There’s definitely something special about road trips. Discovering places you’ve never thought you’ll see, finding the most scenic routes to take, planning where you’ll stay or eat… you mention! If you’ve never been in one or if you just don’t know which roads are the most beautiful or exciting, this article will make your day. You’ll find the coolest drives for a road trip of a lifetime.
Get Ready For Your Trip (And Your Car Too)
As any other holiday you’ll take, a road trip demands a lot of planning in order to be successful and a joyful experience. Even though they are quite adventurous, it is essential to consider each and every of the what ifs to make sure that nothing ruins your experience.
That said, pack your clothes wisely and include clothing items that are comfortable to wear and easy to wash; a complete first aid kit, a GPS with extra battery and your favorite music just to mention a few essentials. And if you are travelling with children, don’t forget to include some snacks, comics, an iPad or tablet fully loaded with movies and games and things to keep them entertained throughout the trip.
Make sure your car is ready for the road trip. Whether you are driving your own car or a rental one, there are plenty of things you are advised to check before starting the journey. Here is a thorough checklist that you can follow to make sure you are not forgetting anything important.
Having your car insurance policy current is very important. If your travelling abroad and you plan to rent a car, study your alternatives before leaving your home country. Rental agencies, some credit card companies and your car insurance agency will probably offer coverage to your rental car. However, none of these alternatives are wise options as they either provide limited coverage or come with unexpected expenses. The best rental car insurance policy for you is offered by independent providers that offer a reliable, complete and trustworthy service.
Once your car is ready, it’s time to plan your trip!
Big Sur, California
Open-top car lovers will definitely enjoy this road trip that starts in Monterey and takes you south with the Pacific on your right until you reach Carmel and its pine-tree fringed beach. “California 1” is considered one of America’s most scenic drives. You’ll find yourself driving through roads that cling to mountains and cliffs, putting your driving skills to the test as you have to twist and turn as you soar to 1,000 feet and drop back to sea level. If you drive a bit further, you’ll reach Big Sur itself, with its redwood grooves and beaches.
It’s a popular destination all year round so, if you plan to rent a cabin to make a stop midway, make sure you already have somewhere to spend the night before reaching your destination. Since it is a reversible route, remember that you can rent a car either in Los Angeles and drive north or in San Francisco and drive south.
Yukon Golden Circle
Are you into wilderness? Then this is probably a road trip you’ll keep close to your heart for ages. Many many years ago, this area attracted treasure-seekers during the Gold Rush period, today, this circular 487-mile route boasting scenic, remote, high-altitude passes, historic towns and snowy mountains makes an unforgettable road trip.
The Yukon Golden Circle Road is an adventurous drive. The mountain scenery starts as you leave Whitehorse, in Canada, on the Alaska Highway, following the Dezadeash River towards the distant glacial peaks of the Kluane Ranges and join the winding Highway 3 south.
Lonely Chilkat Pass signals the border with chilly Alaska, followed by a descent to the beautiful Chilkat River Valley and Haines Port.You can board the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry to Skagway and watch out for eagles as you climb on Klondike Highway via White Pass. You’ll drive through beautiful lakes to Carcross, Carcross Desert and then back to Whitehorse.
Mid to late summer is the best time of the year to enjoy this road trip. Make sure you pack your passport as you’ll be crossing borders!
Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa
Even though Chapman’s Peak drive is short route, it’s extremely picturesque as it features some of the most scenic views in South Africa. It will take you along the coast between Cape Town and the South Cape Peninsula.
Chapman’s Peak Drive offers the most stunning views at sunset, especially if you drive towards Cape Town. If after spending some time in that beautiful and cosmopolitan city you still feel like driving a bit more, continue along the coast and you’ll discover another stunning stretch of road: the Twelve Apostles (Victoria Road just before Camps Bay).
Panorama Route, South Africa
Located in Mpumalanga province, in northern South Africa and close to the world-famous Kruger National Park, Panorama Route is a great road trip. There are plenty of interesting stops that you can make along this scenic road. Amongst them we can mention: Blyde River Canyon and Three Rondavels Lookout or Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Hazyview is a great location to stay as it makes it really easy to explore both the Panorama Route and Kruger National Park. Can you imagine being able to spot the Big Five???
Ruta 40, Argentina
With its 3,195 miles, Ruta 40 is not only the longest highway in Argentina as it traverses almost its entire length, but one of the world’s longest roads as well. From its southernmost point at Cabo Vírgenes, it meanders through the remote plains of Patagonia, winding northwards and flanked to the west by the magnificent Andes Mountains. It passes by pristine lakes and bustling cities before reaching its highest point at Abra del Acay (where you are at 4952 meters above sea-level and can enjoy really breathtaking views) and finally reaches its end in La Quiaca, a beautiful and colorful border town.
This inviting road trip through Ruta 40 in Argentina allows you to discover and enjoy the country’s diverse landscape.
Strada Statale 163, Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Strada Statale 163, in the Italian Amalfi Coast invites skillful drivers to navigate its twists and turns. For many, it is one of the most breathtaking European roads as it takes you through some of the most stunning places in Italy. You start your drive in the scenic city of Salerno and then drive westwards along the Sorrento Peninsula. The Strada Statale 163 is a daredevil drive flanked by towering cliffs on one side and the beautiful deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea to the other. As you drive along the coastal stretch of the road, you’ll be absolutely marvelled with the picturesque, painted-like villages that hang dramatically amongst the cliff tops. Amalfi and Positano are just a few of those villages you’ll definitely fall in love with.
