Every year, World Heritage Day rolls around to remind us of the cultural and historic wealth of the world’s countries. The theme for 2024 is “Connections, Routes and Networks.” This is meant to encourage people to consider the link between people and communities; what brings us together? So, in honour of this year’s World Heritage Day on 18 April 2024, Expat Explore is taking a look at what physically connects us – roads! Celebrate the world’s beauty with a closer look at the top scenic drives around the world.
Explore the world’s most scenic roads:
Chapman’s Peak, South Africa
While South Africa is filled with scenic routes, one stands out as a global must-see! Chapman’s Peak is a winding road between the Mother City of Cape Town and the South Peninsula. With a whopping 114 twists and turns passing steep cliffs and stretches of open ocean, Chapman’s Peak offers up some of the world’s most breathtaking views.
Related: Discover more things to do in the Mother City!
Atlantic Road, Norway
Norway is historically and culturally rich, and its contender for the world’s most scenic drive is no different! Driving along the Atlantic Road in Norway reveals a lot about the country. Experience culture and history as you pass the famous fjords, enchanting villages and spectacular reefs. As you travel, try to stop in as many of the villages as possible, and be sure to include the Eldhusøya lookout point!
Strada Statale 163, Italy
The Amalfi Coast in Italy is already renowned as a picturesque paradise! So, its scenic road of Strada Statale 163 certainly deserves a spot on the list of the world’s top scenic drives. Connecting Sorento and Salerno, this stunning drive follows the idyllic Italian coastline and shows off some of the most magnificent coastline views in the world!
Related: Explore the Amalfi Coast and more on our 17-day Italy Explorer tour!
La Route des Grandes Alpes, France
France is already well-known for its scenery in part for the French Riviera, but the road leading there is an equally unmissable attraction! Located in the French Alps, La Route des Grandes Alpes stretches from Lake Geneva to the French Riviera, highlighting the magical meadows, idyllic lakes and towering peaks along the way.
Related: Discover the dazzling towns along the French Riviera on our 18-day Europe Explorer tour!
Irohazaka, Japan
The next must-see scenic drive comes to us from Japan! Irohazaka is a pair of winding roads connecting Nikko with Lake Chuzenji, each made up of 48 thrilling hairpin turns. Spot the spectacular waterfalls, lush forests and idyllic observation decks along the way! We recommend taking this stunning scenic drive either in autumn or spring for the best views with seasonal colours.
Related: Learn more about the best times to visit Japan!
Furka Pass, Switzerland
Home to the Swiss Alps, Switzerland is no stranger to iconic and scenic drives. Furka Pass is one of Europe’s highest roads located between Valais and Uri and passes through the most picturesque parts of the Swiss Alps. Enjoy the breathtaking Alpine views as you travel past majestic meadows, icy lakes and snow-covered fields.
Related: Stay in the heart of the Swiss Alps on our 14-day Classic Europe tour!
Hải Vân Pass, Vietnam
The Hải Vân Pass in Vietnam is situated on the larger Annamite Range that hangs over the ‘East Sea’. While it’s only 21 kilometres long, Hải Vân Pass snakes past lush jungles, crystal-clear beaches and scarily steep hills, making it a must-see attraction! Be sure to also keep an eye out for the Brick Gate at the top of the pass, built by Emperor Minh Mang in the 19th century.
Related: Get acquainted with the 15 best things to do in Vietnam!
The Romantic Road, Germany
Stretching 350 km from the renowned Würzburg wine region in Germany to the foothills of the Alps, the Romantic Road is like a fairytale that’s come to life. Weaving through some of Bavaria’s most magical forests, towering mountain ranges, majestic medieval towns and enchanting castles, the Romantic Road is certainly a must-see scenic drive.
Related: See the best of Bavaria on our 12-day Europe Escape tour!
Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Last but certainly not least, Ireland brings us an incredible stretch of road that some might argue is undeniably one of the most scenic drives in the whole world! Stretching an awe-inspiring 2,500 km from the Cliffs of Moher to Killary Harbour, Wild Atlantic Way is one of the best ways to experience the stunning scenery and rich history of The Emerald Isle.
Related: Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher on our 13-day Best of UK & Ireland tour!
And with that, we’ve come to the end of the road past the top scenic routes of the world. Fill up, pack your snacks, and get ready to meet us on the open road!
If you’d like to visit the must-see destinations, and even see some of the scenic roads, embark on one of Expat Explore’s single or multi-country tours for the experience of a lifetime! Book a tour, fasten your seatbelt, and see the world for less!