I've heard good things about the Talgo (or Talga?) train in Spain. Is it worth the extra charge due to speed and comfort? I'll be there in June traveling from Madrid-Oviedo-Llanes-Santander-Bilbao-San Sebastian-Paris with my elderly parents and want them to be comfortable. Is there a website where the Spanish train system is explained and easy to understand? Most guidebooks I have consulted say the Spain train system is very confusing for outsiders, re the various choices, names etc. Thank you.

Renfe.es is the official web site. Prices and time tables are posted there. I also find that Rick Steves has decent info and right now Rail Europe has a nice special with their Rail and Drive passes. The AVE between Madrid and Seville cuts the time in half and is supposed to be like traveiling first class by plane. I have elderly parents as well and I would definately spend the money. Good Luck. Maria

JUST REMEMBER<BR><BR>"THE TRAINS IN SPAIN STAY MAINLY IN THE PLAINS"<BR><BR>

Luis,<BR>the Talgo doesn´t run on the north part of your trip (Oviedo-Llanes-Santander-Bilbao-San Sebastian).<BR>From Madrid to Oviedo there is a Talgo running every day of the week except Sundays. <BR>There is a train belonging to FEVE, but the trip takes way too long. The best idea would be trying to get a Supra or a VIP bus. I know there is one that does the route Gijon - Santander - Bilbao - San Sebastian - Irun<BR>Check at<BR>http://www.alsa.es<BR>From Bilbao to San Sebastian there are frequent and comfortable buses, leaving from the Termibus station at Garellano.<BR>And then, from San Sebastian, get a bus to Hendaye in order to catch the TGV to Paris. It´s a short trip, they will be OK. <BR>Many elderly people travel in buses in Spain, crossing from the North to the winter resorts at the Mediterranean.<BR>Kind regards,<BR>Cova

I have travelled by train in Spain a lot and have only been late three times, twice on a Talgo and once when a regional train was held up - for a Talgo! I have only twice travelled by talgo! perhaps just bad luck?

Thank you all or your thoughtful advice and for taking time to share your wisdom.