Right about now, a road trip sounds incredibly enticing - a way to venture out into the world again, on your own time, at your own speed and as much in your personal bubble as you choose to be. But how does one craft the perfect itinerary? Fortunately, there are plenty of self-driving tours out there with well-researched routes, a vehicle, hotel arrangements and varying destinations and different durations, depending on your time and interests. These are tried-and-true road trips focusing on the best in each destination - you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. You simply get to enjoy it. Here are some of our favorite destinations for epic road trips.
Newfoundland
Photo by Julie Fader on Unsplash
Get to know the hidden gems of Canada’s most easterly province, which is definitely larger than you think it is! In fact, after California, it would rank as the fourth-largest US state. With miles of rugged Atlantic coastline dotted with colorful homes and, out to see, massive icebergs, there’s so much to focus on! Self-driving routes run the gamut from whale- and birdwatching, following the voyages of the Vikings, learning about Battle Harbour and more. No matter which way you choose to turn, here are some of the highlights you’ll want to include: St. John’s, Cape Spear, Bay Bulls, Trinity, Dungeon Provincial Park, Fogo Island, Gros Morne National Park, The Arches Provincial Park and L' Anse aux Meadows (the only Viking site in North America!). The roads can get bumpy throughout the province, so consider renting a mid- to large-size vehicle. And if it’s icebergs you want to see - visit in spring and early summer.
Iceland
Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears, 2014
On a self-drive tour of Iceland, you’ll see it all. Not only will you navigate the legendary Ring Road, but you’ll also explore the magic of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Stop wherever you please, for as long as you please, to see spectacular natural attractions, from Þingvellir National Park to the lunar landscapes of Lake Myvatn. Marvel at massive waterfalls, including Gullfoss, Goðafoss, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. Visit the quaint, unofficial capital of north Iceland - Akureyri, remote fishing villages and the quiet towns of the East Fjords. From massive floating icebergs at Glacier Lagoon to striking black-sand beaches, an Iceland road trip unveils the mysteries of the land of fire and ice.
New Zealand
Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears, 2010 - On our way to Queenstown, New Zealand
When we say this New Zealand road trip is epic, we mean epic. For those fortunate enough to have a month to spare, this 30-day ultimate exploration takes you from Cape Reinga, the tip of New Zealand, to Fiordland National Park in the south. Set off from Auckland, making your way to the Bay of Islands, where you can leave the car behind for a bit and take a flightseeing tour instead. Snorkel in the Coromandel Peninsula and take a wine tour in Hawkes Bay. Meet penguins and glimpse whales and seals. Take a cruise in Cathedral Cove, explore Mt. Cook National Park, go on a Dart River wilderness safari and a Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike. Set off on a nighttime wildlife safari and learn about Te Puia Maori art and crafts. Along the way, you’ll enjoy private train station transfer and interislander ferry crossings to round out your route. From Milford Sound to the Rotorua forest canopy, this is New Zealand inside out and backwards.
Scotland
Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears, Isle of Skye 2019
Whatever your interest, a Scotland road trip can deliver. There are countless routes throughout this rugged and wild country, all of which can be tailored to your liking. For adventure-seekers, beach lovers, history buffs and more, self-driving through Scotland opens you up to a world of discovery. Road trip itineraries range from 6 to 17 days, with those that offer a grand tour of Scotland and those that focus on a particular area, like the Scottish Highlands, Isle of Skye and North Coast.
Ireland
Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears, Slieve League 2013
The options for road trips in Ireland, from the lush countryside to the rugged coast, are endless. Tackle the iconic Wild Atlantic Way past charming towns, white-sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. Discover hidden gems but also the biggies, like the Cliffs of Moher, Slieve League and the Ring of Kerry. Enjoy the serenity of Killarney National Park. Kiss the Blarney Stone. Explore The Burren’s otherworldly landscape. Indulge yourself at the Delphi Lodge for peace, tranquility, and a little fishing - and don’t pass up dinner at the large table where guests from all around the world get to mingle and share experiences. Explore vibrant Dublin and Belfast. Marvel at the geologic wonder that is the Giant’s Causeway. Choose “scenic,” “classic” or “grand” road-trip itineraries, or combine Ireland and Scotland in one ultimate road trip. From 6 to 25 days, Ireland is ripe with road-trip options.
Norway
Photo by Susan Tuckey, Penguins2PolarBears, Geraingerfjord, 2017
Discover quintessential Norway on a two-week journey to some of the country’s most breathtaking fjord landscapes. Traveling roundtrip from Oslo, you can visit Sognefjord, Geirangerfjord and Hardangerfjord. You can witness the waterfalls of Seven Sisters and Bridal Veil. You can stop for as long as you like to explore the villages of Flam, Loen and Roros, as well as the captivating cities of Bergen, Trondheim and Oslo. Want more? Drive the exciting routes of Trollstigen, Atlantic Ocean Road and Eagle Road.
Ready to hit the road? Let me guide you to the right route.