ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE | TRAVEL
Article Published on: 05th OCT 2023 | www.demodemagazine.com
There's something undeniably liberating about the open road, the promise of adventure around each bend, and the thrill of discovering hidden treasures along the way. Road trips have long been a beloved pastime for explorers and wanderers, providing an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with the beauty of the world. In this journey of a thousand words, we'll take you on a virtual road trip to explore three scenic routes and uncover some hidden gems that will make your adventure truly unforgettable.
The Pacific Coast Highway - California, USA
Our first stop is the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), a route that hugs the rugged coastline of California, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Stretching from the southern border of California in Dana Point to the northern border in Leggett, this iconic road trip spans approximately 650 miles.
As you embark on your journey down the PCH, the landscape transforms from the bustling urbanity of Los Angeles into the serene beauty of the California coastline. The highlight of this route is undoubtedly Big Sur, a region that boasts dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and pristine beaches. Don't miss McWay Falls, a hidden gem tucked away in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where a waterfall cascades directly onto the sandy shore below.
Further south, the historic town of San Simeon is home to Hearst Castle, a lavish mansion built by media magnate William Randolph Hearst. Take a guided tour to explore its opulent interiors and lush gardens. As you continue your journey, make sure to stop in Santa Barbara, known for its Spanish architecture, beautiful beaches, and thriving arts scene.
Heading north, the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea beckons with its storybook cottages and art galleries. The 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach offers more stunning coastal vistas and the opportunity to glimpse wildlife, including sea lions and otters.
The Pacific Coast Highway road trip is a symphony of landscapes, from the towering redwoods to the crashing waves, making it an unforgettable adventure filled with scenic wonders and hidden treasures.
The North Coast 500 - Scotland, UK
For a road trip with a touch of Scottish magic, the North Coast 500 (NC500) is an ideal choice. This 500-mile loop in the Scottish Highlands takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring and remote landscapes in the United Kingdom.
Starting and ending in Inverness, the NC500 journey showcases Scotland's rugged coastline, historic castles, and dramatic mountain scenery. One of the hidden gems along this route is the Bealach na Bà, a treacherous mountain pass with hairpin turns that lead to the remote Applecross Peninsula. The view from the summit is nothing short of spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the Highlands and the Isle of Skye.
As you continue your journey, explore the enchanting Eilean Donan Castle, which sits on a tiny island at the confluence of three sea lochs. The castle's picturesque setting has made it a popular filming location for numerous movies.
In the far north, visit Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain, where you can spot seabird colonies and enjoy the tranquility of the northern coast. Along the way, don't forget to try some traditional Scottish fare, including haggis, neeps, and tatties.
The North Coast 500 is not just a road trip; it's an immersion into the rich history and natural beauty of Scotland, where every bend in the road reveals a new surprise.
The Garden Route - South Africa
Our final road trip takes us to the Garden Route in South Africa, a 300-kilometer stretch of coastline that is as diverse as it is stunning. Beginning in Cape Town and ending in Port Elizabeth, this route offers a smorgasbord of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences.
The journey begins with a visit to Cape Town, where you can ascend Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and explore the historic Cape Winelands. Then, drive eastward along the Garden Route, stopping at Mossel Bay to explore the Post Office Tree, a 500-year-old milkwood tree that was once used as a mailbox by Portuguese explorers.
As you continue, the Tsitsikamma National Park beckons with its lush forests, suspension bridges, and the famous Storms River Mouth. Don't miss the opportunity to hike the Otter Trail, one of South Africa's most iconic coastal hikes.
Further along the route, visit Knysna, a picturesque town known for its oyster farms and the Knysna Heads, two dramatic sandstone cliffs guarding the entrance to a beautiful lagoon. Sample fresh oysters and explore the charming waterfront.
The Garden Route is also home to numerous wildlife encounters. You can go on a game drive in Addo Elephant National Park, where you're likely to spot not only elephants but also lions, buffalo, and rhinos. This road trip combines the best of South Africa's natural beauty with opportunities to engage with local culture and wildlife, making it an unforgettable adventure.
In Conclusion Road trips are more than just a means of getting from one place to another; they are journeys of self-discovery, opportunities to connect with nature, and a chance to stumble upon hidden gems that are often overlooked. Whether you choose to cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway, venture through the Scottish Highlands on the North Coast 500, or explore the diverse landscapes of South Africa's Garden Route, these road trips promise unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure begin.