Caravanning is in vogue and more and more travellers are discovering the freedom of moving around in a mobile home and deciding their next destination on the go. If you haven't tried this way of travelling yet, you can go to an establishment of motorhome rental in Madrid where, in addition to renting a motorhome or campervan, they will give you the most basic advice on how to get around with ease with this type of vehicle.
Once you've got your motorhome, here's a quick guide to everything you need to know and five perfect routes for a weekend away.
What to consider when renting a motorhome
- Driving licence: With a B licence you can drive motorhomes up to 3,500 kg gross vehicle weight (GVW). Check the technical data sheet to avoid surprises.
- Insurance and excess: Demand a fully comprehensive policy with a moderate excess (usually around €600). Check that it covers own damage, glass and theft.
- Bail and vehicle condition: Take photos on collection, check levels (gas, water, fuel) and note any damage to ensure full refund of the deposit.
- Interior layout: Observe actual number of seats for travel and sleeping, size of refrigerator, presence of heating and type of bathroom.
- Overnight stay regulations: Parking is not camping. Do not take awnings or furniture out of the vehicle. and respects the 48-hour limit that applies to most public areas.
Weekend routes from Madrid
From Madrid as a point of origin you can make many routes with a motorhome; but if you want to enjoy a weekend without doing many kilometres we propose 5 routes that you can do and that are all less than 2 hours from Madrid.
1. Segovia and Real Sitio de La Granja (Segovia)
If you want to enjoy a walk through history, Segovia and the Granja de Segovia are a great destination close to Madrid.
- Itinerary: Madrid → Segovia (100 km) → La Granja (12 km) → Sierra de Guadarrama → Madrid. In a weekend you can visit most of the important monuments that we have near the city of Segovia.
- What to see in Segovia city: Aqueduct, Alcázar, Jewish quarter, old city centre and cathedral.
- Things to see in La Granja: Gardens and fountains of La Granja and La Granja Palace.
- A few kilometres away you can also enjoy the Riofrío Palace and its gardens.
- Where to stay overnight: Segovia municipal area and La Granja area, both free of charge.
2. Walls of Ávila and Tiétar Valley (Ávila)
A route where it is cool all year round.
- Itinerary: Madrid → Ávila (112 km) → Arenas de San Pedro (83 km) → Puerto del Pico → Madrid.
- What to see: Illuminated wall, Cathedral, Arenal river pools, Sierra de Gredos.
- Where to stay overnight: Aparkarea Ávila area (full services) and Arenas recreational car park (free).
3. Pueblos Negros and Sigüenza (Guadalajara)
The black villages at the base of the sierra in Guadalajara are a tribute to the material (slate) from which most of the houses in this area have been built.
- Itinerary: Madrid → Sigüenza (135 km) → Tamajón (70 km) → Black Architecture Route → Madrid.
- What to see: Castle-Parador, cathedral and tapas in Sigüenza; Robleluengo and Majaelrayo in the Pueblos Negros.
- Where to stay overnight: Area ASR Sigüenza (10 places) and esplanade of Tamajón (quiet, no services).
4. Mills of Consuegra and Monumental Toledo (Toledo)
A weekend to remember «Don Quixote» and enjoy the medieval surroundings of the city of Toledo.
- Itinerary: Madrid → Consuegra (140 km) → Toledo (65 km) → Madrid.
- What to see: Twelve windmills and Consuegra Castle; historic centre of Toledo (Cathedral, El Tránsito Synagogue, El Valle viewpoint).
- Where to stay overnight: Car park next to the windmills (free) and La Peraleda esplanade in Toledo (unofficial, use tolerated on public holidays).
5. Cuenca and the Serranía (Cuenca)
A surprising natural environment between winding roads and a city with a different charm.
- Itinerary: Madrid → Cuenca (170 km) → Ciudad Encantada (35 km) → Ventano del Diablo → Madrid.
- What to see: Hanging Houses, Museum of Abstract Art, Enchanted City and panoramic views of the mountains.
- Where to stay overnight: Cuenca Auditorium car park (guarded, 11 spaces).
Extra tips for a great weekend
- Book a place in areas that allow it if you are travelling on long weekends or public holidays.
- Filling gas cylinders in Madrid: outside the capital it is usually more expensive and there are fewer charging points.
- Recommended Apps: Park4Night and AreasAc to locate areas and check-in digitally.
- It complies with the 48-hour rule: if you want to extend your trip, change municipality or go camping.
With a full tank of fuel and this road map, all that's left to do is to set off and let the house on wheels take you to discover the incredible natural and cultural heritage that surrounds Madrid. Have a good trip and miles of memories!
