America has long been regarded as the number one road trip destination. For many, however, Europe is the destination of choice for experiencing the open road in style. Home to some of the world’s most stunning locations, a driving holiday in Europe is guaranteed to take your breath away. As Europe offers so much choice, it can be tough to decide where to go, so we’ve teamed up with Grange, an award winning Used Aston Martin dealership to give you our guide to the top 5 European road trip destinations:
5. Route Napoleon – France
If you’d like to follow in the footsteps of one of the most iconic historical figures in French history, you can drive along Route Napoleon. In 1815, Napoléon Bonaparte took this route when he marched from Elba to Grenoble to overthrow Louis the 18th. Spanning all the way from Cannes to Grenoble, this picturesque route will take you all the way through the French Alps – so you’re in for a real visual treat.
This rote can also be quite challenging – any thrill seekers out there will be put to the test with a wide variety of cambered corners, hairpin turns and fast straights.
4. Stelvio Pass – Italy
Surrounded by beautiful mountain views as far as the eye can see is Italy’s Stelvio Pass. Located high in the Alps of Eastern Italy, this stunning stretch of road was once voted the best driving road in the world by BBC Top Gear, making it a must for driving enthusiasts.
Even experienced drivers will see their skills tested here, as the roads 48 switchback turns can be hard to handle. It’s recommended that you pull over occasionally to collect your thoughts, take in the sights and enjoy this lovely stretch of road to the fullest.
3. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Austria
Winding down from the highest mountain in Austria is the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, known locally as the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse. You won’t be short of impressive mountain views here and at 2,504 meters above sea level, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy them!
A big hit with motorbike fans and sports car enthusiasts all over the world, this mountain route will take you past the Alpine Nature Show Museum, Hohe Tauern National parkand Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe — home to the Pasterze Glacier.
2. Route 500 – Germany
Germany’s route 500 will take you right through the country’s famous Black Forest region. Located between the Swiss border and the town of Baden Baden, this route will take you through a wide range of remarkable scenery, from pine forests to mountains. Drivers taking this route may want to set off early however, as the popularity of this road means that it can be prone to traffic at peak times.
1. Route One – Iceland
Circumnavigating the entire island is Iceland’s impressive Route One – an 800 mile long stretch of road which is guaranteed to impress even the most experienced drivers and travel enthusiasts. Travelling on this route allows you to see everything that makes the country so special and sought after as a holiday destination; including some truly stunning scenery. You’ll encounter everything from geysers, waterfalls and hot springs to ash deserts. You will also encounter some tough gravel terrain on your trip here, so it’s recommended that you choose a sturdy vehicle to travel in, such as a Land Rover or other 4×4.
