santander back to uk trip

[paul.chucky]

Hi all trying to plan a trip to santander via ferry then a route back home through spain france etc just wondered if anyone has done such a trip and any advice on places to stay and routes etc Many thanks Paul

[phild]

Been down to Spain / Portugal 5 times in the last 6 years.

First year we went from Santander, spent a couple of days in the north, then went up the west coast of France as far as La Rochelle.

Great ride, but not very challenging for most of the west coast.

Ferry delayed or broken for 3 of the years, resulting in one year us having to ride down the whole length of France to get into Spain.

Spain is fantastic for riding.

[Crispy]

What happens if you end up on a toll road? Do you have to rummage about for change?

[phild]

Didn’t use any toll roads on that trip, and try to avoid them as much as possible.

However, when we have.....yes, cash into machine.

My wife and I travel on our own bikes. I ride up to machine, press button to get first ticket. Barrier opens, she rides through. I get another ticket, ride through and away we go.

When it comes to paying, some have manned booths. If not, I put the first ticket in, pay and my wife rides through. Then put 2nd ticket in a pay. Easy. I don’t rush no matter how many vehicles are behind me.

I believe you can pay by card on some roads as well......but then you’ve got to think about exchange rates and fees.

[greybeard 2]

Hi French motorway toll booth are nearly all credit card now.

[Crispy]

Thanks guys, it’s worth knowing. Not that I’d want to go on motorways but you never know if you’ll end up on one, so best be prepared. Bit of a nightmare if you cant get through, you can’t exactly do a U-Turn. I think also the yellow lanes are for vehicles with pre-paid chips fitted.

[kimbo8]

My suggestion is a follows, have a look and see if they are of interest.

Pyrenees N240, N260 Route to Andorra, then the pass on CG-2 into France.

Route des Grandes Alpes in France from Menton to Geneva, load of mountain passes, including Col de la Bonette, or Route Des Cretes, Verdon Gorges (D23).

Switzerland, five pass loop Furka, Grimsel, Gotthard, Nufenen, Susten pass.

Back via D500 Black Forest run (Germany) or Vosges Mountains ( France) both great riding routes.

If you have more time head into the Dolomites Italy, as there are great road and passes there.

In France cheap hotels with free parking Premiere Classe and Formula 1, rooms with ensuite from 30 euros.

I did this route in 2017.

Have fun and ride safe.

[kimbo8]

You may know this but just in case.

Some countries require Vignettes (Austria and Switzerland) to ride on the motorway,  if its not displayed on your bike you will get an on spot fine if a cop spot you.

You can check and buy them from this website

https://www.tolltickets.com/en/