Discover the World's Most Jaw-Dropping Scenic Drives: A Bucket List of 12 Unforgettable Routes

Exploring the world by car offers a unique perspective on some of nature's best artwork. Scenic drives let you experience breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems at your own pace. From lush forests to stunning coastlines, this list of twelve scenic drives around the globe is sure to inspire your next adventure.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic scenic drives in the world. Stretching about 650 miles from San Francisco to San Diego, this route features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Key highlights include the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the famous Bixby Creek Bridge.

Wide angle view of the Pacific Coast Highway with cliffs and ocean — The stunning cliffs and open ocean of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Be sure to stop at McWay Falls along Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the 80-foot waterfall cascades directly onto a pristine beach.

2. Great Ocean Road, Australia

Covering over 240 kilometers along Australia’s southern coast, the Great Ocean Road offers incredible coastal views, lush rainforests, and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations.

Eye-level view of the Twelve Apostles at sunset — The rugged sea stacks known as the Twelve Apostles along the Great Ocean Road.

Don’t miss Lorne, known for its beaches and quaint cafes, and take time to explore the waterfalls at Great Otway National Park. This region is also home to native koalas, adding to the adventure.

3. Ring Road, Iceland

Iceland's Route 1, also called the Ring Road, provides a spectacular journey through the island’s unique landscapes. This 1,332-kilometer loop takes you past volcanic craters, massive glaciers, and majestic waterfalls.

Wide angle view of a waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs — The powerful Gullfoss waterfall along the Ring Road in Iceland.

Make sure to visit the black sand beaches near Vik and the famous geysers in the Golden Circle. In winter, the drive offers great possibilities for witnessing the Northern Lights.

4. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Italy's Amalfi Coast is known for its picturesque coastline and colorful villages perched on cliffs. The SS163 road winds through the towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, displaying breathtaking vistas.

High angle view of colorful cliffside houses in Positano — The vibrant cliffside homes of Positano along the Amalfi Coast.

With hairpin turns around steep cliffs, you'll find numerous spots to stop and savor fresh seafood or locally made limoncello, enhancing the experience both of the sights and the flavors.

5. Trollstigen, Norway

Trollstigen, or "Troll’s Path," is a thrilling serpentine road in Norway featuring steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking views. The 100-kilometer path is well-known for its panoramic viewpoints.

Eye-level view of a winding mountain road surrounded by lush green hills — The twisting bends of Trollstigen in Norway nearby steep cliffs and waterfalls.

Make sure to stop at the viewing platform to capture the stunning beauty of the Norwegian landscape for your travel album.

6. Garden Route, South Africa

The Garden Route stretches approximately 300 kilometers along South Africa’s southern coast and offers a spectacular display of ecosystems, lagoons, and indigenous forests.

Wide angle view of the coastline along the Garden Route — The rugged coastline along the Garden Route of South Africa with waves crashing on rocks.

Visitors can explore Tsitsikamma National Park, famous for its bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge, and encounter wildlife and scenic hikes that make this drive memorable.

7. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada

The 298-kilometer Cabot Trail is a must-see, winding through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It features breathtaking ocean and mountain views, with numerous lookout points.

High angle view of the Cabot Trail curving along the Atlantic coastline — The Cabot Trail’s winding roads offering views of the vast Atlantic Ocean.

Don’t forget to stop in charming fishing villages to sample local seafood and learn about Acadian culture along the way.

8. Beartooth Highway, Montana/Wyoming, USA

Regarded as one of America’s most scenic drives, the Beartooth Highway spans 68 miles through the Beartooth Mountains. Connecting Red Lodge, Montana, to Yellowstone National Park, it provides stunning high-elevation views.

High angle view of rugged mountain peaks against a bright blue sky — The stunning peaks of the Beartooth Mountains seen from the highway.

With switchbacks along the route, drivers often stop at viewpoints to take in the sights of alpine lakes and wildflower-filled meadows.

9. Pacific Northwest Highway, Washington, USA

This winding highway travels through lush forests and coastal scenery, stretching from Seattle to the Oregon border. Expect stunning views of Puget Sound and the majestic Olympic Mountains.

Wide angle view of a coastal viewpoint with cliffs and ocean — The dramatic cliffs and ocean views along the Pacific Northwest Highway.

Key stops include Olympic National Park and picturesque towns like Port Townsend, where beauty meets vibrant communities.

10. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Spanning over 2,500 kilometers, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world, offering stunning views of the Irish coast.

Eye-level view of cliffs overlooking a churning sea — The breathtaking Cliffs of Moher along the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland.

Travel along the route to discover traditional pubs, ancient castles, and charming villages, all while experiencing Ireland's famed hospitality.

11. The Icefields Parkway, Canada

Connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks, the Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometer drive known for breathtaking mountain scenery and turquoise lakes.

Wide angle view of a glacial lake with mountains in the background — The breathtaking Peyto Lake viewed from the Icefields Parkway.

While traveling, plan to stop at Athabasca Falls and explore the Columbia Icefield, where you can admire glaciers up close.

12. The Scottish Highlands, Scotland

The journey through the Scottish Highlands is a true treasure, offering picturesque landscapes that include rugged coastlines, mountains, and tranquil lochs.

High angle view of rolling green hills and dramatic cliffs — The dramatic landscape of the Scottish Highlands dotted with lochs and mountains.

As you drive, stop by historic castles, sample local whisky, and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery that characterizes this enchanting region.

Final Thoughts

The world is filled with majestic scenic drives waiting to be explored. Whether you find yourself winding along coastal roads, climbing steep mountain passes, or enjoying vibrant landscapes, these routes belong on your travel wish list.

As you prepare for your next journey, take your time to relish each moment. The stunning views, local cultures, and unforgettable experiences along these routes will create memories that last a lifetime. Happy travels!