Scenic Road Trips Worth Taking This Year

There’s something magical about the open road—the hum of tires on asphalt, the thrill of the unknown, and the promise of adventure just beyond the next curve. Road trips aren’t just about getting from point A to point B; they’re about the unexpected detours, the hidden gems, and the freedom to stop whenever and wherever you want.

If you’re the kind of traveler who craves winding mountain passes, breathtaking coastal drives, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, then these road trip routes are for you. Buckle up—this is going to be a wild ride.

Pacific Coast Highway, USA

Few drives are as iconic as California’s Highway 1, better known as the Pacific Coast Highway. This legendary stretch of road hugs the rugged coastline from Los Angeles to San Francisco (and beyond, if you’re up for it), offering some of the most jaw-dropping ocean views you’ll ever see.

Start in the sun-soaked streets of LA, then wind your way through Malibu’s golden beaches, Big Sur’s dramatic cliffs, and the charming seaside towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea. The road twists and turns along the Pacific, with every bend revealing a new postcard-perfect view. Make sure to stop at McWay Falls, a stunning waterfall that spills directly onto the sand, and if you time it right, you might even catch the sunset over Bixby Bridge.

Adventure factor? High. This route is perfect for surfers, hikers, and anyone who loves the thrill of hugging cliffside roads with the ocean crashing below.

The Garden Route, South Africa

If you love road trips with a side of wildlife and adventure, South Africa’s Garden Route is a dream come true. This 200-mile stretch from Mossel Bay to Storms River winds through lush forests, pristine beaches, and dramatic cliffs, with plenty of adrenaline-fueled activities along the way.

Start by spotting great white sharks in Gansbaai (if you dare) before heading east to the coastal paradise of Knysna. From there, hike through the ancient forests of Tsitsikamma National Park, bungee jump off Bloukrans Bridge—the highest commercial bungee jump in the world—or kayak along Storms River Gorge. The mix of landscapes, from rugged coastline to rolling vineyards, makes every mile an adventure.

Bonus: South Africa’s wildlife doesn’t stop at safaris. Keep an eye out for whales off the coast and troops of baboons casually strolling along the roadside.

The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

For those who prefer windswept cliffs, medieval castles, and roads that feel like they lead to the edge of the world, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is an unbeatable adventure. Spanning over 1,500 miles along the west coast, this route is packed with rugged beauty and charming villages straight out of a fairytale.

Start in the colorful town of Kinsale, then work your way up past the towering Cliffs of Moher, the alien-like landscapes of The Burren, and the otherworldly beauty of Connemara National Park. Drive the winding roads of the Dingle Peninsula, where you’ll find hidden beaches, ancient ruins, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet.

What makes this trip an adventure? The ever-changing weather, narrow roads, and the thrill of not knowing what’s around the next bend—maybe a castle, maybe a herd of sheep blocking the way. Either way, you won’t be bored.

Patagonia’s Ruta 40, Argentina

If you’re looking for a road trip that feels like an expedition into the wild, Ruta 40 in Argentina is calling your name. Stretching over 3,000 miles from the Bolivian border to the windswept plains of Patagonia, this legendary highway takes you through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

The real adventure begins in the south, where you’ll drive past towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and vast open plains where guanacos (wild relatives of llamas) roam freely. Stop in El Chaltén, Argentina’s trekking capital, and take on the hike to Mount Fitz Roy. Further south, the Perito Moreno Glacier offers the rare chance to witness massive ice chunks breaking off and crashing into the water below.

This is no easy drive—the road conditions vary, and stretches of the highway are completely isolated—but for those who crave true adventure, Ruta 40 delivers in ways few other routes can.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

Australia’s Great Ocean Road isn’t just one of the most scenic drives in the world—it’s also a playground for adventure lovers. Snaking along the southern coast of Victoria, this route packs in dramatic limestone cliffs, lush rainforests, and some of the best surf breaks in the country.

Start in the surf town of Torquay, then cruise past the famous Twelve Apostles, a collection of towering rock stacks rising from the ocean. Hike through Great Otway National Park, where ancient rainforests and hidden waterfalls await. If you’re lucky, you might even spot koalas napping in the eucalyptus trees along the way.

For thrill-seekers, there’s no shortage of adventure—try surfing at Bells Beach, skydiving over the coast, or even diving with sharks off the coast of Port Fairy. Whether you’re chasing waves or breathtaking views, this road trip delivers.

Chasing the Horizon

There’s a reason road trips are the ultimate adventure—they give you the freedom to explore at your own pace, take unexpected detours, and immerse yourself in landscapes that change with every mile.

So whether you’re hugging cliffs along the Pacific, chasing glaciers in Patagonia, or winding through the Irish countryside, one thing is certain: the best road trips aren’t just about the destination. They’re about the stories you collect along the way.