Extend Your Summer: Weekend Getaways in Nature with your EV
As the summer winds down, there’s no need to say goodbye to outdoor adventures just yet. With an electric vehicle (EV), you can easily plan a weekend escape to some of Europe’s most stunning natural spots. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, mountain biking, or simply relaxing on a beach, we’ve got you covered. We’ve curated a list of charging stations conveniently located near beautiful destinations across Europe, so you can charge your EV on your way to your weekend adventure and be ready to explore the great outdoors.
For even more tips, don’t miss the hidden gems at the end of the article. Ready to extend your summer and embrace nature? Let’s get started!
England: Explore Hiking & Water Activities in the Stunning Lake District
On your way from Manchester to the Lake District
Location: IONITY Lancaster North
Amenities: McDonalds
Extend your summer with a weekend exploring the Lake District, England's largest National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A haven for both hikers and water enthusiasts, the Lake District boasts a stunning mix of landscapes, including over 16 tranquil lakes, numerous tarns, and a picturesque coastline. Whether you prefer to explore the scenic hiking trails that wind through forests and fells, or embark on a water-based adventure such as boating, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, the Lake District provides a safe and breathtaking environment. Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of its waters, hike through its awe-inspiring landscapes, or simply soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
If you're traveling north on the M6 toward the Lake District, make a convenient stop at IONITY Lancaster North to charge your EV. With 12 high-power chargers and a nearby McDonald's for a quick bite, it's the perfect spot to recharge before entering the Lake District.
Austria: Family-Friendly Hiking Adventures for All Ages in Nassereith
On your way from Munich to Nassereith
Location: IONITY Nassereith
Amenities: Rastland Nassereith, Service station (OMV)
Discover Nassereith, a charming village in Austria’s Imst district, where breathtaking scenery meets diverse hiking opportunities. Nestled between the Tyrolean Alps and the emerald- green Lake Nassereith, this region is a paradise for nature lovers of all ages. From leisurely lakeside strolls to challenging summit hikes, Nassereith offers trails for every level. Families will love the themed "In the Footsteps of Legends" trail, which is perfect for children.
Recharge at the IONITY Nassereith charging station, just minutes from the village, and get ready to explore the majestic landscape.
Norway: Weekend EV Adventure to Preikestolen
On your way from Kristiansand to Preikestolen
Location: IONITY Sandnesporten
Embark on a exhilarating weekend adventure to Preikestolen (The Pulpit Rock), one of Norway's most iconic landmarks. Soaring 604 meters above the Lysefjord, Preikestolen offers breathtaking views and an eight-kilometre hike to thrill any adventurer.
The round-trip hike takes around four hours, with an elevation gain of 500 meters. The trail winds through lush forests and offers stunning viewpoints along the way, culminating in a nearly flat plateau at the summit.
Charge your EV at one of the 20 high-power chargers at IONITY Sandnesporten before heading to Preikestolen Fjellstue, where you can park and begin your hike. With your EV charged and your boots on, immerse yourself in the beauty of Western Norway and the awe-inspiring views from Preikestolen.
Slovenia: Weekend EV Adventure to Lake Bled in the Julian Alps
On your way from Ljubljana to Lake Bled
Location: IONITY Radovljica (dir. Villach)
Amenities: Service station (MOL)
Discover the magic of Lake Bled, nestled in the Julian Alps, where an enchanting landscape awaits your exploration. September and October bring stable, perfect weather, ideal for hiking and swimming in the still-inviting waters.
Begin your adventure with a scenic 6-kilometre walk around the lake, where you’ll find inviting swimming spots and breathtaking views of the island church and Bled Castle. For a unique perspective, hire a paddle board and glide across the serene waters, surrounded by stunning mountain and forest backdrops.
For thrill-seekers, a 2.5-hour zip-line adventure offers exhilarating views from heights of up to 700 metres. And don’t miss the chance to explore Jama Pod Babjim Zobom Cave, the area’s oldest and most beautiful cave, filled with ancient tunnels, stalactites, and crystals.
With your EV charged at one of the two IONITY stations Radovljica, 10 kilometres from the lake, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Lake Bled and create unforgettable memories in this fairytale setting.
Netherlands: Explore stunning dunes and forests on the island of Texel
On your way from Amsterdam to the island of Texel
Location: IONITY Medemblik
Amenities: Restaurant (The Food Box)
Whether you're into birdwatching, cycling, or simply looking to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors, Texel, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands, is the perfect autumn escape for nature lovers. Explore its stunning dunes and forests on a peaceful hike or cycle along the island's scenic routes. Visit the De Slufter nature reserve to witness migrating birds and changing landscapes. Don't miss a stroll on the quiet, expansive beaches, where you can breathe in the crisp sea air and enjoy the island's serene beauty. On your way from Amsterdam to Texel, take advantage of IONITY Medemblik charging station along the A7. With 12 high-power charging points, your EV will be ready in no time.
France: Discover the Natural Wonders of the Baie de Somme
On your way from Paris to Saint-Valery-sur-Somme
Location: IONITY Baie de Somme
Amenities: Service station (Shell)
The Baie de Somme is located in Hauts-de-France, formerly known as Picardie. Nestled between Île-de-France (the region surrounding Paris) and the English Channel, this national park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from Paris.
This coastal gem offers breathtaking views and abundant wildlife. Take a scenic walk or bike ride along the coastline, then visit the Marquenterre Bird Reserve—a must-see for birdwatchers—where rare species can be observed in their natural habitat. For a unique experience, join a guided tour to see the park's resident seals lounging on the sandbanks, particularly at Le Hourdel, where a thriving seal colony awaits.
Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquillity, the Baie de Somme promises an unforgettable natural experience. To ensure your EV is ready for the adventure, stop by the IONITY Baie de Somme station, located less than 30 kilometres before you enter Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.
CHARGE MORE – PAY LESS
Approaching the autumn season, we have got some exceptional offerings for you. With PASSPORT MOTION and PASSPORT POWER you get access to the entire pan-European IONITY charging network – at reduced rates. Country-specific price information can be found here. Book your passport now in the IONITY app.
Europe is full of wonderful places to visit, and with an EV, it's easier than ever to find nearby charging stations. For even more travel ideas near our stations, explore these hidden gems.
From Lyon, visiting the Alps in autumn offers a breathtaking mix of vibrant colours and crisp mountain air. The Vercors and Écrins National Parks are especially stunning, with golden forests, peaceful hiking trails, and fewer crowds. For a convenient stop, the IONITY Seyssins charging station is just 40 kilometres away from both locations, ready to keep your EV powered throughout your journey.
From Zurich, Silvaplana is a fantastic autumn destination, offering stunning alpine scenery and fresh air. Perfect for hiking, biking, and water sports like kite surfing on its scenic lakes, even as the season cools. With the IONITY Silvaplana charging station right by Lake Silvaplana, your EV is fully prepared for an autumn adventure.
Visit Rampestreken, Norway, an exhilarating 20-metre steel ramp suspended 537 metres above sea level. It offer breathtaking views of the Romsdalen valley. Whether you hike from the town centre or take the Romsdalen Gondola partway, this adventure is perfect for families and nature lovers alike. Charging your EV at IONITY Trollveggen will be a bonus as you have the perfect view of Europe’s tallest vertical rock face.
Visiting Koszalin, Poland in autumn offers a peaceful escape to the Baltic coast with its charming blend of nature and history. The cooler weather brings a serene atmosphere to the nearby sandy beaches and coastal trails, perfect for a quiet stroll. You can explore Koszalin's picturesque parks, historic sites, and vibrant local markets, all while enjoying the fresh Baltic breeze and fewer crowds. The IONITY Koszalin charging station is located just north of the town, on your way to the coast.
The coastal towns of Piran and Portorož in Slovenia offer a perfect long weekend getaway with stunning Adriatic views and a charming ambiance. Piran, with its medieval streets and historic architecture, invites leisurely exploration and picturesque sunsets. Just a short drive away, Portorož boasts beautiful beaches and a vibrant seaside atmosphere. The IONITY Koper charging station is conveniently located less than 20 kilometres before you reach your destination from the north.