There is something truly unforgettable about planning a family road trip, as it can prove to be one of the most rewarding experiences on your travels with kids. The world is at your feet when you are on a road trip, and there is nothing quite like the freedom to go where ever we want when every wanted with those close to us as well alongside… also it can be pretty cheap! We put together a comprehensive guide to the best scenic road routes around the world that will help you with your plan in having an excellent family car adventure. Blazing America: This is a comprehensive report that provides details about routes with the best views, most unique stops and family-focused events
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Overview
A trip along the PCH, another name for California State Route 1 is one of our nation’s quintessential scenic drives. Extending around 600 miles long along the California coast, this roadtrip features some of the most beautiful views from rocky bluffs and white sand beaches to quaint little beach towns.
Highlights
- Big Sur: The area known for its dramatic landscapes such as Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.getView of Big Sur 2.
- Monterey: Stop by the world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and walk down Cannery Row.
- Santa Barbara – Relax with a Mediterranean-like climate, beaches and historic sites.
- San Francisco: Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge to discover multiple sections of this cosmopolitan city.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Whale Watching: Specifically in Monterey and Santa Barbara, where you can catch a glimpse of these sons-of-a-guns.
- Beaches: Lots of beaches to choose from for families interested in tide pooling, surfing or sunbathing.
- Benign walking trails: Kid-friendly Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Travel Tips
- When to Go: Spring and autumn bring optimum weather, sans the summer chaos.
- Lodging: Reserve lodging early, especially in high demand areas like Big Sur.
- Packing Essentials: Sunscreen, hats and layers as the coastal weather can change in an instant
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Overview
The Great Ocean Road runs 243 kilometers long in southern Australia. Famous for its stunning cliffside ocean views, humid rainforests and iconic limestone karst formations.
Highlights
- 12 Apostles: It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Australia and these lime weathered rock stacks are photos everyone!
- Great Otway National Park – known for its waterfalls, rainforests and population of kangaroos.
- Bells Beach – noted for producing the best surfable waves in Australia and is home to the annual Rip Curl Pro Surfing Competition.
- Cape Otway: Oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Wildlife Spotting: Koalas, Kangaroos birds are only a few of the native wildlife you can find on lookout point
- Surfing Lessons: Lakey many beaches offer a lesson for beginner surfers.
- Bushwalking: Easy family-friendly trails such as the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk.
Travel Tips
- Summer (December to February) for beach goers when the weather is warmer.
- Accommodation: From camping grounds to luxury resorts.
- Safety Reminder: Slow down and be alert on winding roads, Keep in mind weather-related emergencies can happen without much warning.
3. Ring Road, Iceland
Overview
Ring Road (Route 1) — This circumnavigational highway of the island offers a mix of glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and geothermal hot springs throughout Iceland. The 1332 km ring road: perfect for families seeking an adventurous trip They will take you to the northern coast of Iceland rightly placed amidst beautiful spots.
Highlights
- Tour Golden Circle: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring Area and Gullfoss Waterfall
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Simply admired for its floating icebergs and idyllic views.
- Myvatn – a geothermal area with hot springs, mud pots, and other strange volcanic formations.
- Reykjavik – The world’s most northern capital boasts a lively array of museums, parks and cultural attractions.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Hot Springs: Unwind in the Blue Lagoon or the Mývatn Nature Baths
- Explore Waterfalls: Check out family-friendly waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss.
- SEE PUFFINS, WHALES & ICELANDIC HORSES HIKE TO WATERFALLS
Travel Tips
- Good Time to Visit: In July and August Summer, the weather will be not very hot with enough amount of daylight.
- Lodging: Wide range of accommodations from guesthouses and farm stays to campsites.
- What to Bring: Layers, rain gear and better shoes.
4. Garden Route, South Africa
Overview
The Garden Route is a 300kms stretch of coastal highway on the southeastern coast of South Africa, between Mossel Bay in the western to Storms River and Nature’s Valley in the East. It is infamous for its various habitats such as mountains, forests, coastal areas etc.
Highlights
- Tsitsikamma National Park: home to dense forests, deep river gorges and the Storms River Suspension Bridge.
- Knysna -The charming town famous for its lagoon and the Knysna Heads.
- Outshoorn – ostrich capital of the world; offers ostrich-farm tours and Cango caves
- Plettenberg Bay, Golden and a stop over to see the dolphins or whale
Family-Friendly Activities
- Adventure Sports: Zip-lining, kayaking as well as canopy tours at Tsitsikamma.
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: Going to areas similar Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and The Knysna Elephant Park
- Beach activities: safe swimming, surfing and beachcombing in Plettenberg Bay.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (September-November) for comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds.
- Accommodation: Luxury lodges, family-friendly B&Bs and campgrounds
- Safety: Adhere to local advice on how to safely encounter wildlife and for open sea activities.
5. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Overview
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is a 50-kilometre stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula. Its striking cliffs, picturesque villages and turquoise Mediterranean waters all add up to a UNESCO World Heritage Site that makes for the ideal family holiday destination.
Highlights
- Positano – Known for its colorful buildings, vertical shopping streets, and stunning beach.
- Amalfi – famous for the gorgeous Amalfi Cathedral, and with maritime museums.
- Ravello – with its famous gardens like Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, which offer stunning views.
- CAPRI: AN ISLAND OFFSHORE WITH THE FAMOUS BLUE GROTTO AND STYLISH SHOPS.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Boat Tours – Cruise along the coast line, with trips to The Blue Grotto
- Beach Days: Family-friendly beaches such as Marina Grande in Positano
- History lessons and museums are a must, or do cooking classes.
Travel Tips
- PRO TRAVEL TIP: MAY AND SEPTEMBER ARE POSSIBLY THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT CROATIA; AVOIDING HIGH SEASON /PEAK TOURIST MONTHS.
- Lodging: Reservations advance are highly recommended (especially for popular towns such as Positano and Amalfi)
- Transport Advice: We recommend hiring a driver or using local bus services to safely journey around the winding, narrow roads.
6. Route 62, South Africa
Overview
Route 62 – South AfricaThe scenic route through South African vineyards.- The Route 66 of Viticulture. Dubbed the longest wine route on Earth, it is varied in its highlights — from vineyards and mountains to small towns and nature reserves.
Highlights
- Robertson Wine Valley boasts wine estates and tastings.
- Montagu- Hot spring resort town and historic buildings with great weather.
- Oudtshoorn: Cango caves and-read my lips – Ostrich farms
- Barrydale, a quaint village (great local gold jewellery), art galleries.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Wine Farms – there are a lot of wine estates that offer child-friendly activities and picnic spaces.
- Attractions Include: Cango Caves to be explored with specifically for children-guided tours
- If you like animals: Visit wildlife sanctuaries as well ostrich farms.
Travel Tips
- When to Go: Spring is the best season for wildflowers, and offers cool weather.
- Lodging options: guesthouses to campsites; farm stays.payload.
- Safety: Be cautious on windy roads and watch for wildlife crossing the road.
7. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Overview
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500 Kilometre driving route stretching from the very north to the southern tip of Ireland. The wild coast is one of the longest contiguous coastal routes, which will enchant you with its rough rocks, lovely villages and historical sites.
Highlights
- Cliffs of Moher: Stunning views and visitor facilities at iconic cliffs
- Connemara – remote countryside of mountains, bogs and traditional Irish culture.
- Dingle Peninsula: Famous for spectacular drives, ancient ruins and lively towns.
- Donegal – stunning beaches, sea cliffs and Glenveagh National Park
Family-Friendly Activities
- Beachcombing – There are many beaches and tidal pools to explore.
- Tourist and historical places- ancient castles, stone forts, archaeological sites.
- Hiking / kayaking / horse back riding Outdoor Adventures
Travel Tips
- When to Go: Summer (June-August) for warmer temperatures, peak daylight.
- Accommodation: Ranges from small Bhas to family hotels and cottages.
- Packing basics: Warm and waterproof clothes, as weather varies.
8. The Cabot Trail, Canada
Overview
Cape Breton Island, a 298-kilometer loop in the Nova Scotia region of Canada. The island was known for its beautiful coastlines, mountainous landscapes and cultural activities.
Highlights
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Offers rugged scenery and wildlife viewing.
- BRADDECK: its home to Alexander Graham Bell’s museum and the panoramic view of Bras d’Or Lake.
- Ingonish: Home to sandy beaches, including at the Cape Breton Highlands National Park; golf courses and hiking trails.
- Cheticamp – A lively Acadian village offering cultural festivals and whale watching tours.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Hiking: Family Hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Cultural Programs: Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum and local festivals.
- Boat tours that spot whales as well as grey seals and various seabirds.
Travel Tips
- When to Go: Summer (June-August) for mild weather and endless activities.
- Stay: Campgrounds to Inns and Vacation rentals
- Safety Tips: Drive slowly on the twisted roads and keep a lookout for wildlife.
9. North Coast 500, Scotland
Overview
The North Coast 500 (registered NC500) is a tourist route of roughly 516 miles around the north coast of Scotland. With its wild coastal landscape, famous castles and cute-as-a-button villages Snowdonia is ideal for a family road trip.
Highlights
- Bealach na Bà : A spectacular winding mountain pass.
- Dunrobin Castle: a historic castle with exquisite gardens, falconry display.
- The most northerly point on the British mainland. (John o’ Groats)
- Ullapool – A delightful fishing village with cultural events and seafood restaurants.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Castle Tours: Visit kid-friendly medieval chadzives like Dunrobin in addition to Eilean Donan.
- Beaches – visit the beautiful Achmelvich Bay
- Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals and a variety of bird species on this coast.
Travel Tips
- If you wish to do something up winter in thick garments, try visiting around late-spring (May) or early-autumn (September), as the weather is moderately calm.
- Travel: From B&Bs through to Holiday Parks and Campsites.
- Travel Tips: Do not forget to check your automobile, for because of remoteness on some routes the service is very rare;
10. Route 66, USA
Overview
Route 66, aka “The Main Street of America,” spans from Chicago to Santa Monica over more than a mere 2,400 miles. The historic route includes an array of urban and rural landscapes that provide a nostalgic trip down memory lane in American culture.
Highlights
- Chicago: Begin your trip exploring iconic architecture and museums of the city
- St. Louis – Gateway Arch and arts district.
- Santa Fe- The mixture of Native American and Hispanic cultures
- So, let’s kick things off with the infamous Santa Monica Pier.
Family-Friendly Activities
- 3 MUSEUMS Interactive museums such as the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis.
- Hiking GPX: Travel Recharged and Connected For Outdoor Adventures (With Hikes, Fishing & Boats Along The Way)
- Roadside Treasures: Visit diners, service stations and motels that evoke the Mother Road.
Travel Tips
- We recommend to visit for: Spring (April – June) & fall (September – October): the best time weather-wise.
- Accommodation: Plan in advance, especially if heading to a touristy place.
- Essential Packing: Make sure you have a reliable road map or GPS for some Route 66 sections that are poorly signposted.
Conclusion
The trips also provide an array of experiences tailored to families interested in a mix of adventure, leisure and culture. All of these roads offer distinctive topography and actions that you will bear in mind for years to come. Whether you are taking off on a road trip around the rugged coastlines of Ireland, across wine valleys in South Africa or along iconic highways through the USA, these family-driving adventures seek to provide that unforgettable travel adventure. With some foresight and a little bit of planning, catering to the interests and requirements of each member of your family you can guarantee find yourself on an experience that is both safe and unforgettable.