Grab some car snacks and your favourite playlist, ‘cause it’s time to hit the road.
1. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Length: 275km
We couldn’t do this list without including The Great Ocean Road. Between Torquay and Warrnambool in South-Western Victoria, you’ll experience once of the world’s most scenic coastal drives. Be sure to give yourself time to check out the 12 Apostles, stretch your legs on a bushwalking track, and visit the many galleries and heritage attractions you’ll find along the way.
2. Stelvio Pass, Italy
Length: 42km
Thanks to its dramatic mountain views, the Stelvio Pass has been called “one of the world’s greatest roads”. But it’s definitely not one for the faint-hearted, as it features 48 hairpin turns (eek!). The Pass is only open for a few months every summer, so make sure you time your trip perfectly.
3. Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), USA
Length: 1000km
Highway 1 runs along the coast of California, from Carmel to Morro Bay. It’ll take you right through Big Sur, where the rugged St Lucia mountains plunge into the sparkling Pacific Ocean. The views are glorious, and there are heaps of beaches, restaurants, and attractions along the way, so there’s no chance you’ll get bored. TOP TIP: Do it in a Mustang Convertible – it’s essential to complete the dream.
4. Route 66, USA
Length: 3800km
A classic and somewhat retro journey through small-town America, the iconic Route 66 runs diagonally from Chicago to LA. Make sure you take pit stops at some of the classic motels, old-school diners, and vintage bars along the way. A detour to the majestic Grand Canyon is a serious must-do!
5. The Ring Road, Iceland
Length: 1332km
One of the most barren and starkly beautiful drives in the world, the Ring Road will treat you to views of active volcanoes, geothermal pools, snow-capped mountains, glacial lagoons, and even the northern lights (depending on the time of year). It’s incredibly stunning, but be sure to drive carefully and take lots of breaks – especially in winter, when sudden snowstorms are common.
6. Southern Scenic Route, NZ
Length: 610km
The name says it all! From Christchurch to Dunedin, you’ll be graced with unforgettable scenery. Rugged landscapes, deserted beaches, and incredible food make this road trip a definite bucket-list experience.
7. The Cabot Trail, Canada
Length: 298km
One of the prettiest parts of Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail takes you around the north of Canada’s Cape Breton Island. With its rocky coastlines and spectacular gold, red, and orange autumn foliage, the views are incredible. Stop off at charming French-influenced villages like Baddeck and Louisbourg, and keep an eye out for bald eagles, moose, and black bears (!!).
8. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Length: Depends where you start – it’s 10,582km sq.
When you drive across the world’s largest salt lake, you feel like you’re on another planet! When it rains (February – April), a thin sheet of water covers the flats, turning them into an intense (and very photogenic) mirror. And if you’re there at night, make sure you look up – thanks to the lack of light pollution, the sky is brilliant with galaxies and stars. FUN FACT: Salar de Uyuni is home to approximately 70% of the world’s lithium reserves.
9. The Pan American Highway, Patagonia to Alaska
Length: 48,000km
If you’re serious about escapism, this is the trip for you! Running through 14 different countries – from the southernmost tip of Argentina to the north of Alaska-the Pan American Highway is officially the world’s longest road trip. Because it’s north to south (or south to north), you’ll experience a wide variety of climates and landscapes – everything from arctic tundra to arid deserts and tropical jungles. TOP TIP: Make sure you take lots of side-trips off the highway, ‘cause that’s where you’ll find the real local gems.
10. The Atlantic Road, Norway
Length: 8.3km
The shortest road trip on this list, the Atlantic Road makes the cut for its impressive bridges and breathtaking Nordic scenery. With eight low bridges, endless fjords, and lush green pastures, you might find it hard to keep your eyes on the road (although you really should). When the weather is calm, keep your eyes peeled for seals and whales.
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