7 Short EV Road Trips You Should Take in February
Looking for the perfect winter road trip? February might be chilly, but Europe offers stunning EV-friendly getaways—from snow-capped mountains to mild coastal escapes. Discover seven scenic routes, packed with must-see sights, local events, and the best charging spots to keep your EV powered on the road.
February: The Best EV Road Trips in Europe
February might be cold in many parts of Europe, but that doesn’t mean you have to put road trips on hold—especially with an EV. With the right route and access to reliable charging stations, a winter road trip can be just as enjoyable as a summer adventure. Whether you’re looking for snow-capped mountains, mild coastal escapes, or cultural city breaks, Europe has something to offer EV drivers year-round.
With easycharging.app, you can search for charging points, pay seamlessly across different countries, and ensure your EV remains charged throughout your journey. Here are some of the best destinations for a short EV trip this February, complete with local events to make your trip even more memorable.
The French Riviera: Sunshine and Coastal Beauty
With mild winter temperatures and breathtaking coastal scenery, the French Riviera is a perfect February getaway. Start in Nice, where you can explore the old town and stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais. Off the beaten path, visit the Cimiez Monastery Gardens for a peaceful escape with panoramic views. Then, drive the scenic route to Monaco, stopping at Èze, a medieval village offering stunning views over the Mediterranean. Continue to Menton, known for its colourful streets and the annual Lemon Festival.
February Event: Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), Menton (15 February – 2 March 2025) – A vibrant festival celebrating citrus fruits with parades, giant sculptures, and illuminated night shows.
Local food to try: Pissaladière – a delicious onion and anchovy tart, traditional to Nice.
Southern Spain: From Málaga to Granada
If you’re looking for warmth and culture, southern Spain is an excellent choice. Begin your journey in Málaga, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and rich history. For a less touristy experience, visit the Atarazanas Market to taste local delicacies. Drive inland to Granada to visit the world-famous Alhambra Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While there, explore the Sacromonte caves, where flamenco performances take place in historic cave dwellings.
February Event: Carnaval de Cádiz (27 February - 9 March 2025) – One of Spain’s most vibrant carnivals, known for elaborate costumes and satirical performances.
Local food to try: Tortilla Sacromonte – a unique omelette from Granada, made with lamb brains and sweetbreads.
The Netherlands: Tulip Fields and Historic Towns
While the tulips won’t be in full bloom just yet, February is still a great time to visit the Netherlands. Start in Amsterdam, explore the charming canals, then head to Haarlem and Leiden, two picturesque towns full of history and cosy cafés. In Haarlem, visit the Teylers Museum, the Netherlands’ oldest museum. If you want a scenic countryside drive, head towards Giethoorn, a village known as the ‘Dutch Venice.’
Local food to try: Jodenkoek – a large, buttery cookie that originated in Haarlem.
Austria’s Alpine Wonderland: Salzburg to Hallstatt
For those who love winter landscapes, Austria’s alpine region is a dream destination. Start in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, and take a drive through snow-covered mountains to Hallstatt, one of the most picturesque villages in Europe. In Salzburg, visit the Augustiner Bräustübl, a historic beer hall tucked away in a monastery.
February Event: Mozart Dinner Concert, Salzburg (20, 27 February 2025) – Enjoy an evening of classical music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart performed by talented musicians in period costumes, accompanied by a multi-course dinner inspired by historical recipes. The concert takes place in the historic Stiftskeller St. Peter, offering a unique cultural experience in the heart of Salzburg.
Local food to try: Salzburger Nockerl – a light and fluffy dessert unique to Salzburg.
United Kingdom: The Cotswolds and Lake District
For a scenic winter road trip in the UK, drive through the Cotswolds, famous for its rolling hills and charming villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold. Visit the Rollright Stones, a lesser-known ancient stone circle. Alternatively, head to the Lake District, where you can enjoy breathtaking winter landscapes around Windermere and Keswick.
February Event: Jorvik Viking Festival, York (17–23 February 2025) – A celebration of Viking history featuring reenactments, feasts, and storytelling.
Local food to try: Grasmere Gingerbread – a unique, spicy-sweet biscuit only found in the Lake District.
Germany: The Black Forest Scenic Route
Germany’s Black Forest is a magical winter destination, offering stunning woodland drives and traditional villages. Start in Baden-Baden, a famous spa town, and follow the Schwarzwaldhochstraße scenic route. In Baden-Baden, visit the Merkur Mountain funicular for amazing views.
February Event: Black Forest Highlands Cheese Weeks (13–15 February 2025) – A celebration of regional cheese varieties, offering tastings, workshops, and culinary events.
Local food to try: Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte – the famous Black Forest cake, made with cherries and Kirschwasser.
Switzerland: Lake Geneva and the Alps
Switzerland is a fantastic EV destination, thanks to its extensive charging network. A beautiful February road trip starts in Geneva, following the shoreline of Lake Geneva towards Montreux and Lausanne. In Montreux, explore the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO-listed wine region.
February Event: White Turf, St. Moritz (2, 9, 16 February 2025) – A unique horse-racing event on a frozen lake.
Local food to try: Malakoff – a deep-fried cheese dish, popular in the Lake Geneva region.
Plan Your EV Trip with easycharging.app
No matter where you choose to go, a well-planned charging strategy is key to a stress-free trip. easycharging.app makes it effortless to find charging stations, pay securely, and keep your EV charged throughout your journey. Whether you’re exploring sunny coastlines or winter wonderlands, your next EV road trip is just a few taps away.
