Tips for Scenic Driving Routes

As the world becomes increasingly digitalized, it’s easy to forget the beauty of the great outdoors. The wind rushing through your hair, the sun shining on your face, and the open road stretching in front of you are some of the greatest pleasures in life. What could be better than embarking on a scenic driving adventure with your loved ones, revelling in the beauty of nature, and exploring new vistas? Here are some tips for scenic driving routes which will make your trip unforgettable.

Firstly, plan your route

Though spontaneous adventures can be fun, scenic driving requires some research and planning. Knowing well in advance which roads to take and the sights along the way can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. A great place to start is by researching National Parks. These protected areas offer some of the most breathtaking scenery, and the designated roads allow for up-close and personal experiences with nature.

Secondly, pack accordingly

The best scenic driving trips can last for days or even weeks, so it’s crucial to be prepared. Invest in a durable and spacious travel bag, packing warm clothes for chilly nights and layers for hot sunny days. Bringing along a good camera and binoculars can enhance your experience, allowing you to capture and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Don’t forget to pack quick breakfast options, portable lunches and healthy snacks – you never know where your journey may take you.

Thirdly, check your vehicle

It’s important to make sure your car is up for the journey before setting off. Check the brakes, fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery, and pack a spare tire in case of emergencies. If your car needs any maintenance, take care of it before embarking on your trip. Additionally, packing a basic tool kit can be a lifesaver should anything go wrong with the car along the way.

Fourthly, pay attention to the weather

Different weather conditions can create unique driving experiences and open new sights that you otherwise would not have witnessed. For example, the warm orange light from the sunsets in the desert are completely different from the cool blues of a beachfront drive. Anticipating the weather can also come in handy in planning the right clothing and gear for the trip.

Top Tips for the Ultimate Scenic Routes

Now that you’re ready to start your scenic driving adventure, check out these top tips for the ultimate scenic routes:

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California – The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is California’s premier scenic drive, inviting drivers along the curving coastline of the Pacific Ocean. The views of the Ocean are simply breathtaking, and the landscape is dotted with attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Santa Barbara’s wine country and the stunning Monterey Peninsula. With a total distance of 127 miles, you could leisurely drive along the route, taking breaks to absorb the scenery and to experience hidden gems along the way.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina – Stretching 469 miles from Virginia to North Carolina, the Blue Ridge Parkway provides access to stunning outdoor destinations, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Parkway runs alongside the famous Appalachian Trail, through the Blue Ridge Mountains and over the James River. With plenty of hiking trails, campsites, and picnic spots dotted along the Parkway, this journey is ideal for those wanting to experience America’s stunning natural sights and wonders.
3. Beartooth Highway, Montana – Often thought of as one of America’s most scenic drives, Beartooth Highway offers a unique mix of high mountains, snow-capped peaks and alpine lakes in a remote region of Montana. The highway winds through the Custer National Forest and along with the Yellow stone National Park. With miles of stunning vistas and the chance to see wildlife such as elk and bear, this drive is a must-do for anyone who loves the outdoors.
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy – Though Europe is famed for its historical cities and rich culture, the winding roads on the Amalfi Coast are in a class of their own. The Drive offers unhindered views of the stunning Mediterranean taking drivers through picturesque and quaint towns such as Positano, Amalfi, and Sorrento, offering an exciting blend of beautiful architecture and stunning natural landscapes.
5. Bavarian Alpine Road, Germany – The Bavarian Alpine Road, also known as the Deutsche Alpenstrasse is one of Germany’s most spectacular and scenic driving routes, offering breathtaking views of this magnificent landscape of mountains and lakes. The road takes its drivers past a total of 25 breathtaking and charming towns, reaching a length of more than 450 kilometers. Along the road, there is also a variety of activities for visitors such as swinging bridges, waterfalls, and glacial lakes offering an adventure for everyone.

In Conclusion

Scenic driving is not only a means of getting from one place to another, but a way of experiencing nature, culture, and landscapes and staying connected with the great outdoors. With careful planning and consideration, a scenic driving trip can be the ultimate relaxing and revitalizing experience that will be engraved in your mind forever. With the above tips and incredible routes- get ready, start planning and packing for the journey of a lifetime.