6 road trips that live up to the hype

Whether it's coastlines, canyons or quiet country roads, some places are just better explored on four wheels. A road trip gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, take the long way round, and stop wherever the view calls for it.

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USA

Pacific Coast Highway

Route: San Francisco – Big Sur – Los Angeles – San Diego

Distance: 650 miles

When it comes to road trips it doesn't really get more iconic than California's Highway 1. From San Francisco to San Diego, this stunning route edges the Pacific coast, offering up cliff-side drama and everything from big cities to small towns and guaranteed surf wherever you decide to make a pitstop.

The Big Sur is the main event here, so even if you don't do the full route at least make sure this is on your itinerary. Towering redwood forests give way to endless sandy beaches. Roof down, music up – this is how you do a road trip.

Southwest National Parks Loop

Route: Las Vegas – Zion – Bryce – Monument Valley – Grand Canyon – and then back

Distance: 1,150 miles

Starting and ending in Las Vegas, this is a full loop of the most eye-popping landscapes of the USA's southwest. A proper bucket list journey that takes you through Monument Valley's wide-open desert and Hollywood-famous, red sandstone buttes, their slender hoodoo cousins at Bryce, and the almost endless Grand Canyon.

Driving tips for the USA

• Speed limits are strict and vary by state and road type – watch for signs.
• Four-way stops are common – whoever stops first, goes first.
• Fuel is generally cheap, but distances can be vast – fill up before long stretches, especially in the southwest.
• In cities like San Francisco or LA, parking can be a pain – research spots or use park-and-ride where possible.

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Spain

Northern Coast Drive

Route: A Coruña – Oviedo – Santander – San Sebastián

Distance: 375 miles

The north of Spain is a totally different vibe to sun-drenched, golden beaches of the south. It's quieter, greener and a bit more wild – think windswept beaches, rugged cliffs and really good seafood. There aren't so many tourists and it's a bit cooler, so you can make the most of a quieter pace as you take a leisurely drive between some of Spain's northern cities.

Basque Country to Rioja

Route: Bilbao – Vitoria-Gasteiz – La Rioja – Burgos

Distance: 310 miles

This one's for the culture – those travellers after something a bit more highbrow. Food, wine and art. From modern Bilbao and all its artistic flair, to the medieval villages of La Rioja and all the vast vineyards in between. It may not be the longest journey, but it's packed full of Basque flavour and Spanish pizazz.

Driving tips for Spain

• Roads are generally in excellent condition, especially toll roads (called autopistas).
• Roundabouts are common, just remember to give way to the left.
• City centres can be tight and tricky to navigate – it's often easier to park outside and walk in.
• Many rural or mountain routes, especially in the north, are scenic but slow, so take your time.

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Iceland

Full island loop

Route: The Ring Road

Distance: 820 miles

Get ready to say wow, a lot. Iceland's Ring Road encircles the entire country – hence the name – and it really is the best way to see the quite unbelievable scenery the country has to offer. The horizon is constantly changing with different landscapes – mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers and rugged lava fields covered in snow and volcanic rocks. It's really not like anywhere else in the world. Summer brings the midnight sun, while in winter you've got the Northern Lights. Either way, it'll be unforgettable.

Driving tips for Iceland

• Headlights must be on all the time, even during daylight.
• Weather can change rapidly and dramatically, especially in winter – check forecasts before setting off.
• F-roads (mountain tracks) require 4x4s and are often closed outside summer.
• Be alert for sheep, reindeer, or the odd wandering tourist on the road.
• Petrol stations can be few and far between in remote areas – don't let the tank drop below half.

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Italy

The Amalfi Coast

Route: Sorrento – Positano – Amalfi – Ravello

Distance: 45 miles

It may be short but this journey packs in the drama, and would you expect any less from one of Italy's most beautiful regions? Starting in Sorrento, watch the city streets give way to winding, cliffside roads that give your stomach the lurching feeling when you get too close (don't get too close!). Take it slow and be amazed as Positano and Amalfi sneak into view as you round the next bend, their pastel-coloured buildings rising above the sparkling Mediterranean. Stop for an espresso and soak it all up.

Driving tips for Italy

• Locals drive with flair – stay confident but cautious.
• Roads along the Amalfi Coast are narrow, winding and shared with tour buses – take it slow and use pull-ins when needed.
• Parking can be extremely limited – book it in advance if you can.
• ZTL zones (limited traffic areas) in towns are camera-enforced – avoid driving into them unless you're registered.
• Toll roads are common so keep some cash or a card handy for automatic booths.

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