10 Epic Road Trips: Exploring the World One Highway at a Time
Road trips embody the spirit of adventure, freedom, and exploration. There’s something inherently exciting about packing your bags, jumping into a car, and setting off on a journey where the destination is secondary to the experiences along the way. Around the world, there are countless routes that offer breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. Here, we explore ten epic road trips that showcase the diversity and beauty of our planet, each with its unique charm and allure.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Route Overview
Stretching over 600 miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles, California’s Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is renowned for its stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and charming coastal towns. Also known as Highway 1, this iconic route is a quintessential American road trip.
Highlights
- Big Sur: Famous for its dramatic coastline and the historic Bixby Creek Bridge.
- Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Quaint towns known for their beauty, history, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
- Hearst Castle: A palatial estate offering tours that delve into its fascinating history and opulent architecture.
Travel Tips
Plan for multiple stops along the way to fully appreciate the scenery and attractions. Summer months offer the best weather, but they also bring crowds, so consider a spring or fall trip for a more relaxed experience.
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Route Overview
The Great Ocean Road is a 151-mile stretch along Australia’s southeastern coast, extending from Torquay to Allansford. It’s celebrated for its coastal landscapes, surf beaches, and the iconic Twelve Apostles limestone stacks.
Highlights
- Twelve Apostles: These limestone pillars are a must-see, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Bells Beach: A world-famous surf spot.
- Otway National Park: Offers lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Travel Tips
Driving can be challenging due to winding roads, so take your time. The route is best enjoyed over two to three days to fully take in the sights and enjoy the experiences.
3. Ring Road, Iceland
Route Overview
Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) circumnavigates the entire island, covering about 828 miles. It offers an ever-changing landscape of volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords.
Highlights
- Golden Circle: Includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- Vatnajökull Glacier: Europe’s largest glacier.
- Mývatn: A geothermal area with unique volcanic landscapes.
Travel Tips
Weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for all conditions. Summer months provide the best driving conditions and extended daylight, but winter offers a chance to see the Northern Lights.
4. Garden Route, South Africa
Route Overview
The Garden Route stretches along the southern coast of South Africa from Mossel Bay to Storms River, covering approximately 190 miles. It’s famed for its diverse ecosystems, stunning beaches, and lush forests.
Highlights
- Knysna: Known for its beautiful lagoon and oyster festival.
- Tsitsikamma National Park: Offers hiking, zip-lining, and the iconic Storms River suspension bridge.
- Plettenberg Bay: A popular spot for whale watching and beach activities.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is during the South African summer (November to March). Allocate at least three days to fully explore the region’s attractions and natural beauty.
5. Ruta 40, Argentina
Route Overview
Ruta 40 is Argentina’s longest highway, running parallel to the Andes Mountains for over 3,100 miles from La Quiaca in the north to Cabo Vírgenes in the south. It passes through some of the country’s most diverse and dramatic landscapes.
Highlights
- Los Glaciares National Park: Home to the Perito Moreno Glacier.
- Mendoza: Argentina’s premier wine region.
- Salta: Known for its colonial architecture and stunning landscapes.
Travel Tips
Due to its length, tackling Ruta 40 in sections is advisable. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
6. North Coast 500, Scotland
Route Overview
Scotland’s North Coast 500 (NC500) is a 516-mile loop starting and ending in Inverness, winding through the Scottish Highlands. It’s renowned for its rugged coastline, historic castles, and picturesque villages.
Highlights
- Dunrobin Castle: A fairy-tale castle with beautiful gardens.
- Smoo Cave: A dramatic sea cave with a freshwater waterfall inside.
- Bealach na Bà: One of the UK’s most challenging and scenic roads.
Travel Tips
Due to narrow and winding roads, drive carefully and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Summer offers the best weather, but autumn provides stunning foliage and fewer tourists.
7. Route 66, USA
Route Overview
Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 stretches over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. This historic route captures the essence of the American road trip experience.
Highlights
- Cadillac Ranch: An art installation in Amarillo, Texas.
- Grand Canyon: A short detour to one of the natural wonders of the world.
- Santa Monica Pier: The official end of Route 66.
Travel Tips
Preserve the nostalgia by stopping at historic diners, motels, and roadside attractions. Spring and fall are ideal times to embark on this trip to avoid the extreme temperatures of summer and winter.
8. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Route Overview
The Amalfi Coast road (SS163) runs along Italy’s southwestern coast from Sorrento to Salerno, covering about 34 miles. It’s famous for its cliffside villages, lemon groves, and stunning Mediterranean views.
Highlights
- Positano: Known for its steep streets, colorful buildings, and upscale shops.
- Amalfi: Offers historic sites like the Amalfi Cathedral.
- Ravello: Famous for its gardens and breathtaking views.
Travel Tips
Driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and heavy traffic, especially in summer. Consider visiting in spring or early autumn for a more relaxed experience.
9. Route 1, Iceland
Route Overview
Iceland’s Route 1, also known as the Ring Road, circles the island nation for about 828 miles. It’s a journey through diverse and surreal landscapes, from volcanic fields to glaciers and fjords.
Highlights
- Golden Circle: Includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Icebergs drifting in a glacial lagoon.
- Dettifoss: Europe’s most powerful waterfall.
Travel Tips
Summer offers the best conditions for driving, with long days and mild weather. Winter driving can be treacherous but offers the chance to see the Northern Lights.
10. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Route Overview
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,500-mile coastal route along the west of Ireland, from the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork. It’s known for its rugged coastline, charming villages, and historical sites.
Highlights
- Cliffs of Moher: One of Ireland’s most famous natural attractions.
- Dingle Peninsula: Known for its scenic beauty and Gaelic culture.
- Ring of Kerry: Offers stunning landscapes and historical sites.
Travel Tips
The route can be driven year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather. Allow plenty of time for detours to fully explore the coastal villages and natural attractions.
Conclusion
Each of these road trips offers a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and cultural richness of its region. Whether you’re seeking the coastal views of the Pacific Coast Highway, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland’s Ring Road, or the historic charm of Route 66, there’s an epic road trip out there waiting for you. The key to a memorable journey is to embrace the adventure, take
