There’s nothing like a road trip to really experience a country. From coastal highways and dizzying mountain passes, to scenic routes through national parks and bridges over great spans of water.
Roads are the circulatory system that connects a country. Our top 10 list should provide great inspiration and give you bucket list ideas for those dreaming about a great road trip adventure. Remember – it’s all about the journey, not the destination.
10. The Valley of Fire Road – Nevada
If anyone thinks the desert is a bleak, boring landscape devoid of any color or character, the Valley of Fire would prove them wrong in a heartbeat. Passing through beautiful red sandstone formations that look like they are on fire when reflecting the sun.
9. The Atlantic Road – Norway
The famous Atlantic Road with its eight bridges, winds like a sea serpent through the forceful ocean. Wind and weather make for a great variety of experience, from howling storms sending breakers crashing over the road to a calm and peaceful sea. Stretching across seven bridges and offers a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. If you drive in calmer weather, you might even see whales and seals.
8. The Interstate 70 – Utah
Many road trip enthusiasts have a creed that goes something like this: “To see the REAL America you have to travel two-lane back roads.” Well perhaps one of these should be The Interstate 70 in Utah. Most beautiful in winter, especially when it winds its way through the snow-covered Spotted Wolf Canyon.
7. The Milford Road – New Zealand
Winds for 144 miles through Fiordland National Park, in the heart of the Southern Alps. It also connects to Milford Sound, one of the filming locations for the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.
6. The Blue Ridge Parkway
Runs from North Carolina to Virginia, and is known for its views of rugged mountains and the Appalachian Highlands.
5. Great Ocean Road – Australia
You can find the famous limestone stacks called the Twelve Apostles, whale lookouts, rain forests, and beautiful national parks.
4. The North Yungas Road – Bolivia
Breathtakingly beautiful, but also known as the world’s most dangerous road because of its single lanes, tight turns, and steep drop-offs.
3. The Trollstigen road – Norway
Literally means ‘troll ladder’ in English, and that name is very fitting for this extremely narrow and steep winding road. If you make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with views of the Stigfossen waterfall, a 1,050-foot waterfall that tumbles over the mountains.
2. The Overseas Highway – Florida
Connects mainland Florida to the Florida Keys, and consists of 42 overseas bridges across a total 113 miles. You’ll feel like you’re driving on the surface of the ocean. Try to catch a sunrise or a sunset, as the sun casts a beautiful reflection on the water.
1. Scenic Byway 163
Stretches from the Arizona border through Monument Valley in Utah. During the 45-mile drive, you’ll be able to admire the beautiful red rocks and desert.