North Portugal
Discover the delights of northern Spain and northern Portugal with this fabulous two-week tour. Starting and finishing in Santander, the tour will head south to the enchanting city of Salamanca, before crossing into Portugal. Drive along lanes lined with olive groves, along the border towns, guarded by centuries-old castles. Discover the enthralling Serra da Estrela mountains, before turning north to the Douro Valley, where you can learn all about port wine production. Spend time in the wonderfully Dickensian city of Porto before spending a couple of days wending your way gently through the very north of Portugal and back into Spain. The final night of the tour will be in the awe-inspiring Picos de Europa mountains.
What’s Inside the Book
Day-by-day routes with a clear structure, guiding you through each stage of the journey
Narrative-style directions that are easy to follow and designed for a smooth driving experience
Detailed route maps to support navigation and give a clear overview of each day
Hand-picked hotel recommendations chosen for comfort, character, and location
Curated places to visit, including scenic viewpoints, cultural highlights, and hidden gems
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What Awaits on the Journey
A two-week journey through northern Spain and Portugal, beginning and ending in Santander. Travel south to Salamanca before crossing into Portugal, where quiet country roads, historic border towns, and the dramatic Serra da Estrela mountains unfold.
Continue north to the Douro Valley, known for its vineyards and port wine heritage, before spending time in Porto. The route then winds through northern Portugal and returns to Spain, finishing in the striking landscapes of the Picos de Europa.
Continue north to the Douro Valley, known for its vineyards and port wine heritage, before spending time in Porto. The route then winds through northern Portugal and returns to Spain, finishing in the striking landscapes of the Picos de Europa.
Highlights
The coastal drive
Experience the stunning route from the Honfleur harbour to the dramatic cliffs of Étretat, carefully selected for classic car handling.
Living history
A curated visit to the D-Day landing beaches and the historic town of Bayeux, home to the world-famous 11th-century tapestry.
Gastronomic excellence
From fresh seafood in coastal bistros to the finest Calvados distilleries and Camembert farms in the heart of the Pays d’Auge.
Châteaux & gardens
Overnight stays in hand-picked historic estates and visits to Monet’s legendary gardens in Giverny.
Your questions, answered
What’s included in this Road Book?
What’s included in this Road Book?
This Road Book includes detailed daily routes with narrative-style directions, overview maps, hotel information, and curated recommendations for places to see and visit along the way. You’ll also find background on the regions you’re passing through and practical tips to help you get the most from the journey.
How are the routes created?
How are the routes created?
Every route is personally researched and driven by the Classic Travelling team. We seek out the most scenic and rewarding roads — avoiding motorways wherever possible — and select stops, sights, and hotels based on years of experience touring the region. The result is a route that feels both carefully considered and genuinely enjoyable to drive.
Can I do this route in my own car?
Can I do this route in my own car?
Absolutely. Road Books are designed for independent travellers who want to explore at their own pace, in their own vehicle. Whether you’re driving a classic, a vintage, a modern sports car, or simply a car you love, the routes are suitable for any well-maintained vehicle. Just ensure your car is properly serviced before you set off.
Is this a physical or digital product?
Is this a physical or digital product?
Road Books are available in both formats. The physical edition is a printed, spiral-bound book designed to sit open on the passenger seat or dashboard. The digital edition is provided as a PDF, which you can read on a tablet, phone, or print yourself. Both versions contain identical content.
