5 Stunning Road Trips You Need to Take

Road trips are one of the best ways to explore a country or a region. With a full tank of gas, a map (or a GPS), and some snacks, you can embark on a journey that will take you through stunning landscapes, quaint towns, and hidden gems. Whether you prefer a solo adventure, a romantic getaway, or a fun trip with friends, there is a road trip for everyone. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing with you 5 stunning road trips that you need to take in your lifetime.

The Pacific Coast Highway, California

Starting from the charming city of San Francisco and ending at the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, the Pacific Coast Highway is a must-do road trip for any traveler. The 123-mile stretch of Highway 1 offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Along the way, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bixby Creek Bridge, and the Santa Monica Pier. Make sure to stop at the charming towns of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Santa Barbara for some delicious seafood, quaint shops, and stunning beaches.

Personal Experience: I took this road trip with my best friend last summer, and it was one of the most memorable trips of my life. We rented a convertible and blasted our favorite songs as we drove along the coast. This road trip is not only beautiful but also offers a lot of opportunities for hiking, camping, and whale-watching. We even spotted a few dolphins and sea lions on our drive! The highlight of our trip was staying at a cozy Airbnb in Big Sur and watching the sunset over the ocean.

Must-see spots:

• Big Sur
• Hearst Castle
• Pfeiffer Beach
• Malibu Beach
• Santa Monica Pier

The Ring Road, Iceland

If you’re looking for a road trip that will take you through breathtaking landscapes and otherworldly scenery, then the Ring Road in Iceland is perfect for you. This 800-mile circular road takes you around the entire island, passing by stunning waterfalls, towering glaciers, and volcanic landscapes. You can choose to drive the full Ring Road in 7-10 days, or just do a portion of it depending on your time and budget. Along the way, you can stop at charming towns, soak in hot springs, and even spot the magical Northern Lights if you’re lucky.

Personal Experience: I took this road trip with my partner in the winter, which made it even more magical. The snowy landscapes and frozen waterfalls were like something out of a fairytale. We even went ice caving and snowmobiling, which was an unforgettable experience. The highlight of our trip was driving through the Westfjords region, which is not as popular among tourists but is one of the most scenic parts of Iceland.

Must-see spots:

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Snaefellsnes Peninsula
• Dettifoss Waterfall
• Vik Black Sand Beach

The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Stretching along the scenic coastline of Victoria, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most popular road trips in Australia. This 243-kilometer drive takes you through stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. If you’re a surfer, make sure to check out the surf town of Torquay, which is known for its world-class waves. You can also spot wildlife such as koalas and kangaroos along the way, making this road trip a perfect blend of nature and adventure.

Personal Experience: I took this road trip with my girlfriend during my exchange program in Melbourne. We rented a campervan and spent 3 days driving along the Great Ocean Road. The flexibility of having a campervan allowed us to stop at different beaches and campsites along the way. The highlight of our trip was staying at a campsite near the Twelve Apostles and waking up to the sound of crashing waves.

Must-see spots:

• Twelve Apostles
• Bells Beach
• Lorne Beach
• Great Otway National Park
• Loch Ard Gorge

The Garden Route, South Africa

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, then the Garden Route in South Africa is the road trip for you. This 300-kilometer stretch between Mossel Bay and Storms River offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Along the way, you can spot the Big 5 at the Addo Elephant Park, go whale-watching in Hermanus, and indulge in delicious seafood at the coastal town of Knysna. The Garden Route is also home to the famous Garden Route National Park, which offers a variety of activities such as hiking, canoeing, and bird-watching.

Personal Experience: I took this road trip with my family during our holiday in South Africa. We drove from Mossel Bay to Plettenberg Bay, where we did a safari at Addo Elephant Park. It was incredible to see so many elephants and other wildlife up close. We also stopped at various lookout points along the route, which offered breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. The highlight of our trip was hiking the Tsitsikamma Trail in the Garden Route National Park and seeing the stunningly clear water of the Tsitsikamma River.

Must-see spots:

• Addo Elephant Park
• Tsitsikamma National Park
• Knysna Heads viewpoint
• Oudtshoorn ostrich farm
• Boulders Beach penguin colony

The Golden Triangle, India

For those looking for a cultural and historical road trip, the Golden Triangle in India is a must-do. This 600-kilometer route connects the cities of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, and offers a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and traditions. In Delhi, you can visit iconic sites such as the Red Fort, India Gate, and the Qutub Minar. In Agra, you can marvel at the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. And in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, you can explore majestic forts, bustling bazaars, and mouth-watering street food.

Personal Experience: I took this road trip with my family, and it was a whirlwind of culture, history, and delicious food. We hired a private car and driver, which made it easy for us to cover all the sights in each city. We also stopped at local villages and interacted with the friendly locals, which added another layer to our trip. The highlight of our trip was seeing the Taj Mahal at sunrise and taking a sunset camel ride in the desert in Jaipur.

Must-see spots:

• Taj Mahal
• Amber Fort
• India Gate
• Chandni Chowk market
• Jantar Mantar in Jaipur

Conclusion
Road trips are a great way to explore new destinations and create unforgettable memories. The 5 stunning road trips mentioned above are just a few of the many options available. No matter which one you choose, make sure to take your time, enjoy the journey, and make lots of stops along the way. Happy travels!