Spain’s Fastest Route to Andalusia Is Shut, and Strikes Are Lined Up Next

Spain’s main high-speed rail route between Madrid and Andalusia was still closed on November 5, a week after a collision near Urda, in Toledo province, on October 28. TravelWise reports that 69 people were killed when a Renfe train struck a stationary Iryo service, and that Transport Minister Oscar Puente has resigned. The Madrid-Toledo and Malaga-Seville sections remain open, but the through route does not, and Adif has not confirmed when direct services will return.

Operators are cancelling around the gap. Iryo has cancelled southern services through November 11, and Ouigo has cancelled Madrid-Andalusia trains through November 15. Renfe is running replacement coaches between Madrid, Ciudad Real and Puertollano until November 12, with eight daily departures from Madrid-Atocha Cercanias. Those coaches take about two and a half hours to reach Ciudad Real and do not continue to Seville or Malaga.

More disruption is scheduled. Renfe drivers are set to strike for a full day on November 10 and part of the day on November 12, and Adif workers are planned to strike on November 17. Under EU rail passenger rights, a cancellation that delays arrival by more than an hour allows a refund or rerouting, and the report advises keeping receipts. Renfe is also offering free changes and cancellations on affected bookings.

Airlines are filling the space. Wizz Air Malta began Madrid-Malaga and Madrid-Seville flights on November 6, with two daily flights each way, at fares from 45.99 to 99.99 euros before extras. Flights take about 80 minutes and run on current schedules until December 13. The basic fare includes only a small under-seat bag, so budget for baggage, and check your date of travel against the strike days.

Sources: TravelWise (rail closure and strikes), TravelWise (Wizz Air routes)