Ruta de la Plata - A historical journey in a camper or your own car
Discover Spain from the south to the north - from Seville we drive along the historic Roman road Ruta de la Plata. This was once paved by the Romans, used by pilgrims in the Middle Ages and later expanded by the Moors as a transport route.
We see culturally valuable places such as Mérida, Cáceres, Plasenica, Hervás, Salamanca, Astorga, the famous pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela and Gijón. Experience old Roman towns, ancient ruins and medieval castles as you make your way through seven Spanish provinces: Andalucia, Extremadura, Castile-Léon, Galicia and Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country.
During the trip you can relax on the beach and in the midst of thousands of cherry trees and enjoy the Spanish flair at a flamenco show.
We see culturally valuable places such as Mérida, Cáceres, Plasenica, Hervás, Salamanca, Astorga, the famous pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela and Gijón. Experience old Roman towns, ancient ruins and medieval castles as you make your way through seven Spanish provinces: Andalucia, Extremadura, Castile-Léon, Galicia and Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country.
During the trip you can relax on the beach and in the midst of thousands of cherry trees and enjoy the Spanish flair at a flamenco show.
Tour-Code: ESP01
Camper tourPeople, history and culture
16 Days/ 15 NightsIncluding the days of arrival and departure
Number of participants4 - 10 Camper vans (8 - 20 people)
AccommodationCamping sites or hotels (on request)
FeaturesSeville, Cáceres, Monfragüe National Park, the cherry blossom village of Valle del Jerte, Astorga, Las Médulas, the pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela, Bilbao, etc.
Travel guideAll day English speaking tour guide
COVID-19Based on the current situation, there may be changes in the route at short notice.
ITINERARY
Arrival, camper pick-up & free time in Seville
On your first day under the Spanish sun, spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful city of Seville on your own. For example, you can visit the Royal Palace Real Alcázar, the Metropol Parasol viewing platform, the Santa Cruz district and the city center with the impressive Plaza de España.
Overnight at a campsite in Seville
On your first day under the Spanish sun, spend the rest of the day exploring the beautiful city of Seville on your own. For example, you can visit the Royal Palace Real Alcázar, the Metropol Parasol viewing platform, the Santa Cruz district and the city center with the impressive Plaza de España.
Overnight at a campsite in Seville
Today you have the opportunity to take a day trip before we continue our journey north. Carmona (30 min), Cordoba (1 h) or the Doñana National Park (1.5 h), one of the most important wetlands in Europe, are particularly worthwhile.
Overnight at a campsite in Seville
Overnight at a campsite in Seville
1. Highlight: Roman city Itálica
This archaeological park houses the excavated ruins of the ancient Roman city of Itálica, which was the first Roman city in Spain. Together with our guide we explore the ancient streets, mosaics, thermal baths and houses and one of the largest amphitheaters in the world.
2. Highlight: Roman ruins of Mérida
The traces of the Romans can also be traced in Mérida. We have enough time to see the well-preserved structures such as the ancient theater, amphitheater, the Temple of Diana, the Roman circus and other ancient structures.
After this excursion you can stroll leisurely through the small town of Mérida and imagine how the water of the city was transported back then at the gigantic aqueduct Los Milagros.
Drive to and overnight at a campsite in Cáceres
Driving time: approx. 3h/270km
This archaeological park houses the excavated ruins of the ancient Roman city of Itálica, which was the first Roman city in Spain. Together with our guide we explore the ancient streets, mosaics, thermal baths and houses and one of the largest amphitheaters in the world.
2. Highlight: Roman ruins of Mérida
The traces of the Romans can also be traced in Mérida. We have enough time to see the well-preserved structures such as the ancient theater, amphitheater, the Temple of Diana, the Roman circus and other ancient structures.
After this excursion you can stroll leisurely through the small town of Mérida and imagine how the water of the city was transported back then at the gigantic aqueduct Los Milagros.
Drive to and overnight at a campsite in Cáceres
Driving time: approx. 3h/270km
1. Highlight: Guided tour of Cáceres
This medieval town is very well preserved and deservedly belongs on the UNESCO World Heritage List. During our guided tour of the consistently sandstone-colored city center, we learn more about the history and the beautiful old buildings such as the Bujaco Tower and the Estrella Gate.
2. Highlight: Fortress in Trujillo
The Castillo de Trujillo was built in the 13th century onto a 9th-10th century Moorish fortress. Like many of the sights and locations on this tour along the Ruta de la Plata, Trujillo Castle is part of the Game of Thrones filming locations.
At the foot of the castle is the old town, where you can then buy traditional delicacies such as wine or the famous Pimentón de la Vera (bell pepper powder).
3. Highlight: Cheese workshop (4h)
A typical specialty of Extremadura is cheese. On this goat farm, we first get an insight into the manufacturing process and are then we are even allowed to make our own goat cheese.
Overnight at a campsite in Cáceres
Driving time: approx. 1.5 h/110 km
This medieval town is very well preserved and deservedly belongs on the UNESCO World Heritage List. During our guided tour of the consistently sandstone-colored city center, we learn more about the history and the beautiful old buildings such as the Bujaco Tower and the Estrella Gate.
2. Highlight: Fortress in Trujillo
The Castillo de Trujillo was built in the 13th century onto a 9th-10th century Moorish fortress. Like many of the sights and locations on this tour along the Ruta de la Plata, Trujillo Castle is part of the Game of Thrones filming locations.
At the foot of the castle is the old town, where you can then buy traditional delicacies such as wine or the famous Pimentón de la Vera (bell pepper powder).
3. Highlight: Cheese workshop (4h)
A typical specialty of Extremadura is cheese. On this goat farm, we first get an insight into the manufacturing process and are then we are even allowed to make our own goat cheese.
Overnight at a campsite in Cáceres
Driving time: approx. 1.5 h/110 km
1. Highlight: National Park and Castillo de Monfragüe
Known for its natural beauty and endowed with cork and holm oaks, the Monfragüe Biosphere Reserve is home to the largest colony of black vultures in the world. In addition to the approximately 250 pairs of black vultures, there are also griffon vultures, royal owls, golden and imperial eagles, which we can watch with a bit of luck from the Castillo de Monfragüe high above our heads. Here we also have a breathtaking view of the surrounding nature.
2. Highlight: Monastery of San Jeronimo de Yuste
The monastery of Yuste is considered the final resting place of Emperor Charles V. In the 16th century, Charles V had a palace built on the monastery, which we will also visit in addition to the king's hall and the church.
You can round off the evening with a leisurely stroll through the small town. There are several churches, beautiful squares and many mansions to discover.
Overnight at a campsite in Plasenica
Driving time: approx. 3h/170km
Known for its natural beauty and endowed with cork and holm oaks, the Monfragüe Biosphere Reserve is home to the largest colony of black vultures in the world. In addition to the approximately 250 pairs of black vultures, there are also griffon vultures, royal owls, golden and imperial eagles, which we can watch with a bit of luck from the Castillo de Monfragüe high above our heads. Here we also have a breathtaking view of the surrounding nature.
2. Highlight: Monastery of San Jeronimo de Yuste
The monastery of Yuste is considered the final resting place of Emperor Charles V. In the 16th century, Charles V had a palace built on the monastery, which we will also visit in addition to the king's hall and the church.
You can round off the evening with a leisurely stroll through the small town. There are several churches, beautiful squares and many mansions to discover.
Overnight at a campsite in Plasenica
Driving time: approx. 3h/170km
1. Highlight: Valle del Jerte
This small town is particularly well-known for the two million cherry trees that cover the entire town like a white blanket in spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom. Even after the flowering period, the huge number of cherry trees are a special sight. In the summer you can watch the workers harvest the cherries and even taste some local delicacies.
2. Highlight: Garganta de los Infiernos
This nature reserve was partly created by the erosion of the rocks by the immense force of the water. Together with the local flora and fauna, this place is a wonderful photo opportunity. Of course you can bathe in the natural pools, which are also called glacier pot or giant pot. We have enough time to relax here.
Arriving in Hervás, the evening is at your leisure. You can take a walk through the beautiful town of Hervás, you might even find the somewhat hidden cactus farm.
Overnight at a campsite in Hervás
Driving time: approx. 2h/70km
This small town is particularly well-known for the two million cherry trees that cover the entire town like a white blanket in spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom. Even after the flowering period, the huge number of cherry trees are a special sight. In the summer you can watch the workers harvest the cherries and even taste some local delicacies.
2. Highlight: Garganta de los Infiernos
This nature reserve was partly created by the erosion of the rocks by the immense force of the water. Together with the local flora and fauna, this place is a wonderful photo opportunity. Of course you can bathe in the natural pools, which are also called glacier pot or giant pot. We have enough time to relax here.
Arriving in Hervás, the evening is at your leisure. You can take a walk through the beautiful town of Hervás, you might even find the somewhat hidden cactus farm.
Overnight at a campsite in Hervás
Driving time: approx. 2h/70km
Option: bike tour
Today we can take a bike tour from Hervás to Béjar and back. The route is part of the Vias Verde, the so-called green cycle routes of Spain along the old railway lines, which serve as a guide. On our way we pass valleys, rocky gorges, old bridges, abandoned railway station buildings and grazing animals. Arriving in Bejár, we take a walk through the city. If you wish, you can also visit "El Bosque de Bejár", an old historic palace with a Romanesque garden.
Overnight at a campsite in Hervás
Duration of the bike tour: approx. 3h/45km, difference in altitude approx. 200m
Today we can take a bike tour from Hervás to Béjar and back. The route is part of the Vias Verde, the so-called green cycle routes of Spain along the old railway lines, which serve as a guide. On our way we pass valleys, rocky gorges, old bridges, abandoned railway station buildings and grazing animals. Arriving in Bejár, we take a walk through the city. If you wish, you can also visit "El Bosque de Bejár", an old historic palace with a Romanesque garden.
Overnight at a campsite in Hervás
Duration of the bike tour: approx. 3h/45km, difference in altitude approx. 200m
1. Highlight: Meandro del Melero
During our first stop we get a wonderful view over the Meandro Del Melero - breathtaking nature and imposing river formations await us. The river meanders along the borders of the provinces of Extremadura and Castile and Leon. If you wish, we can take a swim break in one of the natural pools in the national park.
2. Highlight: city tour of Salamanca
The former European Capital of Culture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as a student city. With its Plateresque facade, the university is one of the most beautiful sights, maybe you will find the skull with a frog sitting on it? During the tour you will also see the impressive Plaza Mayor and the Casa de las Conchas palace, decorated with countless scallop shells on its facade.
As an insider tip, we advise you to visit the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea garden after the city tour and enjoy the quiet atmosphere there.
Overnight at a campsite in Salamanca
Driving time: approx. 3h/170km
During our first stop we get a wonderful view over the Meandro Del Melero - breathtaking nature and imposing river formations await us. The river meanders along the borders of the provinces of Extremadura and Castile and Leon. If you wish, we can take a swim break in one of the natural pools in the national park.
2. Highlight: city tour of Salamanca
The former European Capital of Culture is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known as a student city. With its Plateresque facade, the university is one of the most beautiful sights, maybe you will find the skull with a frog sitting on it? During the tour you will also see the impressive Plaza Mayor and the Casa de las Conchas palace, decorated with countless scallop shells on its facade.
As an insider tip, we advise you to visit the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea garden after the city tour and enjoy the quiet atmosphere there.
Overnight at a campsite in Salamanca
Driving time: approx. 3h/170km
1. Highlight: river cruise
For this special river cruise we cross the border into Portugal and travel along the "European Grand Canyon" on the border of the two countries. During our tour we learn more about the predominant flora and fauna of the nature reserve from a ranger on board and are even allowed to look at a microscopic water sample, followed by a tasting of local wines and a flight demonstration of local birds.
2. Highlight: Hike in the Arribes del Duero National Park
The beautiful nature of the national park invites us to a hike where we can enjoy impressive views, marvel at waterfalls and visit ancient ruins.
Continue and overnight at a campsite near Léon
Driving time: approx. 3.5 h/290 km
For this special river cruise we cross the border into Portugal and travel along the "European Grand Canyon" on the border of the two countries. During our tour we learn more about the predominant flora and fauna of the nature reserve from a ranger on board and are even allowed to look at a microscopic water sample, followed by a tasting of local wines and a flight demonstration of local birds.
2. Highlight: Hike in the Arribes del Duero National Park
The beautiful nature of the national park invites us to a hike where we can enjoy impressive views, marvel at waterfalls and visit ancient ruins.
Continue and overnight at a campsite near Léon
Driving time: approx. 3.5 h/290 km
1. Highlight: Walk through Astorga
Astorga is one of the oldest towns in this region. The place is an important stop for many pilgrims who walk along the two Ways of Saint James that cross here: Via de la Plata and Camino Frances. We have enough time to stroll through the small town and enjoy the Spanish flair.
2. Highlight: Palacio De Gaudí Astorga
The palace of the bishop of Astorga stands out due to its new construction. This is due to its architect, Antoni Gaudí, who was a representative of modernism. Inside we find the Museum of the Camino de Santiago, which we visit.
The rest of the day is free to do as you please. You can go to Léon and explore the surrounding area or discover the chocolate museum in Astorga. Chocolate production has a long tradition here and is one of the regional specialties.
Overnight at a campsite near Léon
Astorga is one of the oldest towns in this region. The place is an important stop for many pilgrims who walk along the two Ways of Saint James that cross here: Via de la Plata and Camino Frances. We have enough time to stroll through the small town and enjoy the Spanish flair.
2. Highlight: Palacio De Gaudí Astorga
The palace of the bishop of Astorga stands out due to its new construction. This is due to its architect, Antoni Gaudí, who was a representative of modernism. Inside we find the Museum of the Camino de Santiago, which we visit.
The rest of the day is free to do as you please. You can go to Léon and explore the surrounding area or discover the chocolate museum in Astorga. Chocolate production has a long tradition here and is one of the regional specialties.
Overnight at a campsite near Léon
1. Highlight: Castillo de Ponferrada
The medieval castle, originally from the 12th century, has been modified several times over the centuries and is therefore a mixture of different architectural arts. Initially the castle was built as a Celtic fortification, later it belonged to a Knights Templar order and in the 19th century parts of the castle were sold as building material as the castle's decline was foreseeable. During the visit you can can travel back in time to the different epochs.
2. Highlight: Guided tour of the caves of the Las Médulas gold mine (UNESCO)
The cultural landscape of Las Médulas is a unique sight: red clay rock fringed with green sweet chestnut trees rises sharply from the ground. But this landscape was not formed naturally. Here, the Romans used the tremendous power of water to open pit mines in the 1st century to uncover gold, creating the rock formations we see today. We are guided through the underground cave system, see the preserved pits and the various ruins and buildings of the Roman Empire.
3. Highlight: Mirador de Orellán
To get a breathtaking panoramic view of the spectacular surroundings, we visit the Mirador de Orellán viewpoint, not far from the gold mine. This view is an excellent photo opportunity.
Overnight at a campsite in Santiago de Compostela
Driving time: approx. 4h/300km
The medieval castle, originally from the 12th century, has been modified several times over the centuries and is therefore a mixture of different architectural arts. Initially the castle was built as a Celtic fortification, later it belonged to a Knights Templar order and in the 19th century parts of the castle were sold as building material as the castle's decline was foreseeable. During the visit you can can travel back in time to the different epochs.
2. Highlight: Guided tour of the caves of the Las Médulas gold mine (UNESCO)
The cultural landscape of Las Médulas is a unique sight: red clay rock fringed with green sweet chestnut trees rises sharply from the ground. But this landscape was not formed naturally. Here, the Romans used the tremendous power of water to open pit mines in the 1st century to uncover gold, creating the rock formations we see today. We are guided through the underground cave system, see the preserved pits and the various ruins and buildings of the Roman Empire.
3. Highlight: Mirador de Orellán
To get a breathtaking panoramic view of the spectacular surroundings, we visit the Mirador de Orellán viewpoint, not far from the gold mine. This view is an excellent photo opportunity.
Overnight at a campsite in Santiago de Compostela
Driving time: approx. 4h/300km
Highlight: Guided tour of Santiago de Compostela (UNESCO)
The place of pilgrimage and the capital of Galicia is the destination of thousands of travelers. It is mostly pilgrims who want to visit the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela with its high altar, the crypt, the three-part main portal and the most important relic - the tomb of the apostle James. Our local guide takes us through the city past baroque chapels, monasteries and stylishly decorated facades. The liveliness of the city can be felt above all on the main square "Plaza del Obradoiro".
From noon you can enjoy this famous place of pilgrimage on your own. We recommend you to visit the covered market or to stop in one of the many restaurants to taste traditional Galician food.
Overnight at a campsite in Santiago de Compostela
The place of pilgrimage and the capital of Galicia is the destination of thousands of travelers. It is mostly pilgrims who want to visit the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela with its high altar, the crypt, the three-part main portal and the most important relic - the tomb of the apostle James. Our local guide takes us through the city past baroque chapels, monasteries and stylishly decorated facades. The liveliness of the city can be felt above all on the main square "Plaza del Obradoiro".
From noon you can enjoy this famous place of pilgrimage on your own. We recommend you to visit the covered market or to stop in one of the many restaurants to taste traditional Galician food.
Overnight at a campsite in Santiago de Compostela
1. Highlight: Playa de las Catedrales
We have a lot on our agenda today. The eventful day starts with unique rock formations. This stretch of coast shows itself differently depending on the tide. At high tide the beach is washed away and the rocky outcrops become islands in the surf. On the other hand, at low tide the stone columns become visible and the rock arches present themselves as a kind of vault of a Gothic cathedral.
2. Highlight: Luarca
This coastal town is a suitable place for a nice photo opportunity. The white houses embed themselves in the picturesque location of the port town with its boats lined up in the bay and the adjacent hills and cliffs.
3. Highlight: Cudillero
Like Luarca, Cudillero is also a small fishing village and is considered the most beautiful coastal town on the Costa Verde. In contrast to Luarca, the house facades here are colorful and make the port city look lively and unusual. Here we have time for a lunch break in one of the numerous restaurants.
Overnight at a campsite in Gijon
Driving time: approx. 4h/335km
We have a lot on our agenda today. The eventful day starts with unique rock formations. This stretch of coast shows itself differently depending on the tide. At high tide the beach is washed away and the rocky outcrops become islands in the surf. On the other hand, at low tide the stone columns become visible and the rock arches present themselves as a kind of vault of a Gothic cathedral.
2. Highlight: Luarca
This coastal town is a suitable place for a nice photo opportunity. The white houses embed themselves in the picturesque location of the port town with its boats lined up in the bay and the adjacent hills and cliffs.
3. Highlight: Cudillero
Like Luarca, Cudillero is also a small fishing village and is considered the most beautiful coastal town on the Costa Verde. In contrast to Luarca, the house facades here are colorful and make the port city look lively and unusual. Here we have time for a lunch break in one of the numerous restaurants.
Overnight at a campsite in Gijon
Driving time: approx. 4h/335km
The entire day is at your leisure today. Use the day to swim at the beach or visit the botanical gardens of Gijon.
Overnight at a campsite in Gijon
Overnight at a campsite in Gijon
1. Highlight: Cave of Altamira (UNESCO)
This is the first cave system where Paleolithic cave art has been identified.
In the 18 caves you will encounter Stone Age cave paintings, all of which relate to the development of Homo Sapiens and the emergence of a new human culture. The paintings deal with the invention of new techniques and denote the further development of artistic expression through painting, sculpture and engraving.
2. Highlight: Wildlife Park Cabárceno
The special thing about this wildlife park is that it can be driven on by car or camper and you can experience the animals that live there up close. We will meet antelopes, giraffes, bisons, elephants, camels, zebras, water buffalos, grizzlys, lions, lynx, jaguars and many more animals.
Overnight at a campsite in Bilbao
Driving time: 270 km, approx. 3 h
This is the first cave system where Paleolithic cave art has been identified.
In the 18 caves you will encounter Stone Age cave paintings, all of which relate to the development of Homo Sapiens and the emergence of a new human culture. The paintings deal with the invention of new techniques and denote the further development of artistic expression through painting, sculpture and engraving.
2. Highlight: Wildlife Park Cabárceno
The special thing about this wildlife park is that it can be driven on by car or camper and you can experience the animals that live there up close. We will meet antelopes, giraffes, bisons, elephants, camels, zebras, water buffalos, grizzlys, lions, lynx, jaguars and many more animals.
Overnight at a campsite in Bilbao
Driving time: 270 km, approx. 3 h
Departure
After you have returned your mobile home, you will fly back to your home country.
See you on a new journey!
After you have returned your mobile home, you will fly back to your home country.
See you on a new journey!
15 x overnight stays at campsites
All excursions & excursions described
River cruise in Arribes del Duero National Park
Cheese - Workshop
All-day German/English-speaking guide during the tour
All excursions & excursions described
River cruise in Arribes del Duero National Park
Cheese - Workshop
All-day German/English-speaking guide during the tour
Motorhome rental (pick up Seville, drop off Bilbao)
Fuel
Tolls and parking fees en route (depending on the journey and stopovers)
Additional services described as optional
Bike rental
Meals
Insurances
Tips
Fuel
Tolls and parking fees en route (depending on the journey and stopovers)
Additional services described as optional
Bike rental
Meals
Insurances
Tips
DATES & PRICES
1. Fill out the form
2. A member of our team will call you to confirm the booking
3. You pay a deposit and receive confirmation of payment via email
4. After the final payment you will receive all the necessary documents for your tour. Take a trip with us at the appointed time!
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