10 Budget-Friendly Scenic Drives That Will Take Your Breath Away
Scenic drives can be a great way to explore a new place, let go of stress and enjoy breathtaking views. Exploring the beauty of nature on a scenic drive is an affordable and luxurious way to get away from daily life without breaking the bank.
In this post, we have curated some of the best scenic drives that you can take while traveling on a budget. These routes offer stunning views, interesting stops along the way and will make for unforgettable memories.
1. Pacific Coast Highway – California
The Pacific Coast Highway in California is one of the most iconic road trips in America. The route runs along 655 miles of beautiful coastline from San Francisco to San Diego. This scenic drive offers stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, sandy beaches and quaint towns. You can stop at Big Sur for hiking or take a dip in one of its natural hot springs. Make sure to keep your camera handy as you’ll want to capture every moment.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway – Virginia & North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through 469 miles of rolling hills and picturesque landscapes between Virginia and North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along with beautiful mountain views, you’ll also pass by historic sites such as old cabins, mills and churches which give insight into Appalachian culture.
3. Overseas Highway – Florida Keys
Florida’s Overseas Highway spans over 113 miles from Key Largo all the way down to Key West giving travelers access to some of Florida’s best coastal scenery including crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life like dolphins, turtles and tropical fish; white sand beaches perfect for swimming or lounging; palm trees swaying softly against blue skies dotted with fluffy clouds – it’s no wonder this route has been called “the world’s longest photo album.”
4.Scottish Highlands – Scotland
Scotland is known for its rugged landscapes filled with lochs (lakes), glens (valleys) mountains ranges that are perfect for a scenic drive. One of the best routes to take is driving through the Scottish Highlands, where you can explore some of the country’s most stunning scenery including Ben Nevis and Glen Coe.
5. Icefields Parkway – Alberta, Canada
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada is a 144-mile long road that stretches between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. This route offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers and crystal-clear lakes. Along with enjoying untouched nature, you can also make stops at popular attractions such as Lake Louise or Athabasca Glacier.
6. Great Ocean Road – Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road spans over 150 miles starting from Torquay to Warrnambool showcasing rugged surf beaches, rainforests and limestone cliffs rising high above the ocean along Victoria’s scenic south-west coast. You’ll get to see beautiful coastal towns like Apollo Bay and Port Campbell on this picturesque drive.
7.Route de la Lavande – France
The Route de la Lavande (Lavender Route) in France stretches over 140 miles through Provence’s lavender fields which bloom during mid-June to August each year making it one-of-a-kind sightseeing experience for tourists visiting this region. The route runs from Montélimar down to Avignon offering views of beautiful medieval villages nestled among rolling hills dotted with fragrant lavender fields.
8.Road To Hana – Hawaii
Maui’s Road to Hana is considered one of Hawaii’s most remarkable drives that winds through tropical rainforest leading passengers past cascading waterfalls and dramatic coastline vistas while taking them back in time by passing ancient Hawaiian settlements along its path towards Oheo Gulch pools located within Haleakala National Park.
9.The Atlantic Ocean Road- Norway
Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road is an awe-inspiring drive that features some of Northern Europe’s most spectacular views such as steep cliffsides and the open sea. The route is 8.3 km long and takes you over bridges that zigzag across the ocean and through eight small islands, making this journey an unforgettable experience.
10.The Amalfi Coast Road- Italy
The Amalfi coast road in Italy runs along a beautiful stretch of coastline from Sorrento to Salerno, with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, charming hillside towns, lemon groves and vineyards along the way. This popular route offers travelers a chance to explore famous destinations like Positano, Ravello or Praiano.
In conclusion, these scenic drives offer some of the most beautiful views on earth while allowing travelers to enjoy them without breaking their budget. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking mountain ranges or coastal vistas dotted with fishing villages or fields blooming with lavender flowers – there’s something here for everyone! So pack up your car and hit one of these amazing routes today!