Exploring northern Spain by motorhome is a unique experience. This region offers endless possibilities for those who love caravanning. In this article, we offer you some essential tips to make your motorhome tour of northern Spain unforgettable.
How to prepare a motorhome tour of northern Spain
A motorhome tour of northern Spain requires planning in order to get the most out of your trip. Here are some key steps to help you organise your adventure:
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- Choose your itinerary: Northern Spain covers several autonomous regions, including Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country. Depending on your interests, you can opt for a coastal route along the main beaches of the Bay of Biscay, or an inland option, discovering the Picos de Europa and other natural parks.
- Book your campsites: although the motorhome gives you the freedom to move around, it is advisable to book places in campsites or specific areas, especially in high season. These places are usually well equipped and will allow you to rest with all the necessary comforts.
- Prepare the motorhome: before leaving, make sure that your motorhome is in perfect condition. Check the oil, water and fuel levels. It is also important to take everything you need for cooking, sleeping and washing up, as well as suitable clothing for the weather, which can be variable in northern Spain.
- Plan your stops: although improvisation can be fun, planning strategic stops will help you optimise your time. Some must-visit places include Las Catedrales beach in Galicia, the cliffs of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe in the Basque Country and Covadonga Lakes in Asturias.
- Drive with care: Roads in northern Spain can be winding and narrow, especially in mountainous areas. It is important to drive carefully and respect speed limits. Also, bear in mind that in some places it can be difficult to find petrol stations, so it may be advisable to plan refuelling.
How many days does it take to travel around northern Spain?
The length of your motorhome tour of northern Spain will depend on a number of factors, such as the number of places you want to visit and the pace at which you prefer to travel. However, here are some options:
- Express route (5 days): if you are short on time, you can do an express route covering the main points of interest in the region. In this case, it is advisable to focus on one or two autonomous communities so as not to overload the itinerary.
- Standard route (7-10 days): this is the most common option for those who want to explore northern Spain without rushing. With 7-10 days, you will have enough time to visit both the coast and the interior, enjoying the diversity of landscapes and activities the region has to offer.
- Extended route (15 days or more): if you have the time, a route of 15 days or more will allow you to discover lesser-known places and enjoy a more relaxed experience. In addition to the popular destinations, you can explore small towns and enjoy the local cuisine at your leisure.
7-day motorhome tour of northern Spain
If you have a week to explore northern Spain by motorhome, here's an itinerary that will allow you to enjoy the best of the region:
- Day 1: Bilbao and San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (Basque Country)
Start your route in Bilbao, visiting the Guggenheim Museum and strolling through the Old Town. Then head to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an impressive islet connected to the coast by a stone bridge.
- Day 2: Santander and Cabárceno Natural Park (Cantabria)
Travel to Santander, where you can enjoy its beaches and the Palacio de la Magdalena. Then, visit the Cabárceno Nature Reserve, a unique space where animals live in semi-freedom.
- Day 3: Picos de Europa and Covadonga Lakes (Asturias)
Explore the Picos de Europa, one of the most impressive natural parks in Spain. Don't miss the Covadonga Lakes, surrounded by mountains and with spectacular views.
- Day 4: Ribadesella and Gulpiyuri Beach (Asturias)
Enjoy a relaxing day in Ribadesella, a beautiful coastal town. From there, visit Gulpiyuri Beach, a small inland beach surrounded by cliffs.
- Day 5: Cudillero and Playa del Silencio (Asturias)
Continue to Cudillero, a picturesque fishing village. Nearby, you will find Playa del Silencio, one of the most spectacular beaches in the region.
- Day 6: Santiago de Compostela (Galicia)
Travel to Galicia to visit Santiago de Compostela, the final destination on the famous Camino de Santiago. Walk through the old town and visit the imposing Cathedral.
- Day 7: Las Catedrales Beach (Galicia)
End your route at Las Catedrales beach, one of Spain's most famous beaches thanks to its impressive rock formations that emerge at low tide.
This 7-day itinerary will allow you to discover the best of northern Spain by motorhome, combining culture, nature and relaxation. Remember that, for an optimal experience, it is important to have a well-equipped motorhome such as those offered by Benimar, leaders in the Spanish market. For more information on models and options, browse our Benimar.website. Benimar.