Top 10 Best Drives in the World

Driving enthusiasts and adventurers often seek out the ultimate driving experiences, where scenic beauty, challenging routes, and the thrill of the road converge. This list highlights ten of the most breathtaking and exhilarating drives across the globe. From serpentine mountain passes to coastal highways with stunning ocean views, these routes promise unforgettable journeys for anyone behind the wheel.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA Location: California Distance: Approximately 655 miles Highlights: The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is renowned for its dramatic coastal views, including cliffs, ocean vistas, and charming towns. Key highlights include Big Sur, where the road hugs the rugged coastline, and the picturesque town of Monterey. Driving the PCH offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world.

2. Route 66, USA Location: Chicago to Santa Monica Distance: Approximately 2,448 miles Highlights: Known as the "Main Street of America," Route 66 offers a nostalgic trip through American history. The route passes through eight states and features iconic landmarks such as the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Grand Canyon, and the historic town of Amarillo. The drive provides a unique glimpse into mid-20th-century American culture and landscape.

3. Great Ocean Road, Australia Location: Victoria Distance: Approximately 151 miles Highlights: This coastal drive offers stunning views of the Southern Ocean and unique rock formations like the Twelve Apostles. The Great Ocean Road is also known for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and charming towns like Apollo Bay. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Victoria.

4. North Coast 500, Scotland Location: Scottish Highlands Distance: Approximately 500 miles Highlights: The North Coast 500 (NC500) is Scotland’s answer to Route 66. This circular route takes drivers through some of the most scenic landscapes in the Highlands, including rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and remote beaches. Highlights include the stunning beaches of Dornoch and the rugged terrain of the Smoo Cave.

5. Trollstigen, Norway Location: Rauma Municipality Distance: Approximately 5.5 miles Highlights: Trollstigen, or the "Troll's Ladder," is a famous mountain road with 11 hairpin bends and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The drive is challenging due to its steep grades and tight curves but rewards drivers with breathtaking scenery and a sense of accomplishment.

6. Stelvio Pass, Italy Location: Alps, Northern Italy Distance: Approximately 15.5 miles Highlights: Stelvio Pass is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the Alps and features 48 hairpin turns. It’s renowned for its challenging drive and spectacular views of the Italian Alps. The road is a favorite among driving enthusiasts and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

7. Atlanterhavsveien, Norway Location: Møre og Romsdal Distance: Approximately 5.1 miles Highlights: Known as the Atlantic Road, this route is famous for its stunning coastal views and engineering marvels. The road features several bridges that connect small islands and offer views of the rough Atlantic Ocean. It’s a spectacular drive that provides a unique perspective on Norway’s coastal beauty.

8. Col de Turini, France Location: Alpes-Maritimes Distance: Approximately 13 miles Highlights: Col de Turini is a famous mountain pass in the French Alps, known for its challenging hairpin bends and beautiful views. It’s a key stage in the Monte Carlo Rally and offers a thrilling driving experience with a mix of steep climbs and sharp turns.

9. Ring Road, Iceland Location: Iceland Distance: Approximately 828 miles Highlights: The Ring Road encircles the entire island of Iceland and offers diverse landscapes including waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and geothermal springs. Highlights include the stunning waterfalls of Gullfoss, the black sand beaches of Vik, and the geothermal wonders of the Blue Lagoon.

10. Garden Route, South Africa Location: Western Cape Distance: Approximately 200 miles Highlights: The Garden Route stretches along the southern coast of South Africa and features diverse landscapes from lush forests to dramatic coastal cliffs. Highlights include the Knysna Heads, the Outeniqua Mountains, and the charming town of Plettenberg Bay. The drive is known for its scenic beauty and variety of outdoor activities.

These drives not only offer a chance to experience different terrains and cultures but also provide some of the most stunning vistas and exhilarating road experiences in the world. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a beautiful view, these routes offer something for every traveler.