Oviedo to Blois Road Trip: Ultimate Guide to Scenic Stops

Driving from Oviedo to Blois is a 1,100 km adventure that crosses the Cantabrian Mountains, the French Massif Central, and the Loire Valley. The route includes diverse landscapes from green Asturias to sun-drenched plateaus.

A little-known fact: the A-66 highway in Spain passes near the medieval town of Benavente, which was a crucial stop on the Via de la Plata Roman road. This ancient path linked the silver mines of the south to the north.

If you're wondering how long to drive Oviedo to Blois, the direct route via autovías takes about 11-12 hours without stops. But why rush? Fuel costs, tolls, and hidden gems make it worth stretching over two days.

Our guide answers is it worth driving Oviedo to Blois with a resounding yes. You'll pass through the Picos de Europa National Park, the historic city of Burgos, and the wine regions of Ribera del Duero before crossing into France near Bordeaux.

To truly enjoy the trip, follow our tips on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. This approach transforms a simple highway drive into a curated cultural experience.

Below is a quick overview of the route logistics and estimated costs:

Fuel costs vary significantly between Spain and France. As of May 2025, average diesel prices in Spain are around €1.40/L, while in France they are €1.65/L. For a petrol car, expect €1.55/L in Spain and €1.80/L in France.

• Total fuel cost estimate for 1,100 km: approximately €120-€180 depending on vehicle efficiency.
• Toll costs: Spanish highways A-66 and A-1 are largely toll-free, but French autoroutes from Bordeaux to Blois cost about €60-€70 for a car.
• Best fuel stops: Fill up before crossing the border in Spain (last big station at Irun/Hendaye) and again after Tours if needed.

Currency is straightforward: Euro in both Spain and France. Credit cards accepted widely, but carry some cash for rural toll payments (some older machines only take coins).

Budget tip: combine fuel stops with sightseeing—plan to refuel at towns like Burgos, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, or Tours, which have competitive prices near hypermarkets.

Both Spain and France have excellent road infrastructure with well-lit highways and emergency phones every 2 km. Spanish A-66 has speed limits of 120 km/h, French A-10 has 130 km/h (110 in rain).

• Safety tips: always carry a reflective vest and warning triangle (mandatory in both countries). In France, a breathalyzer kit is advised.
• Rest zones: every 30-40 km in Spain, every 20 km in France. Recommended stops: Burgos (after 3h), Bordeaux (after 7h), Tours (after 10h).
• Fatigue management: plan to stop every 2 hours for 15 minutes. Use apps like Wayro to find quiet rest areas with picnic tables.

Family suitability is high: the route passes two major theme parks (Puy du Fou near Les Herbiers, and Futuroscope near Poitiers) just off the A-10. Kids will enjoy the châteaux with interactive tours.

Pet-friendly framework: many rest stops have designated pet areas. In France, dogs are allowed in most hotels and some châteaux gardens. Bring a leash and water bowl.

Hidden off-route spots: the medieval village of Santillana del Mar (30 min detour from A-67), the walled town of Saint-Malo (1h detour from A-10), and the troglodyte caves of Doué-la-Fontaine near Saumur (30 min detour).

The drive begins in the Cantabrian Mountains, where the Picos de Europa massif offers dramatic limestone peaks visible from the A-66. For a detour, take exit 166 near Cangas de Onís to see the Covadonga Lakes (10 km off route).

• Key natural attractions: Picos de Europa (Spain), Basque Coast (France), Massif Central (France).
• UNESCO sites: Covadonga Sanctuary (part of Picos), Burgos Cathedral, Santiago de Compostela pilgrim routes, Bordeaux historic center, Loire Valley châteaux.
• Local commerce highlights: Asturian cheese markets (Cabrales), Burgos morcilla (blood sausage), Bordeaux wine châteaux, Loire goat cheese.

Climatic conditions vary: Asturias is cool and rainy (avg 18°C summer, 8°C winter); the French Atlantic coast is milder; the Loire Valley enjoys a temperate climate with hot summers (up to 30°C).

Route aesthetics are spectacular in spring (April-May) when the meadows are green and flowers bloom, or in autumn (October) for golden foliage. Summer offers long daylight hours for extended driving.