If you’re looking to take your next vacation up a notch, consider planning a road trip! In a world where we can travel virtually anywhere with a click of a button, a road trip provides an opportunity to slow down and savor the journey. Charting a course through new territories and packing your car full of supplies can be both exhilarating and calming. Flexibility is the name of the game when it comes to road trips, leaving the door open for unexpected surprises and hidden gems. From the winding coastal roads of the Pacific Coast Highway to the rugged terrain of New Zealand’s South Island, there’s no shortage of incredible routes to explore. Why settle for the ordinary when you can pave your own path on the road less traveled? It’s time to hit the open road and add one of these epic destinations to your travel bucket list.
West Coast
The west coast of the USA undoubtedly offers one of the most scenic road trips in the world. Driving from San Francisco to Los Angeles on the Pacific Coast Highway is a quintessential American adventure that one must experience. The journey spans over 720km, and while it can be done in a day, we recommend taking your time and making the most of the natural beauty along the way. From stunning mountains to pristine beaches, the west coast landscape is truly breathtaking and the perfect backdrop for a memorable road trip. Santa Cruz, Big Sur, Shell Beach, Santa Barbara, Malibu, and Venice Beach are just a few highlights of the trip, and there are countless rest stops and towns to explore along the way. So pack your bags, hit the road, and let the west coast of the USA take your breath away.
Great Ocean Road
Experience the natural beauty of Australia by taking a road trip along the Great Ocean Road. Known to be one of the most picturesque drives in the world, it’s an easy hour’s drive from central Melbourne. The 250km stretch is filled with stunning scenery, including amazing rock formations, sandy beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests. Make sure to plan a stop at the iconic landmarks such as 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Port Campbell National Park, Bay of Islands, and Triplet Falls at Otway National Park. This once in a lifetime journey is perfect for all types of travelers, including families with children. Whether you want to explore by foot or relax and take in the scenery, this trip will not disappoint. Don’t forget to pack comfortable hiking shoes and camping gear and, of course, rain gear to stay dry in case of unexpected showers. Take your time and allow yourself 3-5 days to fully embrace the beauty of the Great Ocean Road.
The Wild Atlantic Way
The Wild Atlantic Way is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Ireland. This 2500km long coastal route along the west coast of Ireland is unique, spectacular and incredibly diverse all at once. From beautiful beaches to quaint villages, the journey is full of adventure and natural wonders. A road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way can take anywhere between 2 to 4 weeks, or even longer if you want to take your time and enjoy the surroundings. It’s essential to make frequent stops and pack plenty of supplies as the weather can be unpredictable in some parts of the year. The Wild Atlantic Way has many attractions to offer, including Mizen Head, Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, Aran Islands and Slieve League. For the adventure enthusiasts, there are night kayaking, horse riding along the coast and coasteering available along the way. Moreover, you can indulge in a unique experience of staying in a castle to take a break from the journey. It is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure and exploring new places.
The Garden Route
The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most spectacular road trips, offering unbeatable views of the ocean, mountains, farmlands, and beaches. The Western Cape and Eastern Cape Provinces are both blessed with natural beauty, and the Garden Route takes you through some of the best parts of both provinces. From the charming coastal town of Knysna where you can spot elephants in the wild to Plettenberg Bay, where your heart will skip a beat as you watch whales and dolphins play in the waves, the Garden Route offers plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. However, it’s not all about the great outdoors – the route is also famous for its world-class vineyards and farmlands, making it a paradise for those seeking relaxation and serenity. So why not embark on a week-long journey on the Garden Route and let yourself be immersed in the natural beauty of South Africa’s coast?
Route 66
From Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 is a road trip like no other. Covering over 3900km, this historic route has been a staple of American culture for over a century and has served as inspiration for some of the country’s most revered artists. While a 4 week east to west run is the ideal means of experiencing all that Route 66 has to offer, it is still possible to enjoy a condensed version of the journey by visiting a few key stops along the way. From a classic American breakfast in Illinois to the iconic Santa Monica Pier in California, this road trip is full of must-see attractions. To get the most out of the trip, we suggest visiting between May and September to take advantage of the warm summer weather.
