SPANISH STEPS

Back on the road after an unexpected pause in their globetrotting, the Leach family enjoy a leisurely voyage to Spain, en route to Africa KOLE

On 3 November 1893, the Cabo Machichaco, a steamship carrying over 40 tonnes of dynamite, caught fire and exploded in the Spanish port of Santander, destroying many of the surrounding buildings and claiming the lives of hundreds of people.

Thankfully, our own arrival at one of northern Spain's best known cities, aboard the splendid new Brittany Ferries vessel Santoña, was far less dramatic. In fact it was as peaceful as we could have wished for, the sun gently giving life to the impending day, birdsong carried through the air and a warmth that we'd really missed during our recent time back in the UK.

Driving off the ferry, there was a sense of relief at finally being back on the road, the difficulties that had derailed our travel plans for the past few months finally behind us.

We had debated whether to use the ferry, what with the new ships adding a considerable chunk of time to the crossing - it lasts 33 hours, owing to the use of a more eco-friendly fuel - but we eventually decided that being on the boat for two nights was preferable to some long driving days to get through France and back into northern Spain. Actually, far from being an endurance test, our trip was filled with fun and, for the children at least, great excitement.

Not only is there ample entertainment on board for passengers of all ages, but most importantly as far as we are concerned - there's an excellent selection of food across several restaurants.

Sadly, there were no sightings of dolphins in the Bay of Biscay, but with calm waters for the entire voyage, we were all just happy to have arrived in Spain without a rough crossing.

Motorhome memories