The Most Scenic Routes for Road Trips

A road trip can be the ultimate way to experience a country’s diverse landscapes, picturesque towns, and hidden gems. Whether you're seeking coastal views, mountainous terrain, or charming countryside, these scenic routes promise unforgettable adventures:

Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Stretching along California's coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views in the world. From the rugged cliffs of Big Sur to the beaches of Malibu and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, this route combines spectacular sea views with dramatic landscapes.

Great Ocean Road, Australia
This famous route takes you along the southern coast of Australia, where you can witness towering limestone cliffs, serene beaches, and lush rainforests. The Twelve Apostles rock formations and the charming coastal towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay are highlights of this awe-inspiring drive.

Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road offers a mesmerizing journey through volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, and geothermal hot springs. The route circumnavigates the island, providing access to iconic spots like the Golden Circle, the Blue Lagoon, and the otherworldly landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park.

Route One, New Zealand
New Zealand’s North and South Islands offer diverse scenery, and Route One takes you through coastal cliffs, lush forests, and vibrant towns. Highlights include the beaches of Bay of Islands, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and the stunning fjords of Fiordland National Park.

The Garden Route, South Africa
This scenic route runs along the southern coast of South Africa, offering a stunning mix of beaches, forests, and mountains. Enjoy charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and stop to explore wildlife at the Tsitsikamma National Park and the Cango Caves.

The Amalfi Coast, Italy
One of Europe’s most picturesque drives, the Amalfi Coast takes you along Italy’s southern coastline, where you’ll be treated to dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns like Positano and Ravello. The route also offers views of Mount Vesuvius and the islands of Capri and Ischia.

The Icefields Parkway, Canada
Running through the Canadian Rockies, the Icefields Parkway is a must-see for nature lovers. This route links Jasper National Park with Banff National Park, showcasing dramatic mountain views, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and wildlife. Don’t miss the Athabasca Glacier and Lake Louise along the way.

The Scottish Highlands, Scotland
A road trip through the Scottish Highlands offers stunning views of rugged mountains, serene lochs, and medieval castles. The North Coast 500 route is especially famous, taking you through remote villages, dramatic coastal cliffs, and historical landmarks like Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness.

The High Road to Taos, USA
This scenic route takes you through the mountains of northern New Mexico, showcasing the desert landscapes, lush valleys, and historic towns. Taos is known for its adobe-style architecture and nearby ski resorts, and the drive provides picturesque views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Rio Grande Gorge.

The Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen, or "The Troll’s Ladder," is one of Norway’s most iconic roads. This narrow, winding route through the fjords and mountains offers jaw-dropping views of steep cliffs, waterfalls, and deep valleys. Stop at the viewing platforms for a panoramic look at the stunning landscape.

Ruta 40, Argentina
Stretching from the north to the south of Argentina, Ruta 40 is one of the longest and most scenic drives in the world. The route takes you through diverse landscapes, including the Andes mountains, Patagonian steppes, and colorful deserts. Along the way, you’ll pass historic towns, vineyards, and natural wonders like the Atacama Desert.

The Blue Ridge Parkway, USA
The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a leisurely drive through the Appalachian Mountains, with spectacular vistas, lush forests, and colorful fall foliage. It connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina with Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, offering plenty of stops for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic overlooks.

The Sani Pass, South Africa and Lesotho
The Sani Pass is a thrilling drive through the mountains, crossing from South Africa into Lesotho. The route is known for its steep climbs, dramatic landscapes, and panoramic views of the Drakensberg Mountains. It’s one of the most rugged and scenic roads in southern Africa, offering a unique adventure.

Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
This famous route takes you through the Făgăraș Mountains in Romania, offering hairpin turns, high-altitude views, and impressive tunnels. Along the way, you’ll pass through forests, lakes, and medieval castles like Bran Castle, which is often associated with the Dracula legend.

Whether you're cruising along coastlines, winding through mountain passes, or exploring remote landscapes, these scenic routes offer the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable road trip adventure.