On the Road with the Kids: A Family Driving Holiday in Spain and France
As a parent, I've always been fascinated by the idea of family adventures. But let me tell you, planning a road trip with two kids can be a daunting task. It's not just about packing the car and hitting the open road; it's about managing expectations, keeping everyone happy, and ensuring the journey is as enjoyable as the destination. So, when I embarked on a three-week road trip from Bilbao in Spain to Saint-Malo in France with my family, I was both excited and nervous.
One of the biggest challenges of family travel is finding the right balance between structured activities and spontaneity. We wanted to explore, but we also needed to keep the kids entertained. So, we decided to mix things up with a combination of home swaps and posh camping. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
Our journey began with a two-night ferry ride from Portsmouth to Bilbao. It was a peaceful haven, with excellent food and a comfortable cabin. We spent hours watching dolphins, reading books, and napping. But the real adventure began when we rolled off the ferry and into the heart of Bilbao.
Bilbao is a city that knows how to party. We arrived on the opening day of Aste Nagusia, the city's annual nine-day festival. After a stroll around the Guggenheim, we headed to the Plaza Nueva, where we indulged in pintxos and cider. The Spanish know how to live, but the Basques? They know how to party.
Our first stop was an apartment in the small hamlet of Berastegi, about 25 minutes from San Sebastián. We stayed at Casa Julian, a charming place recommended by our hosts. The food was incredible, and we even saved money by staying in a home swap. It was a win-win.
But the real adventure was yet to come. We drove north along winding roads up into the verdant mountains of the province of Gipuzkoa. We explored Pamplona, drank hot chocolate in Hemingway's old haunt, and learned about the running of the bulls. It was a grimly fascinating experience.
Our next stop was Arcachon, a seaside resort with a 19th-century feel. We stayed in a luxury chalet, with a nice toilet, strong shower, and comfortable beds. It was like camping, but without the discomfort. We explored the dunes, climbed the Dune du Pilat, and felt like we were landing on the moon.
As we drove towards the French Atlantic coast, the landscape transformed again. We stopped in the flat salt plains of the Île de Noirmoutier, where we set up home in a well-stocked Huttopia wood and canvas desert tent. It was a peaceful haven, with the sound of waves and wind in the trees.
Our final stop was Saint-Malo, a charming Breton port with great food and delicious cider. We explored the coastal pool, tried oysters and mussels, and reflected on the journey. It was a family adventure, and I realized that the adventure isn't over after all.
In the end, our road trip was a success. We saved money, explored new places, and created memories that will last a lifetime. But the real takeaway is this: family adventures are all about finding the right balance between structure and spontaneity. And that's what makes them so special.
