North to South Spain 4×4 Overland Tour – September 2027

Explore Spain in your own 4×4 on a guided overland adventure from Santander to Granada. Ideal for couples, individuals and families, this tour takes us through northern and central Spain before finishing in Andalucía.

We will experience a variety of trails and landscapes, including the Bardenas Reales and several natural parks. Our tours operate at a relaxed pace, with opportunities to enjoy local history, culture and cuisine along the way.

The tour includes two rest days, giving you time to explore locally, sample regional food or simply relax.

Travel and itinerary

Friday 17 September 2027 – Portsmouth to Santander

SUGGESTED – Depart Portsmouth with Brittany Ferries for the crossing to Santander.

Ferry crossings are not included in the tour price.

Saturday 18 September – On board the ferry

Enjoy a day at sea before arriving in northern Spain.

Sunday 19 September – Arrive in Santander

Following arrival, we drive from the Port of Santander towards Villafranca, in the heart of Navarra. A scenic drive through Northern Spain. 

For those travelling to the start independently, we will meet at Camping Bardenas.

Once settled at our campsite, there will be time to relax and get to know your fellow travellers.

Monday 20–Monday 27 September – Through the heart of Spain

Our route heads south through the varied scenery of northern and central Spain, combining trails, scenic roads and rural communities as we travel towards Andalucía.

The planned journey includes the distinctive landscapes of the Bardenas Reales and several natural parks, subject to local access and conditions.

During this part of the tour, we take some  time to enjoy the local culture and cuisine, explore independently or unwind at the campsites.

Tuesday 28 September – Finish in Granada

We conclude our journey in Granada and enjoy our final evening together.

The campsite stay on the night of 28 September is included.

Wednesday 29 September – Independent travel home

The return journey is not escorted. Ferry crossings are not included.

Ferry arrangements

The suggested crossings are Portsmouth to Santander on 17–19 September 2027, returning from Bilbao to Portsmouth at 13:00 on 2 October 2027.

Ferries can be booked directly at Brittany Ferries. Please confirm sailing times, cabin requirements and the arrival date in Portsmouth before booking.

I am happy to assist with ferry arrangements. Please use the contact form below if you need help.

Your guide

The tour will be led by Adam, a professional 4×4 guide and instructor who has explored Spain for many years. Adam speaks English, French and Spanish.

Campsites and flexibility

Ten nights of campsite fees are included, from 19 September to 28 September 2027 inclusive.

If you would like to extend your stay in Andalucía or travel onwards after the tour, you are welcome to make alternative arrangements.

This is an outline itinerary and may be adjusted to accommodate weather, trail conditions and local access restrictions.

Booking and payment

A 30% deposit is required to secure your booking. Deposits are non-refundable, subject to our booking terms and your statutory rights.

Please ensure you have suitable travel insurance in place at the time of booking, including cover for cancellation, curtailment and the activities involved.

The remaining balance is due on or before 21 July 2027. Bookings made on or after this date require payment in full.

Choose either full payment or a 30% deposit. One ticket reserves one vehicle place, including the driver and one passenger/co-driver.

Additional passengers cost £695 each. Please contact us to add them to your booking; these will be invoiced separately.

Why choose Off Road Adventure Travel?

I specialise in small-group 4×4 tag-along tours, offering a friendly experience with guidance suited to different levels of driving ability.

Group sizes are:

• UK: up to five customer vehicles, plus the guide.
• Europe: up to four customer vehicles, plus the guide. Additional guides are available for larger groups.
• Albania: up to eight customer vehicles, accompanied by me and a local Albanian guide.

Smaller groups allow a more personal experience and help everyone feel included throughout the adventure.

I also offer bespoke tours, with dates and itineraries arranged to suit you.

Find more UK and overseas tours

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to bring my own 4×4?

Yes. This is a guided, self-drive tour, with each client driving their own suitable 4×4. Vehicle hire is not included. If you are unsure whether your vehicle is suitable, please contact me before booking.

Where does the tour start and finish?

The tour starts in Santander on Sunday 19 September 2027 and finishes in Granada on Monday 27 September 2027, with our final campsite stay included that evening.

Are ferry crossings included?

No. Ferry crossings are booked separately and are not included in the tour price.

The suggested outbound crossing departs Portsmouth on Friday 17 September, arriving in Santander on Sunday 19 September 2027.

The suggested return crossing departs Bilbao at 13:00 on Saturday 2 October 2027, sailing to Portsmouth. Please confirm sailing times and availability directly with Brittany Ferries before booking.

How many nights of camping are included?

The tour includes ten nights of campsite fees, covering 19–28 September 2027 inclusive. Accommodation during your return journey is not included.

Does the tour include rest days?

Yes. The itinerary includes two rest days, allowing time to explore independently, enjoy local culture and cuisine, or relax at the campsite. One in Albarracin and one in the mountains near Cazorla.

Is the return drive to Bilbao guided?

No. The guided tour finishes in Granada. The itinerary allows 3 days to travel 520 miles to Bilbao Port if taking the ferry home.

This is a long driving day, so plan your itinerary and regular breaks. Allow sufficient time to meet the ferry operator’s check-in requirements for the 13:00 sailing on 2 October, or travel through France to the UK

Can I extend my stay in Spain?

Yes. You are welcome to stay longer in Andalucía or continue travelling after the tour. Please arrange your accommodation and ferry crossings to suit your onward plans. I would suggest taking an extra day to two to explore Granada, Seville or the nearby coast.

Who leads the tour?

The tour is led by Adam, a professional 4×4 guide and instructor who has explored Spain for many years. Adam speaks English, French and Spanish.