24 Sep 2007 12:18 AM:

Hi,

I drive down every year sometimes in the winter (December/January) and sometimes Spring (March) or Autumn (October). I have been caught out in snow in January but generally the main routes are kept pretty clear and if it is likely to snow I will use the peage (toll motorway) instead of my normal route. I have experienced worse weather over the massif centrale in France near to Clermont Ferrand (Millau area) than the Pyrenees. If you call at the major service stations around Bordeaux on the way down they all sell snow chains in winter, so you generally don't need to source them in U.K. (I think they are cheaper in France also). If you are not used to driving long distances in U.K. (and I would for safety anyway) make sure that your car is well serviced before you set out - especially brakes, and check all tyre pressures and oil/water levels etc. every day. Check what spares and safety equipment you need to carry also as breking down in the middle of Spain can involve a lengthy wait and can be expensive if spares for your vehicle are not readily available. Satnav can be really useful; especially around the Madrid ring road (I always used to get lost at least once per visit before I had Satnav). Just don't set it to "shortest distance" setting or it will route you through the back streets of every major town en route!!!!

Anyone who wants any info on routes/hotels/stopping places etc. please msg me.

Have a safe trip . . .

Thread: Drive to Spain

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