The Great Spring Ride: Old Spain

Embark on a captivating 14-day motorcycle adventure through the soul of Spain, where forgotten roads, historic towns, and timeless landscapes come alive in the early light of the season. This is Wild Roads’ answer to the end of winter — a journey designed to awaken the senses and put you back where you belong: in the saddle.

Departing with a ferry crossing into Santander, the ride begins as Spain stretches open before you — quieter, rawer, and untouched by the crowds of peak season. From there, the route weaves through lesser-ridden mountain passes, rolling sierras, and ancient landscapes, revealing a side of Spain few truly experience.

Ride deep into the heart of the country, where medieval towns and timeless villages tell stories of centuries past. Discover roads that feel made for motorcycles — flowing, technical, and endlessly rewarding — connecting hidden valleys, dramatic natural parks, and wide open horizons beneath the southern sun.

Each day ends not just with a destination, but an experience — with stays in historic paradores, character-filled hotels, and hand-picked accommodations rich in atmosphere, history, and charm.

This isn’t just a warm-up ride for the year ahead — it’s a return to the road, a reconnection with the journey, and a deep dive into the authentic spirit of Spain before the world arrives.

A ride through Old Spain — raw, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Summary

Duration: 15 Days, 14 Nights


Distance: Approximately 3,000 miles


Highlights:

Ferry crossing into Santander, historic Sigüenza and its cathedral skyline, Almagro’s arcaded square and parador stay, the mountain roads of Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park, Granada’s old quarters and Sierra backdrop, Guadalupe’s monastery and pilgrimage heritage, the changing landscapes into Galicia, the hidden charm of Villanueva de Oscos and Hotel Oscos, the Picos de Europa and Potes, Basque Country riding and Argómaniz, the Biscay coastline at Lekeitio, and a final return ride through northern Spain back to Santander.

Upcoming Tour Dates: 

April 13th – April 27th, 2027

the great spring ride: old spain

Cost

Solo Rider (Private Room): £4,900

Bring a Pillion (same room, same bike):

+£2,450

Two Riders (2 bikes, 1 room shared - Twin or Double): £3,900 per person

Includes: Return Plymouth–Santander ferry with private cabin, all accommodation, breakfasts + welcome & farewell meals, routes & GPS files, full itinerary, hotel facilities, 24/7 backup with SOS, fully guided support, tour T-shirt, Wild Roads app access, and Tour Club membership with £80 credit + ongoing ride credits

Plymouth to Granada: Days 1–5

The journey begins in Plymouth, where riders gather before boarding the afternoon ferry to Spain. As the ship pulls away from the UK coastline, there’s a real sense of transition — leaving winter behind and heading toward warmer roads, longer days, and the start of something special. It’s a relaxed introduction to the tour, giving everyone time to meet, settle in, and ease into life on the road.

On day two, arrival into Santander marks the true beginning of the ride. Rolling off the ferry and straight into northern Spain, the route heads inland, quickly leaving the coast behind. Quiet roads, open countryside, and a slower rhythm set the tone as the group pushes south toward Sigüenza — one of Castile’s great historic towns. With its cathedral, castle presence, and timeless atmosphere, it’s the perfect first overnight stop and an immediate immersion into Old Spain.

Day three continues deeper into the heart of the country, with a flowing ride through Castilla-La Mancha toward Almagro. This is Spain at its most authentic — wide skies, quiet roads, and towns that feel untouched by modern pace. Almagro delivers one of the standout stays of the trip, with its elegant arcaded square and historic charm, often paired with a parador or character-filled property that brings the setting to life.

On day four, the ride becomes more dramatic as the route turns south toward Andalucía. Passing through the vast natural landscapes of the Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas region, the roads begin to twist, climb, and open up into something more dynamic. This is a true transition day — moving from the historic plains of central Spain into the warmer, more expressive south. The arrival into Granada brings a completely different energy, with its mountain backdrop, rich culture, and unmistakable atmosphere.

Day five offers a well-earned pause in Granada, giving riders the choice to slow things down or keep exploring. Spend the day wandering through the city’s historic quarters, soaking up its character and rhythm, or head back out into the surrounding hills for an optional ride through more stunning mountain roads. It’s a flexible day that adds balance to the tour — time to enjoy the place, not just pass through it.

potes spain motorcycle tour
picos mountains motorcycle tour 2027

Granada to Potes: Days 6–10

Leaving Granada behind on day six, the route turns northwest into a quieter, lesser-travelled part of Spain. The roads stretch out across open landscapes before gradually tightening again as you approach Guadalupe — one of the country’s great historic pilgrimage towns. With its dramatic monastery and deep sense of history, this stop feels like stepping into another era of Spain, far removed from the modern world.

Day seven is a longer crossing day, pushing further west and north toward Galicia. The character of the landscape begins to shift — the dry tones of the interior soften into greener hills, wider horizons, and a more Atlantic feel. It’s a day of distance and progression, but never dull, with flowing roads and that sense of travelling properly across a country rather than just skimming its highlights.

On day eight, the ride becomes more intimate again as the route cuts into Asturias and finishes in Villanueva de Oscos. This is one of those hidden Wild Roads gems — rural, authentic, and full of personality. The stay here, at the legendary Hotel Oscos, brings a completely different energy to the tour, with its relaxed atmosphere, great food, and one of the best biker bars you’ll find anywhere in Europe.

Day nine begins the return east, climbing back into northern Spain’s mountain terrain as the group heads toward the Picos de Europa. The roads tighten, the scenery becomes more dramatic, and the riding takes on a sharper edge again. Arriving into Potes — one of Wild Roads’ favourite bases — feels like reaching a stronghold in the mountains after a wide journey through the country.

Day ten offers another flexible day, this time in the Picos. Riders can slow things down and enjoy the town, take a long lunch in the square, or head back out into the surrounding mountains for an optional ride through some of the best roads in northern Spain. It’s a chance to properly experience the region rather than just pass through it — and one of the highlights of the tour for many.

Potes to Home: Days 11–15

Day eleven continues east into the Basque Country, with a ride that blends mountain terrain with a noticeable shift in culture and landscape. The roads remain excellent, but the feel becomes greener, richer, and more layered. The overnight stop in Argómaniz brings a refined touch to the tour, with another character-filled stay that reflects the region’s unique identity.

On day twelve, the route shortens slightly to allow time to enjoy the Basque region properly. Winding through local roads and coastal approaches, the ride finishes in Lekeitio on the Biscay coast. After days of inland riding, the sea air, open views, and coastal atmosphere offer a perfect contrast — another side of Spain, and another shift in pace.

Day thirteen and fourteen mark the final ridings days, heading back toward Santander. There’s still time to enjoy the roads — often with a final stretch through northern Spain’s rolling terrain — before turning west and making for the ferry port. It’s a day that always carries a mix of satisfaction and reluctance, as the journey begins to draw to a close. Boarding the evening ferry, the group leaves Spain behind with a full sense of what’s been experienced over the past two weeks.

Day fifteen brings arrival back into the UK, with the tour complete. What started as an escape from winter becomes something much more — a full reset. Sun, mountains, historic towns, empty roads, and a deep ride through the real Spain.

What Is Included?

Luxury Accommodation

Relax in carefully chosen hotels that offer comfort and luxury, complete with swimming pools and spa facilities. Providing the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge after an exhilarating day on the road.

Fine Gastronomy

Delight in the finest local cuisine with daily breakfasts and a welcome and farewell meal included. Experience authentic flavours that showcase the unique character of each region, making every meal a memorable part of your journey.

Experienced Guide

Ride with confidence under the care of an experienced guide who knows the routes, local culture, and hidden gems. From scenic roads to the best stops, they ensure a smooth and enriching journey every step of the way.

Ferry Crossings

For our tours that include an ocean or sea crossing, we take your comfort to the next level. Enjoy a private cabin for ultimate relaxation and comfort and enjoy dinner and wine with other riders. For other tours to Europe, EuroTunnel tickets are included in the tour price also.

Swimming Pools

Unwind in hotels featuring swimming pools and spa facilities, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. While not every stop includes these amenities, we carefully select accommodations to provide a balance of comfort and luxury throughout your journey.

New Friends

One of the most rewarding parts of the journey is the people you meet along the way. Sharing roads, meals, and stories with fellow riders creates a sense of camaraderie that transforms the adventure into something truly special.

Full Itinerary & Tour Diary

 

Flexibility is Part of the Adventure!

At Wild Road Motorcycle Tours, we’re all about keeping things fresh, fun, and unforgettable. That’s why we occasionally tweak our stops and ride days—not just for seasonal ferry schedules, but because we’re always on the hunt for awesome local activities, hidden gems, or even festivals to make your tour truly unique.

We’ll lock in and confirm the final itinerary a few months before your tour, giving you plenty of time to plan and get stoked. Every change we make is designed to keep our tours as exciting and one-of-a-kind as the riders who join us!

route map spain motorcycle tour 2027

The Great Spring Ride Motorcycle Tour FAQs

This tour is ideal for riders looking for an early-season European escape — combining great roads, cultural depth, and premium accommodation.

It’s perfect if you:

  • Want to kick off your riding year properly
  • Prefer quieter roads before peak season
  • Enjoy historic towns, atmosphere, and character stays

You should be a confident rider comfortable with:

  • Consecutive days in the saddle
  • Mountain roads and varied terrain
  • Riding 150–250 miles per day

This isn’t a race — the pace is relaxed but progressive, with plenty of stops and time to enjoy the ride.

Most bikes are suitable, including:

  • Touring bikes (ideal)
  • Adventure bikes
  • Naked / road bikes

The key is comfort over distance and the ability to carry your luggage. If you can ride 200 miles comfortably, you’ll be absolutely fine.

This is not a guided “follow-the-leader” tour.

It’s a loosely guided Wild Roads experience, meaning:

  • You’ll receive GPX routes each day
  • Riders can ride at their own pace
  • We regroup at key stops and at the hotel

It gives you freedom, without ever feeling on your own.

Your tour includes:

  • Return ferry (Plymouth – Santander)
  • 11 nights accommodation
  • 2 group dinners
  • Full route design and GPX files
  • Wild Roads hosting and support throughout

What’s not included?

  • Fuel
  • Lunches and most dinners
  • Drinks
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal spending

This is a key part of the experience.

You’ll stay in:

  • Historic paradores
  • Character-filled boutique hotels
  • Hand-picked stays with real atmosphere

This isn’t budget touring — it’s about staying somewhere that adds to the journey.

We depart from Plymouth on April 14th and return on April 26th.

  • Private cabins are included
  • It’s a relaxed, social start to the tour
  • A great way to transition into the trip before riding begins

No support vehicle on this tour.

You’ll carry your own luggage, so we recommend:

  • Panniers or soft luggage
  • Packing light and smart

(We can advise on this before the trip.)

Typically:

  • 150–250 miles per day
  • With a mix of shorter and longer days
  • Plus 2 rest / ride-out days

The pace is designed to be enjoyable, not exhausting.

This is one of the biggest advantages of the tour.

Expect:

  • Warmer temperatures in southern Spain
  • Comfortable riding conditions
  • Some variation in northern/mountain areas

Overall, it’s the perfect time to escape UK weather and ride in the sun.

Yes — travel insurance is required.

It should cover:

  • Motorcycle touring
  • Medical cover
  • Trip cancellation

A deposit secures your place on the tour.

Spots are limited and this is a small-group experience, so once it’s full, it’s full.

Absolutely — many riders do.

You can:

  • Book a private room
  • Or share if you prefer

Wild Roads tours are very social, so you won’t feel on your own.

This isn’t just about riding famous roads.

It’s about:

  • Discovering a deeper, more authentic Spain
  • Staying in places with real character
  • Riding roads you wouldn’t find on your own
  • Experiencing the journey, not just ticking boxes

Yes — it’s actually a great entry point.

It gives you:

  • A full taste of the Wild Roads style
  • A mix of riding, culture, and atmosphere
  • A slightly more relaxed, immersive pace