Pondering Portugal Planning

[MisterB]

we're starting to plan for a trip to Portugal in a month or two. ive read most of the posts that appear to be relevant and will be reading through the blogs recommended within some of the threads, but I am more then prepared to consider any advice, tips etc. that anyone wishes to share?

we intend driving through france, using mainly free aires, as its something we have done before and enjoyed the experience. however going into Spain and then onto Portugal will be new to us. we quite enjoy staying in small towns, where we can enjoy (and contribute to the local economy by using restaurants etc) the local amenities. also at this time of year, we won't be looking to wander too far off the beaten track (if at all)

we did look at getting the ferry to Santander or bilbao, but the cabins that allow dogs were all taken when we looked in October last year, so we have elected to drive all the way.

best wishes to all for the new year and beyond !

 

[peterc10]

Burgos and Leon are beautiful old Spanish cities and both are well worth a visit. Both have free Aires within walking distance of the city centres. Have a look at Campercontact to find them. Also the free Aire outside the Cabarceno wild life park (near Santander) is well worth a visit. Get there before dusk to watch the elephants being put to bed for the night.

As for going through Portugal there is a good Aire at Braganca just over the border in the North East of Portugal. Other good Aires we have used on the way through are at

• Peso de Regua. Lovely Aire overlooking the Douro River. 3 Euros including water drain and electrics on each marked place. Or park closer to the river for free. Catch the train or boat (or both) up river to see all the Port wineries.
• Parque Biologico de Gaia. Short bus ride into Oporto, which is well worth a visit. Not cheap but includes entry into the interesting Park.
• Coimbra. Beautiful city with Portugal's oldest and best University (think Cambridge or Oxford). Nice free Aire a 10 minute walk away from the centre.
• Foz de Arelho. Nice beach side Aire for a relaxing few days. This one is on a tidal lagoon, so no heavy Atlantic breakers.
• Elvas. Free Aire on a huge car park. Easy walk into the walled and fortified City centre which is a UNESCO Heritage Site.
• Monzaras. A fortified hill village. Fabulous views over a large swathe of Portugal and Spain from the free Aire.

From Monzaras it is an easy drive to the Algarve.

All the Aires can be found on CamperContact.

Only downside is that the weather can be wet and windy in January to March (and even later if you are unlucky). And cold inland.