Northern Italy is lovely, everywhere. So is Northern Spain. If you can make it, try visiting the provinces of Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia.
Also, since it is no longer winter, try visiting Italian Switzerland (at Como/Chiasso) and driving towards the Gotthard tunnel, but then turning left and driving over the Nufenen pass into the Rhone valley, driving down beside the river Rhone from its source until you reach Brig, then driving over the Simplon pass back into Italy.
I have been through the Simplon pass both ways. I have also been to Como. I'll keep the other places in mind. Thank you for the suggestions.
@BestWithoutGods when you say "through" did you mean on the "motorail" tunnel actually through the mountain, as opposed to going over the pass?
My sister's family all live in the Como area, and I drive over from Southern Spain to visit them every year for a few weeks, sometimes twice. Hence my knowledge of the area.
@Petter Yes, I mean on the autostrada. I suppose I need to put "over the pass" on my list, too.
@BestWithoutGods There is no Autostrada. The Simplon/Sempione pass connects Brig in Switzerland to Domodossola in Italy and from there to lago Maggiore. A scenic drive if you avoid the Autostrada to Milan that begins shortly after Domodosdola.