Los gustos de los viajeros han evolucionado mucho durante las últimas décadas. Si hace medio siglo, ir de vacaciones significaba en una playa o relajarse junto a la piscina. Hoy en día hay diferentes tipos de vacaciones. A medida que los globíteres contemporáneos tienden a explorar el mundo más a fondo, las autoridades locales respondieron con prontitud, lo que sugiere que los itinerarios preestablecidos pueden conducir. De esta manera, los turistas logran aprovechar al máximo una semana o solo un par de días pasados en un área determinada. Aquí están las rutas más impresionantes que puede tomar para descubrir la naturaleza de Europa. Pero también su patrimonio histórico y cultural.
10 Most Scenic Drives in Europe Add to Your Bucket List:
1. Romantische Straße, Germany
Built-in the 1950s, during the reconstruction of Germany after the collapse of the Third Reich, the Romantic Road eventually became a legendary route. Traversing the beautiful landscape of the German countryside, dotted with medieval villages and Baroque castles, it is an item on many travelers’ wish lists. They take this opportunity to visit the Würzburg Residence and the Marienberg Fortress, 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 incredible natural settings of Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau, Castles of Hohenzollern or Schwerin.
2. Grossglockner Hohenalpenstrasse, Austria
Named after the highest peak in the Austrian Alps, the Grossglockner (3798m), this impressive route runs through tunnels, twisting between flowery meadows, green meadows, wooden slopes, and bare cliffs, before sinuously climbing into the clouds already the eternal frozen world. Starting at Oberes Nasfeld and ending at Franz-Josefs-Hohe (from where you can get a panoramic view of the Pasterze glacier, this road, whose historical vestiges date back thousands of years, takes you past numerous landmarks such as the Future Chapel, an observation tower dedicated to the greatest Austrian optician (Daniel Swarovski) and Museum of Nature (free admission), displaying an impressive collection of splendid minerals, plant species, birds and animals that inhabit this nature reserve that meets all the requirements of modern ecology.
3. Les Corniches, France
The three scenic routes start in Nice and go up to heavenly Monaco and baroque Menton. They follow the same itinerary, at different heights. The Lower Corniche (La Basse Corniche) is the perfect choice for those who want to discover picturesque fishing villages like; Villefranche-sur-Mer or a charming medieval eagle’s nest-like Eze.
The Middle Corniche (La Moyenne Corniche), however, displays the most picturesque panoramic views of the resorts that dot the French Riviera coastline. Although harder to spot, the Upper Corniche (the Haute Corniche) is worth discovering for its historical value as well as its magnificent views of Monaco. If you want a more complete perspective of the southern part of France, start your trip in Lyon and visit some charming cities like Aix en Provence, Marseille, and Avignon on the way to the Riviera.
4. Atlanterhavsveien, Norway
One of the few man-made constructions that managed to emphasize natural beauty rather than destroy the environment. The Atlantic Road is part of the RV 64 national road that connects the Norwegian cities of Eide and Averøy. Built-in 1989 and free since 1999, this route is a popular tourist attraction. Especially during windy weather conditions, when people come here for a unique spectacle provided by the strong waves sweeping the road.
The highest of the 8 bridges that cross this 8 km long route; – Storseisundet has a dramatic and majestic air. The road makes a surprising curve that gives an artistic look to the entire construction. Connecting several small islands, the Atlantic Highway is a great way to admire the Norwegian fjords and the spectacular scenery of mountains emerging from 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 close collaboration between the country’s authorities and French car enthusiasts. In 1909, at a time when the automobile was beginning to become an important means of locomotion; Touring Club came up with the idea of building a road that would connect all the Alpine passes.
In fact, this spectacular tour takes you through 4 national parks; (Vanoise, Ecrins, Queyras, and Mercantour). And 16 mountain passes, the highest of which (Iseran) is located at an altitude of 2764 m. Following the winding road from the shores of Lake Geneva 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 cities (Åndalsnes and Valldalen) that took 8 years to build, the Troll Route opened in 1936. Since then, it has been a popular tourist destination for people of all ages and from all nations. Thousands of vehicles feel every day that the level of adrenaline rises through their veins due to the serpentines that this narrow road has. The curves of the road and its steep incline are not the only risk factors. The winding route is surrounded by impressive mountains with royal names: Dronningen (Queen), Kongen (King) and Bisping (Bishop). It passes over magnificent waterfalls such as Stigfossen, whose waters descend 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 mountains in Romania, the Fagaras, linking two different regions of the country. Built for a military purpose, today it is a popular tourist route with locals and foreigners trying to uncover the mysteries of Dracula’s country.
In fact, Transfagarasan is the road that leads to the Poienari fortress; The main residence of the ruler of Transylvania who gave rise to so many myths and legends. In addition to vampire story readers, Transfagarasan is also crossed by all those who want to see some snow on the hot days of August. For bungee jumping enthusiasts, skiers, and mountain bikers, as well as those who appreciate the wild landscapes of the Carpathians.
8. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
A popular tourist circuit, the 200 km long Ring of Kerry takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the Iveragh Peninsula. Draw a circle between the steep slopes of the mountains; Sneaking through magnificent valleys. Also crossing countless rivers and lakes. And passing through sandy beaches and steep coasts. Ring of Kerry allows you to discover much more than the breathtaking beauty of the Emerald Isle. Sneem is a pretty town with colorful houses, ideal for a stopover.
The six recently renovated thatched houses in Bog Village represent a unique tourist attraction. The entire route is dotted with historical monuments (the Ogham stones, near Beaufort; Ross Castle) and religious (the stone circles, near Killarney; O’Connell’s memorial church, in Caherciveen), as well as exceptional natural beauties (the blue pool). Nature reserve, Torc waterfall, Skellig Michael, Killarney lakes, Rossbeigh beach).
9. Costiera Amalfitana, Italy
A picturesque walk that runs along the seashore, winding between small fishing villages and historic towns. The Amalfi Coast was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1997. This region of southern Italy is the perfect vacation destination. For all those who dream of spending some time in a corner of paradise; Where the mountain meets the sea. Where the climate is temperate. And where silence is the only source of stress. Also where the architecture has been preserved for centuries. Finally, where fishermen and millionaires enjoy a common privilege: the simply perfect landscape.
This scenic route connects 13 villages so close to each other that they cannot be treated separately. However, they all bring their share of charm to make the Amalfi Coast one of the most popular holiday destinations in Italy; Amalfi – the main port of the former maritime republic; Vietri Sul Mare, famous for its ceramic crafts; Conca Dei Marini, with its Emerald Cave; Cetara: a paradise for fish lovers; Praiano – a former royal residence; Maiori, with its medieval castle; the musical city 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 pizzettas; the luxurious Tramonti.
10. Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos, Spain
Winding between the Sierra de Cádiz and crossing the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, the Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos is a popular tourist destination. Perched on a high cliff overlooking the Guadalete River, Arcos de la Frontera is one of the most beautiful towns in Andalusia, Spain. Its center, declared a Monument of Historical and Artistic Importance, shows typically Andalusian architecture.
Strolling through a maze of whitewashed streets, you will discover places of unimaginable beauty. While a visit to the Moorish castle will provide you with an insight into the Moorish heritage of the entire area. This Spanish region is worth spending a few days here; Exploring the many Roman ruins, as well as the interesting national parks.
