Our Top Five Scenic Road Trips Around the World

If your idea of a vacation involves an adventurous road trip, you won’t want to miss these world-renowned scenic routes

By Alexandra Ward

Posted: July 21, 2016 11:43 AM ET

Red convertible drives on the Hana Highway along the coast of Maui

Hana Highway, Maui, U.S.

Winding along the eastern coast of Maui, from Kahului to the town of Hana, the Hana Highway is 84 kilometres of lush, dizzying beauty (emphasis on the word dizzying). Zigzagging through lush rainforest and past waterfalls, this drive is a challenge for even the most seasoned road warrior, so be sure to plan for stops and take breaks along the way—especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

The Amalfi Coast, Italy

Located in the Sorrentine Peninsula in the province of Salerno, the Amalfi Coast was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, earning its distinction as a prime example of Mediterranean landscape, with exceptional scenic views thanks to its dramatic topography. Perched on the edge of the Tyrrhenian Sea, with a 500-foot drop to the water below, the coastal drive from Sorrento to Salerno is truly breathtaking and sure to keep drivers on their toes.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

One of Australia’s most famous drives, Great Ocean Road was built as a memorial to those who lost their lives in World War I. Taking more than a decade to complete, the construction of the road provided jobs for soldiers returning from the war. As it snakes along the southern coast, Great Ocean Road brings you to some of Australia’s most famous sights, including the Twelve Apostles, a captivating collection of limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park.

Col de Turini, France

Fans of the Tour de France and the Monte Carlo Rally will recognize the 34 hairpin turns of the Col de Turini. Located about 1,600 metres above sea level in the French Alps, this mountain pass is no place for nervous drivers or passengers. If you’re planning a trip during the winter, keep an eye on the weather forecast, as road closures are not uncommon.

The Viking Trail, Newfoundland, Canada

A history lesson and unforgettable drive rolled into one, the Viking Trail is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: L’Anse aux Meadows, a Viking-era settlement, and Gros Morne National Park. Located on the coast of Newfoundland’s northern peninsula, the trail spans nearly 500 kilometres of varied landscapes and spectacular vistas. Though the Viking Trail can be driven in a day, take your time to soak it all in.