First-Time Family Adventure: Motorhoming Across Southwest England

When my family and I ventured on our journey to Devon, Dorset, and Cornwall, we felt a mix of excitement and nerves. It was our first time travelling in a motorhome, and we had a hyper 3-year-old on board. But we were eager to explore Southwest England in the Bailey Adamo 69-4 motorhome, with the promise of comfort, freedom, and adventure on the horizon.

First-Time Motorhoming

As first-time motorhomers, driving such a large vehicle seemed a daunting prospect, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The motorhome was surprisingly easy to handle, and we quickly got the hang of it. Learning the ins and outs, like filling up the tank and setting up camp, became part of the adventure.

Our motorhome, the Bailey Adamo 69-4, provided us with everything we needed for a comfortable and flexible journey. It was spacious, well-equipped, and had ample storage space for all our essentials. But the real showstopper was the large bed that magically appeared from the ceiling with just the push of a button—a feature we all loved.

Spontaneous Travel

Our trip planning was refreshingly minimalistic. We booked campsites in advance and had a rough route in mind, but we left plenty of room for spontaneity. This flexibility allowed us to adjust our plans on the go, responding to our moods and the places that captured our excitement along the way.

As soon as we picked up the motorhome, we threw our belongings into it (there’s plenty of storage), stocked up on food, and were ready to hit the road. This simplicity was a stark contrast to the often-hectic preparations required for other types of family trips.

Our Southwest Itinerary

Our 2-week trip took us through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes that Devon and Cornwall had to offer. Our itinerary included:

Dartmouth (2 nights): A charming coastal town with stunning views and plenty of activities for families.

Newquay (2 nights): Famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture.

Sennen Cove (3 nights): A peaceful area with breathtaking sea views and access to a rugged Cornwall beach.

Tavistock (2 nights): A stopover near Dartmoor National Park, offering a perfect blend of nature and town life.

Durdle Door (2 nights): Home to one of the most iconic and photogenic views on the Jurassic Coast.

Each destination had its unique charm and adventures, from hikes in Dartmoor National Park and exploring the streets of St Ives, to relaxing on the beaches of Durdle Door and Sennen.

Our Favourite Campsite

One of the standout campsites on our journey was the Sennen Cove Camping and Caravan Club site. It was a green, flat, and peaceful spot with mesmerizing sea views and a short walk to the rugged Cornwall beach. The facilities were perfect, and our daughter loved the on-site playground.

Top Tips for First-Time Motorhome Travel

After a memorable adventure, here are some of my top tips for travelling in a motorhome:

Leave Room for Spontaneity: Don’t overplan; let the road guide you to unexpected gems.

Pack Smart: Maximise comfort by packing everything you need. There’s plenty of storage space.

Be Involved: If you pass another motorhome, give them a wave – this is a secret code that we quickly learned on the road.

Involve Kids: Get your child excited and engaged by involving them in the adventure. Give them their own space to personalise. We found that our daughter loved having her own cupboard in the motorhome, which she was free to fill however she liked when packing and could access any time!

Final Thoughts

Our first motorhome adventure across Southwest England in the Bailey Adamo 69-4 was a huge success. It exceeded our expectations in terms of comfort, convenience, and the freedom to explore at our own pace. Even the rain couldn’t dampen our spirits.

As we look to future adventures, we’re already considering exploring Scotland and perhaps even venturing further afield to Europe on a ferry. The possibilities are endless, and the motorhome has opened a world of exciting travel opportunities for our family.

If you’re considering a motorhome adventure of your own, I wholeheartedly recommend it. It’s an experience that combines the comforts of home with the thrill of the open road, making it a unique and unforgettable way to explore the world.

Follow more from Bex Band via her website: www.theordinaryadventurer.com