Summer vacation is firmly upon us, indicating that it’s officially road trip season. If you’re eager to explore the open road this year but are unsure of your destination, Instagram might have the inspiration you need.
Pentagon Motor Group analyzed over 7 million Instagram hashtags to uncover the world’s most stunning routes. The findings indicate that Australia’s Great Ocean Road is hailed as the most beautiful road trip globally, followed closely by California’s Big Sur and Jebel Hafeet in the United Arab Emirates. This revelation means that there truly is a road trip for everyone, regardless of where you are in the world.
To arrive at this conclusion, the team first compiled a list of the most popular road trips worldwide, detailing their locations and lengths. They then utilized Instagram hashtag data to determine the number of images associated with each route, dividing this figure by the miles covered by the road trip to establish which route had the most photos per mile. The Great Ocean Road, boasting the highest pictures taken per mile, earned the title of the most picturesque road in the world.
While Australia secured the top spot, the United States featured several picturesque roads, including Big Sur (2nd), Blue Ridge Parkway (6th), Going-to-the-Sun Road (7th), Route 66 (11th), California’s Tioga Pass (14th), and Hana Highway (16th).
“Given the plethora of driving holiday destinations around the globe, we were intrigued to uncover which route is officially the most beautiful,” stated Jonathan Lingham, marketing director at Pentagon Motor Group. “It’s inspiring to witness a variety of bucket-list-worthy road trips emerging from diverse locations worldwide—from the UK to Australia, and Norway to the USA—it showcases that anyone can hop in their vehicle and start an epic adventure.”
Top 10 Most Beautiful Road Trips
1. Great Ocean Road, Australia: 157 miles, 8,418 pictures per mile
This road trip spans over 150 miles and is not only a breathtaking drive but also recognized as the world’s largest war memorial, as it was constructed by returning soldiers to honor those who lost their lives in WWI.
2. Big Sur, USA: 90 miles, 5,226 pictures per mile
Big Sur is one of the most iconic road trip segments worldwide, presenting a remarkable drive along the coast that parallels the Pacific Ocean on one side and the mountains on the other.
3. Jebel Hafeet, United Arab Emirates: 7 miles, 4,840 pictures per mile
This short, yet visually stunning drive culminates at a palace belonging to the country’s rulers, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
4. Hai Van Pass, Vietnam: 13 miles, 4,298 pictures per mile
Known as “Ocean Cloud Pass,” Hai Van Pass has been described as “one of the best coastal roads in the world” by Top Gear host Jeremy Clarkson. It is advisable to drive slowly, as fog can occasionally obscure views.
5. Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa: 5.5 miles, 3,425 pictures per mile
This scenic 5.5-mile stretch in South Africa hugs the Atlantic Coast, offering stunning ocean views on one side and towering mountains on the other, immersing visitors in nature’s beauty.
6. Blue Ridge Parkway, USA: 469 miles, 1,148 pictures per mile
The Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching through North Carolina, is renowned for its majestic views, especially breathtaking during fall when the foliage transforms into vibrant colors.
7. Going-to-the-Sun Road, USA: 50 miles, 940 pictures per mile
Going-to-the-Sun Road, recognized as a National Historic Place, offers visitors gorgeous views, with the highest peak reaching over 6,600 feet.
8. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland: 1,553 miles, 853 pictures per mile
Starting in County Donegal, the Wild Atlantic Way is famous for its breathtaking coastal views, making it ideal for a multi-day exploration through nine picturesque counties.
9. Olympic Peninsula Loop, USA: 300 miles, 798 pictures per mile
If you prefer a circular route, the Olympic Peninsula Loop offers a scenic drive around Olympic National Park, perfect for enjoying numerous photo opportunities.
10. Icefields Parkway, Canada: 144 miles, 781 pictures per mile
This breathtaking 144-mile stretch connects Lake Louise with Jasper, Alberta, showcasing numerous natural wonders, including glaciers and waterfalls along the route.
