Exploring the countryside by car offers an unmatched sense of freedom and discovery. Some routes take you through dramatic coastlines, while others wind through lush landscapes and historic villages. These iconic road trips are famous not just for their beauty but for the memories they create.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking ocean views along California’s rugged coastline. This famous route stretches from San Francisco to Los Angeles, hugging cliffs and sandy beaches. Along the way, you’ll pass charming seaside towns like Monterey and Big Sur. The road is dotted with state parks and scenic lookout points. Travelers are treated to sweeping views of the Pacific and often spot whales and sea lions.
Ring of Kerry, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry offers a magical blend of Ireland’s natural beauty and history. This circular route takes you through picturesque villages and rolling green hills. Along the way, you’ll pass by lakes, mountains, and ancient stone forts. The Atlantic Ocean hugs the western side of the route, with rocky cliffs and islands in view. It’s a peaceful drive that showcases Ireland’s wild and rugged landscape.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road in Australia is famous for its dramatic coastline and limestone rock formations. This winding road hugs the southern coast, offering views of the crashing waves of the Southern Ocean. One of the highlights is the Twelve Apostles, towering rock stacks that rise from the sea. The road takes you through charming coastal towns and dense rainforests. It’s a perfect mix of nature and adventure.
Route 62, South Africa
Route 62 takes you on a scenic drive through South Africa’s wine country and mountain ranges. This road stretches from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, passing vineyards, orchards, and farmlands. The rolling hills and towering mountains make it a picturesque drive. You’ll also pass through small historic towns with local markets and art galleries. It’s a peaceful journey through South Africa’s heartland.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most scenic drives, famous for its cliffside roads and Mediterranean views. This route takes you through vibrant coastal towns like Positano and Ravello. The narrow winding roads offer panoramic views of the sparkling sea below. Colorful houses cling to the cliffs, adding to the charm. Along the way, you’ll pass lemon groves and terraced vineyards, perfect for photo opportunities.
Cabot Trail, Canada
The Cabot Trail offers a journey through the rugged beauty of Cape Breton Island in Canada. This 185-mile loop winds through mountains, forests, and coastal cliffs. The route takes you through charming fishing villages and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Hikers can stop to explore trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The fall season brings a burst of color to the forests, making the drive even more stunning.
North Coast 500, Scotland
The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s ultimate road trip, offering views of the country’s wild and remote Highlands. This circular route starts and ends in Inverness, taking you through rugged landscapes, lochs, and historic castles. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of mountains, cliffs, and the North Sea. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming villages and wildlife like deer and seals. It’s a drive through some of Scotland’s most untouched landscapes.
Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route offers a lush and scenic drive along South Africa’s southern coastline. This route stretches from Mossel Bay to Storms River, passing through forests, lagoons, and pristine beaches. Along the way, you’ll encounter national parks, wildlife reserves, and charming seaside towns. The road is lined with indigenous flora, adding to the vibrant landscape. The journey is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway is a stunning route that winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. This road connects Banff and Jasper, offering views of towering mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Along the way, you can stop at scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing spots. The road is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine wilderness. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Canada’s natural beauty.
Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen is a dramatic mountain road in Norway, famous for its steep hairpin turns and breathtaking views. This route winds through the Romsdal Mountains, offering panoramic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and valleys. The road is narrow and challenging, but the views at the top are worth the drive. Visitors can stop at the viewing platforms to take in the stunning scenery below. It’s a thrilling journey through Norway’s rugged landscape.
Romantic Road, Germany
The Romantic Road in Germany offers a journey through medieval towns, rolling countryside, and historic castles. This route stretches from Würzburg to Füssen, taking you through charming villages, vineyards, and forests. The road is lined with half-timbered houses and scenic views of the Alps in the distance. It’s a perfect drive for history lovers and those seeking a fairy-tale atmosphere. Each stop offers a glimpse into Germany’s rich cultural heritage.
Milford Sound, New Zealand
The drive to Milford Sound offers one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand. This road winds through Fiordland National Park, with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and rainforests lining the way. The route takes you through tunnels and across bridges, offering views of the surrounding peaks. The journey ends at the breathtaking fjord of Milford Sound, where boat tours explore the deep waters. It’s a drive that captures the raw beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness.
Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coastal Route offers a stunning coastal drive through Northern Ireland’s rugged landscapes. This route takes you along the Antrim coast, passing through fishing villages, cliffs, and beaches. The highlight of the drive is the Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder of hexagonal basalt columns. Along the way, you’ll also see castles, ruins, and rolling green hills. It’s a journey filled with dramatic scenery and rich history.
The Alcan Highway, Alaska/Canada
The Alcan Highway is a remote and rugged route that stretches from Dawson Creek, British Columbia, to Delta Junction, Alaska. This historic road winds through vast wilderness, offering breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and rivers. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns, wildlife reserves, and national parks. The drive is an adventure in itself, with opportunities to see moose, bears, and eagles. This route is perfect for those seeking solitude and a true wilderness experience.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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