The nominees for the PiNCAMP Awards 2026 have been announced! The campsites selected for the PiNCAMP Awards come from Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Croatia, the Netherlands, Denmark and Austria.
An internationally appointed commission of ten camping experts selected the nominees from hundreds of proposals from the camping industry. The nominated campsites compete in the categories “Sustainability and Environmental Awareness”, “Innovation and Progress” and “Rental Accommodations”. Uwe Frers, CEO of PiNCAMP, explains the importance of this award: “The PiNCAMP Awards hold a similar significance for the camping industry as the Oscars do for the film industry.” The winners of Europe’s most prestigious camping award will be announced during the PiNCAMP Gala on January 16, 2026 in Stuttgart.
The nominees in the category “Sustainability and Environmental Awareness”
De Lemeler Esch Natuurcamping, Netherlands
De Lemeler Esch Natuurcamping
De Lemeler Esch Natuurcamping is located in the Dutch region of Overijssel and is committed to balancing nature, recreation and agriculture. The campsite invests in a sustainable guest experience as well as in the preservation and enrichment of the natural environment. Innovative energy solutions, such as the compost heating system powered by a biomeiler to heat the outdoor pool, and the conversion of parts of the site into nature conservation and biodiversity areas are continuously promoted. The results speak for themselves: In the “Boomgaard” and “Bloemenweide”, guests can camp with views of a vibrant meadow full of native wildflowers. In the newly designed “Archemerheide”, the planting of native vegetation has created more shaded areas and improved guest privacy.
Camping Bretagne Les Embruns, France
Camping Bretagne Les Embruns
Camping Bretagne Les Embruns is located in the South Finistère region, just a stone’s throw from the breathtaking bays and sandy beaches of Brittany. More than 8,000 species of trees, shrubs and plants have been specially planted here, turning the site into a green oasis. Sustainability is key: the restaurant offers only fresh and local products on a reduced menu. On-site beehives support pollination and produce the campsite’s own honey, while orchards are used to produce their own cider. There is also a vegetable garden where camping guests are invited to participate and harvest. Recycling measures, such as cleaning pathways with pool water from the previous season, reduce the ecological footprint.
Camp Kovačine, Croatia
Camping Kovačine
Camp Kovačine is a modern five-star campsite located on the picturesque island of Cres. Great emphasis is placed on environmental protection and raising guests’ awareness of ecological issues. An in-house solar power plant with a capacity of 95 covers the campsite’s electricity needs, while solar panels, energy-saving lighting and heat pumps ensure efficient energy management. As part of the plastic-free initiative, plastic straws were replaced with paper straws, plastic bags with cardboard bags and guests were informed about the importance of avoiding plastic in everyday life. Since summer 2025, the “Take it or Leave it” recycling house has been in operation. Here, everyday items can be dropped off and exchanged, effectively extending the lifespan of objects such as cups, books, games and tableware while reducing waste. Environmental workshops for guests and the campsite’s own olive oil production from trees on site underscore Camping Kovačine’s commitment to environmental protection and sustainability.
The nominees in the category “Innovation and Progress”
Feddet Strand Resort, Denmark
Feddet Strand Resort, Denmark
How large should and can a pitch on a campsite be? 100 or even 200 m²? On the Danish island of Zealand, at Feddet Strand Resort, they have developed their own answer. The new, first-class Leading pitch measures 600 m² and is luxuriously equipped with its own spa, kitchen, shower and toilet. And of course there is plenty of space for your caravan, motorhome or tent. Ideal for all who value privacy and high comfort. Speaking of comfort: in the 400 m² secluded lounge area with private spa and comfortable seating, you can enjoy wonderful relaxation.
Union Lido Mare, Italy
Union Lido Mare
For 70 years now, Union Lido has been a hub of innovation and advancement in camping tourism. The latest proof of its innovative strength is Speedy Island, a revolutionary water park designed and built especially for Union Lido. At the heart of this innovation is the Body River, a body-rafting adventure inspired by canyoning — an exciting journey through rapids, waterfalls and pools alternating between calm moments and thrilling action. Technology here is never just for show — it enhances the experience: synchronized water effects, intelligent sensors, soft and non-slip materials, a continuous water recycling system and pumps powered by certified renewable energy. Thanks to the installation of around 650 solar panels, the entire park is energy self-sufficient. It is fully sustainable and was built using recycled and certified child-safe materials, supporting interactive learning — because true innovation also means emotion, play and care. Speedy Island is more than just a water park, and Union Lido Mare is more than just any campsite.
Tamarit Beach Resort, Spain
Camping Tamarit Beach Resort
Tamarit Beach Resort is setting new standards for camping and sustainability in the tourism sector through a range of technological and eco-friendly projects. Key initiatives include: internal digitalization with artificial intelligence — the installation of AI systems to optimize operational management, improve resource allocation and enhance customer service. Virtual Reality Room (VR): the resort has created an innovative VR room where visitors can virtually explore the surroundings and plan activities. Sustainability management and smart building technology: Tamarit uses advanced smart building technologies to maximize energy efficiency and sustainability in all facilities.
The nominees in the category “Rental Accommodations”
Destinature Dorf Hitzacker, Germany
Destinature Dorf Hitzacker
Can you sleep in a wooden pencil holder? Yes, you can at Destinature Dorf Hitzacker. The well-known Werkhaus plug-in system serves as the foundation for the design of the plug-and-live accommodations. With simple plug-in connections and rubber rings, a few plywood panels are transformed into simple and ingenious accommodations. From the smallest “bed on the go” to the family-friendly “Destinature Hut Plus” — these original units are located in the midst of unspoiled nature. And that was precisely the goal of the development. A minimal ecological footprint combined with quick and uncomplicated assembly and disassembly makes these units unique.
Camping Resort Sanguli Salou, Spain
Camping & Resort Sanguli Salou
On the Costa Dorada, just a stone’s throw from miles of sandy beaches, Camping & Resort Sangulí Salou promises first-class camping holidays in Catalonia. A bit crazy and truly unique — what the creators of Sangulí Resorts have built here. With the development of África Bay, a resort with African design elements, they offer guests an experience far beyond a simple stay. The project combines several types of accommodations — from the innovative Sukuma Garden with private terrace, outdoor shower and barbecue, to the Grand Bay Tents reminiscent of adventures in the African savannas. The integration of exclusive services such as the Beach Pool and the Jambo Chill Bar — both surrounded by the accommodations and completing the guest experience — underscores the idea of a holistic ecosystem: here, staying means enjoying an environment where every detail — architecture, landscape design, interior design and gastronomy — forms part of a harmonious whole.
Ferienparadies Natterer See, Austria
Ferienparadies Natterer See
Not far from Innsbruck lies Ferienparadies Natterer See. Hidden in the alpine tranquility of Tyrol, a new chapter of luxurious camping begins here: the Secret Koi Garden. At its center is a peaceful pond with Japanese koi carp. Eight elegant, nature-inspired and sustainably built Lushna Petite huts form the heart of this unique “garden”. The design combines elegant black metal shingles reminiscent of koi scales with warm natural wood, creating a harmonious look that blends perfectly into the surrounding landscape. Each hut is symbolically connected to its own fish, giving every stay a personal and contemplative touch. From their private terraces, guests can relax in a carefully designed and truly peaceful atmosphere. Panoramic windows blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, transforming the alpine landscape into a living backdrop for the cozy bedroom.
The award ceremony of the ADAC Camping Awards 2026 will once again take place as a live event during the PiNCAMP Gala in Stuttgart on January 16, 2026.
