The team at YourParkingSpace.co.uk asked 26 travel experts what is their favorite destination for a Road Trip, and why it’s so great.
As you can see below, their answers are really interesting. Are you ready to drive to these destinations and live the adventure of a lifetime? We sure are!
The top destinations for a road trip
#1 A Road Trip Around Scotland
Scotland is my favourite destination for a road trip because the natural beauty is incredible. Every corner of the country offers stunning scenery and breathtaking vistas - from the dramatic peaks of Glencoe to the other-worldly landscapes of Skye and the wild beaches of the Outer Hebrides. Plus, it's one of the few places where you can escape the crowds and truly get away from it all.
- Ashley Nitransky, Ashleywanders.com
#2 A Drive Down The Mississippi Gulf Coast
The Mississippi Gulf Coast has so much to offer both visitors and locals alike. The region’s temperate climate, along with its astounding natural beauty, makes for the perfect year-round destination. There is an incredible amount to do, see and experience across the Mississippi Gulf Coast: from outdoor activities, such as kayaking, boating, fishing and hiking, to a wide variety of festivals, attractions and museums. When it comes to food, this is the place to be! From quaint coastal seafood spots to fine dining, we’ve got it all. In short, the Mississippi Gulf Coast checks all the boxes: great food, great weather, great prices, great people, and a great way of life!
Anna Roy, Public/Media Relations Manager, Gulfcoast.org
#3 A Drive Down The Iconic Highway 1
As a resident of the San Francisco Bay Area there can only be one answer to that question: a drive down the iconic Highway 1. It almost doesn’t matter where you go, it is always gorgeous. Two of my favorites are: crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco northwards, stopping by Muir Woods, Point Reyes National Seashore and continuing on along the rugged coast towards Mendecino. The second route starts
in Santa Cruz and goes south by Monterey, Big Sur and San Luis Obispo. If you keep going you’ll end up in LA. Before you take off: check the road conditions, the narrow Highway can be closed at times because of flooding, mud-slides – but the drive is worth every mile!
Tina Baumgartner, Sabbaticalplanner.com
#4 A Road Trip Around The Croatian Island Of Hvar
Most people know Hvar for its summer party scene, but the country’s sunniest island is perfect for a day or two of driving around — a convertible or scooter is a must. Rent your car in Hvar’s old town, then set out toward Stari Grad. Along the way, you’ll see ruins and lavender fields and expansive sea views. Detour for lunch in the little town of Vbroksa, famous for its wood oven-fired pizza. Or pull over at one of the many beaches and coves. Dubovica Beach, just outside Hvar, is a pebbly, mellow spot only accessible via boat or a steep climb down a rocky hill — well worth it for the views!
Molly Fergus, General Manager, Tripsavvy.com
#5 A Drive Down The Great Ocean Road In Victoria, Australia
My favorite destination for a road trip is the amazing Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia. It is undeniably one of the most beautiful scenic coastal drives in the world. Starting in Torquay, you get to see graceful rolling hills, serene pastures along the way leading to the majestic ocean on one side and awe-inspiring scenery including national parks on the other side. With many scenic attractions like the stunning Bell's beach, gorgeous waterfalls in Great Otway National Park, towering Airey's Inlet Lighthouse, penguin parade in Phillip Island and the magical Twelve Apostles at the Port Campbell National Park and many more must-visit spots along the way, the Great Ocean Road drive is a road trip that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime.
Priyadarshini Rajendran, Glorioussunrise.com
#6 A Road Trip Around The Northern Coast Of Ireland
The northern coast of Ireland (Northern Ireland and the County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland) makes one of the world's great road trips. The highlight is the other-worldy Giant's Causeway - a strange rock formation recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But visitors can take the Dark Hedges (popular from Game of Thrones), castles, tiny harbors, pre-historic stone formations, and the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Along the way, you can enjoy the finest Irish whisky and the freshest seafood anywhere. As a bonus, the roads are wide, signage is excellent, and the parking is plentiful.
Laura Longwell, Traveladdicts.net
#7 A Road Trip Around Oman
Oman isn't the typical tourist destination for a road trip, but it can offer so many things to do and see. It is a very safe country with very friendly people and with good quality roads. Driving is very easy and we were very many times invited for dinner with locals. Camping is possible anywhere for free and drinking water is available next to every mosque for free too. All these aspects make Oman an ideal destination for a road trip.
Tomas Novak, Etabroad.com
#8 A Road Trip Around The Icefields Parkway In Alberta, Canada
One of my favourite road trips in the world is the Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada. The scenery is absolutely stunning - soaring snow-capped mountains, emerald-blue lakes, majestic glaciers, picturesque waterfalls, and wildlife such as grizzly bears. I just couldn’t get enough of this location.
Josh Bender, Travelwithbender.com
#9 A Road Trip Around Death Valley National Park In The USA
My favourite destination for a road trip is Death Valley National Park in America. It feels like you're driving on the surface of Mars. Death Valley is literally the hottest place on Earth, so it's best to visit during the winter months before temperatures get unbearable. I visited in February and the rental car still had a little trouble with the heat. You can't even use your air conditioning at some points to avoid over heating the car. BUT, the wild landscape, the salt flats, the coyotes and road runners and the fighter jets practicing maneuvers overhead make Death Valley an incredible road trip destination. You can camp, or stay in golf resorts. You can visit old forgotten ghost towns. You can drive through the brilliant colours of "Artist's Palette". I was lucky enough to be there during the floral bloom that only happens once every 10 years. I really can't recommend Death Valley enough. It should be on everyone's bucket list.
Tara Povey, Whereistara.com
#10 A Drive Down the Pacific Coast Highway
I would like to suggest the Pacific Coast Highway, specifically the stretch running from San Francisco to San Diego. Along this stretch, you will find plenty of amazing scenery – including cliffs that fall dramatically unto the sea – and other natural lookout points. What’s more, there are a number of good stops to make that are well distributed along this stretch. Monterey for its aquarium and historic cannery row, Santa Cruz for its beach boardwalk, Half Moon Bay for stunning coastal scenery and San Simeon for the enigmatic Hearst Castle. In between, you’ll also drive by big cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego so there’s also no shortage of urban indulgences if the need comes up.
Bino Chua, editor, Iwandered.net
#11 A Drive Around The Scottish Highlands
When it comes to roadtrip destinations, I think the Scottish Highlands always take the biscuit. Undoubtedly, the highland landscape offers the perfect roadtrippin’ destination - awash with breathtaking scenery, beachy hotspots and natural attractions. For some real escapism, we recommend the ‘Road to Applecross’. Positioned between the mainland mountain masses of the North West of Scotland and the picturesque Isle of Skye, the Applecross Peninsula or 'Chomraich’, as it’s refereed to in Scottish Gaelic, directly translates as ‘The Sanctuary’. Take the striking coast from Shielding or the rural, single track road through the mountain ranges of Bealach na Ba to arrive in Applecross and indulge in the views of Rassay and Skye.
Casey Shaw, Manwants.co.uk
#12 A Drive Around Cyprus
Cyprus is a fantastic place to drive, both because there’s beautiful scenery and because Cypriots drive on the same side as we do in the UK, making things easier! If you’re the type of traveller who gets bored laying on the beach, hire a car and explore the impressive Troodos Mountain region. Be sure to stop in charming Omodos for lunch and a walk around the village’s serene cobbled streets! The coast road around Aphrodite’s Rock is particularly picturesque and there are drive-in viewing spots for the best view of the iconic rocks.
Dannielle Noonan, While I'm Young
#13 A Drive Around The Emerald Isle
I think Ireland makes a fantastic road trip destination in Europe. It's small enough that you could do the entire country in two weeks, although I recommend longer to dive deep. It's full of cultural fun - plenty of craic with Irish dancing, music, mysticism and guinness - and the landscape is just stunning. From castles, to giant's causeways, rolling hills, mountains and stunning coastlines you can't go wrong with the Emerald Isle!
Caroline & Craig Makepeace, ytravelblog.com
#14 A Drive Around the Loire Valley of France
A road trip through this picturesque region in the west of France is ideal for travellers wanting to see beyond the country's often crowded destinations. As you drive along the Loire River from Nantes to Blois, you'll pass hundreds of beautiful vineyards and castles in a countryside setting that resembles a fairy tale. We love that you can easily break up the drive with a castle visit, wine tasting, bike ride or even a magical hot air balloon ride.
Wesley & Felicia, Feather & The Wind
#15 A Road Trip Around Sardinia
Sardinia is an amazing road trip destination. It has everything you could ever ask for in a holiday: endless outdoor activities, Neolithic ruins, local farms and food, and turquoise waters. Navigate the main roads of the island with an old-school paper map and you'll find yourself driving through limestone cliffs to viewpoints over the bright blue Mediterranean. Pack a picnic of local fruits, cheeses, and crusty bread and be the only ones for miles munching in the shade on the side of the road.
Michelle Vogel, mishvoinmotion
#16 A Road Trip Around the Czech Republic
In September 2016, we took a 3-week road trip around the Czech Republic. Our itinerary focused on UNESCO world heritage sites and areas of photographic interest. Our drive took us by Holasovice, preserved houses from the 1800s then on to our favourite destination in Czechia, Cesky Krumlov. Arriving during St. Wenceslas Festival (September 25th), we took part in many cultural activities while photographing the city’s stunning beauty. We found it more pleasant than its large northern neighbour, Prague.
Dan & Linda, As We Saw It
#17 The Channel island of Jersey is a sight to see!
The Channel Island of Jersey is a great place to road trip around for a few reasons. Firstly although it is small- just 5 miles long, it is packed with beautiful sights and things to do. From beaches and Water Activities to War Tunnels and a Zoo, Jersey has a lot to offer. Due to the island being so small each journey is only about 20 minutes meaning you do not spend that long in the car but to really see Jersey a car is definitely needed. Another reason it's great to drive around is because it's so small, the amount you spend on petrol is very very small too! I've visited Jersey twice and hope to go back again this summer as I love it!'
Ellie, thewanderingquinn.com
#18 Over Compton Down, Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight’s roads are generally quite wiggly and slow, but there are a couple of jawdropping stretches which are top of my list. My favourite goes from Chale to Freshwater Bay, hugging the coastline and offering a sea view for most of the journey. The highlight is the final section where you climb up a hill just past Compton Bay. The view behind you over the cliffs at the top is glorious on a sunny day. You then descend down into Freshwater Bay with Tennyson Down straight ahead and the site of the famous Isle of Wight Festival of 1970 just over the other side on the hill.
Robbie Lane, Isle of Wight Guru
#19 Alsace should be on your bucket list
Alsace, my home away from home. A place where history stands still and the people consider themselves Alsatian first and French second. It is the perfect place to visit as you hoop village to village seeing the beautiful architecture & homes that have stood there since the 1700s, with geraniums blooming on the window sills and storks nesting on the chimneys. If it is either driving down the Route du Vin, seeing the old cities of Colmar and Strasbourg, eating the delicious local cuisine or visiting the memorials from the wars that happened in Alsace. Alsace is a place that should be on your bucket list to experience.
Diane, Theadventureswithdiane.com
#20 A picturesque road trip in the Balkans through Kosovo - Macedonia - Albania
Nothing beats a road trip in the Balkans with fantastic nature, coastline, mountains, and historical monuments along the way. One of the best journeys with friends I have ever done was from Kosovo through Macedonia to Lake Ohrid, which is on the border with Albania. Then around Lake Ohrid through Albania to the Adriatic Sea. You will see amazing mountain chains an valleys, Roman empire remains and eat some of the best food in Europe.
Edmundas Bal?ikonis, EddyTravels.com
#21 Don't miss the Cotswolds region of England
The Cotswolds region of England makes a great road trip. Located about two hours driving from London, the Cotswolds are designated as an Area of Outstanding National Beauty in the UK. It's easy to see why - the region is filled with rolling green hills, winding country lanes, and quaint villages filled with honey-colored stone cottages. You can easily spend a few days driving around enjoying all the Cotswolds villages, as well as stopping at other nearby sights like Stonehenge and Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Read Dale's article about the best villages in the Cotswolds: Discover the Cotswolds
#22 New Zealand is the land of fairy tales
A road trip through New Zealand’s north island is one of the most memorable ones you can take. Think rolling hills, twisting mountain roads, lakes big enough that you can confuse them for the sea and unique wildlife that gave the Kiwis their nickname! There’s so much to do too: Gaze up at the glow worms in their underground caves, propel yourself down the world’s steepest commercially rafted waterfall, take up residence in Hobbiton for the day, hike some of the most famous trails in the world, take a load off in natural hot springs or get the adrenaline pumping by willingly throwing yourself off a bridge on a bungee cord. There’s something for everyone.
Gabriella, Postcardsfromhawaii.com
#23 Banff, Alberta is the ultimate adventure
Banff, Alberta is one of the most magical destinations in North America. The majesty of the Canadian Rockies is in full display. Go in the summer for some of the best hiking the world has to offer, or go in the winter for a fairy-tale setting unlike any other. Some must-dos include a visit to the iconic Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. A ride on Banff Gondola will give you some of the best panoramic views of the area. Rounded out by ski resorts, golf courses, and seemingly infinite hiking trails, Banff makes for a perfect road trip destination.
#24 A Road Trip Through Northern Arizona/Utah
This drive highlights the desolate beauty of nature. For a unique trip, start with a drive through the Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley. The giant, sheer rock formations are reminders of the power of nature and the Wild West. From there, travel to Page, Arizona and take a tour into Antelope Canyon to view the world-famous sunshafts. Make a stop at nearby Horseshoe Bend, and continue driving to the Grand Canyon or Utah's national parks. You are sure to leave with amazing photos and memories!
Katie, Adventuristaaz.com
#25 Tasmania has everything you'd want
A road trip around Tasmania has everything. Start on the East Coast with one of the World’s best beaches at Wineglass Bay, then head to the Tamar Valley for some wine tasting, before heading to Cradle Mountain for superb walking and vistas. Next go to the West Coast for a Gordon River Cruise and some of the world’s last cool climate rainforests. Then take in Tasmania’s convict history at the Port Arthur Historic Site before heading to Hobart for a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) and to consume some of Australia’s best food and wine.
Ken, Dodgyknees.com
#26 Discover Camargue, Western Europe's biggest river delta
If you’re looking for a nature-filled adventure (there’s nothing better in my opinion) then road trip your way along Camargue in Provence, France. It’s Western Europe’s biggest river delta, meaning it’s great for wildlife spotting, hiking through marshlands and salt flats, and – last but definitely not least - dreamy beaches. Plus, while you’re coasting along soaking up that warm Mediterranean sunshine, you’ll never lose sight of the dazzling blue waters. All this and more makes it one of our absolute faves.
Rachael, Oliverstravels.com/france
#27 Drive around Istria in Croatia
Istria, The North-Western part of Croatia, is a perfect destination for a road trip! The area has a lot to offer even if you only have a few days that you can spend there.
There are beautiful parks, nice cities, Roman ruins and a wonderful coastline.
Anne de Graaf, AnneTravelFoodie.com
#28 Mysterious Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a land of beauty
Iceland‘s magic is different wherever you go.
One place I find magical is The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, about two hours from Reykjavik. It‘s not on the main tourist track, so it takes a little effort to get there.
If you come, you‘ll be greeted with lava fields, black sand beaches, waterfalls, geothermal baths and constantly varying landscapes. The innovation taking place in the welcoming villages – where you can dine with Icelanders in their homes – makes for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Helga Kristín Fridjonsdottir – Founder and owner of Iceland Unwrapped By Helgastina Travel Planner.
Born in Iceland and based in The Netherlands. icelandunwrapped.com
#29 The Ultimate Outback Roadtrip
Nothing can beat the golden dawns and sunsets of the Australian Outback that transform the landscape like nowhere else in the world. For the adventure seekers and eccentricity-lovers, a road trip in Central Australia is a must.
Between Outback classics like Daly Waters pub, the opal capital Coober Pedy, the iconic Alice Springs town and Urulu-Kata Tjuta National Park with its Aboriginal culture, there is a lot to experience. However, driving in one of the most remote places in the world is all about preparation!
Geri, whenwomantravels.com
