"I am young, I'm on the road, with the initial passion, pursuing the initial dreams, experiencing the initial sensations, let's hit the road." - Jack Kerouac, On the Road
Compared to other forms of travel, road trips are undoubtedly the most liberating, flexible, and downright cool. When you're behind the wheel, cruising along some of the world’s most beautiful roads, you feel an endless expanse of terrain waiting to be conquered, a sky full of stars in your sights, and the unbridled thirst for freedom coursing through your veins.
We've curated a list of seven of the world's most breathtaking roads for your next unforgettable road trip. Each route is guaranteed to leave you in awe.
1. Duku Highway, China
The Duku Highway is a true monument to Chinese road construction. It cuts through towering mountains and deep canyons, reducing the distance between Northern and Southern Xinjiang by almost half. A third of the highway consists of cliffside roads, with a fifth located on permafrost. It crosses nearly ten major rivers in the Tianshan Mountains and traverses four passes covered in year-round snow. The unique climate of "four seasons in one day and different skies every ten miles" adds to the driving challenge. The landscapes you'll witness are nothing short of miraculous.
This winding road will take you to a 3,700-meter-high ice kingdom, through China's highest tunnel at 3,390 meters, and from frigid landscapes to lush grasslands. Built by soldiers, it's a testament to overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges. The route presents a transformative experience - a psychological journey "from flames to water." The dramatic shifts in scenery will leave you speechless.
Some roads are long and exhausting, but not taking them is something you will regret. The Duku Highway is one such road. Make sure you experience this stunning Chinese route while you are young.
2. California Highway 1, USA
Also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, California Highway 1 has been hailed by National Geographic as one of the most unmissable scenic drives in a lifetime. Basking in California's sunshine, feeling the Pacific breeze, and listening to the rhythmic crashing of waves along the coast—the experience is nothing short of magical. That's the charm of Highway 1.
Along this route, you'll encounter the most beautiful coastal views and diverse cultural attractions. Winding your way along the West Coast, you’ll discover a symphony of Pacific scenery along its 1000+ kilometer length. The road runs along the rugged mountain cliffs on one side, and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Whether you traverse it in the early hours or under the setting sun, in mist or clear skies, the vast world is slowly absorbed into your heart and eyes.
Highway 1 connects major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, and also links several charming towns and scenic spots, such as Monterey, the 17-Mile Drive, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, Solvang (Danish town), Hearst Castle, and Santa Barbara.
A trip on Highway 1 is virtually a journey through the best of the American West.
3. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road in Australia is renowned as one of the world's most beautiful coastal drives. It seamlessly connects the roaring waves of the Southern Pacific with the stunning landscapes of Victoria. In this dramatic setting, travelers experience a constant barrage of incredible sights.
Located west of Melbourne, the Western Plains were once a volcanic area. Today, this region is a vast expanse of wilderness dotted with volcanic cones, lakes formed by lava dams, and crater lakes.
The road winds past weathered beaches, rugged cliffs, historic gold mining sites, lush rainforests, and picturesque small towns. Along this incredible journey, you can visit the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Phillip Port, Portland, and Anglesea.
Nature's masterful hand has sculpted magnificent spectacles—powerful waterfalls, idyllic coves, and unique flora. The entire journey is an ever-changing panorama of breathtaking scenery.
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, also known as State Route 163, is a legendary road that hugs Italy's breathtaking coastline. One side offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, while the other is defined by imposing cliffs. A series of hairpin turns—S-shaped, N-shaped, and even U-shaped—make the drive an adventure in itself. Navigating these precarious curves makes the resulting views even more precious.
The Amalfi Coast is a tapestry of natural beauty and rich culture. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 and has been listed by National Geographic as one of the 50 must-see places in the world. Rugged cliffs, colorful homes, winding roads, and seaside gardens come into view as you breathe in the Mediterranean air.
5. Forgotten World Highway, New Zealand
In New Zealand's North Island lies a remote and mysterious road known as the "Forgotten World Highway." Its official name is State Highway 43, and it’s a little-known route known for its beauty and ever-changing terrain.
Locals affectionately describe it as "a bit upsy downsy," a classic New Zealand phrase that perfectly describes the winding, uneven character of the road.
On this route, you’ll traverse four mountain ridges, pass through a hauntingly beautiful tunnel, view the “Bridge to Nowhere,” and abandoned ghost towns, and take in rolling hills. You’ll witness volcanic grandeur, snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and dramatic waterfalls. This experience provides a holistic understanding of New Zealand.
6. Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway
The Norwegian Atlantic Ocean Road, often called the "road to the sky," boasts unique natural and man-made wonders.
The road zig-zags over twelve low bridges and several islands between Molde and Kristiansund. It is an engineering marvel that offers a chance to view the spectacular landscape from both sides of the road.
Considered a "structure of the century" in Norway, it was also named one of the world's best scenic roads by The Guardian. The adrenaline-seeker may brave the road during hurricane season to witness the powerful ocean waves.
7. Iceland Route 1
Iceland is one of this summer’s hottest destinations, capturing the world’s attention with its unique landscapes. Iceland Route 1, also known as the "Ring Road," loops around the entire island. Driving the Ring Road means taking in the full spectrum of this stunning Nordic land. The road follows the coast, passes through subarctic deserts and the Atlantic shoreline. Driving this road reveals glacial rivers, hot springs, geysers, active volcanoes, ice caps, tundra, lava fields, waterfalls and volcanic craters.
If you plan to visit Iceland, the Ring Road should be at the top of your list.
After seeing these spectacular routes, are you ready for your own road trip? Life exists on a higher plane, and it's called freedom. When the world shifts, we keep moving with the unwavering freedom in our hearts.
As John Steinbeck once said about travel: “You feel as if you're there but it's not real and when you leave you know that's what's real."