Road trips are one of the best ways to travel around the world. You get to experience the changing landscapes first-hand and take your time to explore. Unlike flying or travelling by train, road trips let you make spontaneous stops and discover famous places and hidden treasures across countries or even continents.
There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a road trip. While many countries have scenic drives, there are a few that stand out for the sheer beauty of their landscapes.
Let’s take a look at some of the most beautiful road trips around the world that will leave you in awe and make you want to go back for more.
Route 66, USA –
Approximately 3,940 km, Route 66 is one of America’s most iconic highways. Spanning 8 states (Illinois; Missouri; Kansas; Oklahoma; Texas; New Mexico; Arizona; and California), the route dates back to November 11, 1926. It was one of the first highways to be added to the U.S. Numbered Highway System, and it still holds a lot of cultural significance to this day. Travellers on this iconic American highway can enjoy a nostalgic American road trip.
Atlantic Road, Norway –
The Atlantic Ocean Road in Norway is only 8.3 km long, but it’s full of stunning sea views and some pretty wild twists and turns. Completed in 1989, the road has eight bridges that link up small islands, making it an exciting ride. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during your night drive.
Ring Road, Iceland –
The Ring Road is a great way to explore Iceland, with plenty of places to visit and things to do in between. It’s 1,332 km long and usually takes between seven and ten days to cover. It’s perfect for first-timers, as it links lots of cities and towns, so you can see all the amazing landscapes and attractions Iceland has to offer.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia –
The Great Ocean Road is a road that has been around since 1932 and covers a distance of 243 km. Along the way, you’ll find stunning cliffs, remote beaches, and trails for hiking and biking, all set against the backdrop of lush green valleys. One of the most popular attractions is the 12 Apostles, a group of limestone pillars that have been built over millions of years. No matter what else you do in Australia, you should definitely check out the Great Ocean Road.
Furka Pass, Switzerland –
The Furka Pass is a famous motorway that links the towns of andermatt, Uri, and Gletsch, Valais. It first came to people’s attention when it was briefly used as a car chase in the movie Goldfinger, starring James Bond. It’s still a popular destination for people who want to take in the amazing mountain views and take on some of the toughest roads in Switzerland.