Best Road Trips Around the World: Adventure, Luxury, and Unforgettable Snapshots
Embarking on a road trip is one of the most liberating ways to explore breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and hidden gems.
Whether winding through coastal cliffs, scenic valleys, or mountainous terrains, road trips are filled with the promise of discovery. To elevate these experiences, we’ve curated some of the best road trips around the world, featuring stays at our luxurious partner hotels along the way.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The route from San Francisco to Los Angeles, via Big Sur, offers endless ocean views, towering cliffs, and lush forests. Begin your trip in San Francisco, where you can walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Fisherman’s Wharf, and explore Alcatraz Island. Take time to visit Golden Gate Park and Chinatown for diverse experiences. Spend your first night at The Ritz-Carlton in San Francisco for a luxurious city stay, and sample fresh clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. In Monterey, stop at the Monterey Bay Aquarium and stroll along Cannery Row. Drive along 17-Mile Drive for coastal views and spot sea lions at Point Lobos. Enjoy an overnight stay at Carmel Valley Ranch for a serene escape in nature and savour organic farm-to-table dishes in Carmel. Big Sur offers awe-inspiring views at Pfeiffer Beach and McWay Falls. Visit Bixby Creek Bridge for iconic photos. Stay at Post Ranch Inn for an unforgettable experience overlooking the cliffs. End your trip by soaking in the laid-back charm of Santa Barbara, where you can unwind at El Encanto, explore world-class wineries, and savour the distinctive flavours of the region, making it the perfect conclusion to your unforgettable coastal journey.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The route from Naples to Salerno, via Sorrento, Positano, and Ravello, offers dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and pastel-coloured villages. Begin your journey in Naples and meander through scenic routes with stops in charming towns like Positano and Ravello. Spend your first night at Bellevue Syrene in Sorrento for stunning coastal views and unmatched Mediterranean charm. In Sorrento, visit Piazza Tasso and enjoy the bustling atmosphere while sampling the local limoncello and savouring seafood dishes like spaghetti alle vongole. Explore Marina Grande for a quaint fishing village experience. Continue to Positano, where you can explore narrow streets lined with boutique shops and vibrant houses, then relax at Spiaggia Grande Beach. Take a boat tour to admire the coastline from the sea. Enjoy lemon-infused desserts such as delizia al limone. Stay at Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, for opulent luxury perched high above the coastline. In Ravello, visit Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone for stunning gardens and panoramic views. End your trip with a night at Palazzo Avino, a refined escape with panoramic views. Be sure to indulge in traditional pizza in Naples, the birthplace of pizza.
Garden Route, South Africa
The journey from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth showcases South Africa’s incredible biodiversity, with pristine beaches, lush forests, and charming coastal towns. Begin in Cape Town with a ride on the cable car up Table Mountain and a visit to the V&A Waterfront. Stroll through the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and explore the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood. Spend your first night at the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, an iconic pink oasis with luxurious amenities, and savour the flavourful Cape Malay curry as you explore the vibrant cityscape. In Knysna, explore the Knysna Lagoon and visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Walk along the Knysna Heads for panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Relish fresh oysters, best enjoyed by the stunning Knysna Lagoon. Tsitsikamma National Park offers opportunities to hike the Suspension Bridge Trail and marvel at Storms River Mouth. Try zip-lining through the forest canopy for an adrenaline rush. Indulge in traditional braai dishes during your time in Tsitsikamma, complementing the park's rugged natural beauty. Addo Elephant Park provides a chance to go on safari and spot elephants, lions, and more.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
The route from Torquay to Allansford promises jaw-dropping scenery, from rugged cliffs and golden beaches to the awe-inspiring limestone stacks of the Twelve Apostles. Begin your journey in Torquay with a stop at Bells Beach, a world-famous surfing spot, and visit the Australian National Surfing Museum to delve into the rich history of surf culture. Savour freshly caught crayfish in Apollo Bay before driving through lush rainforests, where towering ferns and ancient eucalyptus trees provide a haven for koalas, echidnas, and colourful parrots. Pause at Marriner’s Lookout for breathtaking coastal views, then continue to the iconic Twelve Apostles, where the dramatic rock formations rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. Discover hidden waterfalls such as Hopetoun Falls and spot native wildlife—including kangaroos and glow-worms—in the serene landscapes of the Great Otway National Park. Along the way, enjoy a classic Australian meat pie before reaching Allansford, home to the historic cheese-making region of Warrnambool. Visit Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a stunning volcanic crater teeming with emus, wallabies, and native bird species. To round off your journey, sip on exquisite cool-climate wines from the nearby Yarra Valley, known for its elegant Pinot Noir and crisp Chardonnay, as you reflect on the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road.
Algarve, Portugal Route
Sun-kissed beaches, golden cliffs, and hidden coves await along this stunning coastal drive, offering a sensory delight at every turn. Begin your journey in Faro, where the historic Old Town beckons with its cobbled streets, charming whitewashed buildings, and the remarkable Arco da Vila. Indulge in freshly grilled sardines, a beloved local speciality often enjoyed near the waterfront. Discover the tranquil beauty of Ria Formosa Natural Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Head west to Albufeira, a vibrant town known for its golden beaches and dynamic nightlife. Savour cataplana de marisco, a traditional seafood stew brimming with prawns, clams, and fragrant herbs. Stroll through the old town, explore charming alleyways, and relax on the sun-drenched shores. Continue to Portimão, where you can visit Praia da Rocha with its expansive sandy beach and fascinating rock formations. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a bowl of amêijoas à Bulhão Pato, clams in a delightful garlic and coriander sauce. Finally, arrive in Lagos, a destination that captivates with its dramatic cliffs and stunning sea caves. Be sure to visit Ponta da Piedade for unforgettable views of the coastline, then treat yourself to pastéis de nata (custard tarts) for a perfect sweet finale to your journey.
A Journey Worth Taking
Travelling by road offers an unparalleled way to connect with the world, allowing you to witness stunning landscapes, meet diverse people, and immerse yourself in different cultures. Each destination becomes more than a point on a map—it transforms into a vivid memory enriched by local experiences, history, and flavours. Exploring multiple places on a single journey fosters a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world, making road trips one of the most rewarding travel experiences imaginable.
Embrace the adventure and let the road lead you to new experiences and unforgettable memories. Travel with us the experience the difference.