Atlantic Coast and Northern Spain

Your journey begins in Honfleur, one of Normandy’s most picturesque harbour towns. Expect cobbled quays, tall narrow houses reflected in the water, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. The ride here is gentle and scenic — the perfect start to an Atlantic adventure. 

The route to Saint-Malo follows Brittany’s rugged coastline, with sweeping sea views and quiet rural roads. Saint-Malo itself is a striking walled city rising from the rocks, full of history, cafés, and salty sea air. Evening walks along the ramparts are unforgettable. 

Riding south, the landscape softens into long beaches, pine forests, and open coastal stretches. La Rochelle is bright, elegant, and full of maritime character — arcaded streets, a lively old port, and a warm Atlantic atmosphere. 

The run into Biarritz brings you into Basque country: rolling green hills, red-roofed villages, and dramatic ocean views. Biarritz blends surf culture with French elegance — sunset over the Atlantic here is something special. 

Crossing into Spain, the scenery becomes mountainous and lush. Bilbao is a vibrant city where modern architecture meets traditional Basque culture. The Guggenheim Museum gleams beside the river, and the old town is full of pintxos bars and evening energy. 

Your base for three nights, Potes sits at the entrance to the Desfiladero de La Hermida, one of Spain’s most spectacular gorge roads. From here, you’ll explore:

· The dramatic limestone peaks of the Picos de Europa

· The sweeping ride to Fuente Dé and its famous cable car

· The quiet mountain villages of Liébana

· Gorge roads, forested climbs, and gentle valley routes

Potes itself is a beautiful stone town with bridges, squares, and a warm, mountain-village atmosphere — perfect for relaxed evenings after big scenery days.

Leaving the mountains, the landscape opens into the wide plains of Castile. Valladolid is elegant and historic, with grand plazas, golden stone buildings, and a calm, cultured feel. It’s a fascinating contrast to the green north. 

The ride to Pamplona takes you through rolling hills, vineyards, and quiet rural roads. Pamplona’s old town is full of character — narrow streets, lively squares, and centuries of history. It’s a warm, welcoming stop on the journey back toward France. 

Crossing into France again, you enter the world-famous vineyards of Bordeaux. The city is elegant and atmospheric, with grand boulevards, riverfront promenades, and some of the best food and wine in France. 

The ride north brings you into the Loire Valley, known for its châteaux, vineyards, and gentle river scenery. Tours is a lively, historic city with a beautiful old quarter and a relaxed evening vibe. 

Your penultimate stop, Rouen, is a city of half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and the soaring cathedral that inspired Monet. It’s a lovely final taste of Normandy before the last ride to the coast. 

Your final day brings you back to Calais, completing a journey of coastlines, mountains, cities, and quiet rural roads. You’ll return home with new confidence, new friendships, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Northern Spain and the Atlantic coast.