Epic Road Trips You Should Add to Your Bucket List
There’s something magical about a road trip. The sense of freedom that comes with hitting the open road, the windows down, and the playlist on shuffle—it’s an adventure unlike any other. Whether you're winding through coastal cliffs, weaving through towering mountains, or cruising along a quiet highway, road trips offer a unique way to experience the world. They allow you to travel at your own pace, discovering hidden gems and spontaneous surprises along the way.
For me, road trips have always been a way to reconnect—with nature, with people, and even with myself. There's something about the quiet moments when you're the only car for miles or the thrill of driving through unknown territory that feels deeply freeing. If you're looking for a journey filled with beauty, adventure, and unforgettable experiences, these epic road trips should be at the top of your bucket list.
Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or planning your very first one, these routes offer something for everyone. Let's dive into some of the most breathtaking and exciting road trips around the world—perfect for your next journey.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
There’s a reason why the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic road trips in the world. Spanning over 600 miles along the California coast, this route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and charming seaside towns that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. It’s a road trip that gives you everything from golden beaches to towering redwoods, all with the ocean as your constant companion.
Why You’ll Love It:
Big Sur Magic: The stretch between San Simeon and Carmel—known as Big Sur—is arguably the most scenic part of the PCH. The towering cliffs, turquoise waters, and breathtaking bridges make it a drive to remember. Be sure to stop at Bixby Creek Bridge for the iconic view and visit McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall that drops directly into the ocean. These moments make you feel small in the best way possible, like you’re part of something much larger.
Monterey and Carmel: I remember stopping in Monterey for a quick bite, only to fall in love with its aquarium and charming Cannery Row. And then there’s Carmel-by-the-Sea, a town so quaint it feels like a fairy tale. I’ve had some of my best road trip meals here, with ocean views that were hard to leave.
Hearst Castle: For a dose of history and opulence, stop by Hearst Castle, a sprawling estate that’s as fascinating as the coastal views around it. Taking a tour through the lavish rooms and gardens was like stepping back in time to a world of extravagant parties and old Hollywood glamour.
Every turn on the PCH offers a new surprise, from hidden beaches to cozy roadside inns. If you’re looking for a road trip that feels like a movie scene, the Pacific Coast Highway won’t disappoint.
2. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
If rugged landscapes, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines are your idea of the perfect road trip, the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland should be at the top of your list. Spanning 1,500 miles along Ireland’s western coast, this route takes you through some of the most stunning scenery the country has to offer.
Why You’ll Love It:
Cliffs of Moher: These iconic cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and are one of the most jaw-dropping sights along the Wild Atlantic Way. On a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands off the coast. Standing at the edge of those cliffs made me feel like I was on the edge of the world. Just remember to bring a jacket—it gets windy!
Galway’s Lively Culture: I didn’t expect to fall in love with Galway, but the city’s colorful streets and traditional Irish music won me over. It’s the perfect place to grab a pint, listen to live music, and meet locals who always seem eager to share a story.
The Dingle Peninsula: This lesser-known part of Ireland is a hidden gem. Winding roads take you past ancient stone huts, coastal views, and even herds of sheep grazing on hillsides. When I visited, the mist rolling over the hills created a dreamlike atmosphere, making it one of my favorite road trip memories.
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility, with plenty of opportunities to connect with the local culture.
3. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a road trip that feels like one long postcard, where each stop seems to outdo the last. This 150-mile route along the southeastern coast of Australia is famous for its stunning ocean views, golden beaches, and dramatic rock formations.
Why You’ll Love It:
The Twelve Apostles: These towering limestone stacks rise out of the ocean like sentinels, creating a dramatic backdrop against the crashing waves. While only eight of the original twelve remain standing, it’s still a sight that takes your breath away, especially at sunrise or sunset. I remember standing there, feeling the sea spray on my face, and thinking that no photograph could ever do it justice.
Otway National Park: Beyond the beaches, the Great Ocean Road also offers lush rainforests in Otway National Park. Take a detour to walk among towering trees and waterfalls, or spot native wildlife like koalas and kangaroos.
Bells Beach: If you’re into surfing, you probably know about Bells Beach, a legendary spot with world-class waves. Even if you’re not hitting the surf, the view from the cliffs is incredible and well worth the stop.
The Great Ocean Road is perfect for anyone looking for a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks.
4. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road offers a journey through some of the most otherworldly landscapes you’ll ever see. This 800-mile route circles the island, taking you from thundering waterfalls to black sand beaches, geysers, glaciers, and volcanic craters.
Why You’ll Love It:
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss: These two waterfalls are some of the most iconic in Iceland, and walking behind Seljalandsfoss was an experience I’ll never forget. The sound of the water crashing down, combined with the view through the waterfall to the horizon, was simply magical.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: If you’ve ever wanted to see massive icebergs floating in a lagoon, this is the place to do it. I took a boat tour through the lagoon, watching chunks of ice break off from the glacier and float out to sea.
Reykjavík to Remote Villages: While Reykjavík is a vibrant city worth exploring, the real magic happens as you leave the city behind and head into Iceland’s remote regions. The landscapes constantly shift—one minute, you’re driving through lava fields, and the next, you’re gazing at snow-capped mountains. Every time I thought I’d seen the most beautiful part of Iceland, the next turn would prove me wrong.
For those seeking solitude, adventure, and a connection to the raw beauty of nature, Iceland’s Ring Road is the ultimate road trip.
5. Ruta 40, Argentina
Stretching over 3,000 miles from the northern tip of Argentina to the southern reaches of Patagonia, Ruta 40 offers an adventure that takes you through deserts, mountains, and everything in between. It’s one of the longest and most diverse road trips in the world, perfect for anyone looking for a South American journey that’s full of surprises.
Why You’ll Love It:
Patagonia’s Natural Wonders: The southern section of Ruta 40 takes you through Patagonia, one of the most breathtakingly beautiful regions on Earth. Visit Los Glaciares National Park and stand in awe of the Perito Moreno Glacier, a massive ice field that’s constantly shifting and breaking apart. Watching huge chunks of ice crash into the water is a sight you won’t forget.
The Wine Region of Cafayate: If you’re a wine lover, the northern part of Ruta 40 is home to Cafayate, a high-altitude wine region known for its bold red wines. The vineyards here are framed by dramatic red rock formations, offering a unique contrast to the lush vines.
Bariloche: Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Bariloche is a charming town known for its lakes, forests, and Swiss-inspired architecture. Whether you’re skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Bariloche offers a peaceful escape with stunning scenery.
Ruta 40 is the ultimate adventure for those looking to explore Argentina’s diverse landscapes, from the arid north to the icy beauty of Patagonia.
6. Garden Route, South Africa
South Africa’s Garden Route is a road trip that packs a lot into a relatively short distance. Stretching about 190 miles along the country’s southern coast, this scenic route takes you through forests, beaches, lagoons, and mountains.
Why You’ll Love It:
Tsitsikamma National Park: One of my favorite stops along the Garden Route was Tsitsikamma National Park, where the forest meets the sea. You can hike through ancient trees, kayak along the coast, or—if you’re feeling brave—bungee jump off the Bloukrans Bridge, one of the highest bungee jumps in the world.
Knysna: This charming coastal town is famous for its oysters and its stunning lagoon. I spent an afternoon cruising the lagoon, taking in views of the Knysna Heads, two dramatic cliffs that guard the entrance to the lagoon.
Plettenberg Bay: A beach lover’s paradise, Plettenberg Bay offers long stretches of golden sand, excellent whale watching, and plenty of opportunities to relax or get active with water sports.
The Garden Route is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and charming coastal towns, all within a few hours' drive.
Final Thoughts: The Open Road is Calling
There’s something about road trips that captures the essence of travel itself—the freedom, the adventure, the unexpected discoveries. Whether you’re driving along the dramatic cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway or exploring the wild landscapes of Patagonia, road trips offer an unparalleled way to experience the world. These epic routes are more than just drives; they’re journeys that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, fuel up the car, and get ready to hit the road. Your next adventure is waiting just around the corner.