By Al Ruiz - May 12, 2023-min.png)
The Best Road Trips in Europe: From Mountain Passes to Coastal Drives
Sure, Route 66 has set the benchmark for epic road trips, but Europe is overflowing with short yet ultra-scenic drives that are sure to give you your adventure fix. From majestic mountain passes to picturesque coastal drives, the continent offers an array of scenic routes that are sure to have you smiling behind the wheel.
What’s more, Europe is accessible and easy to navigate, making it perfect for first-time road trippers. So, pack your bags and get ready to visit Europe to venture out on some of these long and windy roads for an unforgettable journey.
With a name like “The Romantic Road”, you can already expect fairytale beauty beyond your wildest dreams. The Romantic Road winds past charming medieval towns, beautiful castles, and sprawling vineyards as it passes through the heart of Bavaria. It is a lovely 350-kilometer route that travels through quaint communities like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Augsburg on its way from Würzburg to Füssen.
Beautiful castles like Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau, and Würzburg Residence can be explored along the journey. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the delectable regional food and the world-famous Bavarian brews.
For a taste of la dolce vita, head to the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. The road is only 50 kilometers long but the stunning views of the Mediterranean and colorful cliffside towns will have you stopping every few minutes to soak it all in.
Start your journey in Sorrento and make your way through Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, with their pastel-colored buildings, terraced gardens, and pristine beaches. Stop by a local trattoria to savor fresh seafood and limoncello, just the way the Italians like it.
Ireland's Ring of Kerry is a legendary road trip that takes you through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. This 179-kilometer circular route in County Kerry offers stunning vistas of rugged coastline, sparkling lakes, and emerald-green hills.
Drive through charming villages like Killarney, Kenmare, and Cahersiveen, and explore ancient ruins, historic sites, and pristine beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to experience traditional Irish music and dance in one of the many pubs along the way.
The Transfagarasan Highway in Romania, frequently cited as one of the world's most stunning roads, is the place to go for a truly unique road journey. The beautiful Carpathian Mountains are traversed by this 90-kilometer mountain road, which reaches a peak elevation of 2,042 meters.
You'll travel through thick forests, glacial lakes, and picturesque landscapes along the way. Stop at the famous Balea Lake, visit the haunting Poenari Castle, and marvel at the Vidraru Dam. Keep in mind that the road is usually open only from late June to October due to weather conditions.
The Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland is a mesmerizing road trip that takes you along the rugged coastlines of the Antrim plateau. Along this 120-kilometer trip, you'll see majestic cliffs, lovely beaches, and the North Atlantic Ocean.
Visit the well-known Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site with hexagonal basalt columns, and the exciting Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge for sweeping views of the coastline. Don't miss the picturesque villages of Cushendun, Ballintoy, and Ballycastle along the way, and indulge in some traditional Irish fare at local pubs.
The Stelvio Pass in Italy is a road trip that should be on your bucket list if you enjoy thrills and driving. This famous mountain pass, which rises to a height of 2,757 meters, is one of the highest in the Alps. The 48 hairpin curves of the road provide stunning views of the glaciers, valleys, and surrounding snow-capped mountains.
The drive is challenging, but the excitement and the breathtaking scenery make it worthwhile. Make sure to stop at the Passo dello Stelvio National Park, and explore the charming towns of Bormio and Merano along the way.
Croatia's Dalmatian Coast is a road trip combining stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. This picturesque route stretches along the Adriatic Sea, passing through ancient walled cities, charming villages, and idyllic beaches.
Start your journey in Dubrovnik, known for its medieval walls and red-roofed buildings, and make your way up the coast, stopping at historic towns like Split, Zadar, and Trogir.
Explore the beautiful islands of Hvar, Korcula, and Brac, with their crystal-clear waters and secluded coves. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Croatian cuisine, including fresh seafood and local wines.
The Schwarzwaldhochstraße, or Black Forest High Road, is a beautiful drive through the center of the Black Forest region of Germany. This 60-kilometer route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes as it winds through thick forests, scenic valleys, and attractive villages.
You can visit the well-known Mummelsee, a stunning glacial lake, and explore the ancient cities of Baden-Baden and Freudenstadt en route. Indulge in some of the region's famous Black Forest cake, and take a hike to the majestic Triberg Waterfalls.
The Trollstigen, often known as "Troll's Ladder," is an exhilarating and beautiful road adventure that takes you through the stunning mountain scenery of Norway. The 55-kilometer trip offers stunning vistas of the craggy mountains and deep valleys along with steep, twisting roads and hairpin curves.
Make sure to stop at the Trollstigen Visitor Center, which provides sweeping panoramas of the highway and the area's natural beauty. Admire the flowing waterfalls and charming villages as you explore the adjacent Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
By Al Ruiz - May 12, 2023
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