Two Italian holiday parks have been recognised among Europe’s leading camping destinations following the announcement of the PiNCAMP Awards 2026, revealed during the PiNCAMP Gala held this week.
The awards are promoted by the PiNCAMP portal, a joint platform of the national motoring associations of Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, which enables bookings at more than 14,500 campsites across 44 countries.
The Italian recipients are Union Lido Mare, located in Cavallino-Treporti in the province of Venice, and Camping Village Europa Silvella in San Felice del Benaco, in the Brescia area. The PiNCAMP Awards are presented annually by a jury of industry experts and are widely regarded within the European camping sector as a benchmark for quality, innovation, and guest experience.
“With the PiNCAMP Awards, we honour the pioneers of the European camping industry,” said Uwe Frers, CEO of PiNCAMP. “This award is to the camping industry what the Oscars are to the film industry.”
The awards are traditionally presented during CMT Stuttgart, one of Europe’s largest trade fairs dedicated to open-air holidays, motorhomes, caravans, camping, glamping, and experiential travel. The 2026 ceremony took place during an evening event at the fair, with mobile home manufacturer Crippaconcept acting as the main partner.
Italy’s strong showing at the 2026 awards reflects its broader position within the European outdoor hospitality market. According to Alberto Granzotto, president of Faita Federcamping, “The positioning of Italy, second in Europe only to France for the number of Superplatz campsites and tourist villages, confirms the growing attractiveness of the open air, the result of the investments in quality, sustainability and accessibility that companies are making throughout the country.”
The Italian outdoor accommodation sector generates an estimated €8 billion in turnover when accounting for direct, indirect, and induced impacts, supported by approximately 2,400 facilities nationwide.
Camping Village Europa Silvella received recognition in the category “Best family campsite abroad.” The property is situated directly on the shores of Lake Garda and offers a mix of traditional pitches and mobile homes.
Facilities include multiple swimming pools, a marina, leisure and sports activities, and organised programmes for children and families. Its lakeside location and integrated amenities were cited among the factors contributing to its selection.
Union Lido Mare was awarded in the “Innovation and Progress” category. Established more than 70 years ago, the resort has undergone continuous redevelopment aimed at responding to changing guest expectations.
One of its recent additions is Speedy Island, a purpose-built water park featuring attractions designed specifically for the site. The development includes energy-efficiency measures such as renewable energy systems and water recycling technologies, according to Il Sole 24 Ore.
For campground and resort operators, the 2026 PiNCAMP Awards highlight several ongoing trends shaping the European outdoor hospitality market, including sustained investment in infrastructure, the integration of experiential amenities, and a growing emphasis on sustainability and accessibility.
As competition intensifies across established destinations, industry recognition continues to play a role in shaping consumer perceptions and influencing investment priorities.