5 Spectacular Road Trips To Take In Your Lifetime
The thrill of hitting the road and driving across land to explore new destinations is unique and invigorating. Not only will you experience sensational views but also bear witness to the stunning changes in light, terrain, flora and fauna.
Great road trips provide an opportunity to create a tailor-made journey packed with incredible experiences and memories. woman with drive has selected five of the world’s most scenic driving routes ranging from adventurous to indulgent for a road trip to remember.
Most can be travelled in seven days or less, but the beauty of driving is that you can decide to stay on in a particular town if you fall in love with it.
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Ring Road, Iceland
The N1, a 1,339 kilometre road that runs right around the island, enables you to enjoy Iceland’s awe-inspiring scenery. Think fertile valleys, snow-capped mountains, lava fields, vivid blue fjords, volcanic craters, mineral rich baths, ice tunnels and glacial rivers.
The magical Snæfellsnes Peninsula boasts natural attractions such as the strato volcano and glacier, the Saxhóll volcano crater and the two massive lava formations at Lóndrangar.
Additional natural wonders include the Sönghellir “singing cave” with its famous echo, and Gullfoss or the Golden Waterfall, a breathtaking two-tiered waterfall that drops 32 metres into a narrow canyon that itself is 70 metres deep and 2.5 kilometres in length. The viewing platform helps you grasp the full impact of the fall.
There is also the picturesque glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón, which has featured in many blockbusters including Tomb Raider, Batman Begins, and two James Bond films.
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The Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a lush coastal plain between Storms River Mouth and Mossel Bay (approx. 250km) and boasts a world-class coastline. It is a beautiful introduction to South Africa with mountains, vineyards and nature reserves on one side, and rocky shores and spectacular beaches on the other.
Highlights of this journey include Plettenberg Bay, a beautiful seaside destination with unspoiled beaches; Knysna, which is famous for its annual oyster festival and magnificent views from Leisure Isle to the Knysna Heads; and the Garden Route National Park where you can hike, laze on beaches, paddle on silver lakes and enjoy a picturesque forest with lagoons and lakes.
For archaeological and cultural history dating back hundreds of thousands of years, head to Mossel Bay. Or seek out the ultimate wildlife experience at Gondwana Game Reserve, an exclusive park with a luxury lodge. Then continue on to Cape Town where you can easily spend a week pursuing its unique experiences.
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South Island Circuit, New Zealand
The coastal road from Christchurch to Dunedin features historic architecture and eco-tours of marine wildlife. The penguins are a favourite and highlight New Zealand’s success in conserving its wildlife.
Te Anau puts you within easy reach of the Fiordland National Park, a place of beauty and drama. A Milford Sound cruise is essential for a view of the tall waterfalls, dramatic rock faces, lush forests, dolphins and if you are really lucky, even whales.
Then it is on to Queenstown where indulgence and adventure meet. Savour the resort town’s exceptional food and drink, luxury spas and wineries. When heading back to Christchurch, go via Mt Cook, the tallest mountain in New Zealand. This is where Sir Edmund Hilary honed his climbing skills before conquering Mt Everest. This circuit covers approximately 1140 kilometers.
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Costa Smeralda To Il Nuovo Gabbiano, Sardinia
Costa Smeralda sees the meeting of dramatic headlands and turquoise waters. It is also known as the island of longevity in a nod to the long life of its residents. Its beaches are regarded as some of the best in the world and feature a range of activities from snorkelling to sailing.
The 155 kilometre coastal road that takes you from Costa Smeralda to Il Nuovo Gabbiano is surrounded by extraordinary views that demand frequent stops for photos. At Monte Mora, the granite peak dominating the coastline, you will see the island of Tavolara and the remote island of Caprera. Both are worth a visit.
Further along the drive are views of coves, white sand and emerald water on one side and unique granite rock formations and craggy mountains on the other. Stop at one of the many historical towns, like San Teodoro and Orosei, where megalithic ruins, striking architecture, markets and festivals abound. This journey highlights the island’s rich and diverse history and culture.
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The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Extending 285 kilometres between Torquay and Warrnambool, the Great Ocean Road winds its way along a dramatic coastline through beautiful coastal towns. Highlights include Lorne, home of the Great Otway National Park, a remarkable area of native forest to explore through the many walking trails that lead to impressive waterfalls.
Alternatively, take to the trees with The Otway Fly Treetop Adventure to enjoy the rainforest. As you head to Port Campbell you will experience the most spectacular part of the drive, Shipwreck Coast, home to the iconic rock formations known as the 12 Apostles. Descend the Gibson Steps for a ground level view.
The Great Southern Touring Route extends further north and then curves inland, taking you through Warrnambool, Port Fairy, the Grampians and Ballarat.
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Image credit: Fototeca Enit
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