THE MOST SCENIC DRIVES IN EUROPE
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Travelers’ tastes have much evolved during the last decades.
If half a century ago, going on holiday meant lying on a beach or relaxing by
the pool. there are nowadays different types of vacations. As the contemporary globetrotters
tend to explore the world more thoroughly, local authorities responded
promptly, suggesting them pre-established itineraries they can drive along.
This way, tourists succeed to make the most of a week or just a couple of days
spent in a certain area. Here are the most impressive routes you can take in
order to discover Europe’s nature. but also its historical and cultural
heritage.
1. Romantische Strabe, Germany
The Romantic Road became over time a legendary road. Winding
through the beautiful scenery of the German countryside, dotted by medieval
villages and Baroque castles, it is an item on many travelers’ bucket list.
They take this opportunity to visit the Würzburg Residence and the Fortress
Marienberg, to taste some of the best wines at the local festival, to discover
the charm of medieval Bavaria in Rothenburg ob der Tauber and to admire the
amazing natural settings of Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau, Hohenzollern or
Schwerin Castles.
2. Grossglockner Hohenalpenstrasse, Austria
This impressive route whose name takes after the highest
peak of the Austrian Alps – Grossglockner (3798m) – passes through tunnels,
twists among flowering meadows, green prairies, wooden mountainsides and bare
cliffs, before it sinuously climbs up to the clouds and to the eternally frozen
world. Starting in Oberes Nasfeld and ending in Franz-Josefs-Hohe (from where
you can get a panoramic view of the Pasterze glacier, this road, whose
historical traces go thousands of years back, takes you by numerous landmarks
such as the Fucher chapel, an observation tower dedicated to the greatest
Austrian optician (Daniel Swarovski) and Nature’s Museum (free entrance), which
displays an impressive collection of splendid minerals, species of plants,
birds and animals that live in this natural reserve which meets all the
requirements of modern ecology.
3. Les Corniches, France
The three scenic routes start in Nice and going up to the
heavenly Monaco and to the baroque Menton. They go along the same itinerary, at
different altitude levels. The Low Corniche (La Basse Corniche) is the perfect
choice for those who want to discover quaint fishing villages like
Villefranche-sur-Mer or a charming medieval “eagles’ nest like Eze. The Middle
Corniche (La Moyenne Corniche), however, displays the most picturesque
panoramic views over the resorts that dot the French Riviera’s coastline.
Although more difficult to spot, the Upper Corniche (la Haute Corniche) is
worth discovering for its historical value as well as for its great views over
Monaco. If you want a more comprehensive perspective on the French Southern
part, start your journey in Lyon and visit a few charming cities like Aix en
Provence, Marseille and Avignon on the way to the Riviera.
4. Atlanterhavsveien, Norway
One of the few manmade constructions that succeeded to
emphasize natural beauty rather than destroy the environment, the Atlantic Road
is a part of the RV 64 national road that connects the Norwegian towns Eide and
Averøy. Built in 1989 and toll-free since 1999, this route is a popular tourist
attraction, especially during windy weather conditions, when people come here
to unique show provided by strong waves sweeping the road. The highest of the 8
bridges spanning this 8km long route – Storseisundet has a dramatic and
majestic air: the road makes a surprising curve that give an artistic look to
the entire construction. Connecting several small islands, the Atlantic Road is
a great way to admire the Norwegian fjords and the spectacular scenery of
mountains coming out of the sea.
5. La Route des Grandes Alpes, France
One of the first tourist routes built in France, the High
Alps Route is the result of a tight collaboration between the country’s
authorities and the French automobile enthusiasts. In 1909, at a time when the
car was just beginning to become an important means of locomotion, Touring Club
came with the idea of building a road that would connect all the Alpine passes.
Indeed, this spectacular drive takes you through 4 national parks (Vanoise,
Ecrins, Queyras and Mercantour) and 16 mountain passes, the highest of which
(Iseran) being situated at an altitude of 2764 m. Following the winding road
from the shores of Geneva Lake to the Mediterranean Sea, you will discover
mountainous landscapes, magnificent valleys, authentic cultural features and
delicious local dishes.
6. Trollstigen, Norway
A mountainous road connecting two Norwegian towns (Åndalsnes
and Valldalen) whose construction lasted 8 years, the Troll’s Route was
inaugurated in 1936. Ever since, it has been a popular tourist destination with
people of all ages and of all nations. Thousands of vehicles feel every day the
adrenaline level raising in their veins because of the serpentines this narrow
road has. The road’s curves its steep inclination are not the only factors of
risk. The winding route is surrounded by impressive mountains with royal names:
Dronningen (Queen), Kongen (King) and Bispen (Bishop). It passes over
magnificent waterfalls such as Stigfossen, whose waters rush down from a height
of 320 m.
7. Transfagarasan, Romania
A project that illustrates the power of the communist
regime, Transfagarasan is a road that crosses the highest Romanian mountains –
the Fagaras – linking two distinct regions of the country. Built on a military
purpose, it is nowadays a tourist route popular with the locals as well as with
foreigners who try to discover the mysteries of Dracula’s country. Indeed,
Transfagarasan is the way that leads towards Poienari fortress – the main
residence of the Transylvanian ruler that gave birth to so many myths and
legends. Besides vampire stories readers, Transfagarasan is also crossed by all
those who want to see some snow in the torrid days of August, by bungee jumping
enthusiasts, by skiers and mountain bikers as well as by those who appreciate
the savage Carpathian landscapes.
8. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
A popular tourist circuit, the 200 km long Ring of Kerry
leads its visitors on a fascinating trip around the Iveragh Peninsula. Drawing
a circle between steep mountain slopes, sneaking through magnificent valleys,
crossing countless rivers and lakes, passing by sandy beaches and cliffy
coastlines, Ring of Kerry allows you to discover much more than the
breathtalking beauty of the Emerald Isle. Sneem is a pretty village with
colorful houses, ideal for a stopover.
The six recently renovated thatch-roofed houses of Bog
Village represent a unique tourist attraction. The whole route is dotted with
historical (the Ogham Stones, next to Beaufort; Ross Castle) and religious (the
Stone Circles, near Killarney; O’ Connell Memorial Church, in Caherciveen)
landmarks as well as with outstanding natural beauties (the Blue Pool Nature
Reserve, Torc Waterfall, Skellig Michael, the Lakes of Killarney, the Rossbeigh
beach).
9. Costiera Amalfitana, Italy
A picturesque drive that goes along the seashore, winding
among small fishing villages and historical towns, Amalfi Coast was included in
the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997. This region of Southern Italy is the
perfect holiday destination for all those who dreams of spending some time in a
corner of paradise, where the mountain merges with the sea, where the climate
is mild, where silence is the only source of stress, where the architecture has
been preserved for centuries, where fishermen and millionaires enjoy a common
privilege – the simply perfect landscape.
This scenic route connects 13 towns situated so close to one
another that they cannot be treated separately. However, they all bring their
share of charm to make Amalfi Coast one of the most popular holiday
destinations in Italy: Amalfi – the main harbor of the former maritime republic;
Vietri sul Mare – famous for its ceramics craftsmanship; Conca dei Marini, with
its Emerald Cave; Cetara – a fish lovers’ paradise; Praiano – a former royal
residence; Maiori, with its medieval castle; the musical town of Ravello;
Minori, with its Roman ruins; the charmingly medieval Atrani; Scala and its
surrounding tropical forests; Furore, famous for its tiny fjord; Positano and
its piazzettas; the luxurious Tramonti.
10. Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos, Spain
Winding among the Sierra de Cadiz Mountains and crossing the
Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, the White Villages Route is a popular tourist
destination. Perched on a high cliff overlooking the river Guadalete, Arcos de
la Frontera is one of the most beautiful villages in Andalusia, Spain. Its center
declared a Monument of Historical and Artistic Importance displays a typically
Andalusian architecture. Strolling through maze of whitewashed streets, you
will discover places of unimaginable beauty, while a visit to the Moorish
castle will provide you with an insight on the Arab heritage of the whole area.
This Spanish region is worth spending here a few days exploring the numerous
Roman ruins as well as the interesting national parks.
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