Embarking on a road trip is not just about reaching a destination; it’s an immersive experience where the journey itself becomes a destination. If you’re ready to elevate your rental car adventure, consider exploring some of the world’s most breathtaking scenic drives. From winding coastal roads to mountainous landscapes, these routes promise not just a change of scenery, but a feast for the eyes. Here’s a guide to uncovering the top scenic drives for your next rental car journey.

  1. Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA: Venture along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway for a mesmerizing drive along the rugged coastline. With the Pacific Ocean on one side and dramatic cliffs on the other, this route offers stunning views of the sea, quaint coastal towns, and the famous Bixby Creek Bridge.
  2. Great Ocean Road, Australia: Wind your way along Australia’s Great Ocean Road, where the Southern Ocean meets the dramatic cliffs of the Victorian coastline. Witness the Twelve Apostles, limestone stacks rising majestically from the sea, and explore lush rainforests and charming seaside villages.
  3. Amalfi Coast Road, Italy: Experience the allure of the Amalfi Coast as you navigate its serpentine roads clinging to the cliffs. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, colorful cliffside villages like Positano and Amalfi, and fragrant lemon groves.
  4. Icefields Parkway, Canada: Journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies on the Icefields Parkway, connecting Jasper National Park to Banff National Park. Marvel at glaciers, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped peaks as you drive through one of the most stunning and untouched landscapes in the world.
  5. Ring Road, Iceland: Circumnavigate the land of fire and ice on Iceland’s Ring Road. Encounter otherworldly landscapes featuring waterfalls, geysers, black sand beaches, and glaciers. The ever-changing scenery provides a constant sense of adventure around every turn.
  6. The Garden Route, South Africa: Explore the Garden Route along South Africa’s southern coast, renowned for its diverse ecosystems. Encounter lush forests, pristine beaches, and the dramatic landscapes of Tsitsikamma National Park, offering a perfect blend of nature and adventure.
  7. Highway 1, New Zealand: Wind through the stunning landscapes of New Zealand on State Highway 1. Traverse both the North and South Islands, encountering everything from pristine beaches and thermal wonders to snow-capped mountains and fjords.
  8. Transfagarasan Highway, Romania: Conquer the twists and turns of Romania’s Transfagarasan Highway, winding through the Carpathian Mountains. Ascend to the summit for panoramic views of the Fagaras Range and the breathtaking Balea Lake.
  9. Trollstigen, Norway: Experience the thrill of Norway’s Trollstigen, a serpentine mountain road surrounded by towering peaks and waterfalls. This challenging yet awe-inspiring drive provides a sensory overload of natural beauty.
  10. Cabot Trail, Canada: Navigate the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, for a journey through coastal cliffs, highland plateaus, and charming fishing villages. The vibrant fall foliage adds an extra layer of beauty during the autumn months.

Before embarking on these scenic drives, ensure your rental car is well-equipped for the terrain, and plan stops along the way to savor the breathtaking views. With these top scenic drives, your rental car journey becomes not just a road trip, but a visual symphony of nature’s wonders waiting to be uncovered. Buckle up and get ready for a journey of a lifetime!