Top Ten Most Beautiful Roadways Around the World for a Long Drive

There's something inherently magical about hitting the open road, with the promise of breathtaking landscapes and the thrill of discovery just around the corner. Whether you're a seasoned road-tripper or a casual traveler looking to escape the daily grind, these top ten beautiful roadways around the world offer stunning vistas and unforgettable experiences that are perfect for a long drive.

1. Great Ocean Road, Australia

Stretching along the southeastern coast of Australia, the Great Ocean Road offers dramatic ocean views, rainforest canopies, and access to famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks. This 243-kilometer drive combines coastal beauty with quaint towns and vibrant ecosystems.

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is famed for its dizzying cliffs and spectacular sea vistas. The road winds through picturesque towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, with their colorful buildings clinging to the cliffs. This route is not only a visual feast but also a cultural journey through Italian heritage.

3. Pacific Coast Highway, USA

Known for its stunning oceanic landscapes, the Pacific Coast Highway stretches from the rugged coasts of California to the misty forests of Washington. Highlights include the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge and the scenic vistas of Big Sur.

4. Ring Road, Iceland

Iceland's Route 1, or Ring Road, encircles the island, offering a view into the heart of Iceland’s dramatic natural scenery including waterfalls, volcanoes, and glaciers. The ever-changing landscapes make this journey truly epic.

5. The Garden Route, South Africa

Named for its verdant and ecologically diverse vegetation, South Africa's Garden Route runs along the country's southeast coast. Featuring lagoons, lakes, and dense forests, it also provides opportunities to spot wildlife and engage in outdoor activities.

6. Route des Grandes Alpes, France

This route takes you through the French Alps from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. The drive includes several high mountain passes that are every bit as challenging as they are beautiful, making it a thrilling adventure for drivers.

7. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

From the vibrant city of Belfast to the historic walls of Derry, the Causeway Coastal Route is filled with rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

8. Romantic Road, Germany

Germany’s Romantic Road offers a taste of traditional Bavaria, with routes leading through medieval towns, past Gothic cathedrals, and near fairy-tale castles like Neuschwanstein. It's a journey back in time with spectacular pastoral landscapes.

9. The Atlantic Road, Norway

The Atlantic Road features several causeways, viaducts, and bridges linking the islands between Molde and Kristiansund. Known for its wild beauty and dramatic engineering, this road seems to leap from island to island across the Norwegian Sea.

10. Cabot Trail, Canada

Winding around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail is a loop that offers views of wooded river canyons and Gaelic-speaking fishing communities. It combines ocean drives with mountainous twists and turns, providing a robust mix of landscapes.

Each of these routes offers unique charms and breathtaking views, making them perfect destinations for anyone looking to take a memorable long drive. Whether you're looking for coastal cliffs, lush forests, or rugged mountains, these roads promise enchanting vistas and exciting adventures. So, pack your bags, fuel up your vehicle, and set out to explore some of the most beautiful roadways in the world!