The 9 most stunning roads around the world you'll want to drive through!

Often when we think about driving, we imagine being stuck in traffic on the daily commute to work surrounded by drizzle and fumes, and it does not fill our hearts with joy. However, for those with a love of driving, there is nothing better than the thought of a long and winding road somewhere exotic where they can sit back and enjoy the process of motoring. The question is, where are the best spots for the perfect road trip?

To answer the question Emma Tyrer, Head of Sales and Marketing at Fleet Ex, lists 9 of the most stunning roads around the world that you'll want to drive through...

1. Highway 1, California, USA

If you are a lover of the ocean, then Highway 1 in California offers some stunning coastline views. It is 659 miles long, stretching from San Francisco to San Diego and taking in places such as Carmel, Big Sur and Monterey. Drivers can enjoy the wild sight of the coastlines with dramatic headlands and enticing little coves that make it a fantastic road with an ever-changing view.

2. Atlantic Road, Norway

The Atlantic Road is a truly magnificent feat of engineering. Rising up from the water, this 5-mile-long road connects the mainland with Averøy, a small island in the Atlantic Ocean. The scenery has proved so beautiful, that thousands of drivers pay a visit each year, just to drive above the stunning blue ocean, flanked by cloud covered mountains. Whether you are able to see the sun twinkle on the water or watch the waves crash against the many bridges that make up the road, there are some incredible views that have been provided by nature.

3. Milford Road, New Zealand

New Zealand is well known for its jaw-dropping scenery, and Milford Road takes in some of the very best of this. It runs between towns such as Te Anau and Milford Sound and combines glacial lakes with impressive mountains and babbling creeks such as the fresh-water Monkey Creek, and thick native bush. It is not only popular with drivers, but is also perfect for walkers, photographers and nature lovers.

4. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys, USA

The aforementioned Highway 1 covers a vast amount of ground, and its southernmost area crosses the world-famous waters of the tropical Florida Keys. Running from Miami to Key West and incorporates Key Largo, Islamorada and Marathon. Drivers can enjoy the sight of one of the longest bridges in the world, the Seven Mile Bridge, which was once thought to be the Eighth Wonder of the World, although it can now only be viewed from afar.

5. Ring Road, Iceland

When it comes to natural phenomena, Iceland boasts more than its fair share, so it is no surprise that it plays host to one of the most stunning drives on earth. It is 828 miles long and connects the inhabited areas of the country whilst also providing incredible views of volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls and hot springs which are all utterly breath-taking. Use the opportunity to do a spot of whale-watching, and if you visit at the right time of year, there is a chance you may also see the magical Northern Lights.

6. Romantic Road, Germany

The name suggests that this is the perfect place to share with a loved one, and it is named that with good reason. 217 miles of road connect central Germany with the south of the country, and it was once used as a vital trade link. However, these days, the 19th century Neuschwanstein Castle and the various quaint market towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber help you to see why the road has the name that it does. It shows some of the incredible Bavarian history and stunning architecture that has inspired fairy tales and romance around the world.

7. Valley of Fire Road, Nevada, USA

A very different landscape can be seen as the Valley of Fire Road cuts its way through Nevada. Running northeast of Las Vegas, this 50-mile road makes its way across the Valley of Fire State Park taking in the red sandstone formations that truly make it seem as though the earth around you is ablaze. Every shade of red can be seen, creating flame-like rocks when basking the in the sun and it is no surprise that it has featured in a number of films. These views are nothing new, and the Atlatl Rock shows ancient petroglyphs which are thought to have been drawn as much as 3,000 years ago. This is an area which is important to be preserved, and there is now a small fee applied to every vehicle which drives through the park.

8. Great Atlantic Road, Australia

The natural beauty of the ocean is hard to beat, and the Great Atlantic Road is world-famous thanks to its unspoilt views, showing off beautiful Australian towns like Torquay and Allensford, interspersed by rainforests, waterfalls and dramatic coastlines. The 151-mile journey takes in the 12 Apostles which are limestone stacks which protrude from the ocean, creating a terrific sight. The road itself was built by soldiers who had returned from World War I in dedication to those who had lost their lives and it is now an Australian National Heritage site.

9. Khardung Pass, India

Many of the best views come from up high, and they don’t get much higher than the Khardurg Pass. Situated 17,582 feet above sea level, it hugs the side of a mountain before climbing higher and higher to take in picturesque views of the Ladakh region amongst the Skyok and Nubra valleys.

These roads are just a few of the most stunning places to visit across the globe. Whether you aim to take them up in one go, or plan to stop along the way and spend more time enjoying what they have to offer, they are all worth adding to your bucket list. Mother Nature has provided us with some incredible landscapes, and these roads allow us to take in some of the very best of what she has created as they twist and turn amongst some of her greatest feats.