Here Are the 5 Best Ones in the World!

There’s nothing like a road trip: scenic views, surprising stops, the time spent with friends or with your own thoughts – the ecstatic feeling of setting off on a road trip to discover a hidden corner or an offbeat gem is second to none. Most impromptu plans in the world are of road trips, because last minute flight tickets and hotel bookings could end up costing a bomb.

Road trips are the safest bet when it comes to travel – just pick up your car and drive off! The world is yet to fully recover from the pandemic and the hesitation to board flights unless necessary continues to prevail. But like virtual travel became a saviour during the periods of isolation, road trips have also come as a major respite.

Many travellers who are voracious road trippers will swear by these journeys. Road trips are freeing and one of the most adventurous ways to explore and get to know a place. With the freedom of breaking away from the crowds who have fixed itineraries to working in serendipity and basing stops on recommendations you may get as you go; you could have some of your best experiences on the road.

Below is a list of the world’s best road trips you should try if you’re planning one soon!

1. Ticlio Pass, Peru

This one is for the adrenaline junkies. This hairy drive along the highest paved road in South America sweeps through the Andes and has prayer-inducing bends, suicidal wild llamas darting out of the scenery and mountains prone to landslides. Potentially you'll be dodging giant boulders falling from above, but the view at the end of the paved road is worth nearly dying for.

2. The Atlantic Road, Norway

Belly-flips and bridges make up this high-octane drive along the Norwegian coastline. The overpass dips during this journey can be experienced between Kristiansund and Molde, and regular vicious storms in the area intensify the ride. If ‘technical’ driving does nothing for you, get ready to see unusual birds flying overhead, while seals and whales swim off the coastline. Plus, at dusk there's a wickedly orange sunset.

3. Transfagarasan Road, Romania

Spooky dark tunnels (the longest is more than 800 meters and pitch black), plus endless twists and turns make for a thrilling ride through Dracula territory. The winding road from Cartisoara goes south to Curtea de Arges then zigzags from Transylvania into Muntenia, and later ascends to 2,034 meters, to the highest peak in Romania (Moldoveanu Peak). A surefire way to creep out your road trip buddies is to climb the 1,400 steps to the Poenari Castle, the former residence of Vlad III, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. The Balea Waterfall and Vidraru Lake and Dam lie further along the track are spectacular sites.

4. Cabot Trail, Canada

This 298km road traverses the island of Cape Breton, arguably the most beautiful part of Nova Scotia. The highlight of the trail is the northern section. This takes you through the magnificent Cape Breton Highlands National Park, home to bald eagles, moose and black bears. Take the journey at a leisurely pace to explore charming small villages where the French and Scottish influence is still obvious.

5. South Island Circuit, New Zealand

The South Island is where New Zealand’s landscape is at its most remarkable. Driving around it at your own pace allows you to really soak up the many varied vistas, stopping for an adrenalin fix every now and again. Arguably the most stunning part of the drive is between Te Anau and Milford Sound, which crosses tranquil Fiordland and some of the Southern Alps.

So, there you have it – 5 of the most amazing road trips that one can experience. If you still want to wait it out and let the pandemic situation settle down properly before you set off, there’s always the virtual tour option. It’s always available and easily accessible. You can take a look at the roads and where they lead by travelling virtually from the comfort of your home and also choose your favourite out of these for your next road trip. Happy travels!