This article highlights the 10 best road trips around the world that offer breathtaking views of the surroundings. Each road trip is distinct in its own way and covers a vast range of landscapes. From the Pacific Coast Highway in California to the Ring Road in Iceland, the article explores the 828-mile circular route in Iceland, volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geysers. The list also includes the Romantic Road in Germany, the Great Ocean Road in Australia, and Route 66 in the United States. The article provides a brief overview of each scenic drive, suggesting the best seasons to take the trip and highlighting some of the pit-stops worth exploring along the way.
10 Best Road Trips around the World for Scenic Views
Road trips are a great way to explore a new destination and to take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. From driving along Route 66 in the United States to the Great Ocean Road in Australia, there are countless road trips to choose from. In this article, we have rounded up the 10 best road trips around the world that offer stunning views of the surroundings.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
Also known as Highway 1, the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world. As you drive along the coast, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on one side, and stunning cliffs, beaches, and forests on the other. The drive can be completed in a day, but it is recommended to take your time and stop at some of the charming towns and scenic lookout points along the way.
2. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road is a circular route that takes you around the entirety of the island, covering a distance of approximately 828 miles. The route passes by volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geysers, offering some of the most breathtaking views of nature. The optimal time to take this road trip is during the summer months, as the weather is more favorable.
3. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a 31-mile drive that runs from Sorrento to Salerno, along the southern coast of Italy. The route passes by colorful villages, stunning cliffs, and sparkling blue waters. The drive can be challenging due to the narrow roads, but the stunning views more than make up for it. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, when the weather is pleasant, and the sun is shining bright.
4. The Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a scenic drive that stretches along the south coast of South Africa, from Mossel Bay to Storms River Mouth. The route passes by stunning beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking mountains, offering views of the magnificent coastline. The drive can be completed in a day or two, but it is recommended to take your time and explore some of the charming towns along the way.
5. Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is a 151-mile drive that runs along the southern coast of Australia, from Torquay to Allansford. The route passes by stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. The drive can be completed in a day, but it is recommended to take your time and explore some of the charming towns and lookout points along the way.
6. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,500-mile drive that runs along the west coast of Ireland, from Donegal to Cork. The route passes by stunning beaches, towering cliffs, and charming villages, offering a glimpse into Ireland’s rich culture and history. The drive can be completed in a few days, but it is recommended to take your time and explore some of the historic sites and cultural landmarks along the way.
7. The Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
The Transfagarasan Highway is a 56-mile drive that runs through the Fagaras Mountains in Romania. The route passes by stunning alpine scenery, including mountain peaks, forests, and glacial lakes. The drive can be challenging due to the tight corners and steep gradients, but the stunning views more than make up for it.
8. The Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway is a 144-mile drive that runs through the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada. The route passes by stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks, offering some of the most breathtaking views of nature. The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months, as the road is closed during the winter due to heavy snowfall.
9. The Romantic Road, Germany
The Romantic Road is a 260-mile drive that runs through the heart of Germany, from Wurzburg to Fussen. The route passes by charming medieval towns, stunning castles, and gorgeous countryside, offering a glimpse into Germany’s rich history and culture. The drive can be completed in a few days, but it is recommended to take your time and explore some of the historic landmarks and cultural sights along the way.
10. Route 66, United States
Route 66 is a 2,448-mile drive that runs from Chicago to Santa Monica, crossing through eight states in the United States. The route passes by stunning natural landmarks, charming small towns, and iconic roadside attractions, offering a glimpse into America’s rich history and culture. The route can be completed in a few weeks or a few months, depending on how much time you have to spare.
From the Pacific Coast Highway in California to the Ring Road in Iceland, these 10 road trips offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you are an experienced road tripper or a first-time traveler, these drives are sure to leave you mesmerized.