Epic Road Trip Routes You Need to Try

There’s something undeniably magical about hitting the open road. Whether it’s the freedom to explore at your own pace, the changing landscapes just beyond your windshield, or the excitement of discovering hidden gems, road trips offer a unique kind of travel experience. From rugged coastlines and desert highways to lush countryside and mountain passes, the possibilities are endless. You can chase sunsets, follow historic trails, or simply enjoy the journey without a set destination. Road trips invite spontaneity, offering moments of awe and reflection that you’ll remember forever. Here are some of the most epic road trip routes around the world that should be on every traveler's bucket list.

1. Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA

Stretching from San Francisco to San Diego, the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the United States. With stops at Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Malibu, this route combines natural beauty with charming towns and iconic landmarks.

Highlights:

• Bixby Creek Bridge
• Hearst Castle
• Santa Monica Pier

Tips:

• Take your time and plan for multiple days.
• Watch for landslides or road closures, especially during winter months.

2. Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia

This 243-kilometer stretch along Australia's southeastern coast winds past panoramic beaches, coastal cliffs, and scenic rainforests. Known for its cinematic beauty, the drive reveals charming seaside towns, surf spots, and rich Aboriginal heritage. Along the way, you’ll find artisan cafes and seafood shacks perfect for a midday break. Don’t miss the roadside lookouts offering stunning ocean vistas. The blend of natural beauty and cultural richness makes this route a must for adventure seekers and serenity lovers alike.

Highlights:

• The Twelve Apostles
• Loch Ard Gorge
• Great Otway National Park

Tips:

• Visit during sunrise or sunset for jaw-dropping photo ops.
• Keep an eye out for koalas in the eucalyptus trees.

3. Ring Road – Iceland

The Ring Road (Route 1) circles the island and is the perfect way to experience Iceland’s surreal landscapes—from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanic craters and black sand beaches. This iconic loop takes you through charming towns, geothermal hot springs, and remote fjords that feel like another planet. Whether you're chasing the northern lights or basking in the midnight sun, this route delivers jaw-dropping views at every turn.

Highlights:

• Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss waterfalls
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Lake Mývatn

Tips:

• Rent a 4x4 if you're visiting in winter.
• Pack layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes.

4. Garden Route – South Africa

This scenic drive between Mossel Bay and Storms River in South Africa is known for its lush forests, pristine beaches, and vibrant wildlife.

Highlights:

• Tsitsikamma National Park
• Knysna Heads
• Oudtshoorn’s Cango Caves

Tips:

• Consider detours to nearby game reserves.
• Check local road conditions and weather forecasts.

5. North Coast 500 – Scotland, UK

Dubbed “Scotland’s Route 66,” the NC500 is a circular route that starts and ends in Inverness. The journey showcases Scotland’s rugged coastline, historic castles, and cozy Highland villages.

Highlights:

• Bealach na Bà Pass
• Dunrobin Castle
• Duncansby Stacks

Tips:

• The route is best enjoyed slowly over 5–7 days.
• Book accommodations in advance, especially in summer.

6. Amalfi Coast – Italy

Winding along Italy’s southwestern coastline, this narrow cliffside road offers stunning Mediterranean views and picturesque seaside villages.

Highlights:

• Positano
• Amalfi Town
• Ravello

Tips:

• Roads can be narrow and busy—consider hiring a local driver if you're not comfortable.
• Try local limoncello and seafood dishes along the way.

7. Blue Ridge Parkway – USA

Connecting the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, this 469-mile route is a dream for nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Mount Mitchell
• Blue Ridge Music Center
• Linville Falls

Tips:

• Visit in autumn for stunning fall foliage.
• Speed limits are low—plan for a leisurely pace.

8. Ruta 40 – Argentina

One of the longest roads in the world, Ruta 40 spans over 5,000 km from the southern tip of Patagonia to northern Argentina, offering dramatic views and cultural encounters.

Highlights:

• Patagonia’s lakes and glaciers
• Mendoza wine region
• Salta’s red rock canyons

Tips:

• Prepare for remote stretches with limited services.
• Learn some basic Spanish for smoother travel.

9. Atlantic Road – Norway

This short but dramatic drive connects several small islands with bridges that seem to float above the Norwegian Sea, offering surreal views and a touch of engineering marvel.

Highlights:

• Storseisundet Bridge
• Fishing villages like Bud and Kårvåg

Tips:

• Visit during storm season for an adrenaline rush.
• Combined with a trip to the nearby Trollstigen Mountain Road.

10. Milford Road – New Zealand

This 120 km route from Te Anau to Milford Sound passes through Fiordland National Park and is regarded as one of the world’s most scenic drives.

Highlights:

• Mirror Lakes
• Homer Tunnel
• Milford Sound Cruise

Tips:

• Drive slowly and enjoy the many scenic stops.
• Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.

Final Thoughts

No matter where your wanderlust takes you, road trips offer a thrilling way to explore the world. They provide the flexibility to create your own schedule, take spontaneous detours, and immerse yourself in landscapes you’d otherwise fly over. So fuel up, make that playlist, and get ready to hit the road—your epic adventure awaits!

Each road trip route is more than a path; it’s a journey packed with stories, sights, and unforgettable memories. Choose your destination, map your course, and don’t forget to leave room for the unexpected—that’s where the real magic of road tripping begins.