Europe. The word appears to be sending shivers down the spines of politicians and the public alike right across the UK, with the recent veto by Britain of further fiscal integration with Europe. But however you feel about being in or out of Europe, there’s no denying it offers some splendid places to take a road trip. As long as they continue to let us in.

Spain is one such splendid place, offering both excellent roads and spectacular scenery. And with the second highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the planet, there is a great deal to see – from ancient Moorish fortresses to some of the finest cathedrals you’ll find anywhere.

The various regions of Spain differ a great deal, and unless you have months and months to travel round the country, it’s probably best to choose one area and explore it fully. With each region you’ll find major differences in language and cuisine, to the degree where you may feel you’re in a different country each time you cross into another region.

So why not forget all the confusing and slightly worrying politics at home, top up your European breakdown cover, and seek out some Spanish sunshine this winter. At time of writing it’s still hitting around 18 degrees in Barcelona, a temperature that looks positively tropical in comparison with our own temperatures!