For those seeking a break from the hustle of city traffic, backroads offer a peaceful and scenic escape. These quiet routes wind through countryside, forests, and rolling hills, providing a serene atmosphere perfect for leisurely drives. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best backroads for a peaceful drive, where you can enjoy nature’s beauty without the rush. Whether you’re looking for picturesque landscapes or a quiet route to clear your mind, these roads promise tranquility and relaxation at every turn.
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Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina, USA
The Blue Ridge Parkway is often called “America’s Favorite Drive” for its winding roads through the Appalachian Mountains. Stretching over 469 miles, this scenic route offers stunning vistas, vibrant fall foliage, and peaceful rolling landscapes. The absence of billboards, commercial trucks, and minimal development along the parkway creates a serene driving experience. Pros include ample picnic spots, hiking trails, and access to national parks. A con is the frequent fog, especially in higher elevations. Tip: Drive in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer tourists.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is a 151-mile stretch along the southern coast that offers breathtaking ocean views and lush rainforests. The road passes iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, a series of towering limestone formations rising out of the sea. The serene coastal scenery, coupled with the soothing sound of waves crashing against the cliffs, makes for a peaceful drive. The road can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so plan your trip during the off-peak months for a quieter experience. Tip: Stop at the many lookouts and take your time to explore the natural beauty.
Ring of Kerry, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is a 111-mile circular route in Ireland that winds through picturesque villages, rugged coastline, and lush green hills. The peaceful drive is filled with scenic views of lakes, mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean. The route is known for its tranquil atmosphere, and the slower pace of life in this part of Ireland adds to the peaceful vibe. Pros include stunning viewpoints and charming Irish towns. The con is that the narrow roads can be tricky to navigate, especially for larger vehicles. Tip: Start your journey early in the morning to avoid tourist buses.
Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, offers one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Stretching from San Francisco to Los Angeles, this road hugs the cliffs along the Pacific Ocean, offering serene views of rugged coastlines, beaches, and forests. The peaceful sound of crashing waves and the vastness of the ocean create a calming atmosphere. However, the road can be narrow with sharp turns, which may be challenging for some drivers. Tip: Stop at Big Sur for a relaxing break and take in the panoramic ocean views.
Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia, Canada
The Cabot Trail is a 185-mile loop around Cape Breton Island, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the highlands of Nova Scotia. The peaceful drive takes you through quaint fishing villages, dense forests, and rugged coastal cliffs. The absence of heavy traffic and the unspoiled natural beauty create a serene driving experience. Pros include opportunities for whale watching and exploring hiking trails. A con is that some parts of the trail are prone to fog, especially in the mornings. Tip: Visit during the fall for the vibrant foliage that adds to the already stunning scenery.
Route 100, Vermont, USA
Vermont’s Route 100 is a classic New England drive that takes you through charming small towns, rolling hills, and scenic farmlands. The 216-mile road is especially peaceful during the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The lack of commercial development along the road makes it a serene escape from busy city life. The road is well-maintained, but winters can make driving challenging due to snow and ice. Tip: Plan your drive in late September or early October to experience the peak foliage season.
Black Forest High Road, Germany
The Black Forest High Road, or Schwarzwaldhochstraße, is a scenic route through Germany’s Black Forest region. The road offers peaceful views of dense forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. It’s a relaxing drive, especially in the early morning when mist lingers over the valleys. Pros include easy access to hiking trails, cozy cafés, and viewpoints like Mummelsee Lake. The main con is that the road can get icy in winter, so caution is required. Tip: Plan to stop at some of the traditional German villages along the way for a more immersive cultural experience.
Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA
The Road to Hana is a 64-mile stretch of scenic highway on the island of Maui. Known for its winding turns and lush rainforest, the road offers a peaceful escape from the island’s more crowded areas. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches, making it a nature lover’s dream. However, the road’s narrow lanes and frequent hairpin turns can be challenging for some drivers. Tip: Take your time and make multiple stops at the roadside attractions for a truly relaxing experience.
Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
The Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania is a 56-mile mountain road that offers a peaceful and scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains. The road takes you through serene valleys, alpine lakes, and past ancient fortresses. While the scenery is breathtaking, the road’s twists and turns require careful driving, especially in poor weather conditions. Pros include stunning mountain views and the absence of heavy traffic, while a con is that the road is closed during winter due to snow. Tip: Drive during the summer months when the road is fully open, and enjoy the stunning vistas along the way.
Seward Highway, Alaska, USA
The Seward Highway stretches 125 miles from Anchorage to Seward, offering a peaceful drive through Alaska’s dramatic landscapes. The road winds along the coast of Turnagain Arm before heading into the Chugach Mountains. The serene, remote atmosphere and the possibility of spotting wildlife like moose and bald eagles add to the tranquility. Pros include breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains, while a con is that the weather can be unpredictable. Tip: Pack layers and be prepared for rain or cold temperatures, even in summer.
Milford Road, New Zealand
The Milford Road in New Zealand is a peaceful and scenic 75-mile drive that takes you through Fiordland National Park. The road winds through lush rainforests, towering mountains, and crystal-clear rivers, creating a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere. Pros include access to hiking trails and opportunities to see wildlife like kea parrots and seals. The con is that the weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rains common in the area. Tip: Drive slowly to enjoy the scenery and make stops at viewpoints along the way, especially at the Mirror Lakes.
Route des Grandes Alpes, France
The Route des Grandes Alpes is a stunning mountain road that stretches over 425 miles through the French Alps. This peaceful drive offers incredible views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and serene alpine meadows. The road is well-maintained and relatively quiet, making it a great escape from busier tourist routes. However, the road’s steep inclines and hairpin turns can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. Tip: Plan your trip during the summer months when the passes are open and stop at some of the charming alpine villages along the way.
Death Valley Scenic Byway, California, USA
Despite its name, the Death Valley Scenic Byway offers a surprisingly peaceful drive through one of the most extreme environments on Earth. The 120-mile route takes you through expansive desert landscapes, salt flats, and rugged mountains. The quiet, desolate atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a reflective, meditative drive. Pros include the unique, otherworldly scenery, while cons include the extreme heat, especially in summer. Tip: Bring plenty of water and avoid driving during the hottest part of the day, particularly in the summer months.
Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route in South Africa is a 190-mile stretch of scenic coastline that offers peaceful views of forests, lagoons, and mountains. The road runs between the towns of Mossel Bay and Storms River, passing through nature reserves and charming seaside villages. Pros include access to beautiful beaches and opportunities for wildlife viewing, while a con is that parts of the road can become congested during peak tourist seasons. Tip: Stay overnight in one of the many guesthouses along the route to break up the drive and explore the area at a leisurely pace.
Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada
The Icefields Parkway is a 144-mile road that cuts through the Canadian Rockies, offering a peaceful drive with views of glaciers, emerald lakes, and towering mountains. The road connects Banff and Jasper National Parks, making it a popular route for nature lovers. Pros include numerous scenic pull-offs and hiking opportunities, while a con is that the road can be busy during peak tourist season. Tip: Drive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Million Dollar Highway, Colorado, USA
The Million Dollar Highway is a 25-mile stretch of U.S. Route 550 in Colorado that offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. The peaceful drive takes you through rugged mountain passes, with sweeping views of valleys, forests, and rivers. Pros include the breathtaking scenery and opportunities for hiking, while a con is the lack of guardrails on some sections, which can be unnerving for some drivers. Tip: Drive cautiously, especially in winter, as the road can be slippery and visibility can be poor.
Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen, or the Troll’s Ladder, is a winding mountain road in Norway that offers a peaceful drive through stunning Scandinavian landscapes. The road is known for its dramatic hairpin bends and steep cliffs, but the serene, untouched natural beauty creates a calming atmosphere. Pros include panoramic views of waterfalls and valleys, while a con is that the road is closed in winter due to snow. Tip: Plan your visit during the summer months when the road is open and the weather is mild, and stop at the viewing platform for a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.
Healdsburg Wine Country Roads, California, USA
Roads offer a peaceful drive through California’s famous wine region. The roads wind through vineyards, rolling hills, and quaint towns, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The absence of heavy traffic and the beautiful scenery make it an ideal route for a leisurely drive. Pros include access to wineries and charming cafés, while a con is that the roads can be narrow in some areas. Tip: Visit in the fall when the vineyards are at their most colorful, and plan to stop for a wine tasting along the way.
Route 12, Utah, USA
Route 12 in Utah is a scenic byway that stretches over 120 miles through some of the most beautiful desert landscapes in the U.S. The road offers peaceful views of red rock canyons, mesas, and expansive plateaus. Pros include the stunning, ever-changing scenery and access to national parks like Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef, while a con is that services like gas stations are limited along the route. Tip: Fill up your gas tank before setting out, and take your time to explore the viewpoints and hiking trails along the way.
Route 66 (Historic Segments), USA
Historic Route 66 offers a nostalgic and peaceful drive through America’s heartland. Though much of the original route has been replaced by modern highways, several stretches remain intact, particularly in states like Arizona and New Mexico. The peaceful, slow pace of these roads, combined with the charming small towns and vintage roadside attractions, creates a relaxing driving experience. Pros include the rich history and unique Americana vibe, while a con is that some sections of the road are in poor condition. Tip: Research the best-preserved segments of Route 66 and take your time exploring the small towns along the way.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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