Dethleffs Grand Alpa I 7820-2 Review

Grand Alpa I 7820-2 – the ultimate entertaining apartment on wheels

The biggest compliment you can pay the Dethleffs Grand Alpa I 7820-2 is that it is very possible to forget you’re in a motorhome.

This 8.54m beauty has more of an apartment feel than it does a conventional motorhome. In fact, were it an apartment in London you’d be the envy of your friends – and it’d probably be three-times the price.

The attraction of the Alpa is the huge rear lounge, which is rare for a German manufacturer. With a U-shaped layout right across the back of the vehicle, the I 7820-2 can comfortably sit six or even seven around the table, making it an entertainer’s dream.

The area can be re-worked as a spacious double bed should four berths be required, but the main sleeping accommodation is found above the cab. This comfortable sleeping area drops down electronically and is accessed via a ladder, conveniently found in a pull-out cupboard. A deluxe memory foam mattress ensures a comfortable night.

There’s loads of room in the kitchen area with extra worktop space, large drawers and a XXL fridge/freezer. The whole motorhome benefits from panoramic windows meaning you even get an amazing view while slaving over a hot stove – as long as you’re parked in the right place! Slightly unusually, the oven and grill are found above the fridge.

A new lighting system has been utilised which indirectly illuminates wall and floor elements. This is extremely effective in creating an atmospheric ambience, while panoramic skylights offer plenty of natural light.

The bathroom area delivers on its promise of “extreme comfort” with a large shower, sink and toilet, which can, of course, be separated off by doors for privacy.

There’s Alde heating throughout and a deep double floor allows for ample storage on top of the generous garage area. The double floor, along with interior and exterior aluminium skin, means it can legitimately claim to be ‘100% winterproof, ensuring year-round travel.

Built on Fiat AL-KO Tag axle chassis, the vehicle looks amazing from the outside and can be optioned with a 6.6m electric awning. The whole vehicle has that sought-after streamlined look from front to back.

With a massive Fiat 2.3 180bhp Euro 6 and nine-speed ZF automatic transmission, the vehicle is a joy to drive. Cruise control, cab carpet, cab blinds, leather steering wheel and gear stick along with automatic cab air conditioning deliver the ultimate comfort as you navigate this hefty 5,000kg motorhome from location to location.

This is a serious motorhome and, as you’d expect, has a pricetag to match. If you are looking to take your motorhoming to the next level, the Grand Alpa I 7820-2 offers sublime style and a well-thought layout perfect for socialising and enjoying life.