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Top 5 European Road Trips Off the Beaten Track

Europe is packed with many scenic drives that make road travel that much more exciting. Think dramatic mountain ranges, sleepy but picturesque villages and coastal views that are only accessible by road. With so many choices, how do you choose which one to experience first?

Well, below we have 5 of the best ones to seek out and plan your journey around, so you can have a memorable road trip that ticks all the boxes, whether you’re taking your own car or, if the budget allows, hiring a classic GT.

The Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania

As one of the most spectacular roads in Europe, the Transfăgărășan Highway will take you through 90 kilometres of the southern Carpathian Mountains in Romania. The winding road was built back in the 1970s, and as it climbs to more than 2,000 metres above sea level, the view from the top looking back on the route is jaw-dropping. The route is full of hairpin bends, and as there are long stretches without barriers, you’ll want to keep your eyes on the road rather than the view! Don’t worry though, there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Highlights along the route include the serene Balea Lake at the highest point and its cable car that can take you to and from the nearby waterfall, and the legendary Poenari Citadel that was once home to Vlad the Impaler. The drive is best experienced in the summer or early autumn when the weather is clear, and the entire route is open. Take it slow, stop often, and soak in the scenery, but don’t forget to pack warm clothes.

The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Whilst you may want to look abroad for your road trip, you cannot overlook one right here in Ireland. The Wild Atlantic Way is everything you would want from a road trip without having to leave the country, with unforgettable turns and vistas along the 2,600 kilometre route. Tracing the rugged west coast from the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork, there are dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches and lots of coastal towns to stop and enjoy in between.

Even if you’ve driven parts of it before, there’s always something new to discover. The windswept beauty of Achill Island and Clew Bay, where you can see Kildavnet Castle and explore ‘pirate country’, to the towering sea cliffs of the Slieve League coast and sights including Crohy Head and Fintragh Bay. Local cafés, craft shops, and traditional pubs are found all over the route, so every stop, whether overnight or just for a quick lunch, gives a chance to experience the natural beauty. The Wild Atlantic Way proves that the best adventures don’t always require a passport.

The Black Forest High Road, Germany

In Germany you will find the Black Forest High Road, also known as Schwarzwaldhochstrasse, which is one of the oldest, as well as scenic, driving routes. The 60 kilometre road winding from Baden-Baden to Freudenstadt and vice versa gives you views of alpine forests, hills and postcard-perfect villages. Along the way, you can stop to explore peaceful hiking trails, visit the famous Triberg Waterfalls, which are Germany’s highest, or relax in one of the region’s renowned spa towns such as Baden-Baden or Bad Wildbad.

The drive itself offers spectacular panoramic views, as you can imagine, particularly from the Hornisgrinde, the highest peak in the northern Black Forest. For those who love folklore, the region’s connection to the Brothers Grimm fairy tales adds a mystical touch to the journey. Plan a visit in Spring for fresh meadows or in Winter for snow-capped trees and hills. At any time of year, the Black Forest High Road promises an exciting yet tranquil road trip.

The Peloponnesian Loop, Greece

Greece already has much to enjoy throughout the mainland and its many islands, but have you considered a road trip through the history and scenery? If so, the Peloponnesian Loop in southern Greece is hard to beat. Starting from Athens, this circular route takes you through a landscape rich in mythology and natural beauty. Along the way, you can explore the elegant streets of Nafplio, one of Greece’s most romantic coastal towns, find the ancient amphitheatre of Epidaurus, and visit the ruins of Mycenae, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

As the road continues south, the Mani Peninsula offers quiet beaches, stone tower villages, and endless coastal views to enjoy. Every section is a delight to drive and is best enjoyed in late Spring or early Autumn when the weather is warm, but the crowds are not at peak levels. The Peloponnesian Loop could be the Greek adventure you’ve been looking for.

The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Few drives in Europe rival the beauty of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Stretching from the historic city of Split down to Dubrovnik, this scenic route provides plenty of spectacular cliffs, sparkling blue seas, and terracotta-roofed towns to explore. As you wind along the Adriatic Highway, every turn reveals postcard-perfect views, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stop along the way.

Dalmatia and its coastline are popular, especially in the Summer months, so taking a detour to some of the lesser-visited islands like Korčula, Vis, or Hvar adds an extra layer of discovery when taking a rest from driving. Along the way, stop off at Roman ruins or one of the five national parks in the region, taste fresh seafood, and enjoy a road trip with lots of sunshine and sea than the rest. A drive along the Dalmatian Coast is the ultimate seaside escape, especially if you can stay longer than a weekend.

Why Travel Insurance Still Matters on Road Trips

When planning your perfect road trip, you’ll want to be as cautious as possible and prepare for anything. This includes common issues like flight delays, lost luggage and medical emergencies when away, all of which are the last thing anyone wants. Even if you’re away for just a few days, you’ll want to cover anything unexpected, which is where travel insurance is really important.

Before setting off, it’s worth exploring tailored policies that will protect you from the unexpected from providers such as Staysure, as it will give you peace of mind to focus on the road ahead, just in case. Being able to fully enjoy the experience without worry during your trip is something every holidaymaker wants, so research ahead to find insurance that suits your situation.

Quick Tips for a Smooth European Road Adventure

Alongside cover for the unexpected, you’ll also need to ensure you’ve taken the time to plan your route and research local driving rules. These of course can vary from country to country. Always carry essential documents such as your driving licence, insurance details, and, where required, an International Driving Permit (IDP). Check for any toll roads on your route, and if hiring a car, only do so from reputable companies. Pack a small emergency kit, keep some cash for fuel stations that are more remote just in case, and download offline maps for when the signal drops on your satnav (a trusty paper road map is always a good investment!). Above all, stay flexible, as sometimes the best road trips often come from the unexpected detours.

Time to Hit the Road?

If it’s your first time taking a road trip, there’s lots to look forward to, and it gives you an alternative way to see the world you would otherwise miss. Europe’s lesser-known roads offer a chance to slow down, explore hidden corners, and experience things beyond the main tourist routes. So, pack your bags, map your route, and embrace the open road as much as you can.