Road trips are a classic way to explore a new destination and bond with loved ones. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or just some quality time together, there are countless possibilities for memorable family road trips worldwide. Here are some of the best options to consider as part of your family travel bucket lists:
1. Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is a stunning 243-mile stretch of coastline located in the state of Victoria, Australia. It’s one of the country’s most popular tourist routes and offers a diverse array of landscapes, from rugged cliffs and sandy beaches to rainforests and waterfalls. Along the way, you’ll find charming towns, breathtaking viewpoints, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and whale watching. It’s one of the best family road trips you can take.
There are many ways to enjoy the Great Ocean Road, but a self-drive road trip is the best option for families. You can rent a car in Melbourne and take your time to stop and explore as you go. Some must-see attractions along the route include the Twelve Apostles, a group of rock stacks that rise up from the ocean; the Otway National Park, home to lush forests and scenic walking trails; and the charming seaside town of Lorne, where you can relax on the beach or visit the weekly farmers market.
2. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland is a land of extraordinary natural beauty, and the best way to experience it is by driving the country’s main highway, known as the Ring Road. This 828-mile loop encircles the entire island and passes through various landscapes, from black sand beaches and towering waterfalls to snowy mountains and geothermal hot springs. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit small towns, explore national parks, and see some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Blue Lagoon and the Northern Lights.
A road trip around Iceland is a great option for families who love adventure and the outdoors. The country has a relatively small population and is home to many remote areas, so you’ll have the chance to experience a sense of solitude and natural beauty that is hard to find elsewhere. Just be sure to pack warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures can drop below freezing even in the summer months.
3. Pacific Coast Highway, United States
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a legendary road trip route along the United States west coast. Stretching from California to Washington, the PCH offers a diverse array of landscapes and experiences, from the sunny beaches of Southern California to the rugged coastlines of Oregon and the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest. Along the way, you’ll find charming towns, picturesque lighthouses, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and whale watching.
A road trip along the PCH is a great option for families who want to explore the beauty and diversity of the United States. There are many different ways to experience the PCH, depending on your interests and the length of your trip. You can start in San Francisco and make your way up to Portland or focus on a specific region, such as the California coast or the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. Some must-see attractions along the route include Big Sur, a breathtaking stretch of coastline with towering cliffs and breathtaking views; the Redwood National and State Parks, home to the tallest trees on earth; and the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its art galleries and white sand beach.
4. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It’s known for its lush forests, sandy beaches, and picturesque towns, making it the perfect destination for a family road trip. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Knysna Heads, a pair of sandstone cliffs that rise up from the ocean, and the Tsitsikamma National Park, home to ancient forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
There are many ways to experience the Garden Route, but a self-drive road trip is the best option for families. You can start in the city of Cape Town and make your way along the coast, stopping to explore as you go. Some must-see attractions along the route include the Cango Caves, a series of underground caverns that are home to a variety of stalactites and stalagmites; the Wild Ostrich Farm, where you can learn about these iconic birds and even ride one; and the charming town of Plettenberg Bay, known for its white sand beach and dolphin-watching tours.
5. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline located in the Campania region of Italy. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. A road trip along the Amalfi Coast is the perfect way to experience the beauty and culture of this region, and there are many different routes you can take depending on your interests and the length of your trip.
One option is to start in Naples and go down the coast, stopping to explore charming towns such as Sorrento, Positano, and Ravello. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the region’s most iconic landmarks, such as the ruins of Pompeii, the birthplace of pizza, and the island of Capri, known for its beautiful beaches and luxurious villas. You can also take a ferry to the island of Ischia, home to thermal baths and gardens, or visit the Amalfi Coast National Park, home to various plant and animal species. It’s truly one of the perfect family road trips!
No matter which destination you choose, a family road trip is a great way to create lasting memories and bond with loved ones. So pack your bags, hit the road, and see where the journey takes you!
