Scenic Road Trips to Add to Your Travel Bucket List

17 May 2025

Ever felt the urge to just hit the road, roll down the windows, and let the journey take you somewhere magical? There's something undeniably freeing about a road trip—the open highway, the promise of adventure, and the ever-changing landscapes that make every mile worthwhile.

If you're craving a trip that’s more about the journey than the destination, you’re in for a treat. Buckle up as we dive into some of the most breathtaking scenic road trips that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list!

1. Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Imagine crashing waves to your left, rugged cliffs to your right, and a ribbon of road stretching ahead like something straight out of a postcard. That’s California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

Highlights Along the Way:

- Big Sur – Towering cliffs and the famous Bixby Bridge make this stretch unforgettable.
- McWay Falls – A stunning waterfall that drops into the Pacific Ocean.
- Santa Barbara – Charming coastal town vibes with great food and wineries.
- San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge – End your journey with this iconic view.

Best Time to Go:

Spring or fall, when the weather is comfortable, and traffic is manageable.

2. The Great Ocean Road – Australia

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

If you love coastal drives, Australia's Great Ocean Road will leave you speechless. Think limestone cliffs, dense rainforests, and beaches straight from a dream.

Highlights Along the Way:

- The Twelve Apostles – These towering limestone stacks rising from the ocean are nothing short of spectacular.
- Bells Beach – A surfer’s paradise with epic waves.
- Great Otway National Park – Walk among gigantic ferns and spot koalas in the wild.

Best Time to Go:

Go between November and March for sunny skies and warm beach weather.

3. The Ring Road – Iceland

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Iceland’s Ring Road is like stepping into another world. Volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs—it’s an adventurer’s paradise.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss Waterfalls – Two of the most stunning waterfalls on Earth.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Icebergs floating in a surreal blue lagoon.
- Diamond Beach – Black sand covered with glistening ice chunks.

Best Time to Go:

Summer offers long daylight hours, but winter brings magical Northern Lights.

4. The North Coast 500 – Scotland

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Dubbed "Scotland’s Route 66," this breathtaking journey takes you through rugged highlands, medieval castles, and dramatic coastlines.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Loch Ness – Keep an eye out for the elusive Nessie.
- Bealach na Bà – A winding road with hairpin bends and jaw-dropping views.
- Smoo Cave – A mysterious sea cave with a waterfall inside.

Best Time to Go:

May to September for mild weather and longer days.

5. Garden Route – South Africa

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

A mix of mountains, forests, and beaches, the Garden Route is a visual masterpiece filled with adventure.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Tsitsikamma National Park – Lush greenery and suspension bridges over stormy seas.
- Knysna Heads – Stunning cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean.
- Oudtshoorn – Known for its ostrich farms and incredible caves.

Best Time to Go:

Spring (September to November) when flowers bloom and wildlife is abundant.

6. The Cabot Trail – Canada

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Nestled in Nova Scotia, this scenic drive offers some of the most incredible ocean views on the planet.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Cape Breton Highlands National Park – Where mountains meet the sea.
- Skyline Trail – A hike with panoramic coastal views.
- Celtic Culture – Enjoy live music and hearty seafood.

Best Time to Go:

Fall (October) for a burst of autumn colors.

7. The Amalfi Coast Road – Italy

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Winding roads, colorful cliffside villages, and endless Mediterranean views make this a bucket-list drive.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Positano – A fairy-tale town cascading down to the sea.
- Ravello – Stunning gardens and panoramic vistas.
- Limoncello Tasting – Sip on this refreshing lemon liqueur.

Best Time to Go:

Spring or early autumn to avoid the summer crowds.

8. Ruta 40 – Argentina

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Spanning nearly 5,000 kilometers, Ruta 40 is a wild stretch of road that takes you through some of Argentina’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Patagonia – Jaw-dropping glaciers and rugged mountains.
- Mendoza Wine Country – World-class Malbec in stunning vineyards.
- Salinas Grandes – Giant salt flats stretching as far as the eye can see.

Best Time to Go:

Spring (October to December) or autumn (March to May) for pleasant weather.

9. The Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Crashing waves, ancient castles, and rolling green hills—this route is a fairytale on wheels.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Cliffs of Moher – Towering cliffs with jaw-dropping ocean views.
- Ring of Kerry – A dreamy loop of scenic Irish landscapes.
- Galway City – A vibrant cultural hub with music-filled pubs.

Best Time to Go:

May to September for the best weather and lively festivals.

10. Blue Ridge Parkway – USA

Why It’s Worth the Drive:

Dubbed "America’s Favorite Drive," this peaceful route winds through the Appalachian Mountains with endless scenic overlooks.

Highlights Along the Way:

- Great Smoky Mountains – A misty wonderland of rolling hills.
- Linn Cove Viaduct – A dramatic, curving bridge hugging the mountains.
- Fall Foliage – One of the best places in the U.S. to see autumn colors.

Best Time to Go:

Fall (late September to early November) for the ultimate leaf-peeping experience.

Final Thoughts

These scenic road trips aren’t just about getting from point A to B—they’re about the adventure in between. Whether you're chasing ocean views, rugged mountains, or epic cultural experiences, the open road has something for everyone.

So, which one are you adding to your bucket list first? Time to fuel up, hit the road, and make some unforgettable memories!