11 Most Scenic Drives in the World

1. Great Ocean Road, Australia

Stretching over 240 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Australia, the Great Ocean Road is renowned for its dramatic coastal views, surf breaks, and limestone formations known as the Twelve Apostles. This drive offers a mix of rainforests, beaches, and rugged cliffs, making it one of the most iconic drives in the world. The road was built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932 and is considered the world's largest war memorial, dedicated to the soldiers killed during World War I. Highlights along the route include the Great Otway National Park, which offers ancient rainforests and stunning waterfalls, and the Loch Ard Gorge, a beautiful coastal feature named after a shipwreck.

2. Route 66, USA

Often referred to as the "Main Street of America," Route 66 is one of the most famous highways in the United States. Stretching from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this historic route covers approximately 3,940 kilometers. Route 66 passes through a diverse range of landscapes, including small Midwestern towns, expansive deserts, and the Grand Canyon. Travelers can explore quirky roadside attractions, such as the Cadillac Ranch in Texas and the Wigwam Motel in Arizona, as well as sample regional cuisine at diners and local eateries.

3. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast road, or SS163, is a 50-kilometer stretch of narrow, winding road that hugs the cliffs of southern Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. Known for its dramatic coastal views, colorful villages, and lemon groves, this drive offers one of the most scenic experiences in Europe. The road itself is a marvel of engineering, carved into the cliffs with sheer drops into the Mediterranean Sea below. Key stops along the route include the towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each offering unique charm, history, and stunning views. The drive is particularly popular in spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the traffic is lighter.

4. Icefields Parkway, Canada

The Icefields Parkway, stretching 232 kilometers through the heart of the Canadian Rockies between Jasper and Banff, is considered one of the most beautiful mountain drives in the world. This route offers travelers a chance to see pristine lakes, towering peaks, and ancient glaciers. Notable highlights include the Athabasca Glacier, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield. Wildlife is abundant along the parkway, with chances to see bears, elk, and mountain goats.

5. Ring Road, Iceland

Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) circles the entire island, covering approximately 1,332 kilometers. This route offers a comprehensive tour of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters and glaciers to black sand beaches and hot springs. Some must-see spots along the Ring Road include the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Vatnajökull Glacier, and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. The best time to embark on this journey is during the summer months, when the weather is mild, and the days are long.

6. Pacific Coast Highway, USA

California's Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), or Highway 1, is a legendary route that runs along the state’s coast from Dana Point in Orange County to Leggett in Mendocino County. The most scenic stretch of the PCH is between San Francisco and Los Angeles, offering breathtaking ocean views, seaside cliffs, and iconic landmarks such as the Bixby Creek Bridge. The route passes through picturesque towns such as Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Santa Barbara, providing ample opportunities to explore, dine, and relax.

7. Garden Route, South Africa

The Garden Route, stretching about 300 kilometers along South Africa's southwestern coast, offers a diverse range of landscapes, from dense forests and lagoons to rocky coastlines and sandy beaches. Highlights of the Garden Route include the Tsitsikamma National Park, the Cango Caves, and the picturesque towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. This route is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as bungee jumping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

8. Trollstigen, Norway

Trollstigen, or "The Troll's Path," is a famous mountain road in Norway that offers a dramatic and scenic drive. The route features steep inclines, sharp hairpin bends, and stunning views of waterfalls and valleys. The road is typically open from late May to October and is closed in winter due to snow. Key viewpoints include the Stigfossen Waterfall and the Trollstigen Plateau, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

9. North Coast 500, Scotland

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a 516-mile scenic route around the north coast of Scotland, starting and ending at Inverness Castle. Dubbed Scotland's answer to Route 66, the NC500 offers stunning coastal views, rugged landscapes, and historic sites. Along the way, travelers can explore remote beaches, such as Sandwood Bay, visit the ancient ruins of Ardvreck Castle, and enjoy the tranquility of the Highlands. The route also passes through several charming villages and towns, offering local hospitality and cuisine.

10. Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa

Chapman’s Peak Drive is a nine-kilometer coastal road that hugs the cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town, South Africa. Known for its breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic mountain backdrop, this drive is considered one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world. The route features numerous lookout points where travelers can stop and take in the views or enjoy a picnic. The drive is particularly popular at sunset when the sky is ablaze with color.

11. Cabot Trail, Canada

The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometer loop around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada. This scenic drive offers stunning ocean views, rugged coastlines, and lush forests. Key attractions along the Cabot Trail include Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where visitors can hike, camp, and enjoy wildlife viewing, and the picturesque fishing village of Baddeck. The route also passes through several quaint communities, offering opportunities to experience local culture and cuisine.

Conclusion

Embarking on one of these scenic drives is more than just a journey; it’s an adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural experiences, and the freedom of the open road. Whether you're navigating the twists and turns of the Amalfi Coast or cruising along the expansive Route 66, these drives offer unique experiences that cater to every traveler’s taste. Pack your bags, start your engine, and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful roads in the world.