There’s something inherently magical about hitting the open road. The sense of freedom, the endless possibilities of where you might go next, and the unique beauty of the landscapes that unfold in front of you—road trips have an undeniable allure. Whether you’re winding through coastal cliffs, driving along mountain ridges, or cruising through vast deserts, some roads are famous for their spectacular views, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey across the globe to explore the best scenic road trips that promise both adventure and beauty. From the rugged terrains of the Scottish Highlands to the sun-kissed coasts of the Pacific, each route offers something special, whether you’re seeking solitude or dramatic vistas. Let’s hit the road and discover these extraordinary drives.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (USA)
Best for: Ocean views, coastal cliffs, and coastal towns
Length: 655 miles (1,054 km)
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1, is perhaps one of the most iconic scenic drives in the world. Stretching from the southern part of California to the northernmost reaches of the state, this route offers a breathtaking combination of coastal cliffs, expansive beaches, and charming coastal towns.
Key Highlights:
- Big Sur: One of the most dramatic stretches of the PCH, Big Sur is known for its rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and awe-inspiring vistas.
- Mendocino Coast: A quieter section of the drive, perfect for those looking for serene beauty and small-town charm.
- San Francisco: Crossing the famous Golden Gate Bridge, this city is a perfect starting or ending point for the journey.
Whether you’re driving through sun-dappled stretches along the cliffs or stopping in quaint coastal towns for seafood, the Pacific Coast Highway offers some of the most stunning oceanfront scenery in the world.
2. Great Ocean Road (Australia)
Best for: Coastal views, wildlife encounters, and rock formations
Length: 151 miles (243 km)
The Great Ocean Road in Australia is one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. Winding along the southern coastline of Victoria, this road trip offers some of the most spectacular ocean views, fascinating rock formations, and opportunities to encounter wildlife.
Key Highlights:
- Twelve Apostles: These towering limestone formations are one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Australia, rising dramatically out of the Southern Ocean.
- Loch Ard Gorge: This area is rich in history, with a tragic shipwreck story, but it’s also a place of incredible natural beauty with dramatic cliffs and clear waters.
- Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for koalas in the trees and kangaroos hopping through the brush.
This road trip is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering everything from beachside drives to opportunities for hiking and exploring wildlife.
3. The Ring Road (Iceland)
Best for: Glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls
Length: 828 miles (1,332 km)
Iceland’s Ring Road encircles the entire island, offering a captivating route filled with dramatic landscapes. From glaciers and waterfalls to volcanoes and black sand beaches, the Ring Road is a journey that showcases the raw beauty of Iceland’s natural wonders.
Key Highlights:
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: This serene lagoon, filled with floating icebergs, is one of Iceland’s most stunning sights.
- Skógafoss Waterfall: A majestic waterfall that spills over cliffs, offering both a beautiful sight and the chance for a close-up experience.
- Reykjavík: Iceland’s vibrant capital, full of culture, history, and charming streets, is a great starting point for the road trip.
Traveling along the Ring Road is like driving through a living landscape, with each turn offering new and exciting sights to behold.
4. Route 66 (USA)
Best for: Americana, history, and quirky roadside attractions
Length: 2,448 miles (3,940 km)
Known as “The Mother Road,” Route 66 is one of the most famous and historic highways in the United States. Spanning from Chicago to Santa Monica, California, this road trip takes you through diverse landscapes, small towns, and a variety of cultural and historical landmarks.
Key Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas): This iconic roadside attraction features a line of old Cadillacs half-buried in the desert, serving as a quirky tribute to the road’s history.
- The Painted Desert (Arizona): The colorful rock formations of the Painted Desert provide a stunning backdrop as you make your way across the southwestern U.S.
- Santa Monica Pier (California): The famous end point of Route 66, where you can enjoy the beach and take in the sights of the Pacific.
Route 66 isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a trip through time, offering a glimpse into mid-century America through quirky attractions, diners, and roadside motels.
5. The North Coast 500 (Scotland)
Best for: Mountain vistas, historic castles, and rugged coastline
Length: 516 miles (830 km)
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is often dubbed “Scotland’s Route 66” for its spectacular and remote beauty. Starting and ending in Inverness, this route takes you through some of the most remote and rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
Key Highlights:
- John o’ Groats: The famous northernmost point of the British mainland, offering stunning views of the Orkney Islands.
- Dunrobin Castle: This fairy-tale castle is a must-see, set against the backdrop of the North Sea.
- Smoo Cave: A spectacular cave located near the northern coast, famous for its dramatic entrance and rich history.
The North Coast 500 is perfect for travelers looking to escape into nature, with miles of remote roads that lead to dramatic coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and historic landmarks.
6. The Garden Route (South Africa)
Best for: Coastal beauty, wildlife, and lush forests
Length: 185 miles (300 km)
South Africa’s Garden Route is one of the country’s most beloved scenic drives. Stretching from the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape, this route takes you through lush forests, along rugged coastlines, and into vibrant towns filled with art and culture.
Key Highlights:
- Knysna: A charming coastal town known for its lagoon and nearby forests, perfect for hiking and exploring.
- Addo Elephant Park: A must-see for wildlife lovers, where you can encounter elephants, lions, and a range of other African wildlife.
- Tsitsikamma National Park: A beautiful park with coastal cliffs, forests, and opportunities for adventure activities like zip-lining and hiking.
The Garden Route is a beautiful mix of natural beauty and wildlife encounters, making it one of South Africa’s top road trip destinations.
7. The Andes (Chile and Argentina)
Best for: Mountain landscapes, deserts, and high-altitude terrain
Length: Varies (Argentina to Chile)
For those who crave adventure at higher altitudes, the Andes mountain range offers a breathtaking road trip through two of South America’s most captivating countries: Chile and Argentina. This road trip takes you through jagged mountain peaks, vast deserts, and high-altitude valleys that seem to stretch endlessly into the horizon.
Key Highlights:
- Atacama Desert (Chile): The driest desert on earth, offering surreal landscapes, salt flats, and spectacular stargazing.
- Aconcagua (Argentina): The highest peak in South America, towering over the surrounding landscape and offering dramatic views for road travelers.
- Mendoza (Argentina): A world-renowned wine region, perfect for wine lovers who want to enjoy the scenic vineyards and stunning mountain backdrops.
The Andes road trip is perfect for those who want to explore some of the most dramatic and diverse landscapes on the planet, from the barren beauty of the desert to the snow-capped mountains of the high Andes.
8. The Alcan Highway (Canada and Alaska)
Best for: Wilderness, wildlife, and rugged terrain
Length: 1,390 miles (2,237 km)
The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, is a legendary route that stretches from Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada, to Delta Junction in Alaska. The highway was originally constructed as a military route during World War II, and today it offers one of the most remote and rugged road trips in North America.
Key Highlights:
- Kluane National Park (Canada): A vast park known for its towering mountains, glaciers, and incredible wildlife, including bears and moose.
- Yukon Territory: A remote and wild area perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying the serenity of nature.
- Denali National Park (Alaska): Home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, and filled with opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
The Alcan Highway offers travelers a chance to truly get off the beaten path, connecting them to some of the most pristine and unspoiled wilderness areas in North America.
9. The Amalfi Coast (Italy)
Best for: Cliffside views, charming villages, and Mediterranean coastline
Length: 50 miles (80 km)
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and picturesque villages perched above the sea. The coastal drive is both beautiful and exhilarating,
with winding roads that take you past ancient ruins, vibrant towns, and lush terraced hillsides.
Key Highlights:
- Positano: A colorful and charming village with steep, narrow streets and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Ravello: Known for its elegant villas and panoramic views, this village offers some of the most breathtaking vistas along the coast.
- Amalfi: A historic town with beautiful cathedrals, a picturesque harbor, and delicious local seafood.
The Amalfi Coast is ideal for those seeking a mix of natural beauty, culture, and Mediterranean charm, with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, and relaxing along the way.
10. The Transfagarasan Highway (Romania)
Best for: Mountain roads, adventure, and natural beauty
Length: 56 miles (90 km)
Known as one of the most scenic and roads in Europe, the Transfagarasan Highway traverses the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. This serpentine road cuts through lush forests, past glacial lakes, and over the highest peaks in Romania, offering travelers a true sense of adventure.
Key Highlights:
- Balea Lake: A stunning glacial lake located high in the mountains, perfect for hiking and photography.
- Poenari Castle: A fortress with a rich history and dramatic location perched on a cliffside, overlooking the valley below.
- Fagaras Mountains: The road offers sweeping views of the rugged mountain range, ideal for those who love to explore the outdoors.
The Transfagarasan Highway is a must for those seeking an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path road trip filled with dramatic landscapes and a touch of historical intrigue.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking coastal views, mountain vistas, or vast, open deserts, these scenic road trips across the globe offer the perfect opportunity to discover the world’s most beautiful landscapes at your own pace. From the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway to the serene beauty of Iceland’s Ring Road, each route provides a unique journey that can be tailored to your interests and pace. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road—your next unforgettable adventure awaits!