Top 10 Scenic Drives for Road Trip Enthusiasts
A road trip is a beautiful way to explore the beauty of different landscapes and discover hidden gems. From winding mountain roads to breathtaking coastal highways, scenic drives offer a perfect opportunity to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Whether you're seeking the tranquillity of nature, the thrill of adventure, or the charm of picturesque towns, these routes provide an unforgettable experience.
Here are the top 10 scenic drives that every road trip enthusiast should consider. Each offers unique vistas and unforgettable memories. Get ready to pack your bags, fuel up your vehicle, and hit the road to experience the world's best scenic drives.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, runs along California's stunning coastline. Starting from Dana Point in Orange County and extending to Leggett in Northern California, this drive provides spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Highlights include the Big Sur coastline, dramatic cliffs and ocean views, and the charming towns of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey.
Take advantage of a stop at the famous Bixby Creek Bridge for a picture-perfect view. The route also provides many chances to visit state parks, like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can hike on trails and see redwood groves.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a picturesque route through the Appalachian Mountains, linking Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina. The parkway is known for its beautiful fall foliage, rolling hills, and scenic overlooks. The Blue Ridge Music Center and the historic Mabry Mill are steps along the way.
In addition to the stunning views, the parkway offers numerous hiking trails, picnic spots, and visitor centres that provide insights into the region's natural and cultural history. The journey is enchanting in the spring and fall when wildflowers bloom and leaves turn vibrant colours.
3. Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is one of the world's most famous coastal drives. It stretches for about 243 kilometres (151 miles) from Torquay to Allansford. Along the way, travellers can enjoy stunning views of the Southern Ocean, visit the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations, and explore the lush rainforests of Great Otway National Park.
This drive also passes through charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, where you can relax on pristine beaches and enjoy fresh seafood. Be sure to visit the historic Cape Otway Lighthouse, one of Australia's oldest lighthouses, offering panoramic coastline views.
4. Route 66, USA
Route 66, also known as the "Main Street of America," is a historic highway that stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This iconic road trip route passes through eight states and offers a nostalgic journey through America's heartland. Highlights include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Wigwam Motel in Arizona, and the Santa Monica Pier in California.
Route 66 is filled with quirky roadside attractions, vintage diners, and historic landmarks that capture the spirit of Americana. Driving through small towns and big cities, you'll experience a diverse cross-section of American culture and history.
5. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1) circumnavigates the entire island, offering a diverse range of landscapes to explore. The 1,332-kilometer (828-mile) route takes travellers past volcanic craters, glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Notable stops include the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the volcanic Lake Mývatn.
The drive also offers chances to visit charming Icelandic villages, unwind in geothermal hot springs, and see the stunning northern lights during winter. The ever-changing scenery makes every segment of the Ring Road a unique and memorable experience.
6. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route in South Africa extends roughly 300 kilometres (186 miles) from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. This scenic drive passes through lush forests, serene lagoons, and picturesque coastal towns. Highlights include the Knysna Heads, Tsitsikamma National Park, and the Cango Caves.
The route also offers numerous outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and whale watching. The mild climate and diverse ecosystems make the Garden Route a year-round destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean scenery. The drive along the SS163 highway offers spectacular views of cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming coastal villages. Key stops include Positano, with its colourful cliffside houses, the historic town of Amalfi, and the beautiful Ravello, with its gardens and villas.
Along the way, you can indulge in delicious Italian cuisine, visit historic churches, and relax on picturesque beaches. The narrow, winding roads add to the adventure, providing breathtaking vistas at every turn.
8. North Coast 500, Scotland
The North Coast 500 is a 500-mile (805-kilometer) route around the northern coast of Scotland. Starting and ending in Inverness, this drive showcases Scotland's rugged coastline, remote beaches, and historic castles. Highlights include the Bealach na Bà pass, the white sandy beaches of Achmelvich, and the Dunrobin Castle.
The route also offers opportunities to explore quaint fishing villages, sample local seafood, and experience traditional Scottish culture. The ever-changing weather and dramatic landscapes make the North Coast 500 a thrilling and picturesque journey.
9. Cabot Trail, Canada
The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada, is a scenic loop around Cape Breton Island. The 298-kilometer (185-mile) route offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, dense forests, and the Cape Breton Highlands. Notable stops include the Skyline Trail, the picturesque fishing village of Baddeck, and the historic Fortress of Louisbourg.
The drive also provides opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, and exploring the island's rich Celtic heritage. The combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions makes the Cabot Trail a must-visit destination.
10. Milford Road, New Zealand
Milford Road (State Highway 94) in New Zealand's South Island is a spectacular drive through Fiordland National Park. The 120-kilometer (75-mile) route from Te Anau to Milford Sound passes through lush rainforests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Highlights include the Mirror Lakes, the Homer Tunnel, and the breathtaking Milford Sound.
The road also offers numerous hiking trails, including the famous Routeburn Track, and opportunities for boat cruises on Milford Sound. The dramatic scenery and diverse wildlife make Milford Road an unforgettable adventure.
Conclusion
Road trips offer a unique way to experience the world's most beautiful landscapes. From the coastal cliffs of California to the rugged highlands of Scotland, these top 10 scenic drives provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey. These routes offer breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in local culture and history, making every mile a memorable adventure.