The Call of the Open Road
There’s something magical about road trips. It’s the feeling of freedom, the open road stretching ahead, and the promise of adventure just around the next bend. Whether you’re chasing sunsets along the coast, winding through majestic mountain passes, or crossing vast desert landscapes, road trips are about more than just the destination—they’re about the journey.
If you’ve been itching to pack your bags, roll down the windows, and let the road lead the way, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the top 10 scenic road trip routes for 2025, each one offering jaw-dropping views, incredible stops, and that pure, unfiltered joy of exploration. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
Highlights:
A legendary coastal drive hugging the cliffs of California’s dramatic coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is the ultimate dream drive.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring or early fall is when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are thinner.
Must-See Stops:
- Big Sur – Picture yourself cruising along rugged cliffs with waves crashing below.
- Bixby Bridge – A must for that iconic Instagram shot.
- Santa Barbara – Stop for wine tasting and Spanish-style architecture.
Pro Tip: Pack a picnic and stop at McWay Falls—one of the most photogenic spots on the PCH.
2. The Ring Road, Iceland
Highlights:
A full circle drive around Iceland offers everything from glaciers and volcanoes to waterfalls and black sand beaches.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer, when the roads are clear and the days are long.
Must-See Stops:
- Seljalandsfoss – A waterfall you can walk behind.
- Diamond Beach – Icebergs sparkle like diamonds on the shore.
- Lake Myvatn – A geothermal wonderland.
Imagine soaking in a hot spring while the Northern Lights dance overhead. That’s the magic of Iceland!
3. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Highlights:
A coastal masterpiece packed with towering cliffs, surf beaches, and rainforest.
Best Time to Visit:
September to May for ideal weather.
Must-See Stops:
- The Twelve Apostles – Majestic limestone stacks rising from the sea.
- Lorne – A charming seaside town perfect for a coffee break.
- Otway National Park – Lush rainforests and waterfalls.
Warning: You might befriend a few koalas along the way!
4. North Coast 500, Scotland
Highlights:
Scotland’s answer to Route 66—wild, remote, and utterly breathtaking.
Best Time to Visit:
Use in late spring or early fall to avoid midges (tiny biting insects).
Must-See Stops:
- Duncansby Stacks – Dramatic rock formations by the sea.
- Loch Assynt – A peaceful, reflective lake surrounded by ruins.
- Applecross Pass – A thrilling mountain road with hairpin bends.
Pro Tip: Pack layers—Scottish weather is as unpredictable as your Spotify shuffle.
5. The Garden Route, South Africa
Highlights:
A road trip bursting with wildlife, stunning coastline, and adventure activities.
Best Time to Visit:
September to March for sunshine and whale watching.
Must-See Stops:
- Tsitsikamma National Park – Hike across suspension bridges above the ocean.
- Knysna – A charming lagoon town with fresh oysters.
- Addo Elephant Park – Spot herds of elephants up close.
If you love road trips and safaris, this route is a dream come true!
6. Route 66, USA
Highlights:
The mother of all road trips, this historic highway is packed with Americana nostalgia.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring or fall to avoid extreme summer heat.
Must-See Stops:
- Cadillac Ranch – Spray-paint your graffiti on classic cars.
- Petrified Forest National Park – Ancient trees turned to stone.
- Santa Monica Pier – The perfect ending at the Pacific Ocean.
Cue the old-school road trip playlist—Elvis, Johnny Cash, and a bit of The Eagles.
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Highlights:
A dreamy drive along Italy’s stunning coastline, filled with colorful cliffside villages and Mediterranean bliss.
Best Time to Visit:
May to June or September for fewer crowds.
Must-See Stops:
- Positano – A postcard-perfect village cascading down the cliffs.
- Ravello – Breathtaking views and lush gardens.
- Capri – Take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto.
Pro Tip: Try the local limoncello—it’s sunshine in a glass!
8. Icefields Parkway, Canada
Highlights:
An alpine wonderland through the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Best Time to Visit:
June to September for accessible roads and wildlife sightings.
Must-See Stops:
- Lake Louise – Turquoise waters surrounded by glaciers.
- Athabasca Glacier – Walk on a real glacier.
- Peyto Lake – One of the most strikingly blue lakes in the world.
Watch out for bears… but from a safe distance!
9. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Highlights:
The world’s largest salt flat creates an endless mirror effect when wet.
Best Time to Visit:
December to April for the mirror effect; May to November for dry, polygon-patterned salt flats.
Must-See Stops:
- Incahuasi Island – A cactus-covered island in the middle of the salt flats.
- Eduardo Avaroa National Park – Flamingo-filled lagoons and colorful mountains.
- Train Cemetery – Rusting locomotives in the middle of the desert.
Driving on an endless white expanse feels like being on another planet.
10. The Atlantic Road, Norway
Highlights:
A short but dramatic drive across a series of ocean-hugging bridges.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer for clear roads, or fall for stormy, dramatic waves.
Must-See Stops:
- Storseisundet Bridge – The famous “rollercoaster” bridge.
- Håholmen Island – A quaint fishing village.
- Molde – The “Town of Roses” with fjord views.
Warning: You may stop every five minutes for photos!
Road Trip Planning Tips
- Pack smart – Snacks, playlists, and a good old-fashioned map (just in case GPS fails!).
- Budget wisely – Gas, accommodations, and spontaneous detours add up.
- Stay flexible – Some of the best moments happen when you take an unplanned turn.
- Respect nature – Leave no trace and enjoy the beauty responsibly.
Because sometimes, the journey is just as fun as the destination. Where will your next adventure take you?
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