Northern Spain Wine & Coast EV Circuit Road Trip from Madrid

Experience Spain's finest wine regions and dramatic coastlines on this comprehensive 2,200km electric vehicle circuit from Madrid through Castile, Rioja, the Basque Country, and Asturias. With extensive EV charging infrastructure and the convenience of the easyCharging app, sustainable travel has never been more rewarding. From medieval Salamanca to gastronomic San Sebastián, experience Spain's cultural treasures whilst enjoying the quiet comfort and environmental benefits of electric driving.

Wine, Waves, and Electric Adventures

Discover the diversity of Northern Spain on this spectacular electric vehicle circuit that combines world-renowned wine regions with some of Europe’s most dramatic coastlines. This carefully crafted 2,200-kilometre loop from Madrid takes EV drivers through Spain’s most celebrated wine appellations, medieval cities, and rugged Atlantic shores—all whilst enjoying the convenience of modern charging infrastructure and the seamless connectivity of the easyCharging app.

Perfect for wine enthusiasts, coastal lovers, and cultural explorers alike, this route demonstrates that electric travel opens up unprecedented access to Spain’s hidden gems. With the easyCharging network providing access to thousands of charging points across the country, you’ll discover that sustainable travel enhances rather than limits your Spanish adventure.

Route Overview: A Journey Through Spain’s Northern Treasures

Total Distance: Approximately 2,200 kilometres
Duration: 12-16 days recommended
Best Months: May-June, September-October
Terrain: Rolling wine country, mountain passes, and coastal roads

The Complete Circuit:

Madrid → Salamanca → Toro → Ribera del Duero → Rioja → Bilbao → San Sebastián → Santander → Oviedo → León → Valladolid → Madrid

This comprehensive circuit showcases why Northern Spain remains one of Europe’s premier destinations for wine tourism and coastal exploration, offering an perfect blend of world-class vineyards, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and spectacular Atlantic scenery.

Segment 1: Madrid to Salamanca (214 km)

Range-Friendly Segment: Excellent charging infrastructure

Begin your Northern Spanish adventure by departing Madrid’s bustling metropolis for the golden sandstone beauty of Salamanca. This first segment serves as an excellent introduction to Spanish EV travel, with numerous charging options along the A-6 motorway.

Recommended Charging Strategy:

Start with a full charge (100%) in Madrid. Madrid has one of the largest networks of rapid charging stations and EV-friendly parking for electric vehicles in Spain, aimed at both local users and national and international visitors.

Key Charging Stops:

• Madrid: Multiple easyCharging stations in city centres, retail parks, shopping centres
• Ávila (80 km): Reliable charging at Moeve service stations along the A-6
• Salamanca: Arrive with 40-50% charge remaining

Highlights in Salamanca:

Salamanca’s UNESCO World Heritage old town glows golden at sunset, earning it the nickname “La Dorada” (The Golden One). The Plaza Mayor represents one of Spain’s finest baroque squares, whilst the University of Salamanca, founded in 1218, creates an vibrant academic atmosphere. Many hotels now offer secure underground parking with electric car chargers for EV travellers.

Weather Considerations: This inland route can experience temperature extremes. In summer, pre-condition your EV while still plugged in to maintain optimal battery performance. It is wise to always take your 230V charger with you to connect it to a regular socket in case of emergency.

Segment 2: Salamanca to Toro (67 km)

Wine Discovery Segment: Short range, excellent for wine touring

Journey into the Toro wine region, famous for its powerful red wines made from the indigenous Tinta de Toro grape variety. This short segment allows for leisurely wine estate visits without range anxiety.

Charging Strategy:

Depart Salamanca with 80-85% charge for comfortable exploration of the Toro wine region. The shorter distance allows for extended stops at bodegas and scenic viewpoints.

Charging Infrastructure:

• Toro: Several Mobi.E network stations and municipal charging points

Wine Region Discoveries:

Toro produces some of Spain’s most robust red wines from vineyards planted on ancient terraces above the Duero River. Visit Bodegas Fariña or Numanthia for tastings of powerful Tinta de Toro wines. The town’s Collegiate Church of Santa María la Mayor provides stunning views over the surrounding vineyards.

EV Advantage: The quiet operation of electric vehicles makes wine country exploration particularly pleasant, allowing you to hear birds singing in the vineyards and enjoy peaceful countryside drives between bodegas.

Segment 3: Toro to Ribera del Duero Region (120 km)

Premium Wine Route: Moderate charging needs

Enter Spain’s most prestigious red wine region, where Tempranillo grapes create wines that rival the world’s finest. The route takes you through Valladolid towards Aranda de Duero.

Charging Strategy:

This segment requires careful planning for wine touring. Iberdrola España currently has more than 11,000 public charging points, ensuring reliable access throughout Castile and León.

Key Charging Points:

• Valladolid: Multiple fast-charging options including easyCharging partners
• Aranda de Duero: Several charging stations for wine region exploration

Ribera del Duero Highlights:

The Ribera del Duero designation encompasses legendary wineries like Vega Sicilia, Pingus, and Pesquera. The medieval castle of Peñafiel houses the Wine Museum, providing comprehensive education about the region’s viticultural heritage. Book ahead for bodega visits, as many premium estates require reservations.

Battery Management: The rolling hills of Ribera del Duero provide excellent opportunities for regenerative braking. Enable maximum regeneration mode when descending into river valleys where many bodegas are located.

Segment 4: Ribera del Duero to Rioja (200 km)

Legendary Wine Transition: Crossing into Spain’s most famous wine region

Journey from Castile and León into La Rioja, Spain’s most internationally renowned wine region, known for elegant Tempranillo blends and centuries-old winemaking traditions.

Charging Infrastructure:

The route through Burgos provides excellent charging opportunities. Galp and Powerdot have installed fast chargers with up to 200 kW capacity at locations across Spain, including this corridor.

Strategic Charging Stops:

• Burgos: Multiple options including Iberdrola and easyCharging stations
• Haro: Gateway to Rioja Alta with several charging points

Rioja Wine Experiences:

Haro serves as the capital of Rioja Alta, home to legendary bodegas like López de Heredia, CVNE, and Muga. The Barrio de la Estación (Station Quarter) contains numerous century-old wineries within walking distance. Laguardia, perched on a hilltop, offers spectacular vineyard views and underground wine caves.

Seasonal Considerations: Visit during harvest (September-October) for the most dynamic atmosphere, when grape-laden trucks fill the roads and fermentation begins in traditional stone lagares.

Segment 5: Rioja to Bilbao (120 km)

Mountain Transition: From wine country to Basque culture

Transition from wine country to the Basque Country’s distinctive culture and cuisine, with Bilbao serving as the region’s artistic and culinary capital.

Charging Strategy:

The route through the Basque Mountains requires attention to elevation changes. In the north, Pamplona, ​​Bilbao, Oviedo, and Valladolid are well equipped with (fast) chargers.

Charging Infrastructure:

• Vitoria-Gasteiz: Mid-route charging opportunity
• Bilbao: Extensive charging network including city centre options

Bilbao Cultural Highlights:

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao transformed the city into an international cultural destination. The museum’s titanium curves reflect differently throughout the day, creating ever-changing photographic opportunities. Casco Viejo (Old Quarter) offers traditional Basque pintxos bars, whilst the Mercado de la Ribera showcases regional produce.

EV Urban Navigation: Bilbao’s compact city centre makes EV exploration ideal. Many hotels offer electric vehicle charging, and the city’s efficient public transport system complements sustainable travel choices.

Segment 6: Bilbao to San Sebastián (100 km)

Basque Coastal Route: Culinary capital and beaches

Experience the Basque Coast between two of Spain’s most celebrated culinary destinations, with opportunities for beach stops and traditional fishing village exploration.

Charging Infrastructure:

The coastal A-8 motorway provides reliable charging infrastructure. The Cantabrian Highway invites you to travel hundreds of kilometres in an electric car through northern Spain with comprehensive charging coverage.

Charging Points:

• Getxo: Coastal charging with beach access
• San Sebastián: Multiple options in city centre and La Concha beach area

San Sebastián Gastronomy:

San Sebastián boasts more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere except Kyoto. The Parte Vieja (Old Town) contains legendary pintxos bars like Bar Nestor and La Cuchara de San Telmo. Playa de la Concha provides one of Europe’s most beautiful urban beaches, perfect for post-meal walks.

Culinary Planning: Book Michelin-starred restaurants well in advance. Many establishments now offer EV charging for dinner guests, combining sustainable travel with gastronomic excellence.

Segment 7: San Sebastián to Santander (185 km)

Cantabrian Coast: Dramatic cliffs and fishing villages

Follow Cantabria’s spectacular coastline, known for pristine beaches, traditional fishing villages, and exceptional seafood cuisine.

Charging Strategy:

This longer coastal segment requires mid-route charging. Cantabria has launched a network of electric vehicle charging stations to contribute to the development of sustainable mobility in the region.

Key Charging Stops:

• Castro Urdiales: Coastal town with reliable charging
• Laredo: Beach town charging opportunities
• Santander: Multiple city centre and hotel charging options

Cantabrian Discoveries:

Santander’s belle époque architecture reflects its history as a royal summer retreat. The Península de la Magdalena offers palace gardens and sea views, whilst Playa del Sardinero provides sophisticated beach atmosphere. The Cabo de Ajo lighthouse offers dramatic clifftop walks with Atlantic views.

Surf Culture: Cantabria’s beaches around Somo and Loredo attract surfers from across Europe. Many surf schools and beach accommodations now provide EV charging facilities for environmentally conscious visitors.

Segment 8: Santander to Oviedo (185 km)

Asturian Transition: Green landscapes and cider culture

Enter Asturias, known as “Green Spain” for its lush landscapes, traditional cider culture, and pre-Romanesque architecture.

Charging Infrastructure:

Galp and Powerdot installations include fast chargers in Asturias, ensuring reliable access throughout this mountainous region.

Charging Points:

• Torrelavega: Industrial city with multiple charging options
• Cangas de Onís: Gateway to Picos de Europa with charging facilities
• Oviedo: Comprehensive city centre charging network

Asturian Culture:

Oviedo’s pre-Romanesque churches represent UNESCO World Heritage sites unique to Asturias. The Casco Histórico offers traditional sidrerías where cider pouring becomes theatrical performance. Gijón provides sandy beaches and modern cultural attractions.

Regional Cuisine: Asturian fabada (bean stew) and fresh seafood pair excellently with traditional sidra (cider). Many restaurants now accommodate EV travellers with charging facilities.

Segment 9: Oviedo to León (118 km)

Historical Route: Roman heritage and Camino culture

Journey through León, a key stop on the Camino de Santiago with outstanding Gothic architecture and rich Roman heritage.

Charging Strategy:

The route through León provides excellent infrastructure. Iberdrola España plans to install electric vehicle charging stations on the country’s main highways and corridors, including this significant route.

Charging Infrastructure:

• Mieres: Industrial town charging options
• León: Multiple fast-charging stations and hotel charging

León’s Historical Treasures:

León Cathedral features some of Europe’s finest Gothic stained glass windows, creating spectacular light displays throughout the day. The Basílica de San Isidoro contains remarkable Romanesque frescoes, whilst Casa Botines represents Antoni Gaudí’s only work in Castile and León.

Camino Connection: León serves as a major Camino de Santiago stop, creating vibrant international atmosphere with pilgrims from worldwide. Many accommodations cater to modern travellers with EV charging facilities.

Segment 10: León to Valladolid (138 km)

Castilian Heartland: Wine and architecture

Return through Castile and León’s historical heartland, with opportunities to explore additional wine regions and architectural treasures.

Charging Infrastructure:

This segment benefits from extensive charging networks throughout Castile and León. The region’s commitment to sustainable mobility ensures reliable EV access.

Valladolid Highlights:

Valladolid served as Spain’s capital during the early 17th century, leaving architectural legacies including the National Sculpture Museum and Campo Grande park. The nearby Rueda wine region produces excellent white wines from Verdejo grapes.

Segment 11: Valladolid to Madrid (193 km)

Final Return: Completing the circuit

Complete your Northern Spanish circuit returning to Madrid through the Castilian plateau, with abundant charging options ensuring a stress-free conclusion.

Charging Network:

Madrid has one of the largest networks of rapid charging stations in Spain, providing multiple approach options and ensuring convenient arrival preparation.

Seasonal Recommendations

Spring (April-May):

Best for: Mild weather, vineyard budbreak, fewer crowds
EV Advantages: Optimal battery performance, minimal heating/cooling needs
Highlights: Fresh green landscapes, comfortable touring weather

Early Summer (June):

Best for: Long daylight hours, established vineyard growth, warm coastal weather
EV Considerations: Pre-condition vehicles in hot weather
Highlights: Perfect beach weather, outdoor dining, extended sightseeing hours

Early Autumn (September-October):

Best for: Harvest season, stable weather, golden landscapes
EV Benefits: Cooler temperatures improve battery efficiency
Highlights: Wine harvest activities, autumn colours, comfortable walking weather

Winter (November-March):

Best for: Lower accommodation costs, intimate winery experiences
EV Considerations: Plan space in your trip for extra waiting time in cold weather
Highlights: Cosy wine cellars, dramatic Atlantic winter storms, festive atmospheres

Essential EV Equipment and Apps

Must-Have Apps:

1. easyCharging: Primary network with extensive Spanish coverage
2. Electromaps: Comprehensive database with 16,969 charging stations in Spain
3. Iberdrola Public Charging: Major Spanish network access
4. Weather apps: Essential for coastal and mountain route planning

Physical Equipment:

• Type 2 charging cable (standard European connector)
• Emergency 230V charging cable for accommodation use
• easyCharging RFID card for app-free charging access
• Route planning tools: For optimal charging stop placement

Advanced Battery Management Strategies

Wine Country Driving:

• Plan charging around tastings: Combine longer stops with charging needs
• Use eco modes: Preserve range for scenic detours between bodegas
• Schedule around business hours: Many wineries close for siesta, ideal for charging breaks

Coastal Driving:

• Monitor sea level efficiency: Coastal routes typically offer excellent energy consumption
• Salt air considerations: Regular charging port cleaning in coastal areas
• Wind awareness: Strong Atlantic winds can affect energy consumption

Mountain Driving (Picos de Europa, Basque Mountains):

• Maximum regeneration: Utilise mountain descents for energy recovery
• Pre-condition batteries: Optimal temperature before steep climbs
• Conservative range planning: Mountain weather can change rapidly

Urban Driving (Madrid, Bilbao, San Sebastián):

• City centre charging: Many Spanish cities prioritise urban EV infrastructure
• Hotel charging: Often more convenient than hunting for public charging
• Traffic efficiency: EVs excel in stop-and-go urban traffic

Spanish EV Infrastructure: What EV Drivers Need to Know

Charging Network Overview:

Spain contains 16,969 charging stations with rapid expansion ongoing. Barcelona leads in station quantity, while northern regions like Bilbao, Oviedo, and Valladolid maintain excellent coverage.

Payment Systems:

• easyCharging: Universal access across multiple networks
• Credit cards: Increasingly accepted at rapid charging stations
• RFID cards: Various providers offer Spanish-specific access
• Mobile apps: Network-specific applications with real-time availability

Your Electric Spanish Adventure Awaits

This Northern Spain circuit demonstrates that electric vehicle travel opens up rather than limits exploration opportunities. From intimate wine tastings in Rioja to dramatic walks along Cantabrian cliffs, every segment offers unique discoveries enhanced by sustainable travel.

The combination of Spain’s expanding charging infrastructure, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage makes this route ideal for EV drivers seeking adventure, education, and enjoyment. With the easyCharging app providing seamless access to thousands of charging points, your primary concern will be deciding which vineyard, beach, or historical site deserves the longest visit.

Spain’s commitment to sustainable mobility, combined with the country’s extraordinary cultural and natural wealth, creates perfect conditions for memorable electric travel. Whether you’re passionate about wine, fascinated by history, or simply seeking Spain’s most spectacular scenery, this Northern circuit delivers unforgettable experiences powered by clean energy.

Ready to start your electric Spanish adventure? Download the easyCharging app today and discover why EV drivers across Europe are choosing Spain for their most memorable sustainable journeys.