While the wanderlust remains the same, the traveling methods and tastes of travelers and adventurers have changed a lot in the last decades. More and more people are looking for alternative methods of traveling that are more exciting, inspiring, and fun compared to regular travel. One of these alternative methods includes thrilling and engaging road trips along scenic highways and passes. Europe has some of the most impressive and beautiful routes that are perfect for road trips. Instead of being a chore, driving along these stunning roads can be a brilliant way to explore the landscapes and enjoy the sights en route. Here are some of the most scenic roads of Europe that are as thrilling to drive as they are beautiful.
Romantische Strasse, Germany
The Romantische Strasse or the Romantic Road of Germany is a 220 miles long and scenic route linking a number of scenic towns and castles. As the name suggests, the beautiful road opens up the wealth of occidental history, art, and culture of Germany to the traveler. The beautiful landscape, impressive architecture, medieval cities, sprawling castles, and culinary delights make this road trip truly a delightful journey. The winding road also offers breathtaking views of the beautiful river valleys, fertile farmlands, meadows, forests, and mountains of the German countryside.
Verdon Gorge Circuit, France
Provence is considered the most seductive region of France. And the Verdon Gorge Circuit that circumnavigates the rim of the Verdon gorge is as thrilling and dangerous to drive as it is beautiful. The Gorges du Verdon circuit starts from Moustiers Sainte Marie, a very pretty little town, winds around the gorge passing Sainte-Croix Lake and ends in Thoronet Abbey. With villages like Tourtour, perched high for defense purposes and drops of 2,000ft directly down, this road is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
The Transfagarasan, Romania
The Transfagarasan is an extraordinary feat of engineering that climbs, twists and descends right through Moldoveanu and Negoiu – the highest peaks in Fagaras Mountains in Romania. Romania’s last communist leader Nicolae Ceausescu built it as an escape route for military purposes. However, this beautiful 71 miles drive with breathtaking natural views, thrilling hairpin bends, endless curves and sheer drops is a relatively easy climb quite popular among tours in Romania. This road connects two of Romania’s historic provinces Transylvania and Walachia through a series of five tunnels, 27 viaducts and 831 small bridges.
Route One, Iceland
Route 1, also called the Ring Road, is the main highway of Iceland that traverses the island in a circular route connecting all of the country’s major towns. It is the best way to experience the spectacular extremes of Iceland’s landscape from the stunning glaciers and waterfalls to the volcanoes, lava fields, hot springs and geysers. The main highlights of this drive include the north-east ash fields, the hot springs at Myvatn, whale-watching at Husavik, the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes peninsula, Hekla volcano, Vatnajökull National Park, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dettifoss, and Selfoss waterfalls, the diamond beach, and so much more.
Amalfi Coast Drive, Italy
The Amalfi coast drive follows the shoreline of Italy from Sorrento to Salerno and is considered one of the best coastal drives in the world. Built at a very steep angle, the road is famous for its hairpin bends, zigzags, sharp curves, dramatic drops, and stunning panoramic views of the sea. The scenic road stretches 30 miles between Sorrento city and Amalfi village and passes through breathtaking landscape and pretty villages. It offers you a glimpse of the distinct culture, traditions and rich history of the country. This scenic route connects 13 charming and historical towns that make Amalfi Coast one of the most popular holiday destinations in Italy.
