Any thoughts on driving holidays?

I’m surprised how many of you do drive to Europe and enjoy it! Made me think perhaps I’m the unreasonable one refusing to even consider it.

A couple of alarm bells. First he wants to go to the South of France then tour around. I think it’s possible to underestimate how vast France is. Maybe he wants to get to the south before he starts driving in a leisurely manner. Speaking with friends about our awful drive to the south of France (one overnight stay on the way) most agreed that it was too far, not enough rest - and their OHs had done exactly the same! We hadn’t planned an overnight stay going back - OH ‘just wanted to get home’ but I absolutely refused to do the return journey in one go. I agree about the aches and pains of sitting in a car for hours and I was your age when we went. Secondly you say you won’t be allowed to drive- if you’re not driving will he agree to shorter distances and longer breaks? If not, frankly it’s not safe and I wouldn’t go. So definitely have those practice runs in the UK! Final suggestion is pre-warn him that you might fly back, so if you can’t face the journey back he won’t be offended. And he might enjoy the freedom of a dash back to northern France and up to Yorkshire by himself.

I think it would be a fabulous holiday.We are in our seventies and my goodness do this type of thing regularly (prior to Covid).Glass half full not half empty attitude required.Plan ahead don’t go mid summer spring or autumn.Take the initiative get a map your iPad and enjoy the planning as much as the trip.Lucky you to have a hubby who wants to do this rather than sit in the corner

I meant go spring or summer.

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Polarbear2,

I've done a few driving holidays to the south of France myself in my later 60s, and while it's not without its challenges, it can be a rewarding way to see the country at your own pace especially with a nice car to enjoy. You're right to think about the long hours; the drive from the UK can feel endless if you push it all in one go, but breaking it up with overnight stops turns it into an adventure rather than a slog. We always aimed for no more than 4-5 hours driving per day, stopping in charming spots like Reims or Dijon on the way down, which gave us time to stretch our legs, wander markets, and actually relax without feeling rushed.

To keep boredom at bay, audiobooks and podcasts were lifesavers for me nothing beats a good story to make the miles fly by. And yes, sharing the driving if you're both comfortable with it makes a huge difference; my husband and I swapped every couple of hours, which kept us both fresh. France's roads are generally a pleasure quieter than the UK motorways outside peak times, with stunning scenery once you veer off the autoroutes. Just plan for tolls (they add up, around €50-70 one way) and book hotels in advance for peace of mind, mixing in a boutique stay or two to match that fantasy without breaking the bank.

For the crossing, we found the Eurotunnel a straightforward option from Folkestone 35 minutes and you're in Calais, no seasickness worries, and you stay with your car. If you're plotting the route, this chunnel guide has some practical tips on timings and prep: chunnel.co.uk/. Give it a try; you might surprise yourself and end up loving the freedom. Safe travels!

This thread is almost 5 years old. I wonder what the OP did in the end?
It has been a good read though on a grey morning.