The Best And The Busts: 15 Scenic Drives You’ll Love + 5 That Disappoint
Every time I start the engine, it’s not just about the destination—it’s the thrill of what lies ahead that fuels me. Over the years, I’ve chased winding coastlines, mountain passes, and desert highways that took my breath away.
But let’s be honest: not every scenic drive delivers the magic it promises.
In this list, I’m sharing fifteen routes that completely blew me away—and five that looked better on paper than through the windshield.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, California
If you ever imagine rolling waves crashing below as you drive, this is where dreams become real. The highway hugs the cliffs so tightly, I found myself holding my breath at every turn.
Where every mile reveals a new perspective, I kept pulling over for photos. Wildflowers paint the hills in spring, while the sea sparkles on sunny afternoons.
Did you know? This stretch was built during the Great Depression, and the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge remains one of America’s most photographed landmarks.
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Where the land meets the wild southern sea, this drive blew me away with its drama. Waves crash against the iconic Twelve Apostles, and mist lingers in the morning air.
How my jaw dropped at the sight of koalas snoozing in roadside gum trees, while the salty air teased my hair.
Though it’s famous, the road has a rugged history—built by returned soldiers after World War I as a memorial to their fallen mates.
3. Icefields Parkway, Canada
If you’re searching for a landscape that feels larger than life, the Icefields Parkway left me speechless. Glaciers hover above turquoise lakes, and I spotted elk grazing at dawn.
When the sky turns pink at sunset, it’s a sight I’ll never forget. The air, so crisp and pure, seemed to carry echoes of ancient mountains.
Fun fact: This parkway links two national parks—Banff and Jasper—and is one of North America’s most famous glacier routes.
4. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
Did you ever wish for a fairytale mountain pass with twists and turns that make your heart pound? This Austrian gem delivered. Marmots peeked curiously from the grasses as I climbed higher.
Though the altitude left me a bit breathless, the views—snow-capped peaks and wildflower meadows—were pure magic.
It’s fascinating: This road first opened in 1935, and car enthusiasts from across Europe still gather annually to tackle its dizzying bends.
5. Route 12, Utah (Scenic Byway 12)
When red rocks blaze under the sun, Utah’s Route 12 feels like another planet. I remember weaving past arches and hoodoos, the landscape shifting every few miles.
If you crave surprises, you’ll love how each corner reveals something new—vast forests, candy-striped cliffs, sudden canyons.
Here’s a quirky bit: The section known as “The Hogback” has drop-offs on both sides, making the drive thrilling and a little nerve-wracking.
6. Fjordland’s Milford Road, New Zealand
How the rain can transform Milford Road into a series of cascading waterfalls is a memory that sticks with me. The drive weaves through ancient forests and emerald valleys.
Where tunnels slice through mountains, I felt like I’d stumbled into a fantasy novel. Sheep scatter along the roadside, adding to the magic.
Here’s a fun fact: Milford Road is one of the wettest places in New Zealand, so rainbows are a frequent companion on this journey.
7. Garden Route, South Africa
If ever a road lived up to its name, the Garden Route does. I was enchanted by the lush forests, sweeping beaches, and bursts of wild protea along the way.
When baboons strutted across the road, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. The variety—mountains, lakes, and seaside cliffs—kept me guessing.
Did you know? Many travelers come here during whale season, spotting southern right whales offshore from the comfort of their car.
8. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
Though the weather can be moody, the Ring of Kerry delights with its storybook charm. I loved the patchwork fields, drystone walls, and sudden glimpses of castle ruins.
Where sheep grazed along the roadside, I slowed down, savoring the gentle rhythm of rural Ireland. Rain showers often end with a rainbow arching across the sky.
Fun detail: This route is over 100 miles long and passes by mystical places like the Gap of Dunloe and Ladies View.
9. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
Are you a fan of ocean views and fiery foliage? The Cabot Trail wowed me with its dramatic coastal cliffs and vibrant autumn colors.
When the fog rolled in, the lighthouses seemed to float above the waves. Moose occasionally appeared on the roadside, making every bend a surprise.
Here’s something neat: The trail loops through Cape Breton Highlands National Park and is a top spot for leaf-peeping in October.
10. Amalfi Coast Road, Italy
When I zipped along the Amalfi Coast, I felt like I was in a classic Italian film. The road hugs the cliffs above blue water, passing pastel villages and lemon groves.
If you want drama, the hairpin turns and vertiginous drop-offs deliver it in spades. Locals zip by on scooters with baskets of fresh bread.
Did you know? The Amalfi Coast’s towns are UNESCO-listed, and the region has inspired countless artists and writers.
11. Route 1, Iceland (Ring Road)
Where glaciers meet volcanoes, Iceland’s Route 1 left me in awe. Thundering waterfalls, black sand beaches, and steaming hot springs make every kilometer unforgettable.
If sheep dart across your path, just slow down and watch the show. The shifting light creates new moods each hour.
Quirky detail: This road circles the entire island and is the only way to visit Iceland’s most iconic natural sights.
12. Blue Ridge Parkway, USA
How the mist settles in the valleys along the Blue Ridge Parkway is something that never gets old for me. The mountain views roll on endlessly, especially pretty in the fall.
Where wild turkeys meander and deer dart across the road, I always keep my camera ready. Quiet overlooks offer the perfect picnic spots.
Did you know? This parkway is America’s longest linear park, designed to connect the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks.
13. Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
“The best road in the world,” said Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson, and I had to see if he was right. The Transfagarasan Highway’s switchbacks twist through dramatic mountains.
If you crave adrenaline, the tunnels and hairpin turns are pure fun. Ancient fortress ruins loom high above, giving the drive a mysterious vibe.
It’s a fact: Built by the army in the 1970s, this road was a secretive Cold War project before becoming an icon for road-trippers.
14. North Coast 500, Scotland
When mist hangs low along the moors, the North Coast 500 feels like driving through a legend. I remember seeing highland cattle and weathered castles at every turn.
Though wild and remote, this route offers cozy inns and friendly locals. The ever-changing skies add endless drama to the journey.
Did you know? This road forms a 500-mile loop—perfect for those who love epic adventures off the beaten track.
15. Routeburn Road, New Zealand
If you ever wanted to feel tiny among giants, Routeburn Road delivers. The mountains tower over lush valleys, and the air is clean as rainwater.
Where rivers rush and ferns spill across the roadside, I found myself stopping just to listen. It’s peaceful in a way that soothes the soul.
Fun fact: This road leads to the world-famous Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks.”
16. Overseas Highway, Florida Keys (Bust)
Are you ready for a reality check? The Overseas Highway looks dreamy in photos, but I found the endless bridges and heavy traffic a slog.
Though the views sparkle, the repetition and lack of rest stops made me restless. Billboards and seaweed spoil some otherwise beautiful stretches.
Where I expected paradise, it felt a bit like an overhyped postcard come to life—better for a pit stop than a whole-day adventure.
17. Highway 1, Big Sur (Bust)
It’s true—Big Sur’s Highway 1 is legendary, but constant roadworks and bumper-to-bumper traffic left me grumbling. The fog often hides the ocean views.
Where I expected serenity, I mostly found brake lights and orange cones. Even the iconic Bixby Bridge was hard to enjoy with crowds everywhere.
Though the landscape is stunning, the sheer number of tourists makes it tricky to find a moment of peace.
18. Grossglockner At Peak Times, Austria (Bust)
When everyone has the same idea, even a legend can lose its shine. I hit the Grossglockner High Alpine Road at peak holiday time, and it was gridlock from start to finish.
How the mountains vanished behind smog and honking horns took the magic out of everything. My engine nearly overheated on the climb.
Though I love this road, I’d never recommend it during busy weekends—timing is everything here.
19. Trollstigen, Norway (Bust)
Though Trollstigen promises heart-pounding hairpins, rain and crowds turned it into a slippery, nerve-wracking ordeal for me. Waterfalls hid behind thick mist.
If you’re unlucky with weather, the views can vanish in seconds, leaving you with only white-knuckle driving. Tour buses add to the chaos.
Where others found magic, I mostly felt soggy and stuck, wishing for clearer skies and fewer fellow travelers.
20. Route des Grandes Alpes, France (Bust)
When roadworks and low clouds descend, the Route des Grandes Alpes loses its shine. I spent more time waiting at detours than marveling at vistas.
How annoying to see cyclists slogging through gravel and mud, their faces as grumpy as mine. The famous alpine passes were mostly hidden by mist.
If you dream of postcard-perfect views, you might want to wait until repairs are done and the weather clears.