Family road trip from Bilbao to Saint-Malo offers a mix of adventure and comfort
A family set out on a three-week road trip from Bilbao in northwest Spain to Saint-Malo in Brittany, northwest France, combining home swaps and upscale camping to accommodate their children. The journey revisited a classic route once traveled by the parent in their youth, adapting it for family travel with young kids.
The trip began with a two-night ferry crossing from Portsmouth to Bilbao aboard Brittany Ferries’ Galicia. The family enjoyed onboard amenities including the first-class Commodore lounge, which offers an all-inclusive buffet and drinks, providing a restful start to the holiday.
Arriving in Bilbao during the city’s Aste Nagusia festival, the family explored the Guggenheim Museum and the lively Plaza Nueva, experiencing local Basque culture and cuisine. Their first accommodation was a home swap in Berastegi, a small hamlet near San Sebastián, arranged through the Home Exchange platform. This approach to lodging allowed the family to save money and discover less touristy locations.
From Berastegi, the family visited Pamplona, enjoying hot chocolate at Café Iruña and learning about the running of the bulls. They also spent time in San Sebastián, sampling local dishes and visiting family-friendly attractions like the aquarium and Monte Igueldo amusement park.
Continuing north, they traveled through the French Basque coast to Arcachon, staying at a Huttopia campsite. Their accommodation was a luxury “évasion” chalet, offering modern comforts while immersed in nature. Highlights included climbing the Dune du Pilat and enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Next, the family moved to the Île de Noirmoutier, staying in a Huttopia wood and canvas tent near the water’s edge. The setting provided a peaceful environment with easy access to the village and local restaurants.
The final leg of the trip was in Saint-Malo, where they stayed in another home exchange. The port city offered charm, good food, and a unique coastal pool. The family also visited Cancale, where the children tried oysters and mussels for the first time, marking memorable culinary experiences.
Why this matters
This trip demonstrates how families with young children can successfully combine adventure and comfort on extended road trips. By mixing home swaps and quality camping, parents can manage costs while providing enriching experiences for their children. The journey also highlights the value of flexible travel plans that accommodate the needs and preferences of all family members.
Key developments
- Use of home swapping to reduce accommodation costs and discover unique locations.
- Selection of family-friendly activities and dining options to engage children.
- Inclusion of comfortable camping options to balance outdoor experiences with convenience.
- Traveling via ferry with access to premium lounges to enhance the journey’s comfort.
Background
The parent had previously traveled this route in their 20s, camping and exploring France with a partner. This family trip revisited the route with adaptations for children, reflecting changes in travel style and priorities over time.
What to watch
- Growing popularity of home exchange platforms as a cost-effective accommodation option for families.
- Increasing demand for nature-based and luxury camping experiences that appeal to families.
- Potential for combining cultural festivals and outdoor activities to create engaging family holidays.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
