Road-tripping in 2024: The best six itineraries

There’s no better way to explore the world than behind the wheel, whether with your friends, family, or by yourself. You have the freedom to create your itinerary, stop as many times as you like, and discover the world at your own pace. 

I love going on road trips. It helps me feel more connected and engaged with the landscapes. It’s an opportunity to bond with myself and the countries I am passing through while being in control of the agenda. 

If you’re planning your 2024 road trip, so am I! Here I have picked the six best itineraries through mountains and valleys, oceans and lakes, to uncover the world’s hidden gems and create memories of a lifetime. 

By Giulia Daniele

@sleeponthesofaa

1. The Carretera Austral, Chile

Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, 770 miles (1240 km)

Let’s set the bar high. The Carretera Austral (or Route 7) in Chile takes you through sceneries you’d only see in movies. It runs from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, straddling rural Patagonia along the way. And that’s where the magic happens. Mountains, lakes, fjords and forests make up this corner of heaven, so gear up and get ready to explore. You can hike, kayak, rock climb, cycle, and you name it. Or you could simply stare at it all. Either way, it’ll steal your heart. 

2. Great St Bernard Pass, Italy

Turin, Italy to Montreux, Switzerland, 143 miles (230 km)

Italy is known for being one of the world’s most picturesque countries, but if you have doubts, this itinerary will help. You’ll start in Turin, the Italian capital of chocolate, and end on the shores of Lake Geneva in Montreux. The views? Nothing short of spectacular. The road is a mix of sheer drops, bends and tunnels, opening up glimpses of the Alps like you never saw them. You can have a picnic along the banks of the River Rhône or stroll through Aosta’s cobbled alleys—you’ll be spoilt for choice! 

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, USA

Afton, Virginia, to Cherokee, North Carolina, 469 miles (755 km)

Another itinerary that should be on every road trip lover’s bucket list is the Blue Ridge Parkway. The name derives from the blue colour of its surrounding mountains when seen from a distance. Carving its way through thick forests between Virginia and North Carolina, this itinerary is a treasure trove of natural wonders. You’ll stumble across the Whitewater Falls, Linville Gorge—the deepest gorge east of the Grand Canyon—and North America’s oldest river, the New River. Try to visit in autumn when the forests turn into a brown, orange and red painting.

4. The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Melbourne to the 12 Apostles and back to Melbourne, 340 miles (550 km)

If you want glorious ocean and mountain views, the Great Ocean Road is for you. Melbourne is where this itinerary starts and finishes, but the fun begins in Torquay. The drive along the Victorian coastline is a feast for the senses, with the limestone sea stacks (a.k.a. the 12 Apostles) being the highlight. This itinerary packs beautiful, unspoilt countryside, empty beaches and rare wildlife at every curve, representing Australia at its finest.

5. North Coast 500, Scotland

Inverness to Inverness loop, 516 miles (830 km)

This round trip from Inverness through the Scottish Highlands promises breathtaking views. The itinerary’s first highlight could only be one: Loch Ness. Take a dip in the water and admire the landscape from another perspective. Hugging the northern coastline, you’ll pass through Ullapool, Sutherland and John O’ Groats—the most northerly point. 

6. Atlantic Road, Norway

Molde to the Gjemnessundbrua suspension bridge, 69 miles (111 km)

Last but definitely not least is the Atlantic Road in Norway. The itinerary connects the mainland with the island of Averøy through eight bridges—a mighty but worthy mission! This engineering marvel gives access to spectacular scenery, from icy fjords to snow-capped mountains, offering unrivalled views of the Atlantic. If you’re a sea lover like me, you’ll want to drive this road on repeat.

Did these incredible itineraries inspire your next trip? Take the wheel and swing into 2024 in style. 

---