The 8 Most Beautiful Scenic Drives in the World
8 Most Beautiful Scenic Roads in the World
In the age of low-cost flights and quick getaways, it’s easy to forget that the journey can be just as fascinating as the destination itself.
Some roads, with their breathtaking views, manage to make the simple act of getting in the car an unforgettable experience.
Pacific Coast Highway – USA
On the Californian coast, the Pacific Coast Highway offers a natural spectacle that has inspired artists and filmmakers for decades.
Connecting San Francisco to Los Angeles, this road winds between the tumultuous waves of the Pacific Ocean and the towering cliffs of Big Sur, offering a panorama that is hard to forget.
The mix of golden beaches and green mountains makes this route one of the most famous in the United States.
Great Ocean Road – Australia
Stretching 243 kilometers, the Great Ocean Road is more than just a road: it’s a monument to Australia’s natural beauty.
Starting from Torquay and ending in Allansford, this coastal route is known for the rock formations of the Twelve Apostles, which emerge dramatically from the ocean, creating a spectacular scenery.
Every year, thousands of tourists travel this road to admire one of the most iconic landscapes in the world.
Amalfi Coast Road – Italy
Along the Amalfi Coast, the SS163 road winds like a ribbon between cliffs and sea, offering unparalleled views of the Gulf of Salerno.
The narrow and winding road is famous for its spectacular panoramas that attract travelers from around the globe.
The villages of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, with their pastel-colored houses nestled into the rock, add a touch of magic to this route, making it one of Italy’s most sought-after destinations.
Ruta 40 – Argentina
Crossing Argentina from north to south for over 5,000 kilometers, Ruta 40 is an epic journey through the country’s diverse landscapes.
From the dizzying altitudes of the Andes to the endless plains of Patagonia, this road pays tribute to the wild and unspoiled beauty of Latin America.
Despite its length and often challenging conditions, Ruta 40 continues to captivate adventurers from around the world.
Ring Road – Iceland
Iceland, with its alien and primordial landscapes, is traversed by the Ring Road, a circular route that embraces the entire perimeter of the island.
Here, every kilometer is a discovery: from monumental waterfalls like Skógafoss to the imposing glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park, passing through lava fields and rugged coasts.
The Ring Road offers a complete taste of the natural wonders of this island country.
Atlantic Ocean Road – Norway
Built on a series of small islands connected by daring bridges, the Atlantic Ocean Road is a masterpiece of engineering and landscape.
This 8.3-kilometer stretch of road on Norway’s west coast offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, which often crashes forcefully against the road itself, creating a natural spectacle of rare intensity.
It’s no wonder that this road is often considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
Chapman’s Peak Drive – South Africa
Located on the Cape Peninsula, Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most impressive coastal roads in the world.
The 9-kilometer route offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the cliffs plunging into the sea.
The narrow curves and tunnels carved into the rock make driving thrilling, while the spectacular views make it a must-see for visitors to Cape Town.
Tianmen Mountain Road – China
In the heart of Hunan province, Tianmen Mountain Road, with its 99 curves, is known as the “road to heaven.” Climbing Mount Tianmen, this road offers stunning views of the valleys below and culminates in the impressive natural arch of Tianmen, one of China’s natural wonders.
It is one of the most iconic and challenging roads in the world, perfect for those seeking a unique driving experience.