When you hire a motorhome from Cornish Motorhome Hire in Cornwall, you have the freedom to roam, so why not try motorhoming in France, or Spain? Both are easily accessible, with the choice of ferries and the Eurotunnel to make life that little bit more adventurous. If you’re heading over to the continent, we are conveniently located – just a 30-minute drive from Plymouth’s ferry port. Offering daily crossings to Europe, you can travel to Roscoff in north western France or Santander in northern Spain.
Travelling by motorhome provides you with an all-in-one travel solution. With cooking facilities, sleep, relaxation, dining, bathroom and driving facilities all under one roof, you have everything you need right at your fingertips!
Restless travellers have no need to feel frustrated with not being able to stretch their legs out properly on a coach or plane. One of the biggest perks of hiring a motorhome is that you can take as many rest stops as you like. The seats within motorhomes and campervans are typically very comfortable, so you can travel in style! When combining the road with the ferry or the train, you can get up and about – giving you a welcome break from road traffic.
Some Things to Consider When Motorhoming in France or Spain
There are some things to consider when driving to France or Spain by motorhome. Read our handy checklist:
- A UK Driving Licence is required. You must carry your photocard licence with you at all times. If you still have a paper licence, or your licence has been issued in either Jersey, Guernsey, Gibraltar or the Isle of Man, you will need to apply for an ‘International Driving Permit.’ This currently costs just over £5.
- Current EHIC’s are still valid until the expiry date. Otherwise, each traveller will require one of the new GHIC’s (Global Health Insurance Card). This will entitle you to free or reduced healthcare in the EU.
- You can visit France or Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, without requiring a Visa. You can find more information on the government website.
- Since August 2021, you no longer require a Green Card.
- Check that your passport is valid. Allow at least 10 weeks, if you need to apply for a new one.
- Always apply for the appropriate travel insurance to cover your trip.
- If taking your dog – visit your vet at least 1 month prior to your trip, to obtain the correct paperwork. You can find more information on the government website.
Head to our FAQ’s page for more specific information regarding your travel and insurance queries, when you book a motorhome from Cornish Motorhome Hire.
Ways to Travel to France or Spain in a Motorhome
Motorhoming in France or Spain when hiring from us, is a great way to reach some spectacular destinations. We are located only approximately 30 minutes away from the Ferry Port in Plymouth. You can travel in luxury to either Roscoff in France, or Santander in Spain. This will allow you to browse the onboard shops, sit in the cinema and relax with a film or eat in the restaurant. The crossing to France takes just over 5hrs, whilst the crossing to Spain takes just over 20hrs. Sleeping cabins are available. You should always book ahead to secure your crossing. Whilst there are regular daily crossings to France, the crossing to Santander is less frequent from Plymouth – so check before you book your hire dates with us. Please note: dogs are not permitted in your ferry cabin – there are dog kennels available onboard.
Alternatively, you could travel to Portsmouth, where you could catch a ferry to Bilbao – giving you access to Southern France. Portsmouth is approximately 3 and a half hours drive from Cornish Motorhome Hire in Cornwall. Ferries also run from Portsmouth to Santander.
If the sea is not your cup of tea, then why not drive to Folkestone and take the Eurotunnel to Calais? We are approximately 5hrs drive away from the terminal. From there, you can stretch your legs a little and be motorhoming in France in no time!
See some handy guides below, to help you make an informed choice:
www.eurotunnel.com/uk/holiday-ideas/a-guide-to-motorhoming-in-france-for-beginners
www.eurocampings.co.uk/blog/listing/motorhome-rules-spain-need-bear-mind
www.wandering-bird.com/ferry-or-eurotunnel
www.wandering-bird.com/motorhoming-in-spain
Places of Interest
France
France is the ideal destination, if you want to remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of work and home life. There is something for everyone. Whether travelling from Plymouth to Roscoff, or Folkestone to Calais, the seaside resorts of Dinard or Bénodet are easily accessible, or you could try the Port of Lorient. The regional capital, Rennes, encompasses a wealth of architecture, whilst Roscoff itself, is a quaint fishing village. If you are a town lover, then why not try Morlaix or St Pol de Leon – both pretty villages. If travelling from Portsmouth, you can drive to the South of France, with the famous beaches the area has to offer. Sampling the local cheeses, breads and wine is a must! Remember you are driving though – so choose your timings carefully, if you are touring, rather than setting up camp! Drink/driving is not permitted. When motorhoming in France, you will find a wealth of campsites to choose from.
Spain
Driving to Spain, although a longer crossing, is also worth the trip. Madrid is full of historical buildings, food markets and European art, not forgetting beautiful sandy beaches such as Playa de Bolonia or La Concha Beach. If churches and cathedrals are your thing, why not try Leon on Bernesga River? Barcelona has a wealth of attractions overlooking the Med, and is full of architecture. You could head for Alicante – a port city on the Costa Blanca, or the old town of Barrio de la Santa. The choice of campsites is endless.
If you’re planning an adventure to France or Spain in 2022 or beyond, get ahead of the crowds and book your holiday now. You can call David on 07986 073469 or 01579 364087, to book your motorhome holiday. For your convenience, you can also visit our contact page to send us an email. Alternatively, view our vehicles on the website and book online 24/7.