There’s something magical about hitting the open road, especially when nature is your destination. A best road trip isn’t just about the destination: it’s about the journey, the scenery, wildlife, and moments of awe you experience while driving. As a nature enthusiast, I’ve always known the best way to get reacquainted with the planet is by embarking on a road trip through some of its wildest and most pristine places. Year 2025: The world is rallying behind sustainable travel, and best road trip is getting greener — not to mention more memorable.
In this post, I share the best road trip routes with awesome natural beauty, adventure and blissing out in nature. With towering mountains to stunning coastlines, after a circuit on one of these routes, you’ll feel refreshed, inspired and more in tune with the world around you.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA: The Ultimate Coastal Getaway
Picture driving along a road that loops around the craggy coastline, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and cliff summits on the other. The Pacific Coast Highway is arguably one of the best road trip for anyone who loves nature. I’ve ridden this route, and around every turn is a new view to see, jaw-dropping one after another. The scenic highway extends through scenes of pure beaches, rain and evergreens, and steep cliffs from California to Washington.
Key Highlights:
Big Sur: Among the most recognizable spots where cliffs plunge into the sea. It’s a great place to stop, take a breath and admire the wild prettiness.
Redwood National Park: Home to the tallest trees on earth, this park will make you feel small in the best way. Hiking among those giant redwoods is something I will always remember.
Carmel-by-the-Sea: An adorable enclave of a beach town, ideal for a quickie. Browse its art galleries and have a cozy meal, while gazing at the ocean.
If you’re searching for the best road trip in the USA that offers a mixture of ocean views and green forests, then Pacific Coast Highway should be high on your list. And for additional scenic best road trip advice, read our article on How to Plan the Perfect Scenic Road Trip: Top 5 Tips and Tricks so your adventure is planned out and stress-free.
2. The Great Ocean Road, Australia: Paradise for Nature Enthusiasts
Seeing the Great Ocean Road in Australia for the very first time, I couldn’t believe how beautiful it was. This best road trip brings you coastal beauty, deep, lush rainforests and endearing seaside towns. It doesn’t matter if you crave adrenaline or long for tranquility, this is a trail with something to suit everyone.
Key Highlights:
Twelve Apostles: The limestone stacks are one of the world’s most photographed natural icons. Furthest views possible from the sunset here, and the sound of the waves on rocks is a memory I’ll forever hold dear.
Otway National Park: Start visiting ancient rainforests, waterfalls and lookouts, full of wildlife. I saw a wild koala during my travels, and it was an absolutely magical experience.
Lorne and Apollo Bay: Two coastal towns that offer the perfect balance of relaxation — think stunning beaches and friendly locals — and adventure.
The Great Ocean Road, with its breathtaking view of both nature and coastline colliding together in a perfect escape. And if you are looking to save on apps that facilitate planning your trip, be sure to also see our blog on Top 5 Free Travel Apps For Road Trips 2025‘s.
3. Canadian Rockies, Canada: A Mountainous Wonderland
To those who have ever dreamt of driving through snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes and gigantic alpine forests, nowhere actually beats one of the most amazing and best road trip you can take; The Canadian Rockies. I went to Banff National Park and when I heard of the high peaks, green alpine lakes and hundreds and hundreds of waterfalls I knew right away! Vancouver to Jasper The drive from Vancouver to Jasper is definitely a bucket-list trip if you’re a fan of nature.
Key Highlights:
Banff National Park: The turquoise waters of Lake Louise resemble a fairytale come to life. For me, I think some of the most amazing views are accessible out on a boat or along trails nearby.
Icefields Parkway: This 232 km route between Banff and Jasper has a new breathtaking view of glaciers, lakes and valleys around every corner.
Advertisement Columbia Icefield: Among the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle, North America’s most accessible glacier lets visitors interpret signs of progression and retreat.
This road trip is a stomping ground’s lover’s paradise. For more great tips about budget travel, check out How to Travel the World on a Budget in 2025: Tips, Tricks and Hacks for Keeping It Cheap on your trips.
4. Norwegian Fjords, Norway: A Majestic and Tranquil Journey
The Fjord Route in Norway is an example of the kind of rollicking natural beauty it boasts. Take in jaw dropping views of sheer cliffs, deep blue waters and isolated villages that seem like they are from another time. I drove the Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord and felt like I’d jumped into a postcard. I personally had experience towards this route and trust me it was one of the best road trip i have ever had.
Key Highlights:
Geirangerfjord: The stunning scenery, waterfalls and sheer walls will amaze you! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and every pit stop along the way is a photographer’s heaven.
Flam Railway: A beautiful train ride that shows you a fresh perspective of the fjords, and will allow some stunning views of cascading waterfalls and lush valleys.
Aurlandsfjord: Another dramatic fjord that has some of the calmest and most peace-inspiring scenery I’ve ever experienced.
The Norwegian Fjords is a bona fide dreamland for anyone who craves the great outdoors in its most unadulterated state. Be sure to watch our Road Trip Budgeting 101: How to Travel Smart and Save More for advice on getting the most from your travels without spending too much.
5. The Garden Route, South Africa: A Perfect Blend of Wildlife and Nature
The Garden Route of South Africa is a varied road trip that embraces glorious beaches, lush forests, mountains and game reserves to mention just a few. This soon became one of my favourite routes because of the diverse landscapes and the animals I spotted.
Key Highlights:
Knysna: A coastal town surrounded by forests, it’s the ideal place for a short break to unwind and savor some of the local food.
Addo Elephant Park: A must for anyone who loves animals. I was lucky to have observed close-up elephants and lions when I visited, an experience that I am not going to forget.
Tsitsikamma National Park: A haven for nature lovers, with hiking trails, stunning views and the chance to bungee jump off Bloukrans Bridge.
The Garden Route ranks among the best road trip for wildlife and nature enthusiasts that wish to mix stunning landscapes with glimpses of birds, whales, dolphins… and even elephants.
Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits
The best road trip routes begin here. There’s still so much more to see, and 2025 is an ideal year to begin planning your next journey. Whether you’re down to hit the coast, a mountain landscape or its serene fjords, these routes have something for everyone.
So pack your bags, fill up the car and hit the open road for one of your life’s best road trip. Enjoy it with nature, explore new places and create memories that will last a lifetime. They’re all over the world, and if you get out into it, there’s plenty of places waiting for you to discover them one road trip at a time.
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