There’s something uniquely liberating about hitting the open road. A scenic road trip offers not just a way to travel but an immersive experience, a chance to connect with the environment, cultures, and landscapes in a deeply personal way. Across the globe, there are countless scenic routes that meander through mountains, along coastlines, and across vast deserts, each offering travelers an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a seasoned road trip enthusiast or a first-time adventurer, this essay will explore some of the best scenic road trips around the world—each with its own distinct charm, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA: The Iconic Coastal Drive
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as California State Route 1, is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States, famed for its dramatic coastal scenery. Spanning nearly 600 miles along California’s coastline, the PCH takes travelers on a mesmerizing journey from the sandy beaches of Southern California to the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, offering views of the vast Pacific Ocean along the way.
The highlight of this route is the stretch through Big Sur, where the highway clings to cliffsides high above the crashing waves. Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed spots on the route, offers panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. For travelers who love nature, stops at McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park provide opportunities to explore hidden beaches and towering redwoods.
Beyond the natural beauty, the Pacific Coast Highway passes through charming towns such as Carmel-by-the-Sea, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara, each offering its own distinct character and plenty of places to rest and refuel. The PCH combines breathtaking coastal views with laid-back Californian culture, making it one of the most scenic and relaxing road trips in the world.
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia: A Journey Along Rugged Coastlines
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a spectacular 151-mile drive along the southeastern coast of Victoria, renowned for its stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and natural rock formations. This route, which stretches from the town of Torquay to Allansford, is considered one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, and it’s not hard to see why.
The most famous attraction along the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, a series of limestone stacks rising dramatically from the Southern Ocean. Though not all twelve remain standing today, the view of these towering formations, especially during sunrise or sunset, is awe-inspiring. Other notable stops along the route include Loch Ard Gorge, where travelers can explore hidden coves and beaches, and the Great Otway National Park, home to lush rainforests and waterfalls.
The Great Ocean Road also offers a chance to encounter native Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, and echidnas, in their natural habitats. The combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and iconic landmarks makes this drive a must for any traveler exploring Australia.
3. The Ring Road, Iceland: A Journey Through Otherworldly Landscapes
Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, offers a complete circle around the island, providing access to some of the country’s most extraordinary and otherworldly landscapes. Spanning approximately 828 miles, the Ring Road takes travelers through volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls, making it one of the most unique road trips in the world.
The road trip begins and ends in Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, and passes through some of the country’s most famous landmarks, including Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the geothermal areas of Hverir. One of the highlights is Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, where travelers can embark on glacier hikes or boat tours.
The drive also offers opportunities to soak in Iceland’s famous hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon or the less-crowded Myvatn Nature Baths. Along the way, small Icelandic towns offer cozy accommodations and local cuisine, allowing travelers to rest and recharge before continuing their adventure. The Ring Road showcases Iceland’s unparalleled natural beauty, from icy landscapes to volcanic terrains, making it a dream road trip for nature lovers.
4. Garden Route, South Africa: A Coastal Adventure Through Natural Wonders
South Africa’s Garden Route is a 190-mile stretch of road between Mossel Bay and Storms River, offering travelers a journey through some of the country’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes. This scenic drive takes you along the southern coast, where mountains meet the ocean, and lush forests give way to golden beaches.
The Garden Route is renowned for its biodiversity, with national parks, nature reserves, and marine sanctuaries offering ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Tsitsikamma National Park, for example, is a highlight of the route, featuring dense forests, dramatic cliffs, and the famous Storms River Suspension Bridge. Visitors can also go on wildlife safaris, kayak through lagoons, or hike along the many trails that weave through the region.
The coastal towns along the Garden Route, such as Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, offer excellent food, local markets, and opportunities for whale watching and dolphin spotting. With its combination of mountains, forests, beaches, and wildlife, the Garden Route offers a rich and scenic experience for travelers who want to see South Africa’s natural beauty in all its forms.
5. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland: A Majestic Coastal Journey
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,550-mile road trip along the western coast of Ireland, stretching from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south. This route is known for its rugged beauty, with dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches, and charming coastal villages dotting the landscape.
One of the most iconic stops along the Wild Atlantic Way is the Cliffs of Moher, where towering cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views that are especially dramatic during stormy weather. Other notable sights include the Burren, a unique limestone landscape, and the Ring of Kerry, a circular route that takes travelers through some of Ireland’s most picturesque countryside.
The drive also offers the chance to experience Ireland’s rich history and culture. Ancient castles, traditional Irish pubs, and vibrant Gaelic-speaking communities are scattered along the route. Travelers can stop in villages like Dingle or Galway, where lively music, delicious seafood, and friendly locals make for a memorable experience.
The Wild Atlantic Way is ideal for travelers who want to experience Ireland’s wild, untamed beauty while also immersing themselves in the country’s culture and history. The ever-changing scenery, from rugged cliffs to green pastures, ensures that every mile of this journey is as captivating as the last.
