Embark on a journey to discover the world’s most breathtaking scenic drives and road trip destinations. From the rugged coastlines of Australia to the majestic mountain passes of Italy, these awe-inspiring routes offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s grandeur at their own pace.
According to the Pentagon Motor Group’s analysis of over 7 million Instagram hashtags, Australia’s Great Ocean Road is the world’s most beautiful road trip, followed by California’s Big Sur and Jebel Hafeet in the United Arab Emirates. The research found that the United States has the highest number of picturesque roads, including Big Sur (2nd), Blue Ridge Parkway (6th), Going-to-the-Sun Road (7th), Route 66 (11th), California’s Tioga Pass (14th), and Hana Highway (16th). The Great Ocean Road is a stunning 150-mile coastal drive, while Big Sur is a famous stretch of Highway 1 that hugs the Pacific Ocean. Other top scenic drives mentioned include the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam, the Garden Route in South Africa, and the Icefields Parkway in Canada.
Key Takeaways
- The world’s most beautiful road trip is Australia’s Great Ocean Road, according to research.
- The United States boasts the highest number of picturesque scenic drives, including iconic routes like Big Sur, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Route 66.
- Scenic road trips offer travelers the chance to immerse themselves in nature’s grandeur at their own pace.
- Top global scenic drives include the Hai Van Pass in Vietnam, the Garden Route in South Africa, and the Icefields Parkway in Canada.
- Whether exploring coastal vistas or majestic mountain landscapes, these scenic road trips promise an unforgettable travel experience.
Scenic Road Trips and Drives: Explore the World’s Most Breathtaking Routes
Scenic road trips and drives offer travelers the incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of destinations around the world. From stunning coastal vistas to majestic mountain landscapes, these captivating routes provide the flexibility and freedom to discover breathtaking scenery at your own pace.
Understanding the Appeal of Scenic Road Trips
The allure of scenic road trips lies in the ability to fully experience a destination’s most captivating landscapes. Whether you’re winding through rugged coastal roads, ascending towering mountain passes, or traversing sweeping desert panoramas, the journey itself becomes a central part of the adventure. Scenic drives allow you to soak in the sights, sounds, and serene tranquility of nature, creating cherished memories that extend far beyond the typical tourist experience.
The Benefits of Self-Driven Exploration
Self-driven exploration is the quintessential way to enjoy scenic road trips and drives. By taking the wheel, you gain the flexibility to stop and admire the view whenever inspiration strikes, linger at charming roadside attractions, and uncover hidden gems that may be overlooked on more structured tours. This spontaneity and control over your itinerary are the hallmarks of an unforgettable scenic driving adventure.
Planning the Perfect Scenic Road Trip Adventure
When planning a scenic road trip, it’s important to research the top routes, map out an itinerary that allows ample time for stops and side excursions, and ensure your vehicle is equipped for the journey. Factors like weather, road conditions, and potential wildlife encounters should also be considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. With the right preparation and an open-minded spirit of adventure, you can embark on a scenic driving odyssey that will leave you awestruck by the world’s most breathtaking vistas.
Australia’s Great Ocean Road: Coastal Beauty at Its Finest
Spanning over 150 miles, Australia’s Great Ocean Road is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful and iconic coastal drives. The route hugs the rugged southeastern coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean on one side and the Otway Ranges on the other.
The Journey Along the Iconic Coastal Route
As travelers embark on the Great Ocean Road, they are treated to a scenic journey that showcases the region’s diverse natural wonders. Along the way, they can witness the dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming seaside towns that have made this coastal drive a bucket-list destination for road trippers worldwide.
Must-Stop Destinations on the Great Ocean Road
Some of the must-stop destinations along the Great Ocean Road include the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations, the charming seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay, and the wild koala habitat at Kennett River. Travelers can also explore the Bay of Islands, London Bridge, and Loch Ard Gorge, taking in the stunning natural landscapes at their own pace.
Highway 1: California’s Legendary Big Sur Coastal Drive
Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is one of the most famous and scenic driving routes in the world. A key section of this legendary highway is the Big Sur coastal drive, which hugs the rugged cliffs and mountains of California’s central coast. Travelers are treated to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering Santa Lucia Mountains on the other. This stretch of Highway 1 is a bucket-list destination for road trippers seeking breathtaking vistas, picturesque seaside towns, and the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the California coastline.
The Big Sur region is renowned for its rugged, unspoiled scenery, offering a visual feast for those embarking on a scenic drive along Highway 1. Visitors can stop at various pullouts and viewpoints to admire the crashing waves, towering cliffs, and lush greenery that characterize this stunning coastal landscape. From the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge to the picturesque town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, this road trip destination promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in breathtaking vistas and the natural wonders of the California coast.
Whether you’re planning a leisurely road trip along the entirety of Highway 1 or focusing your journey on the Big Sur coastal drive, this legendary route is sure to leave a lasting impression. With its dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities, the Big Sur region offers a truly captivating driving experience that showcases the very best of California’s coastal drives and scenic drives.
The Icefields Parkway: A Canadian Rockies Masterpiece
Connecting the stunning national parks of Jasper and Banff in the Canadian Rockies, the Icefields Parkway is widely considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. This 144-mile stretch of road provides access to over 100 glaciers, countless waterfalls, and some of the most breathtaking mountain landscapes imaginable.
Exploring Jasper and Banff National Parks
Travelers can explore the diverse wildlife and hiking trails within Jasper and Banff National Parks, making this an ideal destination for a scenic road trip adventure along the Icefields Parkway. From spotting majestic elk and grizzly bears to hiking through ancient forests and along glacial-fed lakes, these two national parks offer a wealth of opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural wonder of the Canadian Rockies.
Iconic Viewpoints and Stops Along the Way
Highlights along the Icefields Parkway route include stops at Peyto Lake, known for its striking turquoise waters and panoramic mountain views, the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, and the iconic Athabasca Glacier, where visitors can hike onto the glacier’s surface and witness the effects of climate change firsthand. Each of these iconic viewpoints and stops along the Icefields Parkway offers travelers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
New Zealand’s Southern Scenic Routes: A Natural Wonderland
New Zealand’s South Island is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, and the scenic routes that wind through this region offer travelers an unforgettable driving experience. From the majestic peaks of the Southern Alps to the serene glacier-fed lakes, this picturesque island nation is a true haven for road trip enthusiasts seeking breathtaking vistas and immersive encounters with nature.
The Breathtaking Road to Mount Cook
One of the most captivating drives in New Zealand is the road to Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak. This scenic route is flanked by a sea of blooming lupine flowers, creating a vibrant and otherworldly backdrop for the azure waters of Lake Pukaki and the towering, snow-capped summits of the Southern Alps. As drivers navigate this stunning mountain landscape, they are treated to panoramic views that showcase the sheer scale and beauty of New Zealand’s natural wonders.
Exploring the South Island’s Diverse Landscapes
Beyond the iconic Mount Cook drive, New Zealand’s South Island offers a wealth of diverse landscapes for road trippers to discover. Travelers can immerse themselves in lush, temperate rainforests, hike to cascading waterfalls, and marvel at the rugged coastlines that give way to arid, mountainous terrain. This rich tapestry of natural environments makes the South Island an ideal destination for a comprehensive scenic road trip, with each turn in the road revealing new and breathtaking vistas to savor.
Norway’s Atlantic Road and Fjord Drives
Norway is renowned for its stunning fjord landscapes, and the country’s road network provides access to some of the most breathtaking coastal drives in the world. The Atlantic Road, which connects the city of Molde to the Gjemnessundbrua suspension bridge, is a prime example of Norway’s engineering prowess and scenic splendor.
The Engineering Marvel of the Atlantic Road
This 69-mile route features a series of bridges and causeways that seemingly float across the icy waters of the Atlantic, offering drivers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and towering mountains. The Atlantic Road’s unique design and construction have made it an iconic destination for Norway road trips, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at its engineering marvels and breathtaking vistas.
Navigating Norway’s Majestic Fjord Landscapes
Beyond the Atlantic Road, Norway’s fjord drives allow travelers to immerse themselves in the country’s natural wonders, from serene fjords and glacial lakes to cascading waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. These scenic drives and coastal drives offer unparalleled opportunities to experience the true beauty of Norway’s majestic fjord landscapes.
South Africa’s Garden Route: A Coastal Odyssey
Stretching for 300 kilometers along South Africa’s southern coast, the Garden Route is a scenic driving paradise. This coastal odyssey takes travelers from Storms River in the Eastern Cape to Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and natural wonders.
From Storms River to Mossel Bay
The Garden Route’s winding roads and breathtaking vistas unfold as you journey from the dramatic Tsitsikamma National Park in the east to the charming coastal towns and stunning bays near Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay in the west. This scenic drive offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the natural beauty that has earned the Garden Route its reputation as one of South Africa’s premier road trip destinations.
Highlights Along the Garden Route
Highlights along the Garden Route include the dramatic Tsitsikamma National Park, known for its towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forests. The picturesque town of Knysna, with its vibrant waterfront and thriving artisan community, is another must-visit spot. Further inland, the historic Oudtshoorn area offers a glimpse into the region’s ostrich farming heritage, while the stunning beaches and bays near Plettenberg Bay and Mossel Bay provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife spotting.
With a wealth of outdoor activities, charming seaside towns, and opportunities to spot wildlife, the Garden Route is a must-visit destination for any road trip enthusiast seeking to immerse themselves in South Africa’s breathtaking coastal landscapes.
Italy’s Stelvio Pass: A High-Altitude Driving Adventure
Located in northern Italy near the Swiss border, the Stelvio Pass is one of the highest paved mountain passes in Europe, reaching an elevation of 2,757 meters (9,045 feet). This iconic driving route is renowned for its 75 hairpin turns and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Alps. The Stelvio Pass has long been a bucket-list destination for sports car enthusiasts and driving enthusiasts, offering an exhilarating high-altitude driving experience through some of Italy’s most dramatic mountain landscapes.
For those seeking an unforgettable driving adventure combined with stunning scenery, the Stelvio Pass is a must-visit destination. The road’s challenging turns and switchbacks provide an adrenaline-fueled journey, while the majestic mountain views along the way leave a lasting impression on all who traverse this remarkable scenic drive.
| Key Features of the Stelvio Pass | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 2,757 meters (9,045 feet) |
| Hairpin Turns | 75 |
| Surrounding Landscape | Dramatic Alps mountain range |
| Appeal | Bucket-list destination for sports car enthusiasts and driving enthusiasts |
Whether you’re a seasoned driving enthusiast or simply seeking an awe-inspiring mountain drive, the Stelvio Pass in Italy is a must-experience destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories of its breathtaking vistas and thrilling high-altitude driving adventure.
The American Southwest: Iconic Desert Landscapes
The American Southwest is home to some of the country’s most iconic and breathtaking desert landscapes, offering road trippers a wealth of scenic driving opportunities. From the towering red rock formations of Utah to the historic Route 66 in Arizona, this region is a true paradise for those seeking to immerse themselves in the Southwest’s awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks Circuit
In the state of Utah, the “Mighty Five” national parks – Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion – can be connected via a scenic driving circuit that showcases the region’s most stunning geological features. Traversing this route allows travelers to witness towering red rock formations, expansive canyons, and awe-inspiring vistas that epitomize the American Southwest’s desert landscapes.
Arizona’s Iconic Route 66 and Scenic Byways
Neighboring Arizona offers additional opportunities for road trip enthusiasts, with the historic Route 66 and a network of scenic byways providing access to the state’s natural wonders. From the dramatic Painted Desert to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, Arizona’s scenic drives allow travelers to fully immerse themselves in the region’s iconic desert landscapes.
Conclusion: Embarking on the Ultimate Road Trip Experience
Scenic road trips and drives offer travelers the opportunity to explore the world’s most breathtaking landscapes at their own pace, immersing themselves in natural wonders and creating unforgettable memories. From the rugged coastlines of Australia and Norway to the majestic mountain passes of Italy and Canada, the routes outlined in this article represent some of the most iconic and visually stunning driving experiences globally.
Whether planning a cross-country adventure or a focused exploration of a particular region, road trippers can look forward to discovering the world’s most awe-inspiring scenery, all from the comfort and flexibility of their own vehicle. By embarking on these ultimate road trip experiences, travelers can create a truly personalized and enriching journey filled with stunning vistas, unique cultural encounters, and cherished memories to last a lifetime.
The opportunity to explore scenic road trips and drives is a gateway to experiencing the world’s natural beauty at your own pace, and this article has highlighted some of the most breathtaking routes to consider for your next driving vacation. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and set out on the ultimate road trip experience that will leave you with memories to treasure forever.
FAQ
What are some of the world’s most beautiful road trips and scenic drives?
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What factors should be considered when planning a scenic road trip?
What makes Australia’s Great Ocean Road one of the world’s most beautiful drives?
What makes California’s Big Sur coastal drive so iconic?
What makes the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies a scenic driving destination?
What makes New Zealand’s South Island a scenic road trip destination?
What makes Norway’s Atlantic Road and fjord drives so scenic?
What makes South Africa’s Garden Route a scenic driving destination?
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Source Links
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/road-trips/most-beautiful-drives-in-world-according-to-instagram
- https://fullsuitcase.com/best-scenic-roads-worldwide/
- https://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/best-road-trips-in-the-world