Packing up your car and hitting the road is the ultimate way to experience summer travel. With beautiful views, gusts of cool air through wide open windows, and catchy tunes turned all the way up, a good road trip simply can’t be beat. From Canada to Vietnam, there are memorable drives all over the world. So, without further ado, here are some iconic routes to inspire your next road trip.
Pacific Coast Highway, United States
The Pacific Coast Highway spans the west coast of the United States. Going from the lush environment of Seattle, Washington down to sunny San Diego, California, this road trip will give you beautiful oceanside landscapes from start to finish. Heading south on the US Highway 101 and transitioning into Highway 1 in California, this route needs little navigation. Some highlights of the PCH include the views of the Pacific Northwest rainforests accented by snowcapped mountains throughout Washington, the moody and peaceful vibes of the Oregon coast, and the towering redwoods of Northern California.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
As its name describes, the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia has spectacular coastal scenery and awe-inspiring cliffs. Take in the salty ocean breeze, go for a surf, and spot the majestic Australian wildlife roaming throughout your trip. Great for nature-lovers, this road trip has hiking and biking trails, and hot springs along the way for you to enjoy. A major touchpoint of the Great Ocean Road are the 12 Apostles, a collection of mighty limestone pillars that stick out of the sea, which will leave you in a state of total wonderment.
The Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway, a.k.a. Highway 93, is a scenic route through the Canadian Rocky Mountains. This uniquely Albertan road trip will offer over 200 km of pure bliss as you’re surrounded by huge mountains, wide valleys, sparkling lakes, and bone-chilling glaciers. Stop in Banff National Park for a walk by Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Peyto Lake. Then head to the Athabasca Glacier and Sunwapta Falls in Jasper National Park. Don’t forget to keep your eye out for the amazing wildlife too!
Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam
Take a thrilling and iconic motorbike trip in Vietnam on the Ha Giang Loop. Often taken through tour groups with a guide driving your motorbike for the entire trip, this 3–5-day road trip is a classic for backpackers and adventure travellers. Winding through the green mountains in northern Vietnam, the Ha Giang Loop has flowing waterfalls and an energy like no other. Some of the best parts of the Ha Giang Loop are the view of the Tu San Canyon and the vibrant sunsets each night.
The Autobahn, Germany
The Autobahn is a famous highway that’s fit for drivers with a need for speed. Near urban areas, speed limits apply, of course. But, when you go beyond these areas, other stretches of the Autobahn present speed limits as suggestions rather than strict rules. As a major player in the car manufacturing industry, it’s no surprise that you can find this notorious highway in Germany.
Whether you’re driving alongside the Australian waves or twisting and turning through the Vietnamese mountains, taking a road trip is an incredible way to see the world. Don’t forget to purchase Rental Car Protection Insurance for your next adventure on the road in case of the unexpected. I hope these recommendations show you just how great a drive can be.
Until next time,
Jacqueline
