Northern Spain & The Picos de Europa
From £1899 per person
11 Days / 10 Nights
6 - 16 June 2027
Other dates may be available
Enjoy a driving holiday in Northern Spain and discover a land of contrasts. From beaches to mountains, this lovely part of Spain, encompassing Cantabria and eastern Asturias, is a treasure trove of landscapes full of winding scenic roads, great cities and untouched villages, haute-cuisine and superb local fare. All of this is criss-crossed by the ancient Camino de Santiago, Europe’s most important Pilgrim Way.
The Picos de Europa on the borders of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León, is probably the most stunning National Park in Spain, or even Europe. The contrasts within these 300 square miles of spectacular natural beauty, that link Cantabria and Asturias, are amazing. Small mountain villages are tucked away in the higher slopes and are almost completely isolated. Deep gorges that plunge vertically down into deep river valleys, sparkling lakes and magical forests make this an adventure playground just begging to be explored.
La Rioja is a beautiful wine region in Northern Spain characterized by its scenic patchwork of vineyard covered hills and medieval villages. The flagship grape of Rioja is the noble Tempranillo, used to create delicious reds and blended with other regional grapes like Mazuelo, Garnacha Tinta, and Graciano.
Take advantage of our late summer offer, October weather is similar to May, 20°C average temperature and similar rainfall as July & August!
Tour Dates & Prices
What's Included
Return Brittany Ferries Crossing from UK to Spain (other crossings available on request)
2 berth inside cabin on overnight crossings (upgrades available on request)
1 Night at the Parador de Santillana Gil Blas, Santillana del Mar
3 Nights at the Parador de Cangas de Onís, Asturias
1 Night at the Parador de Fuente Dé
2 Nights at the Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
7 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners – Including Welcome Dinner, in the Hotel on the First Night
Road Book featuring Maps, Great Drives & Local Attractions
Commemorative Tour Rally plate
Car Parking at all Hotels
All prices are based on 2 persons sharing a car and occupying a twin or double room. Single occupancy supplement available on request.
Itinerary
DAYS 1 & 2 At Sea, Overnight Ferry Crossing from UK to Spain
DAY 3 Arrival in Spain & Drive to Santillana del Mar & Welcome Dinner
DAY 4 Santillana del Mar to Cangas de Onís
DAYS 5 & 6 At Leisure in Cangas de Onís & Picos de Europa
DAY 7 Cangas de Onís to Fuente Dé
DAY 8 Fuente Dé to Santo Domingo de la Calzada
DAY 9 Rioja Wine Region & Dinosaur Route
DAY 10 Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Bilbao/Santander Port. Overnight Ferry Crossing to the UK
DAY 11 Onward journey home from your UK arrival port
Hotels
Parador de Cangas de Onis
The Parador de Cangas de Onís is set on the green banks of the River Sella. The Picos de Europa National Park can be reached on foot. The Parador de Cangas de Onís offers free Wi-Fi and free parking in a historic setting. The building includes archaeological exhibitions. Rooms are simple and attractive. Each is air conditioned, with a minibar. The restaurant at the Parador serves dishes from Asturias. Specials include stew and local cheeses. There is also typical cider. Free parking is avaliable on site. Pets are not permitted at this property.
Parador de Fuente De
Located in the foothills of the Picos de Europa Mountains, Parador de Fuente Dé has free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and easy access to the Fuente Dé cable car. It has a picturesque setting in the Liébana Valley.
The homely rooms in the Parador Fuente Dé have large windows offering mountain views. They also have wooden floors, leather furnishings, heating and air conditioning. The hotel has large gardens with a children's play area. The Parador Fuente Dé’s restaurant serves typical Cantabrian dishes, such as Liébana stew and steak with Treviso sauce. The cable car next door takes visitors to the Áliva viewing point. This hotel provides facilities for disabled guests. Parking is avaliable on site, chargable locally. Pets are not permitted at this hotel.
Parador de Santillana Gil Blas
Set in the main square in the beautiful Cantabrian town of Santillana del Mar, this attractive and modern hotel provides the perfect ambience for a relaxing getaway. The Parador Gil Bas has its own restaurant, where you can sample local-style cuisine without leaving the hotel. After, you can enjoy a drink in the on-site bar, or explore the bars in the local town. There is also free Wi-Fi internet access available throughout the hotel. Parking is avalibale at a nearby location, charges may apply. Pets are not permitted at this property.
Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
This impressive hotel is housed in a former hospital building dating from the 12th century. Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada has various magnificent lounges.The hotel's luxurious hall features original Gothic archways and wooden details. The rooms feature a TV, a minibar and a private bathroom.The Parador's restaurant serves traditional dishes such as La Rioja cod and stuffed peppers, as well as a good selection of local wines. There is also a bar. Facilities are avaliable for disabled facilities. Parking is avaliable on site and payable locally. Pets are not permitted at this property.