There’s something extraordinary about hitting the open road, with breathtaking landscapes, fresh air, and the promise of adventure waiting around every bend. A scenic road trip is more than a journey; it’s an opportunity to explore, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. Here are seven incredible road trips from around the globe that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Route: San Francisco to Los Angeles, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is one of America’s most iconic road trips. With stunning ocean views, towering cliffs, and charming coastal towns, this drive is perfect for photographers and nature lovers.
Highlights:
- Big Sur’s dramatic coastline and the iconic Bixby Bridge.
- Monterey’s famous aquarium and Cannery Row.
- Santa Barbara’s Spanish-style architecture and serene beaches.
Best Time to Go: Spring or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Route: Torquay to Allansford, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road is a masterpiece of coastal scenery, offering awe-inspiring views of Australia’s rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests.
Highlights:
- The Twelve Apostles, stunning limestone stacks rising from the ocean.
- Great Otway National Park, home to ancient rainforests and waterfalls.
- Wildlife spotting at Kennett River, including koalas and kangaroos.
Best Time to Go: November to March for sunny skies and warm weather.
3. Ring Road, Iceland
Route: A full loop around Iceland (Route 1)
Iceland’s Ring Road is a journey through some of the most unique and otherworldly landscapes on the planet. From glaciers to waterfalls and volcanic plains, this trip is a nature lover’s dream.
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon with floating icebergs.
- Relaxing in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.
Best Time to Go: Summer (June to August) for long daylight hours and safer road conditions.
4. Garden Route, South Africa
Route: Mossel Bay to Storms River, Western Cape
The Garden Route is a journey through South Africa’s stunning coastline, blending lush forests, wildlife, and pristine beaches into one unforgettable drive.
Highlights:
- Tsitsikamma National Park, with its suspension bridges and hiking trails.
- Knysna’s peaceful lagoons and fresh oysters.
- Whale watching in Plettenberg Bay.
Best Time to Go: September to November for mild weather and whale-watching opportunities.
5. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Route: Sorrento to Salerno, Campania
The Amalfi Coast is synonymous with romance, charm, and Mediterranean beauty. Winding roads, turquoise waters, and picturesque villages make this drive unforgettable.
Highlights:
- Positano’s iconic pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffs.
- Amalfi’s historic cathedral and vibrant piazzas.
- Ravello’s terraced gardens and panoramic sea views.
Best Time to Go: April to June or September to October to avoid summer crowds.
6. Route 66, USA
Route: Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California
Route 66, often called the “Main Street of America,” is a nostalgic road trip that takes you through charming small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and sweeping desert landscapes.
Highlights:
- St. Louis’s Gateway Arch.
- The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona.
- The Cadillac Ranch art installation in Texas.
Best Time to Go: Spring or fall for moderate weather.
7. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Route: Donegal to Cork, along Ireland’s west coast
The Wild Atlantic Way is one of Europe’s longest coastal routes, featuring rugged cliffs, rolling green hills, and charming villages steeped in Irish culture.
Highlights:
- The majestic Cliffs of Moher.
- Galway’s lively music scene and Irish traditions.
- The Dingle Peninsula, with its dramatic landscapes and ancient ruins.
Best Time to Go: May to September for warm weather and vibrant scenery.
Conclusion
Scenic road trips are a perfect way to explore the world’s beauty at your own pace. Whether you’re driving along California’s coastline, through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, or across Ireland’s rugged shores, these routes offer unforgettable experiences. Add these stunning drives to your travel bucket list and get ready to hit the road for an adventure of a lifetime.