The world’s best driving roads

For those of us who see driving as more than just a way to get from A to B, the hunt for the ultimate driving road is an eternal quest. A place where tarmac meets the sublime, and the simple act of turning a wheel becomes an art form. Here’s a list of the world’s finest ribbons of asphalt, guaranteed to ignite your motoring soul.

1. The Stelvio Pass, Italy

Arguably Europe’s most iconic driving road, the Stelvio Pass is a dizzying zigzag through the Italian Alps. With 48 hairpins winding up to a lofty 2,757 meters, this is driving heaven for those who love a technical challenge. The scenery? Think postcard-perfect peaks and verdant valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. Best tackled early morning or late evening to avoid the tourist parade and make the most of its untamed beauty.

2. The Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway

This 8.3-kilometer marvel of engineering skips across rocky islets and offers breathtaking views of the Norwegian Sea. With its sweeping curves and dramatic oceanic backdrop, it feels like you’re driving on the edge of the world. A stormy day adds a dash of drama, with waves crashing against the bridges, but dry conditions make for a smoother drive. It’s also a hotspot for photographers, so be ready to pull over and capture the magic.

3. The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Carved into cliffs above the mighty Southern Ocean, this 243-kilometer stretch offers views that’ll make you gasp. Highlights include the Twelve Apostles, London Arch, and the Otway Rainforest, each offering unique opportunities for exploration and photos. The winding nature of the road makes it a driver’s delight, but watch for camper vans—they’re as numerous as kangaroos in the outback. Sunset is the perfect time to experience the road at its most breathtaking.

4. The Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania

Ceausescu’s folly has become a driver’s dream. This 90-kilometer stretch of twisting tarmac rises through the Carpathian Mountains, complete with tunnels, viaducts, and hairpins galore. As if that weren’t enough, the scenery is jaw-droppingly dramatic, with misty peaks and serene lakes. It’s a playground for petrolheads and a contender for the most Instagrammable road on the planet. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, though—it’s as wild as the road itself.

5. The North Coast 500, Scotland

Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the NC500 is a 516-mile loop of lochs, glens, and coastal views so striking they could make a grown driver weep. The route’s mix of winding single-track roads and fast straights is perfect for a spirited drive. You’ll also encounter charming villages, historic castles, and local distilleries along the way. Just don’t forget to pack a raincoat—this is Scotland, after all.

6. The Hana Highway, Hawaii

A lush, tropical delight, the Hana Highway snakes through rainforests, past waterfalls, and along jaw-dropping coastal cliffs. This 64-mile stretch on Maui is as beautiful as it is challenging, with over 600 turns and 59 bridges. Along the way, you’ll find hidden gems like black sand beaches and bamboo forests. It’s not about speed; it’s about savoring the journey—and the Hawaiian sunshine.

7. Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, UAE

Climbing to a height of 1,240 meters, this pristine road in the United Arab Emirates is a driver’s dream. Smooth tarmac, sweeping corners, and long straights make it a playground for performance cars. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the desert and Al Ain city, a sight that’s worth every twist and turn. Go at sunrise or sunset for an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you’ve descended.

8. The Pacific Coast Highway, USA

Stretching along California’s stunning coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking views of the ocean, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal towns. From the iconic Bixby Bridge to the rugged beauty of Big Sur, this road is a dream for anyone who loves a scenic drive. You’ll also find plenty of stops along the way to explore beaches, lighthouses, and quaint eateries. Best enjoyed with the windows down and the sea breeze in your hair.

Honorable mentions:

• Route 66, USA: Classic Americana and a nostalgic journey through history.

• The Furka Pass, Switzerland: James Bond drove it in Goldfinger; need we say more

• Trollstigen, Norway: A serpentine masterpiece through stunning fjord landscapes.

Pack your bags, fire up the engine, and let’s hit the road. After all, the world is full of corners waiting to be carved and straights begging for the throttle. Which one will you tackle first?