As they say, sometimes it’s about the journey, not the destination. This is particularly true when it comes to road tripping, which is one of the best ways to travel. Here’s a list of five roads to take around the world for a trip of a lifetime. Before you switch on the engine, save yourself a buck by comparing car hire deals using our Cars Search Tool.
1) Rowena Crest, United States
You may have seen photos of the famous horseshoe curve road at Rowena Crest on your Instagram feed, and for good reason – the viewpoint of the sharp turn against the backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge is seriously cool. The spot is situated on the historic Columbia River Highway, which is only one and a half hours away from Portland in the US – perfect for a day trip. Once you’ve reached the horseshoe point, embark on one of the scenic hikes like the Rowena Plateau trail or the McCall Point hike.
Tip: When driving along the Columbia River Highway, take exit 76 to witness beautiful scenery with plenty of spots to pull over for photos.
Where to stay: Stay at the Hotel Eastlund
How to get there: Return flights
2) Flinders Chase National Park, Kangaroo Island, Australia
Australia is home to a tonne of epic road trips like the Great Ocean Road. For something a little different, head to the Flinders Chase National Park on Kangaroo Island where you’ll find stunning beaches, native wildlife and wind-eroded rock faces. Take your own car by ferry from Cape Jervis or hire a car on the island to discover its signature landmark, Remarkable Rocks, the scenic Hanson Bay, and stop to witness the rare species of Australian sea lions at Seal Bay. To stretch your legs, stop at the Rocky River Trail and head to the Admiral’s Arch at Cape du Couedic for an unforgettable sunset.
Tip: Take the island’s unsealed roads to find secluded beaches where you can set up camp and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean’s crashing waves.
Where to stay: Stay at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge,
How to get there: Return flights
3) The Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway
The Atlantic Ocean Road, otherwise known as ‘the road in the ocean’, is one of the most scenic drives in the world. Travelling over the Norwegian sea, the road is made up of eight bridges with incredible panoramic viewpoints. Head to the Askevagen viewing platform on the outer end of the breakwater and enjoy the 360-degree panoramic view of the archipelago, the ocean and the shore. At times, this road may feel like a roller coaster ride as it dips and curves along the island but, rest assured, it’s only a short 8.3-kilometre drive. While you’re there, check out Storeisundbura – the longest bridge on the Atlantic – as well as the cool white columnar shape sculptures along the coastal rock at Vevang.
Tip: Since it’s a short road trip, you can do the drive both ways to experience the journey from two different perspectives!
Where to stay: Stay at the Scandic Kristiansund,
How to get there: Return flights
4) Les Gorges du Verdon, France
Winding around the rim of the deepest gorge in France, this spectacular drive offers breathtaking views from 600 metres above sea level. The best way to explore Les Gorges du Verdon is to start in Moustiers Sainte Marie, from where you can take your time to visit the hillside villages such as Aiguines, Trigance or La Palud sur Verdon. The drive is not for the faint hearted as it takes you through hairpin bends and gaping crevices that plunge 700 metres deep! Enjoy a typical French lunch at La Plancha restaurant, where you can sit outside on the terrace and take in views of the gorge.
Tip: Organise this road trip outside of peak summer times to avoid the slow moving caravans.
Where to stay: Stay at the Hôtel & Spa des Gorges du Verdon
How to get there: Return flights
5) Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93, is a stunning road that connects Jasper National Park to Banff National Park in Canada. It’s often been described as the “ultimate road trip”, and with its scenic vistas, rogue wildlife, and cool attractions, it’s easy to understand why. Ride the Jasper SkyTram to the peak of Whistlers Mountain, take a day hike in The Valley of the Five Lakes, and get your adrenaline pumping at the Jasper Glacier Skywalk. Be sure to also stop at the jaw-dropping waterfalls of Athabasca, Sunwapta and Tangle.
Tip: Book your trip for mid-October when the Jasper Sky Festival is on so you can gaze up at an incredible star-filled sky.
Where to stay: Stay at the Grande Rockies Resort,
How to get there: Return flights
*The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) are per night per room for double occupancy for the above and were found on nz.KAYAK.com on 10 May 2017 for travel in July 2017, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release with a minimum 4-star rating. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The flight prices (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) for one return economy seat given above were collated on 10 May 2017 for travel in July 2017 from Auckland to the destination listed, unless specified otherwise. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
