When it comes to travel, there are few experiences that can rival the sense of freedom and adventure that a road trip provides. Road trips offer a unique and exhilarating way to explore the world's most breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures. I love road trips—love them. I will plan out an entire trip around a stretch a road I’d like to drive (there’s more than just a few of those on this list). For this article, I’ve curated some of the most stunning road trips around the world that are bound to get your wanderlust buzzing.

Blue Ridge Parkway - United States

Location: North Carolina to Virginia

Meander serenely along the Appalachian Mountains on the Blue Ridge Parkway, a drive that's a balm for the soul. Thick forests, rolling peaks, and a sense of solitude accompany you on this remarkable journey. Take time for brisk hikes, cider tastings, and scenic overlooks. In the fall, the landscape sets ablaze with fiery foliage, providing unforgettable vistas. This iconic road trip is a mesmerizing adventure through the heart of the eastern United States.

Garden Route - South Africa

Location: Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, Western Cape

The Garden Route in South Africa is a visual feast. From Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, you'll encounter world-class wineries, wildlife-rich game reserves, serene lagoons, rugged mountains, lush forests, and pristine beaches. As you hug the Indian Ocean's coast, visit charming beach towns and the whale-watching haven of Hermanus. The winding roads through the Western Cape reveal the awe-inspiring biodiversity of Garden Route National Park, while ostrich farms and wineries like Karusa Vineyards in Oudtshoorn offer delightful diversions.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road - Austria

Location: Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, open only from June to October, is a seasonal delight in the Austrian Alps. As you ascend from Heiligenblut am Großglockner, this road trip unveils towering peaks, lush alpine meadows, and pristine glacial landscapes. Its winding path, adorned with switchbacks and hairpin turns, offers both a thrilling drive and visual spectacle. Look out for golden eagles and marmots, as this area teems with wildlife. It’s easy to see why it’s hailed as one of Europe’s most spectacular roads.

Vršič Pass - Slovenia

Location: Julian Alps, Slovenia

The Vršič Pass is nestled within the stunning Julian Alps of Slovenia and sits very high of my must drive list. This picturesque journey treats you to awe-inspiring vistas of rugged alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and idyllic alpine villages. But it's not just the scenery that will take your breath away; it's the road itself. With a multitude of challenging hairpin turns, this drive promises an adrenaline rush for adventure seekers. Due to its high elevation and dangerous conditions, the pass is only open in the summer months between April and October.

*Photo by CreatingEzra* */ Shutterstock*

The Alaskan Highway - United States

Location: Seattle, Washington, to Ketchikan, Alaska

The Alaskan Highway takes you through towering mountains, pristine wilderness, and wildlife-rich terrain. Discover charming small towns and unique attractions as you wind your way north. The Othello Tunnels offer a unique stroll through old train tunnels, and the ferry ride from Prince Rupert to Ketchikan is a breathtaking highlight. This road trip gifts you spectacular views of majestic mountains and the endless expanse of the ocean.

Ring Road - Iceland (Route 1)

Location: Circumnavigates Iceland

No road trip list is complete without a mention of Iceland’s Ring Road. This road trip circumnavigates the entire island, through vast, diverse landscapes and natural wonders. From awe-inspiring glaciers and thundering waterfalls to dramatic volcanoes, geothermal wonders, and rugged coastal cliffs, this journey has it all. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore iconic attractions like the mystical Golden Circle, the ethereal Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and the bubbling geysers of Haukadalur. Iceland's Ring Road is definitely a bucket-list adventure for those yearning to witness unique natural phenomena and immerse themselves in the culture of the Nordic island. Read more about my past trips to Iceland here.

Sea to Sky Highway - Canada

Location: Vancouver to Whistler, British Columbia

This scenic drive traces the coastline of Howe Sound, offering vistas of glistening waters, old-growth rainforests, and snow-draped peaks. Along the way, stop at accessible provincial parks and ride the Sea to Sky Gondola for panoramic views. Don't miss the heart-pounding suspension bridge experience. Your journey culminates in Whistler, a world-renowned mountain resort town.

*Photo by EB Adventure Photography* */ Shutterstock*

Amalfi Coast - Italy

Location: Amalfi Coast, Campania

The Amalfi Coast in Italy is a UNESCO-listed Mediterranean masterpiece. The narrow, thrilling coastal road winds through dramatic cliffs with narrow curves, offering dazzling views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The route takes you through picturesque villages like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, where exquisite resorts, colorful buildings, and a sense of timelessness await. It's a road trip where every turn is a work of art.

Transfăgărășan Road - Romania

Location: Bascov to Cartisoara, Carpathian Mountains

Known as the world's most breathtaking driving road, Transfăgărășan is a mesmerizing journey through Romania's Carpathian Mountains. This awe-inspiring route, spanning 71 miles from Bascov to Cartisoara, carves through the majestic Făgăraș Mountains. The road is an engineering marvel, and accessible only from June to October. While exploring the region, be sure to include leisurely drives along Romania's picturesque back roads, with stops in Transylvanian treasures like Brasov and Sighisoara, and perhaps an encounter with local sheep along the way. Hairpins and switchbacks through impressive mountains? Yes, please. It’s on my list.

North Coast 500 - Scotland

Location: Scottish Highlands

For castle-to-castle exploration along the Scottish Highlands' coastline, the North Coast 500 is the ultimate road trip. The route skirts along lochs, uncovers unspoiled beaches, and leads you along single track back roads. The journey reveals the stunning natural scenery and rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Key attractions include Balnakeil Beach, the ascent of Stac Pollaidh, and dolphin watching along the coast. This road trip is an adventure through some of the UK's most magnificent and untamed scenery.

Pacific Coast Highway - United States

Location: Southern California to San Francisco, California

The Pacific Coast Highway, a classic California road trip, stretches from Ojai to San Francisco. Along this picturesque route, savor craft beers, indulge in wine tastings, and explore natural reserves. The journey offers breathtaking views of the iconic Bixby Bridge and the ethereal McWay Falls. Wander through the charming streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea and delve into the maritime heritage of Cannery Row. The adventure ends in the eclectic, hilly city of San Francisco.

Bergen to Trondheim - Norway

Location: Bergen to Trondheim, Norwegian Fjords

Embark on a spectacular journey through Norway's breathtaking fjords. Trollstigen's hairpin bends and the beauty of Geirangerfjord will leave you spellbound. Marvel at the Art Nouveau architecture in Ålesund and cross extraordinary bridges on the Atlantic Road. Along the way, you'll encounter stunning natural beauty and charming towns, creating an unforgettable road trip through Norway's finest landscapes.

Great Ocean Road - Australia

Location: Torquay to Warrnambool, Victoria

Australia's Great Ocean Road is a 150-mile masterpiece of coastal beauty. It unfurls before you like a dream, offering views of dramatic limestone cliffs, quaint fishing villages, and ancient rainforests. Key stops include Bells Beach, the iconic Split Point Lighthouse, and the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles. If you visit from June to September, Warrnambool is the place to be for whale watching. Aireys Inlet, a serene seaside town, completes this road trip, offering world-class surfing and a tranquil escape.

These road trip experiences promise adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, making them some of the best ways to explore the world's wonders at your own pace. I hope I have inspired you to hit the open road and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Ultimate Road Trip Adventures Around the Globe