Are you ready to hit the open road and explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world? Look no further than The Most Scenic Road Trips to Take This Year for a list of unforgettable journeys. Whether you’re craving coastal views, mountain passes, or desert vistas, there’s a road trip for everyone’s taste. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the historic Route 66, these scenic drives offer a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while experiencing the freedom of the open road.
For those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, The Most Scenic Road Trips to Take This Year provides an array of options to satisfy your wanderlust. Imagine cruising along the stunning Amalfi Coast in Italy or winding through the picturesque Scottish Highlands. If you’re in the mood for a wild adventure, consider a road trip through the rugged landscapes of Iceland or the remote Outback of Australia. With so many diverse and awe-inspiring routes to choose from, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences awaiting you on the open road.
The Most Scenic Road Trips to Take This Year
There’s something special about hitting the open road and exploring new destinations. If you’re a fan of road trips, there are some incredibly scenic routes that should be on your radar for this year. Whether you’re looking for coastal views, mountain landscapes, or desert vistas, there’s a road trip for everyone. From the iconic Pacific Coast Highway to the historic Route 66, these road trips promise breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Each road trip offers its own unique attractions and highlights, from charming small towns to national parks and natural wonders. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family and friends, these scenic road trips provide the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories and discover the beauty of the world around us.
1. Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. Stretching along the California coast, this route offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beach towns. From the famous Big Sur coastline to the sandy beaches of Southern California, the Pacific Coast Highway is a must-see for road trip enthusiasts.
Along the way, travelers can stop at attractions such as Hearst Castle, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Whether you’re interested in whale watching, hiking, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, the Pacific Coast Highway has something for everyone.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering panoramic views of rolling hills, forests, and valleys. This picturesque route spans from Virginia to North Carolina, and is especially stunning during the fall foliage season when the leaves change colors, creating a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Travelers on the Blue Ridge Parkway can explore charming mountain towns, hike to scenic overlooks, and visit landmarks such as the Linn Cove Viaduct and the Folk Art Center. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or a photography lover, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a road trip worth adding to your bucket list.
3. Going-to-the-Sun Road
Located in Glacier National Park, Montana, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a breathtaking drive that offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows. This engineering marvel spans 50 miles and takes travelers through some of the most stunning landscapes in the American West.
Along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, visitors can marvel at attractions such as Logan Pass, the Weeping Wall, and the Garden Wall. Whether you’re interested in wildlife viewing, hiking, or simply taking in the awe-inspiring scenery, this road trip is a true feast for the eyes.
4. Overseas Highway
The Overseas Highway, also known as US Highway 1, is a scenic drive that connects the Florida Keys, offering sweeping views of the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. This iconic road trip takes travelers across a series of bridges and causeways, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, and showcases the beauty of the tropical paradise that is the Florida Keys.
Along the Overseas Highway, road trippers can stop at attractions such as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Bahia Honda State Park, and the historic town of Key West. Whether you’re interested in snorkeling, fishing, or simply relaxing on the beach, the Overseas Highway offers a unique and unforgettable road trip experience.
5. Route 66
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is one of the most famous road trips in the United States, spanning from Chicago to Los Angeles. This historic route takes travelers through a diverse array of landscapes, from the plains of the Midwest to the deserts of the Southwest, and showcases the cultural heritage of small-town America.
Along Route 66, road trippers can visit classic roadside attractions such as the Cadillac Ranch, the Wigwam Motel, and the Blue Swallow Motel. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a vintage car aficionado, or simply seeking adventure on the open road, Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through America’s past.
6. Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road in Australia is a scenic drive that hugs the country’s southeastern coast, offering breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, limestone cliffs, and iconic rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles. This coastal route is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for surfing, wildlife spotting, and beachcombing.
Travelers on the Great Ocean Road can explore attractions such as the Otway National Park, the Loch Ard Gorge, and the seaside town of Lorne. Whether you’re interested in scenic walks, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Australian coastline, this road trip promises an unforgettable adventure.
7. Ring Road
Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is a scenic drive that circles the entire island, offering stunning views of volcanic landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs. This road trip is a dream for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, with opportunities for hiking, glacier exploring, and witnessing the magical Northern Lights.
Along the Ring Road, travelers can visit attractions such as the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the Goðafoss waterfall, and the geothermal area of Mývatn. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking a unique and otherworldly road trip experience, Iceland’s Ring Road has it all.
8. Amalfi Coast Road
The Amalfi Coast Road in Italy is a scenic drive that winds along the Mediterranean coastline, offering breathtaking views of colorful cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and lush terraced gardens. This road trip is a feast for the senses, with opportunities to savor Italian cuisine, explore historic towns, and relax on the beautiful beaches of the Amalfi Coast.
Travelers on the Amalfi Coast Road can visit attractions such as the town of Positano, the ancient city of Pompeii, and the island of Capri. Whether you’re a food and wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of la dolce vita, the Amalfi Coast Road promises a memorable and enchanting journey through the scenic beauty of southern Italy.
| Road Trip | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Coast Highway | California, USA | Breathtaking coastal views, Big Sur, and seaside towns |
| Ring Road | Iceland | Waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, and volcanic landscapes |
| Great Ocean Road | Victoria, Australia | Stunning ocean views, Twelve Apostles, and rainforests |
| Amalfi Coast Road | Italy | Cliffside drive, colorful villages, and Mediterranean views |
| Icefields Parkway | Alberta to British Columbia, Canada | Mountain scenery, glaciers, and turquoise lakes |