For driving enthusiasts, the destination is often secondary to the journey itself.
Whether it’s a mountain pass packed with hairpin bends, a coastal highway with breathtaking views, or a legendary road steeped in motoring history, some routes are simply made for driving.
Here are ten of the world’s most iconic roads that deserve a place on every petrol head’s bucket list.
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1. Stelvio Pass, Italy
Widely regarded as one of the greatest driving roads in the world, the Stelvio Pass combines dramatic scenery with 48 famous hairpin bends.
Rising to over 2,700 metres above sea level, the road snakes through the Italian Alps and offers an unforgettable driving experience. It famously received praise from Jeremy Clarkson, who described it as one of the finest driving roads on the planet.
2. Millau Viaduct, France
The bridge towers above the surrounding landscape and provides one of the most spectacular motorway drives in Europe. Its scale alone makes it worth experiencing at least once.
3. Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway
Changing weather conditions and sweeping coastal scenery make it one of the most photographed roads in the world.
4. Route 66, USA
No list of iconic roads would be complete without Route 66.
Stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica, this legendary route covers more than 2,400 miles and passes through some of America’s most memorable landscapes.
For many motorists, Route 66 represents the ultimate road trip.
5. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Running along California’s coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and winding roads.
The section through Big Sur is particularly famous among driving enthusiasts and photographers alike.
6. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
Often described as Eastern Europe’s answer to the Stelvio Pass, the Transfăgărășan Highway cuts through the Carpathian Mountains with sweeping curves and spectacular scenery.
Its combination of elevation changes and technical corners makes it a favourite among performance car drivers.
7. Col de Turini, France
Known for its role in the legendary Monte Carlo Rally, Col de Turini offers challenging corners and stunning mountain scenery.
The road demands respect but rewards drivers with one of Europe’s most exciting driving experiences.
8. Grimsel Pass, Switzerland
Located high in the Swiss Alps, Grimsel Pass features long sweeping bends, breathtaking views, and smooth tarmac.
Open seasonally, it is particularly popular among sports car owners and motorcycle enthusiasts.
9. Guoliang Tunnel Road, China
Carved directly into the side of a mountain, Guoliang Tunnel Road is one of the most extraordinary roads ever built.
Its narrow passages and dramatic cliff-edge views have earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most thrilling routes.
10. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Stretching along Australia’s southern coastline, the Great Ocean Road combines ocean views, rugged cliffs, and world-famous landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles.
While it isn’t the fastest route on this list, few roads can match its scenery.
Before You Go
If you’re planning a driving adventure, make sure your vehicle is road-trip ready by checking:
- Tyres and pressures
- Oil and fluid levels
- Brakes
- Lights
- Breakdown cover
- Insurance documentation
A little preparation can make all the difference when you’re hundreds of miles from home.
To help ensure you’re as prepared as can be for driving abroad, check out our top tips on driving abroad.
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