Iconic Road Trips

The most spectacular scenic drives to take by car

Pacific Coast Highway - USA

Pacific Coast Highway - USA

Length: 1,700 km

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), officially known as Highway 1, is a legendary journey that takes you along one of the most iconic and spectacular roads in the world. Stretching approximately 1,500 miles (about 1,700 km), the PCH winds along California’s coast, from San Diego to Leggett in the north of the state, offering breathtaking views that change with every turn. The road climbs over cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, crosses miles of golden beaches, and takes you deep into the heart of California’s wilderness, where towering redwoods and mountains meet the sea.

Every stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway is a unique experience, but there are some must-see spots along the way. Big Sur, with its towering rock formations and fiery sunsets over the ocean, is one of the most iconic and picturesque locations on the route. Don't miss the Bixby Creek Bridge, one of the most photographed scenes, and the charming McWay Falls, where a waterfall plunges directly onto the beach. Carmel-by-the-Sea has a fairytale village vibe, while the Monterey Peninsula will captivate you with its history and natural beauty, famous for the Monterey Aquarium and the spectacular 17-Mile Drive that hugs the coast. Stop by Santa Barbara, the "American Riviera," where Spanish-style architecture blends with crystal-clear waters, or Morro Bay, where the unmistakable Morro Rock rises like a giant, dominating the bay. To the north, stop in San Francisco, where the iconic Golden Gate Bridge stands as the perfect starting point for the final leg of the journey toward the lush greenery of the Redwood National Parks. The PCH is not just a scenic drive, it’s a true immersion into a mix of laid-back vibes and wild adventure. The road can be traveled by car, motorcycle, or RV, making it the perfect road trip that combines the beauty of untamed nature with California’s culture. The Pacific Coast Highway is a journey you will never forget.

Great Ocean Road - Australia

Great Ocean Road - Australia

Length: 243 km

The Great Ocean Road is a journey that embodies the very essence of the Australian coast: wild, dramatic, and incredibly captivating. Built between 1919 and 1932 by World War I veterans as a kind of memorial, it stretches for about 243 kilometers along the coast of the state of Victoria and is one of the most spectacular scenic routes in the world. Starting from Torquay, the road winds along cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean, passing sandy beaches and picturesque towns. The road is famous for its breathtaking rock formations, including the Twelve Apostles, limestone cliffs that rise from the sea, creating a stunning spectacle. Despite its name, only eight of these pillars are still intact, as many have collapsed over time due to natural erosion. Along the way, don’t miss Loch Ard Gorge, a hidden corner that recalls the history of the Loch Ard shipwreck (a sailing vessel that, in 1878, was traveling from England to Melbourne when, during a storm, it struck the rocks near this site). Stop at Lorne, a coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere, and continue on to Apollo Bay, which will enchant you with its tranquil waters and vast stretches of golden sand. Make a stop at the Otway Rainforest, which preserves temperate rainforest ecosystems and numerous species of wildlife, including koalas and endemic birds. It’s important to remember that the area along the Great Ocean Road has traditionally been inhabited by the Koorie people, an Aboriginal group who lived in the region: in fact, the road passes by many significant places for the traditions and history of these peoples. The Great Ocean Road is not just a trip but a true immersion in unspoiled nature, a continuous discovery that alternates between sea and mountain, unique wildlife, and local traditions.

Ruta 40 - Argentina

Ruta 40 - Argentina

Length: 5.194 km

La Ruta 40 is one of the most legendary and iconic roads in the world, stretching across Argentina from north to south for over 5,000 km. This journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes and an incredible variety of ecosystems: from the vast plains of the Pampas to the towering peaks of the Andes, from arid deserts to lush valleys. The Ruta 40 is an experience that encapsulates the heart of Argentina and its culture, a true odyssey that blends wild beauty with history and local traditions. Starting from La Quiaca in the north, at the border with Bolivia, the road winds through some of the country's most remote and captivating regions. Don’t miss the incredible geological formations of the Salinas Grandes, an endless white salt flat, or the Los Cardones National Park, a landscape populated by towering giant cacti. The Ruta 40 will also take you through the picturesque wine region of Mendoza, where lush vineyards grow under the Andes, offering postcard-perfect views. A must-visit stop is the town of Cachi, which greets you with its cobblestone streets and colonial houses, before heading to El Calafate, famous for being the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the majestic Perito Moreno, one of the most impressive glaciers in the world. Finally, the route culminates in the heart of Patagonia, where wind, mountains, and the endless sky create a unique atmosphere. The Ruta 40 is not just a road, but a journey through time and space, where every kilometer offers new emotions and immerses you in landscapes and cultures that tell the story of an entire nation. With its length and variety, this road trip is one of the most complete and fascinating experiences one can have, a true adventure between wild nature, local traditions, and natural wonders.

Alaska Highway (USA and Canada)

Alaska Highway (USA and Canada)

Length: 2.232 km

The Alaska Highway, also known as the Alcan Highway, is one of the most epic and wild routes in North America—a true road trip that crosses remote and majestic landscapes between Canada and Alaska. Built in 1942 for military purposes during World War II, today it stretches approximately 2,232 kilometers (1,387 miles) from Dawson Creek, in British Columbia, to Delta Junction, near Fairbanks, Alaska. More than just a road, it’s an odyssey through nearly untouched lands, where nature reigns supreme and every curve reveals a breathtaking view. The route winds through vast and spectacular terrain, dotted with coniferous forests, turquoise lakes, rushing rivers, and snow-capped mountains. Along the way, you’ll likely spot moose, grizzly bears, caribou, and bald eagles—in a setting that feels straight out of a nature documentary. Highlights include Muncho Lake, with its emerald waters; Liard River Hot Springs, where you can relax in natural pools surrounded by lush greenery; and Kluane National Park in Yukon, with its towering peaks and glaciers.

Traveling the Alaska Highway also means passing through small, welcoming communities and historic service stations that feel frozen in time—perfect places to refuel and hear tales from pioneers, hunters, and solo travelers. The best time to drive the route is in the summer months (between May and September), when the days are long and road conditions are more favorable. Careful planning is essential, but the reward is a road trip that delivers a deep sense of freedom and connection with the rawest form of nature. The Alaska Highway is far more than a link between two countries—it's an adventure into the wild soul of the continent, a journey for those who seek vast open spaces, profound silence, and endless horizons.

Sicilian Coast Road (Sicily, Italy)

Sicilian Coast Road (Sicily, Italy)

Length: ca. 1.200 km

The Sicilian Coast Road is a one-of-a-kind experience that takes you around the entire perimeter of Sicily, revealing breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, and traditions steeped in the scent of the sea, citrus, and history. It's one of the most stunning road trips in Europe, where every curve unveils a new wonder. Start on the northwestern coast, with the crystal-clear waters of San Vito Lo Capo and the wild trails of the Zingaro Nature Reserve, then head through the pink salt flats of Trapani and enjoy a glass of Marsala wine at sunset. Climb to Erice for a panoramic view, then drive south along the coast to the dazzling Scala dei Turchi and the ancient temples of Agrigento. Continuing east, you’ll discover the charming fishing villages of the southeast like Punta Secca and Marzamemi, perfect for a seaside dinner or an aperitivo at sunset. In Syracuse, lose yourself in the baroque streets of Ortigia and explore the Greek ruins of Neapolis before heading to Taormina, with its spectacular theater overlooking Mount Etna and the turquoise waters of Isola Bella. Along the Riviera dei Ciclopi, between Aci Trezza and Catania, myth and landscape intertwine, bringing your journey to a magical close. With local food experiences, volcano hikes, hidden coves, and authentic encounters, the Sicilian Coast Road is much more than a scenic drive — it’s your gateway into the heart of Sicily.

Panorama Route and Garden Route (South Africa)

Panorama Route and Garden Route (South Africa)

Panorama Route: ca. 200 km - Garden Route: ca. 300 km

Combining the Panorama Route and the Garden Route into one road trip is an adventure that allows you to explore some of South Africa's most breathtaking landscapes. This itinerary, approximately 500 km long, is the perfect blend of wild nature, culture, and spectacular scenery, ideal for those looking to experience something truly unique. The journey begins with the Panorama Route, a scenic drive stretching about 200 km through the province of Mpumalanga, in the heart of the Drakensberg Mountains. Here, natural beauty welcomes you with the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. Don't miss the famous viewpoint of God's Window, where an expansive view opens over the valley below. The road then leads you to the enchanting Lisbon and Berlin waterfalls, two hidden gems surrounded by lush vegetation. Each curve presents new surprises, from unique rock formations to deep valleys and panoramas that seem to come straight out of a dream. This part of the journey is ideal for hiking and photography enthusiasts, who will find ample opportunities to capture the wild beauty of the area. Heading towards the spectacular Garden Route, the environment changes drastically: the hot, dry interior gives way to a lush coastline, with rainforests, pristine beaches, and the ocean crashing against the cliffs. Along the way, you can visit Knysna, a charming coastal town nestled between mountains and lagoons, known for its fresh seafood and breathtaking views. Further along the route, stop by Mossel Bay, a town rich in history and tradition, and visit the Tsitsikamma National Park and Wilderness National Park, go kayaking in the Sedgefield lagoons, or enjoy whale watching in Hermanus, where, during whale season, you can watch these magnificent mammals come close to the coast. By combining the Panorama Route and the Garden Route, this road trip becomes a celebration of South Africa's natural diversity, from dramatic mountains and canyons to serene, lush coastlines.

Atlantic Ocean Road - Norway

Atlantic Ocean Road - Norway

A Nordic Adventure Through Bridges, Waves, and Fjords

Perched between sky and sea, the Atlantic Ocean Road in Norway may be a short stretch of highway, but it delivers the thrill of a grand adventure. Completed in 1989 after years of battling fierce winds and ocean waves, this marvel of Nordic engineering connects the island of Averøy to the mainland through eight dramatic bridges, each with its own rhythm and personality. The most famous? The Storseisundet Bridge, whose dramatic curve creates the illusion of leaping into thin air – a visual trick that’s made it a star on Instagram (and in more than a few car commercials).

But this road is more than just a photo-op. It’s a journey into the soul of Norway’s rugged coast, passing working fishing villages, wooden churches overlooking the sea, and echoes of Viking lore hidden in every cove. For centuries, this region relied on boats and ferries—until the Atlantic Road finally linked these once-isolated communities, forever transforming local life.

Local tip & fun facts:

  • In summer, you can fish right off the roadside lay-bys: cod and mackerel are plentiful! Bring your own rod or rent one in the village of Bud.
  • Make a stop at Håholmen, a tiny island reachable by boat. Once a pirate hideout and fishing post, it’s now a charming rustic hotel with a small museum about coastal life.
  • Design lovers shouldn’t miss the Eldhusøya viewpoint, a curved floating steel walkway suspended above the coastline — perfect for soaking in panoramic views, even in the fog.

Weather tip: Even in summer, bring a waterproof jacket — the weather can shift every ten minutes. But trust us: the light after a storm on the Atlantic coast is something you’ll never forget.

In short, the Atlantic Ocean Road isn’t just one of the world’s most scenic drives — it’s a journey into the coastal culture of Norway, where wild nature, Viking legends, and simple seaside life merge into an unforgettable experience.

Carretera Austral - Chile

Carretera Austral - Chile

Length: 1.240 km

The Carretera Austral is an adventure in the wild heart of southern Chile. A journey that takes you through glaciers, ancient forests, quiet fjords, and villages seemingly frozen in time. Built in the 1970s under Pinochet’s dictatorship to connect the remote communities of Patagonia, today the road stretches over 1,200 kilometers, from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, crossing some of the most breathtaking and untouched landscapes on the planet. Every curve offers the purest beauty of the southern world: emerald-green lakes, glaciers that seem to touch the road, and vast natural parks like Queulat, with its waterfall that appears to float in mid-air. But don’t expect comforts at every corner: nature rules here, and the journey moves at a slow, timeless pace.

To experience the Carretera Austral like a true local, stay in a family-run cabaña in Futaleufú or Puyuhuapi, where you can savor Patagonian lamb cooked over an open fire. And don’t forget to bring cash, as ATMs are rare and cell service practically nonexistent. From Coyhaique, you can detour to Lago General Carrera and visit the stunning Marble Caves, water-sculpted grottos in shades of blue and white that seem like something out of a dream. The Carretera Austral is also a haven for cyclists, thanks to its combination of epic landscapes, physical challenges, and encounters with locals. But be prepared: the weather is unpredictable, and in a single day, you can go from sunshine to the icy winds of the Patagonian steppe. Traveling the Carretera Austral isn’t just about crossing Chile; it’s about immersing yourself in Patagonia, embracing its silence, confronting its vast distances, and surrendering to the ancient rhythm of its land.

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