Top 7 Scenic Road Trips Around the World
Few travel experiences are as liberating and exhilarating as a road trip. The open road, the thrill of discovery, and the ever-changing scenery make road trips an adventure like no other. Whether you’re cruising along coastlines, winding through mountain passes, or driving across vast deserts, the journey itself becomes the destination. Here are the top 7 scenic road trips around the world that every traveler should experience.
1. The Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Route: San Francisco to Los Angeles, California
Distance: 655 miles (1,055 km)
Highlights: Big Sur, Monterey, Santa Barbara
The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. This route takes you along California’s rugged coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. Highlights of the trip include the picturesque town of Monterey, the stunning 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach, the majestic cliffs of Big Sur, and the charming town of Santa Barbara. Don’t miss the chance to stop at Hearst Castle and the numerous state parks along the way.
2. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Route: Torquay to Allansford, Victoria
Distance: 151 miles (243 km)
Highlights: Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous scenic drives, winding along the southeastern coast of Victoria. This road trip offers stunning views of the Southern Ocean, rugged cliffs, and lush rainforests. The highlight of the journey is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks rising majestically from the ocean. Other must-see attractions include the Loch Ard Gorge, the London Arch, and the koala-filled eucalyptus forests of the Great Otway National Park.
3. Ring Road, Iceland
Route: Loop around Iceland
Distance: 828 miles (1,332 km)
Highlights: Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Dettifoss Waterfall
Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) offers an unparalleled road trip experience, circling the entire island and showcasing the country’s otherworldly landscapes. From towering waterfalls and black sand beaches to geothermal hot springs and glaciers, this route has it all. Highlights include the Golden Circle, which features Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir Geothermal Area. Further along, explore the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the powerful Dettifoss Waterfall, and the volcanic landscapes of the Mývatn region.
4. Route 66, USA
Route: Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California
Distance: 2,448 miles (3,940 km)
Highlights: Cadillac Ranch, Petrified Forest National Park, Santa Monica Pier
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is one of the most legendary road trips in the world. This historic highway takes you from the Midwest to the West Coast, passing through eight states and offering a glimpse into classic Americana. Along the way, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, and the colorful murals of Tucumcari, New Mexico. The journey ends at the iconic Santa Monica Pier in California, where you can dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean.
5. The Garden Route, South Africa
Route: Mossel Bay to Storms River, Western Cape
Distance: 190 miles (305 km)
Highlights: Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park, Robberg Nature Reserve
The Garden Route is a scenic drive along South Africa’s southern coast, offering a diverse range of landscapes from lush forests to pristine beaches. This route is named for the Garden Route National Park, which encompasses the region’s rich biodiversity. Key stops include the coastal town of Knysna, known for its lagoon and oysters; Tsitsikamma National Park, with its dramatic coastline and suspension bridges; and the Robberg Nature Reserve, where you can hike along cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean and spot seals, dolphins, and whales.
6. Amalfi Coast Road, Italy
Route: Sorrento to Salerno, Campania
Distance: 37 miles (60 km)
Highlights: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello
The Amalfi Coast Road (SS163) is one of Italy’s most scenic and thrilling drives, winding along the cliffs of the Mediterranean coast. This short but spectacular road trip offers breathtaking views of turquoise waters, pastel-colored villages, and terraced vineyards. Key stops include the charming town of Positano, with its steep streets and vibrant houses; the historic town of Amalfi, home to the stunning Amalfi Cathedral; and the hilltop village of Ravello, known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views.
7. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Route: Donegal to Kinsale, Ireland
Distance: 1,553 miles (2,500 km)
Highlights: Cliffs of Moher, Connemara, Ring of Kerry
The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world, stretching along Ireland’s rugged west coast. This road trip offers dramatic landscapes, from windswept cliffs and sandy beaches to remote islands and charming villages. Highlights include the towering Cliffs of Moher, the rugged beauty of Connemara, and the scenic Ring of Kerry. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to experience traditional Irish culture, visit ancient castles, and sample local seafood and whiskey.
Conclusion
Each of these road trips offers a unique and unforgettable journey, showcasing some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and cultural treasures. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, the volcanic landscapes of Iceland, or the wild beauty of Ireland’s west coast, these scenic routes promise a road trip experience like no other. So, fuel up your car, pack your bags, and hit the road to explore the world’s most breathtaking destinations.