What Are the Most Scenic Drives in the World?
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There’s something undeniably magical about hitting the open road, rolling the windows down, and soaking in breathtaking views as you drive.
Some routes are more than just roads—they’re unforgettable experiences, with every mile offering jaw-dropping scenery and a sense of wonder.
Whether you’re cruising along coastal cliffs, winding through mountain ranges, or gliding past lush vineyards, scenic drives transport you to another world.
Let’s buckle up and explore some of the most stunning drives on the planet!
1. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Stretching 151 miles along Australia’s southeastern coast, the Great Ocean Road is a must for road trip enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- The iconic Twelve Apostles, towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean.
Lush rainforests in the Great Otway National Park.
Koalas lounging in eucalyptus trees near Kennett River.
Best Time to Visit: Between November and March for sunny skies and warmer weather.
Pro tip: Take it slow and stop at the many lookout points to capture photos of the breathtaking coastline!
2. Pacific Coast Highway, United States
California’s Highway 1, better known as the Pacific Coast Highway, is a classic coastal drive filled with jaw-dropping vistas.
Highlights:
- The rugged cliffs of Big Sur, with dramatic drops into the Pacific Ocean.
Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots in California.
Quaint seaside towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Monterey.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for clear skies and fewer chances of fog.
This drive feels like stepping into a postcard at every turn.
3. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is as glamorous as it is beautiful, offering stunning Mediterranean views at every twist and turn.
Highlights:
- Colorful villages like Positano and Amalfi perched on cliffs.
The shimmering blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Lemon groves and terraced vineyards along the hillsides.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and vibrant blooms.
Navigating the narrow roads can be a bit nerve-wracking, but the views make it worth every hairpin turn.
4. Ring Road, Iceland
If you’re craving adventure, Iceland’s Ring Road offers an otherworldly experience.
This 828-mile loop encircles the entire country, showcasing its raw and rugged beauty.
Highlights:
- Majestic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
Black sand beaches at Reynisfjara.
Volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and steaming geothermal fields.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) for extended daylight hours or winter for a chance to see the northern lights.
Pack layers—the weather can change in the blink of an eye!
5. Garden Route, South Africa
South Africa’s Garden Route is a lush, green paradise stretching 190 miles between Mossel Bay and Storms River.
Highlights:
- Scenic lagoons and beaches near Knysna.
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Storms River suspension bridge in Tsitsikamma National Park.
Diverse wildlife, from dolphins to ostriches.
- Scenic lagoons and beaches near Knysna.
Best Time to Visit: September to November for spring blooms and whale watching.
This route is perfect for nature lovers who want a little bit of everything—beaches, forests, and mountains.
6. Trollstigen, Norway
For those who love dramatic landscapes, Norway’s Trollstigen (The Troll’s Path) is an unforgettable drive.
Highlights:
- Eleven hairpin bends carved into steep mountain terrain.
Stunning waterfalls like Stigfossen cascading alongside the road.
Panoramic views from the Trollstigen Visitor Centre.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn when the road is open and the weather is mild.
This drive is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a thrill-seeker’s dream!
7. Route 66, United States
Dubbed “The Mother Road,” Route 66 is a legendary cross-country drive steeped in Americana.
Highlights:
- Quirky roadside attractions like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas.
Nostalgic diners and motels with vintage neon signs.
Stunning deserts, forests, and mountain landscapes.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Route 66 is as much about the journey as the destination—a true slice of American culture.
8. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
This 1,553-mile coastal route showcases the best of Ireland’s rugged beauty.
Highlights:
- The Cliffs of Moher, towering above the crashing Atlantic waves.
Charming villages like Doolin and Kinsale.
The hauntingly beautiful Slieve League Cliffs.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for mild weather and blooming wildflowers.
Driving here feels like stepping into a storybook, with rolling green hills and dramatic cliffs.
9. Milford Road, New Zealand
Connecting Te Anau to Milford Sound, this scenic drive is the gateway to one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations.
Highlights:
- Lush rainforests and mirror-like lakes.
Towering peaks in Fiordland National Park.
The stunning Homer Tunnel and cascading waterfalls.
Best Time to Visit: November to March for warmer weather or winter for snow-dusted mountains.
Every bend in the road reveals a new awe-inspiring vista.
10. Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway
Norway strikes again with the Atlantic Ocean Road, a short but spectacular drive spanning just over five miles.
Highlights:
- Bridges that seem to leap from island to island over the ocean.
Thrilling views of crashing waves and the open sea.
A unique blend of engineering and natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit: Summer for calmer seas or autumn for dramatic stormy views.
This road is a masterpiece of design and nature combined.
Conclusion
From coastlines to mountain peaks, the world is full of scenic drives that make the journey just as memorable as the destination.
Whether you’re a fan of dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, or otherworldly landscapes, there’s a road out there calling your name.
So, grab a map, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure on wheels.
The world is waiting!
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