 |
|
5 Feb 2008
|
 |
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Essex
Posts: 5
|
|
|
Bilbao to Calias
Hello
My first entry on this site, and indeed my first European tour by motorcycle. To set the scene;
I am hoping to travel from Portsmouth to Bilbao and then take in this northern part of Spain, into France, maybe touch north/west of Italy, into Switzerland, maybe Austria, Germany (Black Forest), up to the Strasbourg, then through Germany to Belgium and finally Calais - Dover ...
Now the planning is in its infancy, and I have allowed 2.5 weeks, thing is I have not as yet reviewed road maps (so any good recommendations would be helpful), nor do I have an idea of how long its likely to take or indeed the miles/km that would need to be covered. Yes I am a novice :0)
Anyways … has anyone got some suggest routes to take, places of interest in terms of natural beauty, historic towns, places to stay that kind of thing. I am aiming to do this in June / July, and would like this to be leisurely and not be under too much pressure to get the miles/km in every day.
Has anyone done similar, any advise from the more seasoned bike traveller would be very helpful and appreciated.
Cheers
Mark
|
5 Feb 2008
|
 |
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: UK/Kent
Posts: 65
|
|
|
Europe
Sounds like a nice trip, i'd have a look at the millau bridge in france, stelvio pass when you hit italy and if you are going germany the nurburgring after the black forest. Maybe visit brugge on your way back to calais. If your using the motorway's in switzerland and austria you'll need a vignette (tax) available at or near the border, most shops etc. I know the swiss one is availabe online before you go if you are that organized. Try and keep of the m-ways and you'll have a great time, and try not to plan to much either accomodation is plentifull. 
|
5 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Essex
Posts: 5
|
|
|
Bilbao to Calias
Cheers for that, I did'nt know about the taxes so thats useful information. In terms of miles/km that would need covering per day what would you estimate. Like I said I wanted this to be relaxing and enjoy the countries visited, but unsure if 2.5 weeks would be sufficient. Anyways cheers for the information.
Regards
Mark
|
5 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Perth West Australia
Posts: 152
|
|
|
Opposite way round - that rings a bell!
Yor trip sounds good.
Im doing the same, only the opposite way round - mostly France down to Monaco then accross to Andorra via Millau bridge down to Malaga then back up through Bilbao. We go in September.
I've planned almost everyday but, who knows it could all change on day one. About 2500 miles all up. Im bringing my Trumpet back from australia just for that so it must be good.
Cant wait! (feel like kid at Christmas - Im 47)
All the best
Steven
Oh - I've posted an extract of one of the videos around Verdun gorges - see Kirk family website
|
6 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: UK/Kent
Posts: 65
|
|
|
Trip
Quote:
Originally Posted by marksmith1708
Cheers for that, I did'nt know about the taxes so thats useful information. In terms of miles/km that would need covering per day what would you estimate. Like I said I wanted this to be relaxing and enjoy the countries visited, but unsure if 2.5 weeks would be sufficient. Anyways cheers for the information.
Regards
Mark
|
Depends on what you want to do, do you want to have days off the bike to see the places you are visiting or just to stop for lunch, you could spend 2 weeks just riding around the french alps stopping for the odd day. I reckon to do the trip you suggest would need mileages of 230 a day on average sometimes more sometimes less. If you want to stop for a few days obviously the mileages go up. I dont like riding more than 250 in a day and ive done roughly what you are suggesting with a couple of days off. Try working out your route on via michelin that will give you a good idea of the distances you plan to cover.
|
6 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tony P
Mark
There is a similar query and answers on the thread "Bilbao to Calais".
.
|
I thought I had read this somewhere else! Boy, have I been confused. 
__________________
Dave
|
6 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Moscow
Posts: 1,117
|
|
|
Seeing double Dave?
LOL
LOL
|
28 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: NYer living in Finland and traveling through Europe
Posts: 64
|
|
|
Traveling more than 300k/per day is too much, in my opinion. when I first began running through Europe, I was planning 400, 500 and even 600k days. And I realized all I was doing was riding to a destination, as opposed to enjoying the places I was in. Now I give myself seven hours to travel 250-300km in a day, with plenty of time to stop and look around, check out anything that interests me and the occasional picnic type lunch (I carry bread/cheese and salami everywhere I travel). It has more than doubled my enjoyment of traveling these beautiful areas. Then again , it's been winter and camping really hasn't been an option yet. Once the camping weather sets in, I suppose limitations on riding won't be necessary as I don't need to worry about making it to a 'destination'.
Good luck on your trip, perhaps I'll see you out on the road. Look for a black Beemer with NY tags!
|
28 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: UK
Posts: 4,343
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by wile e
Traveling more than 300k/per day is too much, in my opinion. when I first began running through Europe, I was planning 400, 500 and even 600k days. And I realized all I was doing was riding to a destination, as opposed to enjoying the places I was in. Now I give myself seven hours to travel 250-300km in a day, with plenty of time to stop and look around, check out anything that interests me and the occasional picnic type lunch (I carry bread/cheese and salami everywhere I travel). It has more than doubled my enjoyment of traveling these beautiful areas. Then again , it's been winter and camping really hasn't been an option yet. Once the camping weather sets in, I suppose limitations on riding won't be necessary as I don't need to worry about making it to a 'destination'.
Good luck on your trip, perhaps I'll see you out on the road. Look for a black Beemer with NY tags!
|
Hi wile e,
You mention on another thread that you have been riding Europe in the winter; how about putting up another thread ( not  !!) telling us what the deal is with this - weather, lack of daylight, accommodation available (a lot of hotels in some countries close out of season) etc etc.
Just a thought,
__________________
Dave
|
28 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Stoke on Trent UK
Posts: 7
|
|
|
I used the Michelin Europe (Tourist and Motoring atlas) during a three month trip of Western Europe. It has a ring binder down its spine so it is very tough.
It was all I needed to navigate.
|
28 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Yorkshire
Posts: 1
|
|
|
Bilbao
I am also planning a trip from Bilbao - Calais Mid june to early july. I am planning on about 20 days hopefully. The ferries booked i just need to plan the route. I have decided to just pick out several places i want to see then work the rest out when i get over there. I want to do about 250 - 300 miles per day but not every single day. I strongly agree that you need to see things and visit places rather than just be on the bike.
My rough route
Bilbao,madrid,Alicante,Barcelona,Paris,Calais
Originally i was supposed to be going with my girlfriend but we split so looks like it may be solo. Unless one of my mates can get the time off.
|
29 Feb 2008
|
|
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Staffordshire. uk
Posts: 766
|
|
|
I'd make sure I didn't miss the Col de la Bonette in the French alps above Nice. If you use the Autoroutes/Autobahns you can knock off a 500 mile day in 12 hours if you put your mind to it and then rest on the ferry. This often gives you an extra day somewhere nice. As a daily mileage I usually plan on 250 miles. This is a nice day out from your campsite or a ride between campsites. If you want to go and explore a city for the day then about 100 miles round trip back to your tent is a nice day. You will find what suits you. A lot depends how long it takes you to get on the road. Some of my bike trips have turned into camping holidays when I find it hard to leave the site before midday. Don't rush, you're on holiday. Have two weeks in Spain and the south of France and enjoy the area you're in. If you're on your own you'll have to talk to the locals and I find this one of the most rewarding parts of travel. So if your a couple or a group of mates don't miss this aspect, make the effort to interact with some locals. It will make your trip. The rest of Europe isn't going anywhere. Leave some for another day.
|
2 Mar 2008
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: NYer living in Finland and traveling through Europe
Posts: 64
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Flyingdoctor
The rest of Europe isn't going anywhere. Leave some for another day.
|
Truer words haven't been written.
|
3 Mar 2008
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: Colchester, UK
Posts: 149
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Flyingdoctor
...If you use the Autoroutes/Autobahns you can knock off a 500 mile day in 12 hours if you put your mind to it ..........
|
About 5 hours surely ? Maybe a bit extra for coffee and fuel  You don't use autobahns for the scenery after all....
__________________
Honda CBR 1100 XX, Yamaha XTZ 660, Harris Special
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
