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quoteThree Alpina models top the Adria caravan range and this, the Rio Grande, is the most radical. Putting the kitchen across the front might seem a rather revolutionary thing to do but whisper it quietly: Adria tried a similar concept with an Astella model nearly a decade ago.
Let’s take a walkthrough this range-topping tourer:
But what a kitchen this is. It includes Adria’s trademark linear three-ring hob and sink combination, a unit usually used to optimise worktop space, not that it’s an issue here.
There’s more permanent work surface and storage here than any other caravan you can think of, further enhanced by details like the wooden chopping board that doubles as a cover for the sink and the wall racking in the offside corner.
There’s a separate oven and gill, alongside are huge drawers, well as other lockers. Also, on the offside wall is a Thetford fridge/freezer with a generous 140-litre capacity. Over on the other side, there’s a large locker just inside the door with a hanging rail, perfect for hanging coats etc.
Worth the weight?
That sink cover is part of the 38kg All Inclusive Pack that comes as standard on UK versions of the Adria Alpina Rio Grande. It also includes a microwave oven, kitchen drainer, waste water tank, mud flaps, Al-Ko ATC, stable door with window, exterior LED silhouette lighting etc.
Moving on from the kitchen, the rest of the floorplan sees a transverse 1.96m x 1.54m island bed with recliner sections so you can sit up when you want.
It’s a four-berth caravan, with a pull-out slatted extension in the L-shaped settee base and some cushion re-arranging is all that’s needed for a second double bed.
Beyond the bedroom, there’s a full-width end washroom at the back of the Adria Alpina Rio Grande, while a centre lounge comprises two settees facing each other – one L-shaped with large, padded head restraints, each also with height adjustment, in either corner.
Everywhere you look – inside and out – there are curves and details the like of which you won’t find in any other caravan. Features like the air deflectors over the front grab handles, the electric slide-out step at the door, the almost full-width opening sunroof, concealed catches for the locker doors, the lamp just inside the door that sits on its own charging base but can be moved anywhere you wish.
Adria’s Media Controller is here as well, allowing you to stream your favourite music, podcasts and more. Plus, there’s Adria Mach, an app which puts you in remote control of much of the main services and fittings.
The Alpina’s superior build is matched by insulation and an Alde system that includes underfloor heating plus Styrofoam floor insulation, making this a genuine all-year-rounder.
Silver bodywork features tough GRP and particularly distinctive front and back walls.
Somewhat surprisingly – considering its weight and overall dimensions – it’s only a single axle caravan.
So comprehensively equipped is this Adria Alpina Rio Grande tourer, Adria UK offers just the one factory-fitted optional extra – £1,225 for leather upholstery. You do get a choice of six colour designs for the cushions – shown here is the Grey Planet on the standard Urban Greys upholstery.
No real rivals? There are plenty to consider if you want a full-width rear washroom and transverse island bed.
But if you want your kitchen across the front of your caravan, nothing compares…
It all shows Adria’s not afraid to drag us into the future, even if we need a towcar capable of hauling two tonnes to accomplish the feat!
To find out more about insuring an Adria Alpina or your current caravan visit our caravan insurance discounts page.
Verdict: Style a-plenty in this heavyweight contender
Plus: Expansive kitchen, superb detailing backed by solid build
Minus: Only a single drainer in the shower, heavy, expensive (of course)
In-a-nutshell: Caravanning with a swagger
Alternatives: Bailey Alicanto Grande Evora, Buccaneer Cruiser, Coachman Lusso II, Swift Elegance Grande 845
Adria Alpina Rio Grande factfile
| Model | Adria Alpina Rio Grande |
| Dimensions | 8.19m L, 2.46m W, 2.75m H |
| Internal length | 6.19m |
| Berths | Four |
| MTPLM | 2,000kg |
| MIRO | 1,823kg |
| Payload | 177kg |
| RRP | from £43,645 on the road |
| Safety & security | Al-Ko ATC, Al-Ko stabiliser, Al-Ko Secure pre-fittings, smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, CRiS, heavy-duty corner steadies |
| Key options | Leather upholstery (£1,225), refer to dealer for other options |
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