6 of the most scenic road trip routes for nature lovers

Feb 21 2020, 9:16 pm

There is no other freedom quite like driving down the road, windows down, feeling the wind rush along as you embark on an adventure.

Whether you’re the driver or passenger, one of the most distinctive features of any road trip is what you see out the window while driving.

Be it the calming presence of the sea as it laps on the shore, the comforting embrace of the forest as the trees envelop you from every direction or the vacant but beautiful desert that seems to extend on forever.

Here is our list of must-take scenic road trips if you are a nature lover.

Canadian Rockies – British Columbia & Alberta, Canada

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Julie | Voyage (@julie.cvnt) on

There is a magical presence to the Rocky Mountain Range that you can only truly understand if you experience it firsthand.

The breathtaking glaciers, towering peaks, and alpine lakes present an idyllic image of the Canadian wilderness in its absolute prime.

Driving through Jasper National Park and Banff National Park paints a breathtaking image of the magnificence of nature as it makes its way into your heart and soul.

Joshua Tree National Park – California, USA

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Joshua Tree National Park (@joshuatreenps) on

Widely known for its rugged rock formations, drastic desert landscapes, and unique flora, Joshua Tree National Park is a can’t-miss road trip in California.

Get lost in the various natural intricacies of two distinct deserts — the Mojave and Sonoran — as the park descends from great heights into the Coachella Valley below.

Joshua Tree offers an abundance of wonder and excitement for nature-lovers, outdoor adventurists, and eco-travellers with its abundance of hiking, biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing opportunities.

Cabot Trail – Nova Scotia, Canada

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Chris | New Brunswick | Canada (@eyeforthis) on

Journeying through arguably the most beautiful portion of Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail takes you through the stunning Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

With a wide selection of fantastic wildlife, including black bears, bald eagles, and moose, the trail is also home to several charming villages that reflect the substantial French and Scottish influences that still exists in the province.

The entire trip traverses the island of Cape Breton and is sure to be a memorable and enlightening experience for drivers and passengers alike.

South Island Circuit – New Zealand

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Scotch & Linguini by Amanda (@scotchlinguini) on

Perhaps the most remarkable example of New Zealand’s breathtaking landscape, driving the South Island allows visitors to admire the awe-inspiring terrain in an entirely different way.

One particular highlight of the circuit is the portion between Te Anau and Milford Sound, which provides some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Fiordland and Southern Alps.

The drive is as stunning as it is relaxing and is sure to inspire you to return for another visit.

Bollenstreek Route – Netherlands

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Girandolina Viaggi (@girandolinaviaggi) on

Also known as the Bulb route, The Bollenstreek Route in the Netherlands is best experienced in the spring, when a rainbow of fantastic foliage announces the dawn of a new season.

This route comes alive with brightly coloured flowers that span miles and miles, seemingly extending forever.

However, you won’t just see the iconic tulips; you will also see hyacinths, narcissi, dahlias, and irises, as well as others.

The Oman Circle – Oman

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Andreea Florian (@andreea.florian) on

There are still so many secrets to be discovered in this fascinating country, one of which is its incredibly variant landscape.

From the pristine waters of the Bimmah Sinkhole to the sandy canyons of Wadi Bani Khalid, the diversity of this route’s terrain will take you from dunes to caves to beaches.

Still somewhat undiscovered, the Oman Circle is ideal for nature lovers who are looking to break the mould and discover an entirely new experience that will leave you eager to explore further.

Emily RumballEmily Rumball

+ Travel Tips
+ Mapped