A Guide To The Ultimate Road Trips Of A Lifetime
Since the invention of automobiles, road trips have played an integral part in travel and provide an alternative way of acquainting yourself with a new place or city. There’s something appealing about taking drives across different scenic plains, pondering over the vicissitudes of life and experiences that have shaped you as a person. To some, road trips may not be the convenient mode of travel, but sometimes we have to remember that what matters is the journey, not the destination. If you enjoy the spirit of adventure, here are 5 ultimate road trips that you should embark on.
Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen, part of the Norwegian “Route 63″, is an engineering masterpiece in the midst of awe-inspiring natural landscape. Connecting from the town of Åndalsnes in Rauma to the village of Valldal in Norddal Municipality, Trollstigen has a steep incline of 10 per cent and a total of eleven magnificent hairpin turns, each bend uniquely named after the person who’d supervised the construction work of that particular section. While some sections of the road are carved into the mountain and others built on stone, a range of mighty mountains still surrounds the entire course road, reaching to an altitude of over 1600 metres. With such dramatic surroundings and construction, it comes as no surprise that the Trollstigen is known as one of the most scenic drives in Norway and a popular attraction that sees up to 2,500 vehicles daily.
Route 66, United States of America
America’s “Mother Road” has been a huge source of inspiration for musicians, filmmakers and writers for many decades. This classic All-American road trip takes you from the Chicago all the way to Santa Monica, passing through various environs such as the Grand Canyon, the Native American communities of the Southwest, small-town Midwest heartlands of Oklahoma, the Ozarks, as well as the granular streets of St. Louis. Although Route 66 has been de-listed as a highway since 1985, it continues to embody a rich history and heritage with many motels, gas stations, cafés, parks, trading posts, bridges, and roadbeds remaining along the thoroughfare. A mandatory trip for all who wish to capture the essence of the true American spirit and experience the road’s established timeline in present-day America.
Red Centre Way, Northern Territory Australia
Immerse yourself fully in a true Outback experience like no other across the Red Centre landscapes. Starting from the remote town of Alice Springs, this 1135 km loop takes you on an incredible journey venturing through an array of marvelous terrains, ranging from the red desert sands, spinifex and mulga forest, lush valleys and towering gorges that house many rare plants and animals. Catch sight of some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks such as the Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon and MacDonnell Ranges, and end each day marvelling at the red giants of the Outback as their colours transform along with the sunset. With so many things to discover, it is suggested that roadtrippers take a minimum of 6 days on this desert road before returning to Alice Springs via Rainbow Valley, a massive sandstone formation of coloured bands, off the Stuart Highway.
Icefields Parkway, Alberta
Travel the Icefields Parkway to experience one of Canada’s national treasures and the world’s most picturesque drives. Connecting Banff and Jasper national parks in Alberta, this legendary 232 kilometre highway is located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Park World Heritage Site and features a huge stretch of pristine mountain lakes, ancient glaciers, broad sweeping valleys and gorgeous rocked peaks covered in soft white snow that boasts a unique and incomparable topography. Besides enchanting views, travellers can make a pit stop at the Columbia Icefields and take a ride on a glacier or stroll on the stunning Glacier Skywalk while being surrounded by majestic views. This is the epic road trip of a lifetime and a perfect serene getaway from the bustling city life.
The Waterberg Meander, South Africa
Escape the crowds and embark on an unconventional road in the Waterberg Meander. This trip is so exclusive that it does not even appear on most South African travel itineraries. Tucked away in the Limpopo Province, otherwise referred to as “Africa’s Eden” by the locals, the Waterberg Meander is a 350 km route that beholds the exquisite landscape of the remarkable Rolling Hills, boundless sceneries and distinct bushveld vibes. On this road trip, roadtrippers will have the exclusive opportunity of visiting the Welgevonden Game Reserve and the stunning Marakele National Park, getting up close and personal with some of Africa’s charismatic wildlife and rich biodiversity.