As the year draws to a close, wanderlust beckons, and what better way to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new than with an epic road trip? From winding coastal routes to mountainous landscapes, the world offers a myriad of breathtaking journeys that promise adventure, discovery, and memories that will last a lifetime. Here are the 10 best road trips to consider for your year-end travel escapade.
- Pacific Coast Highway, USA: Embark on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, stretching along California’s coastline. Revel in the awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, winding through Big Sur’s rugged cliffs and quaint coastal towns.
- Great Ocean Road, Australia: Down under, the Great Ocean Road offers a mesmerizing drive along the southeastern coast. Witness the Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean, and explore lush rainforests and pristine beaches.
- Ring Road, Iceland: Experience the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland on the Ring Road. Encounter glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and geysers as you circumnavigate this Nordic island, especially enchanting under the Northern Lights.
- Amalfi Coast, Italy: Italy’s Amalfi Coast boasts a road trip through charming cliffside villages overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Navigate the winding roads of the Amalfi Drive for a journey filled with Mediterranean allure.
- North Coast 500, Scotland: Venture into the Scottish Highlands on the North Coast 500, a route showcasing the rugged beauty of the northernmost part of the United Kingdom. Castles, lochs, and vast landscapes await.
- Route 66, USA: Known as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 spans from Chicago to Los Angeles, offering a nostalgic journey through small towns, iconic diners, and classic Americana.
- Transfagarasan Highway, Romania: For a thrilling mountainous drive, the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania is unparalleled. Winding through the Carpathian Mountains, this road trip offers stunning vistas and the famous Balea Lake.
- Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland: Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way takes you along the country’s western coastline, featuring dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and the enchanting landscapes of the Emerald Isle.
- Trollstigen, Norway: In Norway, the Trollstigen road winds through the stunning Norwegian fjords and ascends the Troll’s Ladder, a series of hairpin bends with breathtaking views of mountains and waterfalls.
- Garden Route, South Africa: Explore South Africa’s Garden Route, a coastal stretch along the Indian Ocean. Encounter diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and picturesque landscapes as you journey from Mossel Bay to Storms River.
As you plan your year-end road trip, consider the diverse wonders these routes offer. Each journey promises a unique adventure, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to create indelible memories. So, fuel up, hit the road, and let the magic of these 10 best road trips in the world be the perfect conclusion to your year.