The strait crossing went very well. With FRS, about a 1-hour crossing, the staff was pleasant and comfortable. Van Break had briefed us well on how everything would work and there was no stress about anything, everything was prepared and we knew exactly how everything was going to go, and it all worked out just as Van Break had told us.

In our opinion, the advantage of leaving in a van in Morocco is the freedom of movement, being able to spend as much time as you want, wherever you want. The possibility of setting up in heavenly spots and enjoying an aperitif overlooking the ocean with the sound of the waves in the background, spending a peaceful night in a palm grove or taking a siesta in the desert with a breathtaking view of the dunes. You can be as close as possible to nature and enjoy it to the full, while still having access to the comforts of a shower, kitchen and bed.

Contrary to what we’d read on certain forums, or seen on certain YouTube videos, we haven’t had the slightest bad experience. We spent almost all our nights in free, beautiful places. Only 2 campsites for one night in Marrakech and one night in Fez. The campsites were very comfortable. And one night a military patrol made us change places because we were on an old disused campsite, but they were all the more pleasant by telling us “My friend, you can’t stay there, you can go to a parking lot just above, have a nice evening”.
Finding water was very easy too, we didn’t have the slightest difficulty, we always had a spot on our route, most of the time free, and occasionally we filled up for the equivalent of one euro.

Renting with Van Break was simple, quick and efficient. From the very first contact with Aurélien, everything went very quickly, and the exchanges were clear and pleasant. I knew right away that we were in good hands, and from start to finish they were top-notch. Olivier checked us in and prepared us for the ferry crossing, taking care of all the administrative aspects. Everything was very clear, and we were off to a magical vacation thanks to Van Break.

As for safety in Morocco, we didn’t feel the least bit unsafe during our entire stay. Not even in the medinas in the evening, despite the warnings on certain forums or guidebooks, especially in the medina of Casablanca, which is supposedly a medina where you shouldn’t hang around too much in the evening. We even got a little lost at one point, and two women helped us find our way back. You can leave with peace of mind, feeling much safer here than in some French cities.

Tarifa’s specialty is, of course, bluefin tuna, which is caught directly opposite Tarifa in the Strait of Gibraltar, but also in the villages of Barbate, Zahara de los atunes and Conil de la Frontera on the Atlantic coast towards Cadiz. This traditional, ancestral and unique fishery, known as Almadraba, begins in May and lasts for a limited time during the spring, when the tuna migrates to the Mediterranean, its breeding ground.

There are many typical tuna recipes, such as tuna tartare, tuna tataki, tuna with tomato and onion sauce, tuna a la plancha, etc. This is a real delicacy and one of the best places in Europe to enjoy this magnificent fish. Another very typical recipe is Tuna Mojama, to be enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil and almonds, a tasty marvel. Made from dried tuna, it’s quite dry with a pronounced taste, but definitely worth discovering.

Restaurant: la Garrocha. gastrobar

La conservera de tarifa is another not-to-be-missed place to buy canned tuna.

Where to park: public parking lot, which is the closest to the city center.

Thanks to its geographical location, clinging to a rock in the middle of the ocean on the western side of the Iberian Peninsula, Cadiz is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood, with a wide range of specialties. A typical specialty is the “tortilla de camarones”, a kind of fine, crunchy doughnut made with flour, onions, parsley and small Cadiz shrimps. It’s a truly unique, rich dish, usually served as an appetizer; not to be missed on your visit to Cadiz, also known as “Little Havana”.

Of course, there are many other specialties in Cadiz. Take a stroll through the historic center and near the covered market to discover the menus of typical Spanish restaurants. The market in Cadiz is magnificent, so take the opportunity to discover the wealth of local fishing and make a few purchases to fill the fridge in your converted van.

Restaurant : Taberna Casa Manteca

Where to park: Santa Catalina parking lot at the end of the peninsula

Tavira is one of the first towns you come to after crossing the border into Spain on your way to Sagres in the Algarve. It’s the perfect gastronomic stop-off for sampling local specialities and discovering the seafood of southern Portugal: crabs, periwinkles, whelks, spider crabs, oysters, shrimps…. Tavira is located on a lagoon directly overlooking the ocean, and has a renowned fishing industry.

A typical dish is white fish soup with rice, tomatoes, chilli and lots of parsley, more commonly known as “el arroz de pescado a algarvia”. It’s a dish full of flavor, piping hot and perfect for regaining your strength before setting off again to discover this superb Algarve region with your converted van.

Restaurants :

. Jao Belhi, a small restaurant on the banks of the Gilao River.

. Agua Salgada Marisqueira, assorted seafood to eat in or take away.

Where to park :

Tavira, Rua Beatriz Costa. Quiet parking

Parking opposite the Agua Salada restaurant

Santa Luzia is a small fishing village about 5kms west of Tavira, in the Algarve. It’s a must-see on your roadtrip in a converted van. The village’s specialty is fishing and cooking octopus. The fishermen use vases placed at the bottom of the sea to trap the octopus and bring it aboard their boats. The village is truly authentic, with its riverside promenade and nearby anchor cemetery. Have fun finding all the octopus statues in the alleyways, and whoever wins will be treated to a pasteis de nata in one of the local cafés.

Of course, we recommend the local specialty, Santa Luzia’s octopus leg. It’s a typical dish and this is of course the ideal place to enjoy this delicious dish.

Restaurant :
Zurrata, a beautiful family establishment with a fireplace, Bernardo the son takes the orders and his mother is in the kitchen. Very pretty restaurant on a cobbled square.

Where to park:
Just outside Santa Luzia, up the river, there’s a parking lot for motorhomes.

The Alvor lagoon is an exceptional natural site located between Lagos and Portimao, and a new gastronomic stopover not to be missed during your roadtrip in Portugal. This little paradise is ideal for hiking, biking and lounging to the rhythm of the tides on the basin. With your van in tow, you’ll be able to melt into this lush natural setting, and relax guaranteed.

On the lagoon you’ll find small oyster farms, including this secret address for our VanBreak customers: Ostralgarve, LDA, Viveiros de Ostros. You’ll be able to buy your oysters direct from this small producer for €5 / kilo. There are two sizes of oysters, small and large. We recommend small oysters for the low season, i.e. from November to March, for the best quality. For lemons, simply pick one or two from the tree at the entrance to this establishment.

Don’t hesitate to walk along the small stone dyke to reach the beach, which is very quiet with fine sand and guaranteed peace and quiet. This little beach is the ideal place for a good siesta after tasting your fresh oysters.

Oyster farmers: Ostralgarve, LDA, Viveiros de Ostros.

Where to park :
in the parking lot in front of the establishment, close to the basin (it’s possible to sleep on site).

Longueira is a typical Portuguese inland village, located south of Vila Nova de Milfontes, some ten kilometers from the Atlantic coast. It’s a great opportunity to get off the beaten track and find yourself in a small village in the middle of the countryside.

For this gourmet stopover, we recommend the O Josué restaurant, which has a very simple setting, but boasts an extremely varied seafood and fish menu. The speciality is sea bass with potatoes, sweet potatoes, lemons and tomatoes – a delight. The sea bass is cooked a la plancha, with garlic, olive oil and lemons. This is also an opportunity to enjoy shellfish as an appetizer with a local white wine (amêijoas).

Restaurant : O Josué

Where to park: parking opposite the O Josué restaurant or on the outskirts of the village.

Visit the famous Alhambra Palace (remember to book the visit here: book here). It is preferable to take a whole day to fully enjoy the place. Go down via the Paseo de los Tristes beneath the Alhambra: the walk is really worth it! End the day in the old town of Granada, the Albaicin, to enjoy a view of the palace at sunset and the many viewpoints of the city such as the Mirador de San Nicolas. 

Take a relaxing break in the Arabian baths of Granada, where you will be served tea in a warm and timeless atmosphere. Then enjoy the numerous tapas bars in the city. The custom in Granada is that you get a free tapas with every drink you buy!

Wander through the white villages of the Alpujarras Mountains such as Lajaron, Pampaneira or Capileira. Located between the Sierra Nevada National Park and the sea, these charming villages remind us of the Arab influence of the region and the typical architecture of the Alhambra!

Explore the Gorafe Desert and its multicolored landscapes and discover its megalithic vestiges counting not less than 240 dolmens. A place to discover by bike, by 4×4 (excursions proposed on the spot) or on foot for a breathtaking walk!

Go hiking in the stunning Sierra Nevada Natural Park or take a break in its ski resort from where you will have a view of the sea from the top of the slopes!

The traffic in the city of Granada is complicated, so we recommend you find a parking lot outside the city to easily access the historic center by foot.

The Alto de Viñuelas Campsite offers a breathtaking view of the Sierra Nevada, only 20 minutes from Granada. The parking lot at the entrance of the Alhambra, which will allow you to be on the site of the visit upon awakening, beware it is not free.

These “night spots” on Park4Night application are ideal for a quiet night near Granada:

Option 1

Option 2

The Camino de Bácor esplanade to wake up with a great view over the Gorafe Desert.

If you are exploring the white villages of the Alpujarra, the parking lot at the entrance of the village of Bubion on the left next to the restaurant El Teide will offer you a great view over the valley while enjoying the sunset!

In the city center, many points of interest and monuments are unmissable. Visit the Cathedral of Seville, the largest gothic cathedral in the world, classified as a world heritage site by UNESCO! Climb the incredible 104m high Giralda Tower which offers an incredible view on the city and the surrounding landscapes. Finally, a visit to the Alcazar is a must if you are a fan of Games of Thrones, many scenes were shot there. Don’t forget to reserve tickets for these visits: book here.

An original trip? Rent bicycles and take a ride along the Rio Guadalquivir, whose banks come alive with flamenco and street music at nightfall. During your walk, take the opportunity to stop at the wonderful Maria Luisa Park.  

The Plaza de España is another must-see in the city, one of the most beautiful squares in Andalusia! Visit the Casa de Pilatos Palace, dating from the 16th century, a true architectural gem. Finally, don’t miss the “Metropol Parasol” in the Plaza de la Encarnacion, nicknamed “the mushrooms” by the Sevillians: a contemporary structure in the heart of the traditional city.

End the day by experiencing a Flamenco show in a tablao (flamenco bar), you are in the city of origin of this bewitching dance!

The Villsom Camping offers quiet and shady places only 30 minutes from the historical center by bus ( bus stop next to the camping).

The parking lots in the city center are still noisy and often very small. The best thing to do is to leave the city a bit and spend the night at Alcala de Guadaira, only 20 minutes by car from the city center, to enjoy the peace and quiet and the view of the ruins of the old castle of the village. The motorhome area of the port of Gelves along the Guadalquivir, equipped with washing machines and other services, on the banks of the Guadalquivir! The guard will welcome you 24 hours a day for a fee of 15€/night.

The following nightspot will also be ideal to spend a night in peace not far from the city center: La Rinconada .

Cádiz is a true treasure, it is the oldest city in Europe where flamenco, Jerez wine, toro bravo and Andalusian horses thrive in its beautiful province. Visit the Cathedral of Cádiz which is beautiful from the outside with its golden dome, and you can climb one of its towers to contemplate the thousand-year-old city. There is also the Tavira tower and its museum, the highest in Cádiz, which offers you a great view. Take a walk along the city walls, discover the Genovés Park with its waterfall and the gardens of the Alameda Apodaca Park, swim in the fresh water of the Caleta beach. You can visit the museum of Cadiz where there is an impressive maquette of the city. At noon, have lunch at the central market with some tapas and fresh seafood to recharge your batteries.

To the south of Cadiz, we recommend spending a day at the nautical port of Sancti Petri, a unique little fishing village, a natural paradise at the entrance of the tides. Possibility of a kayak trip with our partner Sancti Petri kayak but also a boat trip to see the Fort of Sancti Petri, lost in the middle of the waters. La Casa de Farero, a good fish place to eat.

In the north of Cadiz, Sanlucar de Barrameda is a very pretty city with the possibility of visiting in 4×4 the National Park of Doñana known for its pink flaments.

To sleep in the center of Cadiz, the best place is the Parking Campo de las Balas at the end of the peninsula or the Parking San Fernando. But the easiest way is to go to the Playa Las Dunas campsite in Puerto Santa Maria (30 min from the historical center of Cadiz). Sanlucar de Barrameda, Camino de la Reyerta: private parking area at 50m from the beach. Sanlucar de Barrameda, 11 Calle Playa de Zahara, to enjoy the city and beach nearby.

This mythical route of the so-called “white villages” is located between Cadiz and Malaga, it crosses the gorgeous Natural Park of the Sierra de Grazalema. This region is truly ideal to be discovered in a van. The province of Cadiz is composed of 19 white villages such as Arcos de la Frontera, Grazalema, El Gastor, Setenil de las Bodegas, Ubrique… This road is perfect to discover another facet of Andalusia, 100% authentic and natural. You will also have the opportunity to taste artisanal cheeses, rich local dishes (las migas), the wine of Ronda, and much more… a unique gastronomy of this region. You will enjoy beautiful hikes to digest.

Algotocin parking lot, A-369. Parking Zahara, CA 9104 in front of the restaurant Al Lago.  Parking Zahara de la Sierra, 7 Avenida Andalucia. Parking Cueva del Gato, 1 Partida Dehesilla.

Camping San Juan, Jubrique, 15 Diseminado Higueron, in the middle of nature by a river.

The beautiful Costa de la Luz runs from Huelva to Tarifa and is made up of small, unusual and less well-known villages. Conil de la Frontera is a pleasant white village and very touristy in the summer, it is the perfect place to taste the local tuna specialties. Known especially for its white sandy beaches: playa de los bateles in front of the town, calas de Roche, Playa Fuente del Gallo.

On the coast towards Tarifa you will find the mythical surf spot El Palmar with its cool “California-like” atmosphere, also known as “Cadizfornia“.  Perfect to spend a day and take a surf lesson with our partner 9 Pies Surf School. With your board under your arm, you will feel as strong as Kelly Slater! To go for a horseback ride you should go to the hipic center in Zahora.

Caños de Meca is an old hippie village located between Conil de la Frontera and Barbate. It’s a perfect place to spend a day, walk towards the lighthouse of Trafalgar, don’t forget your mask and snorkel to enjoy a swim in its turquoise waters. In the summer you can go to the bar-restaurant La Jaima (parking across the street) and sip an iced Mojito under a huge Berber yurt with a magical view of the sea.  In the direction of Barbate, it is possible to make a beautiful hike in the natural park of La Breña along the cliffs that can reach up to 100m high. El Palomar de la Breña, a secret place to discover… unique and historical site.

In Conil de la Frontera, the lighthouse of Cabo Roche. Attention it is forbidden to sleep on the coast in El Palmar, prefer the camping El Palmar at 200m from the beach. Caños de Meca: Camping Pinar San José, parking at the entrance on the right of the village in the direction of Barbate. Free parking near Ermita de San Ambrosio in the countryside.

Tarifa, a city full of history and surprising because of its location just 13 miles away from the Moroccan coast, is the meeting point between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean. It is very pleasant to walk in its narrow streets, to discover its local market, the small squares and of course to go shopping. You can visit the castle of Guzman el Bueno which offers a beautiful view of the port and reach the Isla Paloma by taking the dike. The breakfasts at Surla and Café Azul are delicious. There are many good restaurants: El Silo 19 (tapas), Chilimosa (vegetarian), Souk (Moroccan), El Francès (tapas), La Burla (Italian/tapas),…. Night life is also very lively, enjoy it!

Near Tarifa, in Bolonia, you can visit the archeological site of Baleo Claudia while enjoying an idyllic environment with one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain.

Tarifa is also the European kitesurfing Mecca where you can practice on the beaches of Los Lances and Valdevaqeros. If you want to take lessons, check out our partner Freeride, they speak French. Horseback riding, diving, mountain biking, hiking, yoga, there are many activities possible and of course enjoy the huge beaches of Tarifa.

Camping Rio Jara, camping Torre de la Pena. Parking chiringuito Volare on the beach of Valdevaqueros (to be preferred in the off season), parking near the beach Punta Paloma, parking at the soccer stadium at the entrance of tarifa, parking at the north entrance of tarifa (near Lidl), parking near the beach Urbanizacion la Marina 30.

Possibility to sleep in the equestrian center of Elisa in the countryside (20 minutes from Tarifa) in exchange for a 1 hour equestrian activity (between 25 – 35€ depending on the season). Immerse yourself in the heart of the Andalusian countryside in Tahivilla.

Contact Elisa : 00 33 6 85 95 04 85. Elisa will be able to give you good advice on other activities in the area.

Stroll through the narrow streets of this fortified city and stop at the Mirador de Ronda, where you can enjoy a 360° view over the valley. Do not miss the majestic New Bridge, an iconic place in the city that links the old town to the new. Stop at the Casa del Jamón to taste delicious cured meats.

Explore the Wine Route of Andalusia. Visit one or more Bodegas in the surroundings of Ronda, and enjoy a food and wine tasting with a view of the colorful valleys at the end of your visit. Our favorite: Bodega Joaquin Fernandez (ecological production and breathtaking views).

Take a walk through the village of Setenil de las Bodegas, north of Ronda, built into the rock, one of the most original white villages in Andalusia! Stop for a drink in Calle Cuevas del Sol! If you are traveling with your children, a stop at the turquoise village where the Smurfs movie was filmed is a must, direction Juzcar!

Make a stopover at the Ruins of Acinipo. This archeological site, 20km from the city, was once the capital of the region and overlooks the magnificent mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema.

The camper van area in Camping El Sur (Area de Autocaravanas Ronda), 2.5 km from the city, is ideal and managed by lovers of the nomad lifestyle. The parking lot of the Acinipo Ruins, quiet and not very crowded, is the ideal nightspot for waking up in the middle of nature, above the mountains, and having a front row seat to visit the ruins.

The parking lot in the middle of nature, 10 minutes away from the city center on the A-366 road towards El Burgo.

The parking lot in the center of Arriate where you can sleep near the Bodegas road but also at the beginning of the hike on the Sendero Arroyo de la Ventilla ( Be careful, it is not accessible on Saturdays from 8am to 3pm in order to give free space for the market).

Venture into the sensational Andalusian path known mainly for its breathtaking footbridge: The Caminito del Rey. Perched above the Guadalhorce River, this trail has become a real attraction (via-ferrata) not to be missed if you are in the area (remember to book here). Walking around El Chorro lake, many maintained trails are accessible to everyone and are punctuated with spectacular viewpoints. There are also many bike trails around the lake and even in the surrounding area.

With family, friends or lovers, take advantage of the many water activities offered around the lake: pedal boats, canoeing or even beaches for a refreshing swim. Rather adventurous? Don’t hesitate to take a paragliding jump or a climbing tour. Strong sensations guaranteed!

Visit the fascinating ruins of Bobastros, an ancient city of the 9th century carved in the rock on the heights of the Mesa de Villaverde. During the visit we will discover many cellars, the most important of that time in Malaga! Finally, if you are a history buff, the prehistoric cave of Ardales, 10 minutes from Lake El Chorro, will fascinate you. There is a 1.5 hour tour adapted to all visitors. More information here.

You won’t be disappointed at the Casa la Paz camper van area where the owners will give you tips on the best deals in the area! You will have access to the services of the campsite.

The public parking lot on the shores of Lake El Chrorro, where you will have access to wifi. The esplanade near the viewpoint El Sillon del Rey facing one of the lakes of the Embalse de Guadhalorce is an ideal spot to spend the night in quietness and wake up at the water’s edge.

This wild parking lot is not easy to get to (winding road) but it guarantees you a breathtaking view of the Guadalhorce valley!

Full of history, Malaga is the most emblematic city of the Costa del Sol. A multitude of activities and explorations are possible, depending on the desires of each person. Stroll through the narrow streets around the shopping malls where the Spanish way of life is in full swing at all hours!  Taste tapas and typical dishes at La Pecha Taberna. Climb to the top of the Alcazaba (palace-fortress on the side of the Gibralfaro mountain) to enjoy the 360° view of the Málaga valley and the sea on both sides. Have a drink or dinner on the terraces of the Batik Restaurant in front of the Alcazaba at night, the latter is sumptuously illuminated! Relax in the Arab baths of the city and enjoy a massage and tea in the different pools, zen atmosphere guaranteed! Think about booking here.

Stroll through the streets of the artistic district of Soho where many artists have painted the walls. The new “place to be” in Malaga for a drink! Head to La Fabrica if you’re a fan of good beers.

Enjoy the famous Espetos (skewers of sardines grilled with barbeucue) on the beach in the Pedregalejjo neighborhood. Enjoy fresh, homemade local dishes in front of Puerto el Candado at the Taberna del puerto.

Enjoy the city’s artistic legacy and visit the magnificent Picasso Museum, which offers a different collection of the artist’s work than what we are used to seeing, as well as very original temporary exhibitions. The Carmen Thyssen museum is also a must if you want to discover the collections of Spanish paintings from the 19th century.

Not far from the city center, visit the famous white villages of Andalusia. The most famous in the area are Mijas Pueblo and Frigiliana: timeless places that immerse you in the Andalusian culture!

Go hiking in the natural park of Torcal d’Antequerra, 1 hour from the city center. Closer to the city, the Parc de los Montes will also allow you to make beautiful hikes accessible to all levels in the heart of the forest!

The Parking Peñón del Cuervo (Calle Almeria, 55) facing the sea and a few minutes walk from the beach. Ideal for one or more nights, but beware that it is very crowded, so think about anticipating your arrival. The parking lot in front of the sea of the Area Málaga Beach in Cala del Moral, only 10 minutes from downtown Málaga and ideally located to take the road to Nerja or Frigiliana.

The Torremolinos campsite, where you will find quiet and shady pitches at affordable prices, so that you can enjoy the various facilities. Perfectly located near the beach and restaurants as well as the train stop that takes you to the center of Málaga in 20 minutes.

On the road to Torcal d’Antequerra, this parking lot offers a fabulous view over the mountains and the sea in the background. Finally, this parking lot is the last spot allowed before entering the Natural Park, no need to say that the view is also breathtaking.

If you want to visit Mijas Pueblo, be sure to spend the night at this parking lot, located on the road to get there. You will enjoy a view of the white village as well as the sea.