We are deciding on routes between Barcelona and San Sebastián. We are trying to decide if we should go via Carcassonne along the French side of the Pyrenees Mountains, or via Zaragoza along the Spanish side of the Pyrenees Mountains. Which route would you recommend?
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
My word it's a lot further to go via France.
We drove Barcelona to San Sebastian in a day in 2004. Well, when I say "we" I mean my Spanish friend who is an ace driver. Stopping for lunch in Zaragoza and also later in Pamplona, the road is extremely good but with high tolls. On the return journey we visited Puente la Reina and spent a night in the wonderful Parador of Olite.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you for the information David, may I ask if you recommend spending the night in Zaragoza, and if you have any sightseeing tips for that city?
Posted by
Wynnewood, PA, USA
275 posts
IMHO, Carcassonne is not worth the effort; while the are many wonderful towns, sites, etc. on the French side of the Pyrenees (Colliure, the villages above Albi, Sete to name a few) if your objective is San Sebastain you may want to stop in Zaragoza & Pamploma en route.
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
Zaragoza (and the province of Aragon in general) are often overlooked by visitors who tend to concentrate on Barcelona - Madrid - Andalucia. The highlight for me (as with Andalucia) is the fabulous Moorish architecture.
Visit Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar, Palacio de la Aljaferia, La Seo del Salvador, La Lonja.
Los Victorinos is the authentic bar rich in bullfighting tradition that is worth a visit for tapas.
http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Restaurant_Review-g187448-d1552505-Reviews-Los_Victorinos-Zaragoza_Province_of_Zaragoza_Aragon.html