Road Trip Around the World

Something about touring a nation or region through the windows of a car helps you feel completely at home there. The freedom to pause and linger, the roadside restaurants, the thrill and hurt of losing your way in an era of constant Google Mapping. In any case, the detours are half the fun of traveling. The best road trips in the world—a mix of the traditional and the unusual, coastal and rural—are included in this package. The Pacific Coast Highway in California should be driven at least once in a person's lifetime, but what about the Garden Route in South Africa?

Garden Route, South Africa

The famous Garden Route drives you through the country's hits as it hugs South Africa's eastern coastline. Farm stands are overflowing with fresh local produce; wildlife reserves are home to monkeys, elephants, ostriches, and picturesque landscapes all over. You can go hiking, surfing, or swimming, and you can end the day with a local glass of wine from any one of the numerous wineries that are located nearby.

A Loop out of Anchorage, Alaska

This seven-day trip, which begins and ends in Anchorage, is the ideal road trip for outdoor enthusiasts. Denali National Park, as well as the not-so-popular but no less stunning Wrangell—St. Elias will leave you speechless. Along the way, you'll encounter sled dogs and get the chance to sample Alaska's abundant produce at organic farms. If you want to experience Alaska's little delights and its famed salmon, take a trip on a bush flight. Don't forget to pack your hiking boots and fleece because you'll want to schedule time for a glacier hike.

Pacific Coast Highway, California

Pacific Coast Highway in California goes all the way along the state's beautiful coastline, making it one of the most famous road trip regions. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is the ideal way to see the Golden State, going through large cities, beach towns, and miles of undeveloped coastline. Along this route, there's a castle, an aquarium, and, naturally, breathtaking scenery. Make sure you allow enough time to travel slowly, keep an eye out for whales, and choose the convertible when you rent a car.

San Juan Skyway, Colorado

Dramatic vistas abound on this brief journey among the 14,000-foot heights of southwest Colorado. 10,000-foot passes beckon on the roads, which are not for the lily-livered. Wide-open pastures and canyons dotted with waterfalls compliment chill-inducing heights. This road trip is an irresistible beauty thanks to its hot springs and small mountain towns.

Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina

The wonders of Appalachia are on display during a five-day trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway from Charlottesville (Virginia) to Asheville (North Carolina). Local cheeses, barbecue, and farm-to-table cooking will all be offered to you for sampling. A trip to this picturesque, mountainous area that is truly authentic is made possible by local crafts and down-home bluegrass music. There are plenty of hikes available, from easy to difficult, with the chance to travel part of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Conclusion

Road Trips are meant to be fun, and knowing which road trip locations are worthwhile takes the burden off your shoulders. Keep our above list with you as you plan for your next road trip, and you're bound to have a delightful experience.