Road trips have long been a favorite way to travel, offering the freedom to explore new places at your own pace while taking in stunning landscapes along the way. Whether you’re seeking dramatic coastal views, majestic mountain ranges, or winding countryside roads, there’s a scenic route waiting to make your next road trip an unforgettable adventure. Here, we highlight ten of the world’s most iconic scenic routes that promise to leave you awe-inspired at every turn. Pack your bags and hit the road as we explore these must-see routes for your next road trip!
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is synonymous with classic American road trips. Stretching over 1,000 kilometers along California’s stunning coastline, this route offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and endless golden beaches. From Los Angeles in the south to Mendocino County in the north, the PCH provides the perfect combination of natural beauty and charming seaside towns.
As you cruise along this famous route, you’ll encounter iconic stops such as Big Sur, where the rugged cliffs plunge dramatically into the ocean, and the picturesque Monterey Peninsula. Don’t miss a visit to Hearst Castle, the opulent mansion built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Santa Barbara and Carmel-by-the-Sea offer quaint stops where you can relax and enjoy California’s laid-back coastal vibe. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned road-tripper, the Pacific Coast Highway is an ideal scenic route for your next adventure.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives, spanning 243 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Victoria. This scenic route takes you past pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and awe-inspiring rock formations. The journey is as much about the breathtaking views as it is about immersing yourself in Australia’s natural beauty.
One of the most iconic stops along the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks rising from the ocean. These majestic formations are a must-see, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the colors of the sky cast a golden glow over the rocks. Another highlight is the Loch Ard Gorge, a stunning bay named after a famous shipwreck. As you continue along the route, explore the coastal town of Apollo Bay and the dense greenery of Great Otway National Park. This scenic drive perfectly blends Australia’s vibrant coastline with its rich history and stunning natural wonders.
The Ring Road, Iceland
For those seeking a truly unique and otherworldly road trip, Iceland’s Ring Road offers an unforgettable journey through some of the planet’s most diverse landscapes. This 1,332-kilometer route circles the entire island, taking you through glaciers, volcanoes, geothermal hot springs, and thundering waterfalls.
Begin your adventure with a dip in the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas. Continue along the Golden Circle, where you can witness the power of nature at Geysir and the cascading beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall. As you make your way around the island, stop in Vik, a charming village known for its black sand beaches and striking sea stacks. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights during the winter months. Iceland’s Ring Road offers a road trip experience like no other, with dramatic landscapes that will leave you speechless.
The Swiss Alps, Switzerland
If mountain scenery is what you crave, a road trip through the Swiss Alps is sure to satisfy. Switzerland is home to some of Europe’s most stunning alpine landscapes, and driving through this region offers unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, sparkling lakes, and charming villages nestled in picturesque valleys.
The route takes you over several famous mountain passes, including the Gotthard Pass and the Furka Pass, each offering breathtaking vistas of rugged peaks and verdant meadows. Along the way, stop in Zermatt, a car-free village at the foot of the Matterhorn, or visit Lucerne, a charming town known for its medieval architecture and crystal-clear lake. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, skiing, or simply soaking in the scenery, the Swiss Alps provide an unforgettable road trip destination.
The Romantic Road, Germany
Germany’s Romantic Road is a fairy tale journey through medieval towns, storybook castles, and rolling countryside. Spanning 350 kilometers from Würzburg to Füssen, this scenic route transports you back in time to a world of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and historic fortresses.
One of the most iconic stops on the Romantic Road is Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Perched high on a hilltop, this castle offers stunning views of the surrounding Bavarian countryside. Another must-visit is the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a well-preserved medieval town with charming streets and historic landmarks. As you drive through this scenic route, you’ll also encounter vineyards, forests, and rolling hills, making it an ideal road trip for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway in Canada is often regarded as one of the world’s most scenic drives, offering jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies, emerald lakes, and towering glaciers. This 232-kilometer route connects Jasper National Park to Banff National Park, two of Canada’s most iconic national parks.
Highlights of the Icefields Parkway include the Columbia Icefield, where you can take a guided tour onto the massive Athabasca Glacier, and Lake Louise, known for its striking turquoise waters. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as elk, mountain goats, and even black bears. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, the Icefields Parkway provides a road trip experience that showcases the raw beauty of Canada’s wilderness.
The Garden Route, South Africa
South Africa’s Garden Route is a stunning coastal drive that stretches from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, offering a diverse mix of landscapes, from sandy beaches to lush forests and dramatic cliffs. This 300-kilometer route is perfect for those looking to experience South Africa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Key stops along the Garden Route include Tsitsikamma National Park, where you can explore ancient forests and participate in thrilling activities like zip-lining and hiking. The town of Knysna is another highlight, known for its tranquil lagoon and bustling town center. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, adventure, or relaxation, the Garden Route offers something for everyone, making it a must-do scenic route for your next road trip.
Ruta 40, Argentina
Spanning more than 5,000 kilometers from the northern border with Bolivia to the southern tip of Patagonia, Ruta 40 is Argentina’s most famous road and one of the longest in the world. This epic route takes you through a wide variety of landscapes, from arid deserts and fertile vineyards to icy fjords and towering mountains.
Notable stops along Ruta 40 include the wine region of Mendoza, where you can sample some of Argentina’s finest Malbec wines, and the Patagonian Steppe, a vast expanse of windswept plains and rugged beauty. Further south, you’ll encounter the dramatic peaks of the Andes and the stunning glaciers of Los Glaciares National Park. Ruta 40 offers a road trip experience that captures the diverse beauty of Argentina’s landscapes and cultures.
The Route des Grandes Alpes, France
For an unforgettable alpine adventure, head to France’s Route des Grandes Alpes, a high-altitude drive that takes you through the heart of the French Alps. This 720-kilometer route stretches from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea, winding through some of Europe’s highest mountain passes.
Highlights of the route include the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved pass in the Alps, and the Col du Galibier, which offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming alpine towns such as Chamonix and Briançon, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The Route des Grandes Alpes is the perfect scenic route for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
The North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a relatively new addition to the world’s most scenic road trips, but it has quickly become a favorite among travelers. This 830-kilometer route starts and ends in Inverness, taking you on a loop through the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the northern coast.
Key highlights of the North Coast 500 include the dramatic cliffs of Duncansby Head, the charming fishing village of Ullapool, and the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness. Along the way, you’ll encounter remote beaches, ancient castles, and rolling green hills, making this route a perfect blend of natural beauty and Scottish heritage.
Conclusion
Embarking on a scenic road trip is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of diverse landscapes while experiencing new cultures and adventures. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged coastlines of Australia and the USA, the dramatic mountain passes of Switzerland and France, or the vast wilderness of Canada and Argentina, these top ten scenic routes provide the perfect inspiration for your
next road trip. So, pack your bags, fuel up your car, and get ready to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking routes for an unforgettable journey!
