ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE | TRAVEL
Article Published on: 12TH NOV 2024 | www.demodemagazine.com
Europe offers some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the world, where winding roads reveal jaw-dropping landscapes, picturesque towns, and stunning coastlines. Here are three unforgettable road trips that will showcase the beauty and diversity of Europe, taking you through mountains, along rugged coastlines, and past cultural landmarks.
1. The Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Italy’s most iconic drives, stretching from Sorrento to Salerno along the Tyrrhenian Sea. This coastal road, known as the SS163, offers sweeping ocean views, colorful seaside towns, and dramatic cliffs, making it a paradise for photographers and road trip enthusiasts.
Highlights:
Spectacular Scenery: The road hugs the cliffs along the coast, offering dramatic views of turquoise waters, cliffs, and charming towns that seem to tumble down into the sea. There are numerous viewpoints and pull-off spots where you can stop to take in the scenery.
Colorful Towns: The Amalfi Coast is home to some of Italy's most beautiful towns, each with its unique charm. Positano, with its pastel-colored buildings and steep, narrow streets, is a postcard-perfect stop where you can take a break to enjoy the beach, explore local boutiques, or enjoy fresh seafood. Amalfi is another must-see town, with its historic cathedral and lively piazzas, while Ravello offers stunning gardens and panoramic views from Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone.
Authentic Cuisine: As you drive along the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find countless opportunities to taste authentic Italian cuisine. Indulge in fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and lemon-based delicacies. Don’t forget to sample the region’s famous limoncello, a lemon liqueur that’s perfect after a day of driving.
Tips for the Drive:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to drive the Amalfi Coast is in spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.
Parking and Traffic: The roads are narrow, winding, and can be crowded, so it’s best to go early in the day to avoid traffic. Parking in towns along the way can be challenging, so consider using parking garages or paid lots.
Driving Skills: This drive requires confidence behind the wheel, as the roads are steep, narrow, and often filled with buses and other tourists. If you’re not comfortable with challenging drives, consider hiring a driver or taking a guided tour.
Photo by Joseph Kelly | Source: www.unsplash.com
2. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
Austria’s Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a must for anyone who loves mountain scenery. This 48-kilometer (30-mile) route takes you through the Hohe Tauern National Park and offers some of the most spectacular alpine views in Europe. With 36 hairpin bends, this road trip is an adrenaline-pumping experience, complete with snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
Highlights:
Hohe Tauern National Park: The drive is set within the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park, home to Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner, and the longest glacier in the Eastern Alps, the Pasterze Glacier. The panoramic views here are truly spectacular, and you’ll find plenty of scenic pull-offs along the way.
Edelweißspitze Viewpoint: This famous viewpoint offers sweeping views of 37 alpine peaks and is the highest point of the drive. From here, you can see the Grossglockner mountain itself and take in an expansive view of the surrounding glaciers and valleys.
Nature Trails and Wildlife: The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is more than just a drive – there are numerous opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring. You may spot marmots, ibex, and even golden eagles. The Kaiser Franz Josefs Höhe viewpoint, located near the Pasterze Glacier, is another prime location to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenery.
Tips for the Drive:
Best Time to Visit: This road is only open from May to October due to snow. Early summer and early autumn offer beautiful weather and slightly smaller crowds.
Entrance Fee: Unlike most scenic drives, this route requires an entrance fee, which goes towards road maintenance. This also means the road is well-maintained and safe.
Weather Preparedness: Even in summer, the weather can change quickly, so bring warm clothing and be prepared for sudden drops in temperature.
Photo by Karsten Würth | Source: www.unsplash.com
3. The North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500 (NC500) is a loop that takes you around the northernmost tip of the Scottish Highlands. Covering around 516 miles (830 kilometers), this route is often called Scotland’s answer to Route 66, offering rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and mystical lochs. From Inverness, the NC500 takes you through some of Scotland’s most remote and beautiful landscapes, making it a road trip to remember.
Highlights:
Dramatic Landscapes: The NC500 offers endless views of Scotland’s unspoiled wilderness, including windswept cliffs, sandy beaches, and dense forests. The western section, with its mountains and dramatic coastline, is particularly stunning, while the northern section provides sweeping ocean views and tranquil beaches.
Castles and Ruins: The route is dotted with historic castles and ruins, such as Dunrobin Castle, with its beautiful gardens, and the eerie ruins of Ardvreck Castle on Loch Assynt. Visiting these sites provides a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past and the lives of ancient clans.
Picturesque Villages and Highland Culture: The NC500 takes you through charming villages like Ullapool, Durness, and Applecross. Here, you can experience local Highland culture, meet friendly locals, and sample regional delicacies like fresh-caught seafood, Scottish whisky, and shortbread.
Tips for the Drive:
Best Time to Visit: The NC500 is beautiful year-round, but May to September offers the best weather and longest daylight hours. Avoiding peak summer months can help you avoid crowds, especially on the single-track roads.
Fuel and Supplies: Parts of the NC500 are quite remote, so plan your fuel stops and carry food, water, and emergency supplies. It’s also wise to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Watch for Wildlife: Scotland’s Highlands are home to abundant wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, and seals. Drive carefully, especially on winding roads, and keep an eye out for animals crossing.
Photo by Liliana Lin | Source: www.unsplash.com
Final Thoughts
These scenic drives are three of the most breathtaking road trips in Europe, each offering something unique and unforgettable. Whether you’re driving along the sunlit Amalfi Coast, winding through Austria’s alpine landscapes, or exploring Scotland’s remote Highlands, these routes will provide incredible memories and plenty of photo-worthy moments. With a bit of planning and an adventurous spirit, these scenic drives can transform your road trip into a journey of a lifetime.