Best Road Trips in Spain for an Unforgettable Adventure
- Exploring the Alpujarra Granadina: A Journey Through History
- Rioja Alavesa: A Gastronomic Paradise
- Lanzarote: Nature's Masterpiece
- Costa Brava: Mediterranean Bliss
- White Villages of Cádiz: A Hidden Treasure
- Ribeira Sacra: A Galician Gem
- The Black Villages of Guadalajara: A Unique Rural Experience
- Other Interesting Driving Routes in Spain
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure on the open road? In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of the most breathtaking driving routes in Spain. From stunning coastal views to charming villages nestled in the mountains, Spain offers an incredible variety of landscapes waiting to be explored. If you are looking for the best driving roads in Spain, you're in the right place!
Sometimes, we overlook the beauty that lies right in our own backyard. Spain is a country that boasts a wealth of natural wonders, vibrant cities, and quaint towns filled with history and culture. Why not embark on epic road trips to discover these hidden gems? If you love to drive, Spain is a true paradise just waiting to be uncovered. Buckle up as we guide you through some of the best routes for your next adventure!
Exploring the Alpujarra Granadina: A Journey Through History
The Alpujarra Granadina, located at the foothills of Sierra Nevada, is one of the most intriguing and historically rich regions in all of Andalusia. This destination is perfect for those who appreciate the rural lifestyle, nature, and legendary locales. Remember, these lands were crucial to the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada and were abandoned following the Alpujarras Revolt in 1570.
During our visit a few years ago, we embarked on a beautiful four-day road trip that took us along winding roads, through breathtaking landscapes filled with ravines and whitewashed villages perched on mountainsides. This route is considered one of the best road trips in Spain for its stunning vistas and rich history.
Must-See Stops:
- Soportujar
- Pampaneira
- Bubión
- Capileira
- Trévelez
Rioja Alavesa: A Gastronomic Paradise
If you are in search of an unforgettable culinary journey, look no further than Rioja Alavesa. This wine region is renowned for its medieval towns, picturesque landscapes, and, of course, its iconic wineries.
The best part is that this area is not particularly large, meaning you won't need too much time to experience its wonders. A couple of days is sufficient to create a memorable driving itinerary. We included it in a larger trip that took us across the entire Basque Country, but it's perfect for a weekend getaway as well, making it one of the best road trips Spain offers.
Must-See Stops:
- Laguardia
- Bodegas Ysios
- Labastida
- Elciego
- Bodegas Marqués de Riscal
Lanzarote: Nature's Masterpiece
Known as the land of fire, air, earth, and water, Lanzarote is one of our favorite islands in the Canary archipelago. It’s a place that rejuvenates the body and comforts the soul with its volcanic landscapes, delicious malvasía wines, charming white villages, and colorful markets.
To truly experience Lanzarote, you need to rent a car. The island is small with well-maintained roads, and its magical locations will make you feel as if you are living in a dream. These roads are among the best driving roads in Spain, offering picturesque views at every turn.
Must-See Stops:
- Timanfaya National Park
- La Geria
- Papagayo Beach
- Cactus Garden
- Green Caves
- Jameos del Agua
- Famara Cliffs
- Famara Beach
- Teguise
Costa Brava: Mediterranean Bliss
With its crystal-clear coves, stony villages, and the true essence of the Mediterranean, the Costa Brava should be your next getaway if you need to relieve stress and reignite your passion for life’s simple pleasures.
The proposed driving route includes stunning coastal towns such as Cadaqués, where the famous Dalí once resided, and Tossa de Mar, a quaint stone village that seems crafted for the silver screen (which, in fact, it was in Ava Gardner's “Pandora and the Flying Dutchman”).
Additionally, you’ll have time to stop at some of the most beautiful beaches and coves, hike the Cap de Creus, or explore the charming city of Girona. This area is often considered one of the best road trips in Spain.
Must-See Stops:
- Cadaqués
- Cap de Creus
- Tossa de Mar
- Girona
- Illa Roja Beach
Protected natural landscapes and stunning white villages characterize this area of Cádiz province. The White Villages of Cádiz are a true treasure for lovers of rural tourism.
The White Villages consist of 19 villages: Arcos de la Frontera, Bornos, Espera, Villamartín, Algodonales, El Gastor, Olvera, Torre-Alháquime, Setenil de las Bodegas, Alcalá del Valle, Prado del Rey, El Bosque, Ubrique, Benaocaz, Villaluenga del Rosario, Grazalema, Benamahoma, Zahara de la Sierra, and Algar. However, there are five that stand out above the rest (we’ll reveal those in just a moment).
To explore this route by car, you will need at least two days. But if time allows, consider extending your journey to include delightful villages in Málaga, such as Ronda or Juzcar (the Smurf village). This region is also known for some of the best driving roads in Spain that connect these picturesque villages.
Must-See Stops:
- Arcos de la Frontera
- Grazalema
- Zahara de la Sierra
- Olvera
- Setenil de las Bodegas
Ribeira Sacra: A Galician Gem
We cannot discuss the best driving routes in Spain without mentioning Galicia. This region is known for its mystical atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unique gastronomy, making it one of our favorite destinations in Spain.
Galicia is vast, with seemingly endless panoramic roads. The Costa da Morte, must-see sites in the Rías Baixas, and lesser-known corners of the Rías Altas are all worth exploring. But if we had to choose one special route, the Ribeira Sacra is our top choice.
Why? Because it offers the most complete experience for a driving journey: monasteries, viewpoints, picturesque villages, wineries… What more could you want? This area showcases some of the best driving roads Spain has to offer.
Must-See Stops:
- San Pedro de Rocas Monastery
- Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil Monastery
- Santa Cristina de Ribas de Sil Monastery
- Balcony of Madrid Viewpoint
- Castro Caldelas
- Peña de Matacás Viewpoint
- Regina Viarum Wineries
The Black Villages of Guadalajara: A Unique Rural Experience
The route through the Black Villages of Guadalajara is one of the most interesting and still relatively unknown rural options for a getaway from Madrid or anywhere else.
The name of this route comes from the unique black architecture that employs black slate for the construction of houses and buildings. However, what truly captivates visitors are the contrasting landscapes: black houses against vivid green trees, golden fields, and flowers in a myriad of colors. It's a photographer's paradise.
And what about the local cuisine? Like many places in Castilla-La Mancha, the food is simple but made with quality, seasonal ingredients. Just be warned, don’t come here with the intention of losing weight; the chances of returning home with a few extra pounds are high. But hey, let’s enjoy the flavors!
Must-See Stops:
- Tamajón
- Valverde de los Arroyos
- Majaelrayo
- Cantalojas
- El Espinar
- Campillo de Ranas
Other Interesting Driving Routes in Spain
Of course, the options are countless. Among the many driving routes throughout Spain, we could highlight the route of the windmills of Castilla La Mancha, the Silver Route that crosses the heart of Extremadura, or the Serra de Tramuntana in Mallorca. There's also the beautiful journey through the Valley of Jerte during the cherry blossom season, driving through the Pyrenees, or spending a few days among the fishing villages of Asturias or the Basque Country.
And still, there are countless driving routes in Spain that deserve to be discovered, including what many consider the best road trip in Spain. That’s the beauty of living in such a diverse country, don’t you think? What do you consider to be the best road trip in Spain?
A great video to help inspire your next adventure is this one:
Whether you're a food lover, a nature enthusiast, or a culture buff, Spain has a driving route that will suit your preferences perfectly. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next road trip and embark on an adventure like no other!
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