we are looking to have our first trip to spain with our van. we said we would go to spain as we have family living theire and could pitch up at theire villa. extensive grounds, private pool, and free, bliss. however another relative of ours goes regular and always drives down, they live in an area called mahacca, (i think thats how you spell it). I have had a look at the maps and done an auto route calculation and i think it would be cheaper and a lot less hassle to get the ferry to bilbao or santander. however my relative says its a waste of time as you miss all the scenery through france. problem is he goes for three months and we will only have three weeks, i dont fancy wasting 6 days of my holiday driving theire and back. i would appreciate any comments on both options and any advice that you could give, bearing in mind that my wife will only tow in emergencies so all the driving will be done by me. THANKS.