Unforgettable 5-Day Road Trip Adventure from UK to Bulgaria: Our Boat Car Journey with Three Kids in Tow

Traveling across Europe has always been a cherished dream of ours. The excitement of embarking on a road trip from the UK to Bulgaria with our three energetic kids was invigorating! Our trusty “boat car” was loaded with snacks, games, and an adventurous spirit. As we set off, we were eager to see what unforgettable memories awaited us on this remarkable expedition.

A scenic ferry view as we embark on our adventure.

The distance stretched to a whopping 2,304 miles. This was no ordinary trip. While it typically requires around 24 hours of driving, our leisurely pace turned it into a delightful five-day adventure. Below, I’ll share our itinerary, highlight some memorable mishaps, and offer tips for families planning their own epic road trips.

Preparing for the Journey

Before we set off, the planning became part of the fun! We gathered around the dinner table, pouring over maps of our route. Crafting a flexible itinerary was essential, ensuring it included interesting stops and downtime for the kids.

Packing transformed into an adventure of its own. Each child brought along one travel companion—a stuffed toy—and essential entertainment for our long drives. We stuffed the car with their favourite games and books. Our boat car was ready for action! To enhance the fun, we downloaded family-friendly playlists filled with songs they loved and audiobooks that kept the younger crew engaged. The anticipation heightened as we finally boarded the DFDS ferry to France.

Setting Sail for France

Setting sail, the views were simply stunning! The kids pressed their noses against the windows, watching the white cliffs of Dover fade into the distance. Seagulls circled overhead, greeting us on our European adventure. As we cruised, we embraced a sense of freedom.

The two-hour ferry ride provided a perfect opportunity to relax and recount family trip stories over a meal. The kids enjoyed exploring the deck, creating imaginary games as the sea breeze whipped around them. This serene start was just what we needed.

Kids enjoying their time on the ferry deck.

Exploring Belgium

Once we arrived in France, we made our way to Belgium. The drive was only a couple of hours, followed by a leisurely lunch in Bruges. We stopped at a charming café, indulging in delicious Belgian waffles topped with strawberries and cream.

Even though our time was short, we seized the chance to explore Bruges’ picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. It felt like stepping into a painting! As we wandered through the charming alleyways, we snapped photos and let the kids giggle at quirky shops that lined the streets.

After a delightful exploration, we continued driving towards Germany.

Cruising Through Germany

Germany revealed a whirlwind of beautiful scenery and delightful stops. We ventured through the famous Black Forest region and enjoyed a picnic at a rest area. The kids played, and we savoured local treats while soaking in the lush landscapes.

However, excitement turned to anxiety when our boat car began to sputter. A breakdown was imminent. Thankfully, we found a local mechanic nearby. After a day of troubleshooting and repairs, we got back on the road, a little lighter in the wallet but heavier in stories. The kids marvelled at the experience, often laughing about our impromptu visit to a foreign mechanic's shop.

Adventuring in Austria

Crossing into Austria rejuvenated us with fresh alpine air. The heights of the Alps were captivating! We took a scenic route through the mountains and stopped at a quaint village for an authentic Austrian meal. The kids loved trying schnitzel, while I indulged in a slice of strudel.

Despite the gorgeous surroundings, our car troubles resurfaced. Our boat car surprised us with another mechanical issue in Hungary. Determined not to let it dampen our spirits, we sought repairs and made the most of our time there.

Navigating Through Hungary

Hungary proved to be fascinating, rich in history and culture. Although we lingered longer than planned due to repairs, our unintended detour became a memorable part of our adventure.

In Budapest, we explored Fisherman’s Bastion, offering stunning views of the city. The architecture was mesmerising! As we climbed to the top, I watched my children glow with wonder, racing around the castle like brave knights on a quest.

This unexpected extension of our trip offered a moment for family bonding. Despite setbacks, we learned to embrace the journey and the experiences it brought.

Fisherman’s Bastion showcasing stunning architecture.

Journeying Through Serbia

Leaving Hungary, our route took us into Serbia. At this point, my children had become seasoned road trip travellers, embracing each moment. We made a spontaneous stop at a roadside market and sampled local snacks, turning into an amusing culinary experience filled with spicy sausages and sweet pastries.

Driving through the picturesque countryside, rolling hills and golden fields unfolded before us. The landscape painted a vibrant picture of Serbian culture. The kids enjoyed spotting roadside attractions, transforming each sighting into a playful game. Our favourite songs filled the car, punctuated by laughter and joy as the miles flew by.

Arrival in Bulgaria

After five days filled with laughter and adventure, we finally arrived in Bulgaria. The moment felt surreal as we entered Sofia. Our journey across Europe led us to this vibrant city, rich in heritage and modern attractions.

From ancient ruins to bustling markets, we were captivated. The next few days were dedicated to exploring the local culture, sampling delectable foods, and visiting historical sites as we reminisced about our quirky adventure.

Looking back, our mechanical misadventures became funny stories that made the journey even more memorable than the destination itself.

A Journey to Remember

Driving across Europe with children in our “boat car” guided us through stunning landscapes and heart warming experiences. Despite bumps in the road, both literal and metaphorical, we forged lasting memories that drew our family closer.

This road trip taught us resilience and the importance of adaptability, alongside the endless joy of family adventure. For families considering a similar journey, embrace spontaneity, relish the unexpected, and create memories that will be cherished forever.

Are you ready to pack your bags and hit the open road? Every mile is a new opportunity for adventure!