The most beautiful road trips to take around the world
Hitting the road, choosing your own route, and stopping whenever a breathtaking landscape catches your eye… A road trip is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ways to discover a country. It offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and allows you to explore places that may otherwise be difficult to reach. From wild coastlines and majestic mountains to deserts, forests, and charming villages, some routes have become true legends among travelers.
Here is a selection of the most beautiful road trips to experience at least once in your lifetime.
1. The Great Ocean Road – Australia
Stretching for around 240 kilometers, the Great Ocean Road is probably Australia’s most famous coastal road. It connects the towns of Torquay and Allansford, in the state of Victoria.
Throughout the journey, the landscapes alternate between spectacular cliffs, wild beaches, eucalyptus forests, and small surfing villages. The iconic Twelve Apostles are impossible to miss — huge rock formations sculpted by the power of the ocean.
2. Route 66 – United States
It is impossible to talk about road trips without mentioning the legendary Route 66. Stretching nearly 4,000 kilometers, it connects Chicago to Santa Monica, crossing eight American states.
Even though some sections have disappeared, its vintage atmosphere remains untouched: retro motels, old-fashioned gas stations, American diners, neon signs, and desert landscapes are what make it so charming.
3. The Ring Road – Iceland
Driving around Iceland is an unforgettable adventure. Route 1, known as the Ring Road, completely circles the island and covers around 1,300 kilometers.
Each day offers a brand-new landscape: volcanoes, glaciers, gigantic waterfalls, black sand beaches, lava fields, and hot springs.
4. The Garden Route – South Africa
The Garden Route is one of the most beautiful road trips in Africa. Stretching between Mossel Bay and Storms River, it follows the Indian Ocean through a wide variety of breathtaking landscapes.
Along the way, you’ll discover a mix of beaches, mountains, lush forests, lagoons, and nature reserves.
5. The Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland
With more than 2,500 kilometres, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal routes in the world.
It stretches along the entire west coast of Ireland, passing through colourful villages, breathtaking cliffs, and deserted beaches.
6. The North Coast 500 – Scotland
Often referred to as the Scottish Route 66, the North Coast 500 is a scenic road trip that circles the Highlands for around 830 kilometres.
Along the way, you can discover mysterious lochs, medieval castles, Caribbean-like beaches, and wild, breathtaking mountains.
7. The Carretera Austral – Chile
Still largely untouched by mass tourism, the Carretera Austral stretches across Chilean Patagonia for more than 1,200 kilometers.
This route offers a complete immersion in breathtaking wilderness, featuring glaciers, turquoise lakes, mountains, and untouched forests.
8. The Fjord Route – Norway
Norway is home to some of the most beautiful scenic roads in Europe. Between majestic fjords, breathtaking waterfalls, and steep mountains, every kilometer is a spectacular sight.
Among the most famous routes are the Atlantic Road, Trollstigen, and the road leading to the Geirangerfjord.
The road trip, a unique way to discover the world
More than just a means of transportation, a road trip is a true travel experience. It allows you to step away from traditional routes, stop in unexpected places, and enjoy spontaneous moments that often become some of the most unforgettable memories of a journey.
Whether you dream of crossing the American deserts, exploring the Norwegian fjords, driving along the Australian coastline, or discovering Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, these routes promise breathtaking scenery and an incredible sense of freedom.