One of the great joys of travelling by motorhome is eating well, and Spain is one huge larder. Putting together a food route, buying straight from the producer (cheesemakers, wineries, markets, farms), is a delicious and original way to explore the country. You support local producers, eat top-quality produce and discover authentic corners of the country. Here are some ideas.
Spain's cheese country
Spain has a spectacular variety of cheeses, many from rural areas perfect for the camper:
- Cabrales (Asturias), Idiazábal (Basque Country/Navarra), Manchego (La Mancha).
- Mahón (Menorca), Majorero (Fuerteventura), tetilla and San Simón (Galicia).
- Torta del Casar (Extremadura), Pyrenean cheeses...
Many cheesemakers offer visits and direct sales.
Beyond the cheese
- Cured meats and ham: from Extremadura's dehesa pastures to the cured meats of each region.
- Local markets: fruit, vegetables, fish and seasonal produce (see eating healthily).
- Wine, oil, honey, preserves... straight from the producer.
The challenge: keeping it fresh
Buying fresh, delicate produce (cheeses, cured meats) means you need to keep it properly chilled. A fridge that holds a steady temperature (backed by a good battery) is what lets you carry these purchases without them spoiling (see storing food). Buy reasonable quantities in line with what your fridge can handle.
Practical tips
- Find out about cheesemakers and producers with direct sales along your route.
- Markets: check the market days for each village.
- Buy what you can store and consume.
- Support local producers: it's part of travelling sustainably (see sustainable camper travel).
In short
A food route buying straight from the producer (cheeses, cured meats, markets) is a delicious, authentic way to explore Spain by camper. The step to take today: on your next trip, look for local cheesemakers and markets and buy seasonal produce straight from the source; keep it well chilled and you'll eat like royalty while supporting local producers. Pair it with the camper cooking guide.