkommen sign.  Could also park at the trailhead, but that is a turn-around, and it would be hard to be out of the way of traffic.  (7/12)

Piteå    Propane    N65 19.096  E21 25.963 

We filled our fixed tank, but they could handle cylinders as well, at the OK Q8 Station; we used the French/Italian adaptor.  Cost – roughly $5.50/gallon. (7/12)

Ravlanda    Overnight    Free    N57 40.186  E012 29.603

Rest area at exit 79 on Highway 40, roughly halfway between Goteborg and Borgas.  Water and dump available at toilet block.  Lovely, quiet spot.  (6/12)

Sollentuna    Overnight    Free    N59 26.097  E17 57.076

Large gravel parking area near a bus stop (park & ride into Stockholm); no adverse signage.  Fair amount of activity, but not too noisy and a good choice.  (7/12)

Sollentuna    Overnight    Free    N59 26.440  E17 57.584

We were interested in visiting the MC Collection motorcycle museum at this location (which is excellent) and they are closed on Mondays.  We arrived mid-afternoon, spent the night, visited the museum, and left the next mid-afternoon; no one paid any attention to us, and it was a nice day. We could have easily stayed longer.  (7/12)

Stockholm    Overnight    Free    N59 19.890  E18 05.276

Free between Friday 5pm until Sunday midnight (when you are supposed to move away so they can clean the area); parking right on the marina, between the Djurdarden museums and the Old Town.  It was absolutely perfect, except for the noise and the passing parade.  But be sure to use it!  It’s quite brilliant!  (7/12)

Stockholm  Overnight  Free  N59 20.862  E18 06.916

We spent our last night in Sweden parked in a lot at the Tallink Silja port, at their direction.  It was perfect; quiet, with grocery store and restaurant right there, and we were about 20 feet from getting in line for our early morning departure.  (7/12)

Storuman    Overnight    Free    N65 05.392  E17 07.861

Up the road into the ski area above town, we found a paved parking area.  Plenty of walkers during the evening, but quiet overnight.  (7/12)

Trollhättan    Overnight    Free    N58 15.924  E012 15.964

Parking lot near south end of town overlooking the locks; excellent overnight location, with room for about 10 vehicles.  If this spot is full, you might check out a parking lot at a nearby nature reserve about 4 miles from town (N58 15.683  E012 13.699)  (6/12)

Vemdalen area    Overnight    Free    N62 24.867  E13 54.850    Alt: 411 meters

About 3 miles south of town on a secondary road going to Remmet that parallels Highway 84, we found a large open area on the west side; there is a track and some outbuildings that look unused in the summer (?)  (7/12)

Vidsel area    Overnight    Free    N65 53.486  E20 20.881

We pulled off into a clearing a few miles northwest of town; we had headed north  on Rd 374 toward Jokkmokk, then turned right onto a secondary road signed Abbortjärn, then into this clearing near the junction.  Pretty and quiet.  (7/12)

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