Has adventure been calling you all winter long and you’re ready to discover somewhere new? While sitting on a beach can be great for relaxing, the only way to truly experience a new culture is to rent a car and drive the same roads as the locals. We’ve compiled a list of our top 15 places to go driving in Europe.
If you’re looking for adventure this year, you’ll find it below.
Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Austria
Amidst the Alps, this road is one of the most scenic areas in the country. The high alpine road will have you winding back and forth with plenty of areas to pull over and stop for lunch. You’re guaranteed to see snow-capped mountains all year round and on those darker clear nights, a stunning view of the stars with light pollution virtually non-existent. To get to the road, there are several airports you could rent a car from. Salzburg, Innsbruck and Villach are all roughly equal in distance to the area.
Transalpina Pass – Romania
The highest paved road in Transalpina Pass is a great way to see the views of the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. Although it is just 92 miles long, it’s certainly worth the 3 hours of breathtaking views; especially as the road borders the nation’s largest national park. Try to aim from mid to late Autumn, all the trees will be changing colour and the setting is stunning. Rent a car from Brasov or Bucharest or even Cluj-Napoca.
Col De Vence – France
If you’re someone who frequently visits Nice in France you’ll want to check out this route, even more so if you enjoy cycling also. At 962m above the town of Vence you can guarantee yourself some stunning views of land below. You’ll drive along multiple winding roads up to the viewpoint which will lead you along some stunning cliff edges. Don’t worry there are plenty of places to pull over and take in the scenery.
Furka Pass – Switzerland
If you’re a fan of James Bond you may recognise this scenery as it was in the film Goldfinger. One curve is actually named the James Bond Strasse and is the perfect area to pull over and really take in the view. From there you can actually walk to Rhone Glacier then stop at a local hotel for some relaxing drinks before hopping back in your vehicle on the way down. As far as locations go, your best chance at flying into the country and driving to the Furka Pass is by heading into Bern.
Stelvio Pass – Italy
Have you ever heard of a switchback? Well this road is switchback central! In Northern Italy on the Switzerland border you’ll find Stelvio Pass sitting at 2757m above sea level. It’s the highest paved mountain pass in the alps so not only are you guaranteed to get some of the best views, but you’ll definitely want to wear a few layers, even in summer!
In recent years it has played host to one of the most exciting cycling events of the year. On the last Saturday of August or the first Saturday of September each year, the road is closed by the Stelvio National Park where cyclists can enjoy the route in all its glory. On average 12,000 cyclists enjoy the event each year with some travelling from as far as Australia.
The Great Dolomites Road – Italy
The Dolomites are known for many reasons, mainly for the wide variety of ski resorts available but driving them will be one of the most breathtaking journeys you ever make. Make sure the weather is fair for this one as you won’t want to be caught out in the fog, not only will the roads become tricky you’ll miss out on the stunning views.
Explore multiple towns and villages along the way, with rivers to walk over, waterfalls to see, lakes, and of course, the rocky terrain at the peak of some dolomites. The road is accessible from Venice, Verona and Milan so if you’re heading to Northern Italy, this one is a must.
Atlantic Road – Norway
Possibly the most breathtaking road in the world is the Atlantic Road in Norway. The fjords of Norway have many visitors each year, and near the popular stop off of Molde, you’ll find this road. While you can’t reach it by ferry we wouldn’t advise you to. Fly into Bergen and take a trip North along the coast. The road is essentially a bridge, linking many smaller islands together making it easier for the locals to get from town to town rather than trekking the very windy coast.
Castilla la Mancha – Spain
The entire Castilla la Mancha area is great to explore via road and is easy to get around. The autonomous community is filled with towns and villages with lots of culture to explore that dates back centuries. You can hike the tallest summit in the region, the Pico del Lobo or explore great natural areas such as the Ciudad Encanta and the Toledo Consuegra meseta sur plateau with the most spectacular part being lined with windmills.
N222 Douro Valley – Portugal
One of the most scenic drives in Portugal that follows the famous Douro River out from Porto. Unlike many of the other roads in our article, this one is not in the picturesque Alps or other mountain ranges. However, don’t underestimate the stunning views of the Douro valley. You can enjoy this drive for a few hours and if you’re lucky enough to grab yourself a dedicated driver, be sure to stop by some of the incredible vineyards on the way so that when you reach a lookout you can enjoy a glass or two!
Trollstigen – Norway
One of the most scenic routes in Norway is often how the Trollstigen is described by numerous tourism companies. You’ll find beautiful waterfalls and stunning natural beauty. Stop off at one of the many picnic areas and take in all the views. The mountainous range has a high number of hairpin bends that will need to be approached carefully, it is for this reason that you will only be able to explore this region in the summer. Nobody would be wise going up there in a Norwegian winter!
Route 1 – Iceland
If you want to take a trip to Iceland this summer, we recommend putting Route 1 on the top of your list. The whole route will take roughly 6 days to drive in the summer and 10 in the winter – the perfect length for a short break to enjoy some sights and get back to nature. There’s certainly no shortage of either in Iceland!
Route 1 is known as the ring road of the country and will take you round the entire island. You’ll see an abundance of waterfalls, rivers, glacial plains and even beaches including Iceland’s famous black lava beach on the Southern coast. It’s the ultimate contrasting road trip with sights you’ll never forget.
Susten Pass – Switzerland
This short 30 miles of road offers incredible views of the Bernese Highlands. The Swiss Alps are like no other and this drive highlights that they are perfect for driving and adventure. There are plenty of areas to stop and take in a view, including dynamic photos of beautiful waterfalls that run over the pass. There are 26 bridges and tunnels but be sure to keep hold of your map and pay attention to the sat nav. Some of these tunnels last for as long as 17km with no way of turning round, if you’re on a tight schedule, this isn’t a detour you want to take.
Ring of Kerry – Ireland
The 197 km long Ring of Kerry is a great way to see the beautiful emerald isle at its very best. The coastal landscapes and rural villages provide perfect contrast in rest stops where you can enjoy a picnic in tranquillity and also a pint in a local pub. Be sure to take time to visit the Gap of Dunloe, Templenoe, Parknasilla and Ladies View.
Cap Corse Road – France
Do you enjoy driving along the coast? Then you need to take a trip to Cap Corse Road in France. Stunning views of the ocean and idyllic villages to stop and take a rest in, this adventure is certainly a unique one and you’ll be glad to know – a slightly quieter one that isn’t as busy as other tourist road tripping hotspots. Explore 63 miles of cliff hugging roads climbing up into mountainous areas and down alongside the beach.
Cap De Formentor – Mallorca
If you’re a lover of sunsets this adventure is perfect for you. On the top of the northern coast of Mallorca, the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range meets the Mediterranean. At the end of the cliffs there is a lighthouse and although there isn’t a designated path there is a rocky area which is safe to explore. Just be careful of your footing. If you’re heading to the island for a sunny holiday with the family, take some romantic time to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets that this area has to offer.
