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The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive

Drive through Spain’s Atlantic coastlines, medieval villages and dramatic mountain landscapes tracing Camino heritage across Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia!

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Price From
$1199
Price Per Day
$134
Duration
9 Days
Ratings
5/5
Comfort Level
EASY Icon Easy Tours are accessible for all travelers. There will be limited periods of standing or walking during sightseeing excursions as pre-booked transportation will take passengers between destinations.

About the trip

Discover northern Spain on a scenic self-drive journey through Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia, blending dramatic coastlines, medieval towns and pilgrimage heritage across the country’s most authentic and culturally rich regions. Arrive in Madrid and drive north to Santander, exploring its elegant harbour and beaches before continuing to medieval Santillana del Mar. From there, travel into Asturias to Cangas de Onís, gateway to Picos de Europa National Park. Next day, head to coastal Gijón for seaside charm and regional cuisine. Then continue west into Galicia, stopping en route to reach Ribadeo and the spectacular Playa de las Catedrales. Afterwards, drive inland to Santiago de Compostela, the spiritual heart of the Camino. Later, follow the Rías Baixas coastline to Baiona before concluding your journey back in Madrid, Spain’s vibrant capital, renowned for its royal heritage, grand plazas and dynamic cultural scene.

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07 NIGHTS
Superior Accommodation
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07 MEALS
Daily Breakfast
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SELF-DRIVE
07-Days Car Rental
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FLIGHTS
International Flights (Optional)

  • Overview
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The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive Book Now!

Please note: The prices shown are land-only, meaning international flights are not included.
To add international flights from any airport in the USA or Canada, simply select your preferred departure date below and click “Book Now.”
On the Booking Details page, you will be able to enter your departure city and see the updated total price including flights.
When you book your flights with us, we offer competitive and hassle-free airfare options, often with multiple choices to suit your schedule and preferences.
In addition, airport transfers are included at no extra cost when flights are booked through us.

STYLE
Independent Tour | Self Drive
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Explore Santander’s elegant harbour, scenic parks and sweeping Atlantic beaches
  • Discover the medieval charm of Santillana del Mar & the prehistoric Altamira Cave
  • Experience the dramatic peaks of Cangas de Onís and Picos de Europa National Park
  • Wander the seaside promenades & historic quarters of Gijón along the Cantabrian coast
  • Marvel at the striking rock arches of Playa de las Catedrales near Ribadeo
  • Immerse yourself in the timeless pilgrimage heritage of Santiago de Compostela
INCLUSIONS
  • 07 Nights accommodation on twin-sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar
  • Daily breakfast
  • Car rental for 07 days including:
    • Pick up and drop off at Madrid Airport
    • Economy Manual transmission- Hyundai i20 or similar 
    • One driver (drivers must be at least 25 years old)
    • Unlimited mileage
    • Theft Waiver (TW). Un-waivable charges may apply.
    • Collision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW). Un-waivable charges may apply
  • All currently applicable taxes
EXCLUSIONS
  • Items of a personal nature, tips and gratuities
  • Baggage fees may apply and vary by carrier
  • Rental car fuel, parking fees and tolls
  • Items not mentioned as included

The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive

Prices for this tour are per person, based on a twin/double room sharing basis.

Single supplement is available, starting at USD 1199 per person

The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive Book Now!

DAY 1 - USA/CANADA - MADRID

Make your own way to your International Airport to board your international overnight flight to Madrid. Enjoy inflight meals and services.

DAY 2 - MADRID ARRIVAL - SANTANDER – SANTILLANA DEL MAR (485 KM) (-/-/-)

Welcome to Spain! Upon your arrival in Madrid, you will pick up your rental car at the airport and begin your scenic drive north to Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria. Once there, take time to explore this refined coastal city set around a magnificent natural harbour that has served maritime trade since Roman times. Stroll through expansive parks and along its beautiful beaches, including Mataleñas, El Sardinero and La Magdalena, the latter famed for its royal summer connections. You may decide to indulge in freshly caught seafood or sample the traditional cocido lebaniego, a hearty local stew. Continue your drive towards Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most picturesque and best-preserved medieval villages. Wander through cobbled streets lined with noble mansions and architectural treasures, including the 12th-century Collegiate Church, the Bustamante and Velarde palaces, the Don Borja Tower and the charming Plaza Mayor. Nearby lies the legendary Altamira Cave, often described as the “Sistine Chapel” of prehistoric art. 
Overnight in Santillana Del Mar

DAY 3 - SANTILLANA DEL MAR – CANGAS DE ONIS (115 KM) (B/-/-)

After breakfast, drive into the lush region of Asturias and make your way to Cangas de Onís, considered the gateway to Picos de Europa National Park. Upon arrival, you may wish to take a relaxed walk through town, discovering highlights such as the iconic Roman Bridge, the Ermita de Santa Cruz and the historic Cortés Palace. For a true Asturian experience, step into a traditional chigre (local cider house) to sample expertly poured cider paired with regional cheeses. Beyond the town, you can explore the breathtaking natural surroundings of the Picos de Europa, including the revered Royal Site of Covadonga, home to La Santina and an important pilgrimage sanctuary. If time permits, consider visiting the scenic Covadonga Lakes of Enol and Ercina or venturing along the spectacular Cares Route for unforgettable mountain views. 
Overnight in Cangas de Onís

DAY 4 - CANGAS DE ONIS – GIJON (85 KM) (B/-/-)

Enjoy Breakfast before driving back to the coast and continuing to Gijón, a vibrant seaside city where mountains and the Cantabrian Sea come together. You may wish to explore the historic Cimadevilla fishing quarter, wander around Plaza de San Lorenzo and climb Santa Catalina Hill for sweeping coastal views. Here, you will find the striking Elogio del Horizonte, an iconic sculpture overlooking the Cantabrian coastline. Asturian cuisine is a highlight, so consider sampling traditional dishes such as fabada, cachopo, or the region’s famous rice pudding. 
Overnight in Gijon

DAY 5 - GIJÓN – RIBADEO (130 KM) (B/-/-)

In the morning post breakfast, continue west toward Galicia, enjoying the scenic coastal drive with opportunities to pause in charming seaside towns such as Cudillero or Luarca, both known for their colourful harbours and relaxed maritime atmosphere. Your route leads to Ribadeo, set on the estuary formed by the Eo River along the Asturias–Galicia border. Stroll through the historic centre to spot landmarks like the Old Customs House and the former Town Hall and explore the picturesque fishing enclave of Rinlo. Nearby, the remarkable Playa de las Catedrales reveals a dramatic coastline of natural stone arches and cathedral-like rock formations shaped by the Atlantic tides. 
Overnight in Ribadeo

DAY 6 - RIBADEO – SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (195 KM) (B/-/-)

Today after breakfast, continue your drive through the green inland landscapes of Galicia toward Santiago de Compostela, with the option to pause in historic towns such as Mondoñedo or Betanzos, both rich in architectural heritage and local character. On arrival in Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage City and the final destination of the Camino pilgrimage route, immerse yourself in its timeless atmosphere. Discover the grand Plaza del Obradoiro and the magnificent Cathedral, wander through University Square, and explore the maze of traditional rúas lined with palaces, churches and cultural landmarks. Notable museums include the Cathedral Museum, the Museo do Pobo Galego and the Centro Galego de Arte. 
Overnight in Santiago De Compostela

DAY 7 - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA – BAIONA (120 KM) (B/-/-)

Enjoy your breakfast before you continue your morning drive on scenic route along the Rías Baixas coastline toward Baiona, a charming seaside town known for its sandy beaches and peaceful historic quarters. From the harbour, admire the elegant façades along Calle Elduayen and make your way into the old town via Plaza de Pedro de Castro, where you will find the Museo de la Navegación. Take time to wander through the cobbled streets of Ventura Misa and Conde, lined with traditional Galician houses that reflect the town’s maritime heritage. 
Overnight in Baiona

DAY 8 - BAIONA – MADRID (600 km) (B/-/-)

Depart early in the morning after breakfast, begin your return drive from Baiona to Madrid, covering approximately 600 km. The journey takes you from Galicia’s Atlantic coastline through rolling green hills, vineyard landscapes and the wide plains of Castilla y León before approaching Spain’s vibrant capital. Well-maintained highways make for a comfortable and scenic drive, with opportunities to pause for refreshments along the way. Upon arrival in Madrid, you can experience the city’s lively atmosphere, stroll through Plaza Mayor, admire the Royal Palace, explore the boutiques along Gran Vía, or unwind with tapas in one of its traditional neighbourhood taverns.
Overnight in Madrid

DAY 9 - MADRID – USA/CANADA (B/-/-)

After a tasty breakfast, simply plan your drive to Madrid International Airport in sync with your departure schedule. Be sure to return your vehicle before catching your flight.

The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive Book Now!

Parador Santillana Gil Blas (santillana del mar)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Set in the main square in the beautiful Cantabrian town of Santillana del Mar, this attractive and modern hotel provides the perfect ambience for a relaxing getaway. Sit back and read in the impressive courtyard, or soak up the sun in the summer months. Explore the charming town of Santillana del Mar, which was declared a national monument, and the origins of which date back to the eighth century. The Parador Gil Bas has its own restaurant, where you can sample local-style cuisine without leaving the hotel. After, you can enjoy a drink in the on-site bar, or explore the bars in the local town. There is also free Wi-Fi internet access available throughout the hotel. The nearest Airport is Santander Airport, 29 km from the Parador.

Parador Cangas de Onís (cangas de onis)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

This Parador is located in a national monument, a former monastery believed to have been founded by King Alfonso I in the 8th century. It is surrounded by the Picos de Europa mountains. The Parador de Cangas de Onís offers free Wi-Fi and free parking in a historic setting. The building includes exhibits of archaeological remains. The rooms, which are quite nice and simply furnished, have air conditioning and a minibar. The Parador's restaurant serves Asturian cuisine, with specialties including local cheeses and stews. Typical Asturian cider is also served. The Parador de Cangas de Onís is situated on the banks of the Sella River. The Picos de Europa National Park is within walking distance. In the area, you can discover a Roman bridge and the historic Chapel of Santa Cruz. Numerous prehistoric caves are also located nearby.

Parador de Gijón (gijon)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

This hotel occupies a former mill located in Isabel la Católica Park, in the Asturian city of Gijón. It has a pretty pond, and San Lorenzo Beach and the Cimadevilla fishing district are a 10-minute walk away. The Parador de Gijón has bright, elegant interiors, including large windows with views of the sea. The Parador's restaurant serves typical Asturian cuisine, including the well-known Fabada stew and fresh local seafood and fish. Desserts include homemade rice pudding and frixuelos (cream-filled crepes). The Parador de Gijón hotel is well-located in the city for exploring the port area and the historical centre. Gijón is an ideal base for exploring the lovely Asturian coastline, including nearby charming fishing towns.

Parador de Ribadeo (ribadeo)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

This Parador Hotel enjoys a picturesque setting overlooking the Eo Estuary in Ribadeo. Experience authentic Galicia with fabulous views from its dining room which serves typical, regional cuisine. Located on the border of Galicia and Asturias, the Parador de Ribadeo offers excellent opportunities for enjoying the great outdoors with a coastal walk or a sail on the water. The sailing club is located nearby. Visit the little villages that are situated along the Asturia's river bank. Interiors are charmingly decorated with rural touches and elegant furnishings. Enjoy an afternoon relax in the Ribadeo's gardens which lead directly down to the water. After all this activity, sit down to a delicious meal in the Parador de Ribadeo's restaurant and accompany fresh, local seafood with a fine Spanish wine. After dinner, head to the welcoming bar where you warm yourself by the open fireplace during the cooler months.

Parador de Santiago - Hostal Reis Catolicos (Santiago de Compostela)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Parador de Santiago - Hostal Reis Catolicos is set in a beautiful 15th-century building next to Santiago’s famous cathedral. This impressive property features rooms with four-poster beds and free Wi-Fi. Once a lodging for pilgrims, the Parador maintains many of the building’s original features including vaulted ceilings, stone archways and tapestries. Each spacious room offers classic décor and has satellite TV and a private bathroom. The Reis Catolicos is set on Plaza de Obradoiro and features 4 impressive cloisters. It has a number of lounge areas for guests to relax in. The hotel’s 2 restaurants feature exposed stone walls and candelabras. The Dos Reis serves a range of Mediterranean cuisine, while the Enxebre specialises in seafood and traditional Galician dishes. A buffet breakfast is served daily.

Parador de Baiona (baiona)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Located on the Monterreal peninsula, the Parador de Baiona is housed in a fantastic, traditional Galician mansion and boasts impressive views of the sea. Free WiFi and wired Internet are provided. Relax in the stylish and spacious rooms of this hotel, which have decor from different eras. Stroll around the lovely gardens of this hotel, where you can admire the Galician sunsets and enjoy breathing the fresh air. The Parador de Baiona serves tasty, typical Galician cuisine, including seafood. It is the ideal place to dine with family or friends.

Princesa Plaza (Madrid)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

Madrid Marriott Hotel Princesa Plaza is situated in the west of Madrid, in the Argüelles District. Some of the elegant rooms at the hotel feature a large reproduction of a famous painting from the Museo del Prado. Rooms at the Princesa are spacious with large windows and come with a seating area. They have satellite TV and air conditioning. Madrid Marriott Hotel Princesa Plaza is close to Plaza España Square, Gran Via Avenue and the Royal Palace. It offers car rental and currency exchange services. The tour desk can provide useful information on the surrounding area. The hotel also gives information about a company that organizes shuttle service at an extra cost.

The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive Book Now!

Your Destination Guide: Visas & Helpful Tips

Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Spain

SHOULD I GET TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Click here to check our recommended travel protection plan.

IS THIS A CHILD FRIENDLY TOUR? ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS?

All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age for children on escorted tours is 8. Minimum age on Safaris is 8. Minimum age for game drives in Kruger National Park (South Africa) is 12. Minimum age for Uganda programs is 15.

Please note that many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a person under the age of 18 years will be travelling with an adult other than his/her parents, or with only one parent, a notarized letter, granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel should be carried.

I AM A SINGLE TRAVELER. SHOULD I PAY A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT?

We offer many Solo-Friendly trips with no mandatory single supplement. For all other tours, a single supplement will apply for solo travelers.

For the rates on these tours, please refer to the Price and Dates section on each tour page.

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT FACTORS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO A DESTINATION?

Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Spain

Frequently Asked Questions Book Now!

PERSONAL ACCOUNTS

How do I book a tour with Indus Travels?

You can review How to Book a Tour page for more details.

How do I create an Indus Account?

Go to our website and click on the register button found on the upper right hand side to create your Indus Travel account and start booking tours! 

If I don't remember my password, how do I log in?

Click the Forgot Password? link in the login form and it will lead you to a form to change your password. Simply enter your registered email address and you will be emailed a link to reset your password. 

How do I view my invoice?

You will not be able to access your invoice immediately upon booking. You will be notified by email when it is available for you, normally within 48 business hours of booking. You can find your invoice and all other details of the tours you booked by logging on to your account and going to the Tour Booking History page.


PAYMENT PROCEDURE

How do I make payment online?

Simply login to your Indus Travel account, go to your tour of choice and click on Book Now. You will then confirm the details and your preferences about the tour and finally pay through our secure online payment platform. 

What forms of payment does Indus Travel accept?

We accept US & CA Dollar check, bank check, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa, and Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned checks.

Where do I mail a cheque?

Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd and mailed to:
233 - 11951 Hammersmith Way,
Richmond, BC, V7A 5H9,
Canada

When is my final payment due?

Your exact final payment date is indicated on your invoice which may be viewed by signing into your account. In general, final payment is due 75 days prior to departure with some exceptions where payment is due earlier.

How much is my final payment?

The amount of your final payment will be noted on your invoice and can be accessed by logging into your account online.

Can I send a bank cheque or money order?

Yes. Indus accepts US & CA Dollar cheque, bank cheque, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa & Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned cheques.

To whom should I write the cheque?

Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd.

Can I pay with a debit card?

No. Indus does not accept payments with Debit card.

How do I know if Indus received my payment?

You will be notified by email that your payment was received and applied to your reservation. You may also access your reservation by logging into your account online


TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

When will I receive my e-Documents?

Once final payment has been received and processed, documents will be sent via email approximately 21 days prior to the beginning of your tour services.

Can I get paper documents?

Paper documents may be sent upon passenger request. There is a shipping and handling fee of $30 for each set of paper documents: These paper documents will be delivered between 14-21 business days prior to the beginning of your tour. In some instances, a paper voucher/ticket is required by our vendor. In these instances, the costs for shipping and handling will be shouldered by Indus Travels.

How do I access and print my documents?

Your documents may be accessed by logging into your Indus Travel account and checking your Tour Booking History. 

Do I receive anything else with my e-documents?

Indus e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip. 

How do I know where to find my airline ticket?

With a few exceptions, international airline tickets are issued electronically. The airline confirmation number and ticket numbers stated in your documents represent your airline "ticket(s)." Some domestic Arline tickets which can only be issued at destination will be given to you upon your arrival in the local destination.


ENTRY VISAS

If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting. 

Please note: Passengers who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa.

How do I know if I need a visa?

Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.

How do I obtain a visa?

A visa may be obtained by using a visa service or by contacting the embassy or consulate of the nation you are visiting prior to departing from your home country.

Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.

How much does a visa cost?

There will be different costs that will be specific per embassy/consulate and whether you have used a visa service or not. These costs often change with little notice. We recommend that you contact the appropriate embassy or consulate directly for the most up to date information.

You may find the contact information for consulates/embassies in the Visa section of the Know Before You Go document available for the country you will be visiting.


OPTIONAL TOURS & ACTIVITIES

What are optional sightseeing tours?

Optional tours are offered to travelers interested in additional experiences, sightseeing, meals or activities to supplement the included components of our tours. You may choose to participate in some, all or none of the optional tours which are priced individually. Complete descriptions and prices for each optional tour are listed on the itinerary section of the tours on our website. 

When can I add optional tours?

Optional tours are available for purchase any time up to 45 days before departure.

Can I purchase optional tours locally?

Yes. When traveling on an escorted tour, optional tours may be purchased locally from the Tour Manager. However, Indus cannot guarantee the rate and availability of these services when purchased locally. Please note that tours purchased locally are subject to current exchange rates and may cost up to 10% more.

Can I add optional tours for only select individuals on my reservation?

Yes. For assistance on this matter, please contact Indus Travel sales and reservations staff.


TRAVEL INSURANCE & COVERAGE

What coverage does Travel Insurance provide?

For complete details on Travel Insurance, check our Travel protection page.

When can I purchase Travel Insurance?

American Residents can purchase Trawick Insurance with us at the time of booking or anytime prior to departure. After booking, Canadian Residents will receive an email with a referral to TuGo Insurance which can be purchased anytime prior to departure.

When is Travel Insurance active?

Travel Protection coverages will take effect on the later of 1) the date the plan payment has been received by the Policyholder; 2) the date and time you start your Covered Trip; or 3) 12:01 A.M. Standard Time on the Scheduled Departure Date of your Covered Trip.

I need to cancel my trip and have not purchased insurance, what do I do?

Penalties for cancellation will depend on the tour you have purchased and how close to departure you are at the time of cancellation. For more information, visit our terms and conditions.


INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

Why is it important that I give my name as it appears on my passport when booking a tour? 

Due to increased travel security and policies around the world, it is now a requirement that your airline ticket matches your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Please note that any changes to the details of your air booking, could be subject to a change fee, penalties or cancellation.

Can I reserve a seat assignment?

For our packages that include flights, we do not usually assign seats. In most cases, you can request specific seats, but this may incur a small fee payable to the airline. For more information, contact our sales and reservations staff.

Once confirmed, are airlines seats always guaranteed?

In most cases, seat assignments are firm. However, airlines may sometimes reassign seats for operational reasons. This often happens at the last moment and is controlled by airline staff, with Indus Travel not being notified. Passengers are encouraged to reconfirm their seat assignments and any other special requests directly with their airline prior to departure.

Should I check-in online?

It always recommended and more convenient to check in online. It will shorten your waiting time at the airport, secure your seat assignments and other reservations.

Can I request a special meal on the flight?

Requests may be made for special meals. These requests will be sent on your behalf to the airline so long as Indus receives these request prior to your documents being issued. The availability of special meals will be based upon the specific airlines and will be at their discretion.

Can I use my frequent flier miles?

Accrued frequent flier miles cannot be used toward the purchase of Indus Travels’ airfare or used for class upgrades. However, airfare purchased through Indus Travels may qualify to earn you additional miles.


AIRPORT PROCEDURES

What is required when I check-in?

Ticketed passengers must show correct identification at check-in. Children must have a parent present at check-in and all tickets must be in each passenger's name.

What is required with International travel?

An international trip may require valid travel documents such as passport, visa, re-entry permit, health certificate, inoculation record, a ticket for the return journey or continuance of your trip, or ANY combination thereof. Passengers are responsible for the proper documentation. Concerns about the required travel documents may be resolved by contacting the appropriate consulate or embassy.

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The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive Book Now!

Northwest Spain

The Spanish Atlantic Edge Self-Drive Book Now!

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