PLAYA DE LA ISLA CAMPSITE

This is an oldie but goodie, as its more than 30 years of experience, and constant renovations have made the campsite offer a unique blend of services in some of the most modern facilities in the region.

If you finally decide to visit this campsite, you will be the best of both worlds. An incredible location, only 15 minutes walk from the old city center of Isla, and top services all year round.

CAMPSITE INFORMATION

GPS coordinates: 43º 30′ 04» N 3º 32′ 28″ W

Address: C/ Ampilla 1 – 39195 Isla, Cantabria, España

Phone: +34 942 67 93 61

Web: link

ACTIVITIES TO ENJOY ISLA (CANTABRIA) WITH YOUR MOTROHOME

SANTOÑA (14 km) AND MONTE BUCIERO

If you haven’t been living in Spain for a long time, maybe you haven’t heard of the famous anchovies of Santoña, but let us tell you that if you have the opportunity, you should try them. However, the city of Santoña has much more to offer than anchovies, and there is no better way of discovering its rich history than by taking one of the free tours that the city offers during the summer months. If you want more information about the city tours in the local Tourist Office, they will tell you all about it.

In addition to the city, the visitors can enjoy the natural surrounds of this city, by doing some of the hiking routes available. We especially recommend the Monte Buciero, as it has several hiking trails that run through cliffs and holm oak forests.

Download the brochure of the hiking trails. Download

SANTANDER (45km)

Of course, we couldn’t finish today’s post without talking about the capital of Cantabria, Santander. If you would like to do some cultural tourism we recommend you to start with the Cultural Ring of Santander which comprises the Interpretation Center of history, the archaeological center of the Medieval Wall, and the Museum of Archaeology and Prehistory (MUPAC). If instead, you prefer to enjoy the city you cannot miss the Magdalena Palace, and Sardinero Beach.

For the moment we are going to conclude this little post here, but do not worry because we have more posts coming about the beautiful region of Cantabria.

Finally, and before we leave if you want us to write about something in particular just let us know in the comments!

• CAMPSITES AND PLANS TO DISCOVER CANTABRIA THIS SUMMER – PART II

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Campsite La Isla Picos de Europa in motorhome

We start today’s post in Turieno, a village that serves as the entrance door to the National Park of Picos de Europa. Thus, if you want the perfect mixture of nature, outdoor activities, and photography all year round this is the perfect place to start.

This campsite has a wide range of facilities (children’s playground, swimming pool, café, supermarket…) that in conjunction with its location will make you fall in love with the area.

GPS Coordinates: 43.157636, -4.655716

Web: link

Activities to enjoy the village of Potes

Potes is one of the most famous villages in the region of Cantabria, and if you finally end up visiting it you will know why. So, if you want to visit the place we recommend staying at the Campsite La Isla Picos de Europa as it is only 2.5 km away.

Once we reach Potes we highly recommend visiting the following attractions:

• The first one, is the Torre del Infantado, which is a 14^th-century tower that up to this day is one of the most important constructions in the Liébana valley.
• The second one, is the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana the perfect place is you enjoy religious tourism. As it has the relic of the Lignum Crucis, which is the largest known piece of the cross where Jesus Christ died. The monastery along with Jerusalem, Rome, Santiago de Compostela, and Caravaca de la Cruz is one of the holy places of Christianity.
• The third one, is taking a ride on the cableway of Fuente Dé which will take you to the heart of the Natural Park of Picos de Europa.

Campsite Molino de Cabuérniga in motorhome

The next stop in your journey through Cantabria can be in the campsite El Molino de Cabuérniga, which is the perfect alternative for those of you who want to enjoy a natural environment. If you are still not sure about it, let us tell you that in 2017 this campsite obtained the award of Best European Camping

GPS Coordinates: W04º17’22” N43º13’38”

Web: link

What to do and see in Cabuérniga

As we told you before with the Camping El Molino de Cabuérniga, this is the perfect place to enjoy nature to its fullest, not only due to the amenities of the campsite but also because of its location. The Natural Park of Oyambre, and the Natural Reserve del Saja have bast forests of oak, beech, and birch trees. Additionally, we recommend the hike of Las Cascadas de Lamina, which is only 7 km long and it is adequate for all levels.

Finally, if you are not worn out from all the exploring you can always check the “albarcas” a traditional wood footwear that is famously made in Carmona. Another good alternative is to pay a visit to the fishing village of San Vicente de la Barquera, which is perfect since it has the perfect blend of architecture, and beaches.

For the moment we are going to conclude this little post here, but do not worry because we have more posts coming about the beautiful region of Cantabria.

If you are thinking of hitting the road and enjoying an adventure in your motorhome, do not hesitate to contact us.

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Winter wheels for motorhomes

If putting tire chains in any vehicle can be a hard and complex process, imagine how hard it will be with a motorhome. This is when winter tires come to the rescue. Because even though we associate its use with roads full of snow, their benefits can be found even in the absence of snow. This is because when temperatures drop, the winter wheels can maintain grip and traction on slippery terrain, thus ensuring a safe driving experience.

How to use the winter wheels?

It is recommended to change all four wheels, by doing this we are avoiding the unbalancing of the rear axle, and making sure that we enjoy an efficient drive. Additionally, experts advise changing the tires approximately every 6 years.

What wheels should I choose?

When the wheels in our vehicle are in poor condition that could translate into having serious problems on the road. Therefore, choosing the right wheels for our motorhome is key, and should not be overlooked.

• Specific tires for your motorhome: In these cases, the manufacturers use the initials CP (camper, camping) to distinguish them from the rest. Also, if you see that it has the initial M+S this means that it is also prepared for winter conditions. Despite having the initial CP or M+S engraved you must be wondering what are the differences with a regular tire. First of all, they are prepared to support a larger amount of weight per axle, and secondly, they have more layers which directly translates into a bigger reinforcement.
• Motorhome winter wheels: In this case, the materials used for their fabrication are designed to maintain their flexibility even at low temperatures. By doing so they can maintain a higher grip than in the case of any conventional tires. Additionally, their design patterns and studs make sure that the vehicle can maintain its traction in both snow and ice.

Now that you know everything about winter wheels, you are ready to enjoy your motorhome all year round. Lastly don’t forget to drive safely and enjoy the journey.

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1 month to change your driving license

If you are settled in Spain, you might already have a Spanish driving license. But if not, you should keep reading. Because after the 31st of December, the moment you enter Spain or obtain your residency, your driving license will only be valid for 6 months.

What should you do?

After the 31st of December, the UK officially stops being part of the European Union, which in turn means that all the EU traffic agreements will no longer be valid. This translates into the fact that UK driving licenses will only be valid for the first 6 months once you enter Spain. So, if you are a resident and want to keep driving, you should ask for an exchange, renewal, or replacement of your current license for the Spanish equivalent before the 31st of December.

We recommend trying the exchange or “canje” since it only represents the homologation of the driving license, making it much easier to obtain.

The “Dirección General de Tráfico” (DGT) has dedicated a part of its website in which they inform and facilitate all the procedures for the exchange, renewal, or replacement of any British driving licenses.

We sincerely hope that this post has been helpful. Also, remember that in Vicente Velasco Insurance Brokerage we have been experts in the motorhome sector for more than 20 years, so we have the best advise, routes, and coverages to offer

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1. Discover Toledo with your motorhome (Castilla-La Mancha) 

Not too cold, not too hot, visiting Toledo during the fall months is the perfect moment to enjoy this vibrant city. Known as “La Ciudad de las tres culturas” (the city of the three cultures) due to the peaceful coexistence of Christians, Arabs, and Jews for centuries, the visitor will be immediately surrounded by an incredible and diverse heritage. So, if you finally decide to go for it and visit the city, some of its key highlights are the Cathedral of Santa María, the synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, the Alcázar, the famous church of Santo Tomé (in here you can find the work of El Greco), or the monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes. Additionally, if you want to enjoy some wonderful city views the viewpoint of del Valle is the best choice.

Enjoying Toledo with our motorhomes has never been easier since you can park in the Safont parking which has a total of 100 spots and it’s free of use.

Google Maps. GPS COORDINATES:

39.86472   /   -4.01944
N 39º 51′ 53» / W 04º 01′ 10»

2. Discover Cadaqués with your motorhome (Cataluña)

Located in the Cabo de Creus peninsula, Cadaqués is one of the most emblematic locations of the Spanish Costa Brava. The reasons behind this fame, well-deserved in our opinion, are its beautiful little beaches, and an incredible old town which still conserved the feel of a traditional Mediterranean fishing village. So, if you need of a quiet retreat there is no better option than discovering Cadaqués during the autumn months.

If you are looking for an overnight spot, we recommend visiting the area Autocaravaning Park Roses, which has a total of 67 parking spots, and a fee that ranges between 12/14 euros depending on the season. Additionally, the water and electricity fees are 3€ each. Besides this, the area has a bus stop nearby that will take directly to the city center.

Google Maps. GPS COORDINATES:

42.26861   /   3.15583
N 42º 16′ 07» / E 03º 09′ 21»

3. Discover Granada with your motorhome (Andalucía)

We reach the middle of our list of 6 little getaways, with the beautiful city of Granada. Even though visiting this town is all year round a good idea, discovering it during the fall is even better. This is due to the fact that Granada is surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of Sierra Nevada, which during this time of the year get stained with oranges, reds, and ochres. So, what a better way to discover this city’s rich history, gastronomy, and architecture than doing it while being surrounded by the fall colors of Sierra Nevada.

Luckily for us, we can make use of the parking of Alhambra, in which the parking fees range from 26.6 € to 49 €.

Google Maps. GPS COORDINATES:

N 37.17169, W 3.58002
N 37°10’18», W 3°34’48»

4. Discover Cáceres with your motorhome (Extremadura)

Discovering Cáceres during this time of the year is the perfect opportunity to explore this city declared a World Heritage Site. In here you will found a city surrounded by dozens of medieval towers, cobbled streets, fortress-houses, and Renaissance palaces that for sure will be the delight of any visitor.

When visiting Cáceres we can make use of its free motorhome area, which has a total of 10 parking spots. However, you should keep in mind that between the hours of 10 pm until 8 am the entrance of vehicles is not permitted.

Google Maps. GPS COORDINATES:

39.48056   /   -6.36694
N 39º 28′ 50» / W 06º 22′ 01»

5. Discover León with your motorhome (Castilla y León) 

In this city of the north part of Castilla León, we can find a rich heritage of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings that are the result of a colourful history. In this town crossed by the Bernesga river, one can easily walk through its old town. We recommend starting your itinerary on the Plaza Mayor, from which you cannot miss its impressive Cathedral, the “Casa de Botines”, or the Palace of Guzmanes. Additionally, we recommend enjoying some tapas at the neighborhoods of “El Romántico” or “Húmedo”

If you finally decide to visit León, you can make use of its free motorhome area which has 9 parking spots reserved exclusively for motorhomes. For the remaining spots, you will need to pay.

Google Maps. GPS COORDINATES:

42.60472   /   -5.585
N 42º 36′ 17» / W 05º 35′ 06»

6. Discover Barcelona with your motorhome (Cataluña)

We end this list of 6 little getaways to enjoy the fall with our motorhomes with Barcelona. This city shines with its own light, and this is because here the visitor can find remains of its Roman and medieval times while enjoying one of the most vibrant cities in Spain. This city has so many emblematic buildings and sites that will make fall in love and come back again for sure.

So, if you want to enjoy such a wonderful city, you can make use of the motorhome area of City Shop, which has a total of 80 spots and a fee of 35 € per overnight stay. Additionally, the area has surveillance 24 hours.

Google Maps. GPS COORDINATES:

41.42417   /   2.20722
N 41º 25′ 27» / E 02º 12′ 26»

Before you start packing to enjoy one of these 6 little getaways, please make sure that you are complying with the mobility restrictions imposed in your area. Also, if you have already visited these cities, or you prefer other kinds of plans, remember that we also a multitude of routes and plans in our blog, so make sure to check it for some inspiration. As always, we hope you enjoyed our list, and if you have any suggestions just let us know in the comments.

La entrada 6 little getaways to enjoy the fall with your motorhome se publicó primero en Vicente Velasco - Correduría de Seguros.

1. La Garrotxa (Girona)

The Jordá beech forest is spectacular throughout the whole year, however, its best imagine can be found during the fall months. So, if you leave nearby and enjoy going for a hike, don’t hesitate to grab your motorhome a get to know this forest taken out of a fairy tale.

If you decide to stay overnight a good option is the motorhome area of Tavertet, which has a total of 10 spots and a fee of 10€ per overnight stay (including water change and electricity). Additionally, the city center of Tavertet has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, making this getaway the perfect combination of nature and culture.

GPS COORDINATES:

41.99472   /   2.41583
N 41º 59′ 41» / E 2º 24′ 57»

2. Faedo de Ciñera (León)

The second position in our top 10 trips is the Faedo de Ciñera. Did you know that our next stop in today’s list has been declared as the best forest in Spain? Yes, Faedo de Ciñera is an incredible beech forest situated in the Montaña Central Leonesa. Here the visitor will be surrounded by one of the best-preserved natural spaces in Spain, so it is worth a visit.

To visit Faedo de Ciñera one can make use of the motorhome area of Boñar, which has a total of 13 parking spots and it’s free of use. Additionally, just a few kilometers away one can find the Museum of Fauna Salvaje de Valdehuesa, the sky station of San Isidro, or the caves of Valporquero.

GPS COORDINATES:

42.87278   /   -5.32583
N 42º 52′ 22» / W 5º 19′ 33»

3. Natural Park of Gorbeia (País Vasco)

The Natural Park of Gorbeia is a well know spot to enjoy the wonders of fall if you are in the Basque Country. In here the visitor can wander throughout a landscape that has all the shades of green red, and orange. So, grab your hiking boots and go for a little walk in this little piece of heaven on earth.

For those of you who want to experience the Natural Park of Gorbeia, the motorhome area of Leguitanos is the perfect option. A total of 5 parking spots, and located in a recreational area near a reservoir, what else can we ask for.

GPS COORDINATES:

42.96889   /   -2.64806
N 42º 58′ 8» / W 2º 38′ 53»

4. Muniellos Forest (Asturias)

Well, of course, we were going to add a trip to Asturias, and in this case, we have decided to present you the largest oak forest in Spain, the Muniellos forest which has been declared a Natural Reserve by Unesco and is integrated into the Natural Parks of Fuentes del Narcea and Ibias. So if there are any doubts left, the lucky ones that can visit this fantastic natural spot are for an incredible treat. However, we are obliged to remind you that due to its preserved status, one must request permission before visiting it, since only 20 people are allowed per day.

If you have decided to visit this part of heaven on earth you can always make use of the motorhome area of Casa Funsiquín which has a total of 8 spots, and it is free for the bar/shop customers. Additionally, this area is perfectly located since is extremely close to the forest of Gedrez, and the visitor has to option of organizing an excursion to the Monasterio of Hermo or go for the sighting of wild bears.

GPS COORDINATES:

43.01306   /   -6.60861
N 43º 0′ 47» / W 6º 36′ 31»

5. Arán Valley (Lleida) 

We continue with our top 10 trips with the Arán Valley. Since it is precisely the fall season the time of the year where the Arán Valley acquires its maximum splendor. Since the numerous mountain villages, and the incredible wild nature of this place, will make sure that the visitor lives a memorable rural getaway.

A good option for visiting the zone is spending the night in the motorhome area of Benasque for just 2 € the night. Also, if you decide to repost your fuel tank, and the total amount is over 40€, the services offered in the area are free of charge.

GPS COORDINATES:

42.61222   /   0.52694
N 42º 36′ 44» / E 0º 31′ 37»

6. Sierra del Segura (Albacete) 

The Sierra del Seguro is one of the most interesting natural spaces of the province. Full of narrow valleys and canyons, offers and unique experience for those adventurers. We highly recommend visiting the viewpoints of Liétor.

For visiting Sierra del Segura we recommend the motorhome area of Úbeda, which is free and has a total of 10 parking spots, a maximum stay of 48 hours. Additionally, the fact that the area is located in a city which has been declared a World Heritage Site, offers the possibility of combining nature, architecture, history, and tradition in just one visit.

GPS COORDINATES:

38.00639   /   -3.37944
N 38º 0′ 23» / W 3º 22′ 46»

7. Beech forest Tejera Negra (Castilla La Mancha)

We are almost finishing our top 10 trips, but we still have a few more to go. If you want to visit a beech forest but cannot go to the north of Spain, you always have the option of discovering Tejera Negra, the southernmost beech forest in Europe. Tejera Negra offers its visitor a fairy tale setting that will not disappoint.

In our opinion, the best option is spending the night in the motorhome area of Guadalajara, which is free of use and has a total of 10 parking spots reserved for the motorhome. By staying in this location, you will be able to discover the more rural areas of this part of Spain, without renouncing to visit the old town of Guadalajara

GPS COORDINATES:

40.63611   /   -3.175
N 40º 38′ 10» / W 3º 10′ 30»

8. National Park of Ordesa and Monteperdido (Huesca)

The Natural Park of Ordesa and Monteperdido is widely known for the amount of hiking and trekking that it offers opportunities. So if you want to combine some outdoor activities, while enjoying an astonishing Pyrenean landscape, Ordesa was tailor-made for you.

The best alternative for visiting this part of Spain is staying in the motorhome area of Ainsa for 5€ per night and has a total of 20 spots. Additionally, you will be able to visit its medieval village

GPS COORDINATES:

42.41861   /   0.13444
N 42º 25′ 7» / E 0º 8′ 4»

9. Natural Park of Montseny (Cataluña) 

A green spot that is just one hour from Barcelona, what else do you want! Now in all seriousness, the beauty of its landscapes combined with the numerous hiking routes, make this spot the perfect getaway.

If you want to spend the night in this location, we recommend the free motorhome area of Arbúcies. This is perfect for those who want to discover the Natural Park of Montseny, and also plan to visit the Montsoriu castle.

GPS COORDINATES:

41.81417   /   2.52056
N 41º 48′ 51» / E 2º 31′ 14»

10. Lagoons of Gallocanta (Zaragoza)

We finish our top 10 trips to discover Spain in motorhome with the largest salt lake in Europe. A place in which there is the possibility of spotting over 220 species of birds, especially if we go during the fall months when they are on their way to the warmer climate of Africa.

A good option for visiting this place is spending the night on the motorhome area of Peñaflor, which has a fee of 15 € per day a total of 150 parking spots. Additionally, the area is a perfect location for those who want to visit the Cartauja de Aula Dei and the Peña del Cuervo.

GPS COORDINATES:

41.72778   /   -0.79194
N 41º 43′ 40» / W 0º 47′ 31»

As you might be able to see Spain offers a wide range of landscapes and outdoor activities that allow us to find the perfect trip for everyone. Because we don’t need to go far to discover beautiful and breath-taking places. To conclude, in Vicente Velascon Insurance Brokerage we hope you have enjoyed our post, and if you have any recommendations of your own don’t forget to leave us a comment.

La entrada Top 10 trips to discover Spain in motorhome se publicó primero en Vicente Velasco - Correduría de Seguros.

Camping Estrella de Mar (Cataluña):

The first campsite in our list is located only 16km away from Barcelona in Castelldefels and has everything that you may need for a little getaway any time of the year. In particular, it has a plots for caravans, motorhomes, and even tents. Furthermore, if you prefer a bungalow you also have the option. Besides its amazing infrastructure, its proximity to the beach of Castelldefels and Barcelona, make this campsite the perfect option for those of you who are looking for some relaxation without renouncing to the city life.

Camping Playa La Arena (Cantabria):

The perfect combination of nature, location, and views, the campsite Playa La Arena offers its customer a wonderful experience. With a total of 118 plots, bungalows, and a hotel with 10 rooms this place will make visiting Cantabria worth it.

Camping Deva (Asturias):

Of course, we were going to mention a campsite in Asturias, and today’s pick is Camping Deva in Gijón. The third contestant is a strong one, its proximity to Gijón combined with incredible greenery, and wide offer of plots and bungalows, make it the perfect option some a cheeky getaway. So, if you were planning on visiting the north of Spain, don’t hesitate, come visit us!

Camping Suspiro del Moro (Granada):

If you are looking for a peaceful and quiet place, this campsite was made for you. Located only 10 minutes from Granada, and surrounded by olive trees Suspiro del Moro offers a variety of plots, bungalows. Additionally, its wonderful location makes it the perfect base for those of you who are looking to experience the wonder of Sierra Nevada or the buzzing city life of Granada.

Camping Lizarra (Navarra):

Our next campsite is sheltered by the Urbasa, Andia, and Loquiz mountains that offer a multitude of outdoor activities, like hiking. Additionally, camping Lizarra has a designated area for camping and another for bungalows, plus it organizes several activities.

Camping Valle de Iruelas (Ávila):

One of the main attractions of this place is its location in the middle of Gredos and the reservoir of Burguillos. So, by staying in here its customers will be able to have all the commodities while enjoying plenty of outdoor activities.

Camping Monte Holiday (Madrid):

In the middle of Sierra de Guadarrama Monte Holiday campsite, offers several options, like plots for tents, motorhomes, and caravans, but also tree houses for those that want to spice things up. Additionally, the place is perfect for families with kids, since it has an adventure park and an eco-farm that will be the delight the little ones. Moreover, and due to the current COVID-19 situation, they are offering a 100% refund in case of a lockdown.

Camping Larrouleta (País Vasco francés):

The last campsite in today’s list is located in the French Basque Country in an environment that combines nature, outdoor activities like fishing, and hiking, and fun for all the family. Also, its location in Urrugne, and its closeness to the mountain and the Spanish border, make it a perfect option for those who want to discover the beauty of the Basque Country.

We hope you have been able to see throughout this post, that campsites go beyond summer. Nowadays, they offer a multitude of possibilities and activities so that their customers return home with the best memories. As always if you liked this post, don’t forget to leave us a comment, or suggestion, because in Vicente Velasco Insurance Brokerage we are always glad to hear from your experiences.

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Tips for traveling with our motorhomes:

Personal Documentation

All the occupants of the vehicle must carry their ID cards or passports, and it is also advisable to have at hand our health cards. Also, the driver or drivers must have a valid driving license with them. We know this tip is an obvious one, but you will be surprised by how many of us forget about these little things.

Vehicle Documentation:

When we are on the road every vehile should have its technical inspection sheet, circulation permit, and of course, the insurance receipts. We also recommend having at hand the Green Card, especially if you are traveling outside Spain of the European Union.

Also, we recommend knowing the phone numbers of your insurance (national and international) in case you experience some problems on the road. 

Parking options:

This one is tricky because if you decide to not go to a campsite or motorhome area, you should be aware that it is up to the municipality to make their own overnight stay rules. So, we always recommend checking with the local authorities or tourist offices to know the details.

Luggage:

When traveling with your motorhome, not overloading it is key. So, try always to pack light, and in case you need to carry with you some heavy stuff, always remember to put this luggage on the lower part of the motorhome is a good rule of thumb.

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Water supply and holding tanks:

The motorhome industry has experienced some great advances in the last decades, making it possible for us to not worry about of water supply of the capacity or our holding tanks. However, we always recommend keeping an eye on these two key elements, and empty our tanks when we have the opportunity because you never know when something can happen. If you want to know more about your holding tanks check our guide!

Lastly, please never empty your holding tanks in any place that has not been authorized for it.

Energy:

The batteries of our homes with wheels get charged while we drive or through a light socket, and generally, this doesn’t represent any problems. Nevertheless, is always important to avoid any unnecessary expenditure.

Be aware of the road:

Lastly, our final tip is to always be aware of your driving and the road. Especially if it is your first time traveling with your motorhome, you may notice that driving this kind of vehicle is a little bit different. So, be careful, avoid any sudden movements, and always be aware of the weather conditions.

If you are thinking about hitting the road and enjoying an adventure, GO FOR IT!

La entrada Tips for traveling with your motorhome se publicó primero en Vicente Velasco - Correduría de Seguros.