One of the best aspects of car travel is the scenery that inhabits the routes. The roads we take are mostly taken for granted, but they should not be. Roads have been a means of transportation and they offer a huge source of inspiration to describe a journey. As you begin to think about your next vacation, take a look at this list of some of the most scenic roads in the world. From spectacular coastal routes to precarious mountain passes, these beautiful strips of cobblestone thread their way through some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, with inspiring images reflected in your rear-view mirror. Sometimes it’s the journey, sometimes it’s the destination – and sometimes it’s both. We’ve traveled the world in search of the most beautiful, interesting and original road trips.

Atlantic Road, Norway

This amazing and unique stretch of road will make you feel as if you were flying by the ocean. Voted “technical feat of the century” in 2005, the Atlantic route is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world.

Overseas Highway, Florida, United States

Who needs a boat when you can cross the ocean in a convertible? Florida’s Overseas Highway is an 113 mile route that will take you across the dazzling blue waters of the ocean and across the Florida Keys.

Oberalp Pass, Switzerland

This superb high mountain pass (altitude of 6,706 feet!) is to be discovered by taking a breathtaking paved road that connects the cantons of Graubünden and the URI between Disentis and Andermatt. There is also a restaurant and a “Beer Garden” at the summit that offers a breathtaking view of the road you have conquered.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

One of the most picturesque roads in the world is the Great Ocean Road in Australia. Iconic surf breaks, misty waterfalls, cliffs and towering rocks make it a magical road – perfect for those who love to stop and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tianmen Mountain Road, China

The Great Gate of Tianment Shan (also called the winding road of Tianmen Mountain) is a memorable 6.8 mile route that took 8 years to complete. It is universally recognized as one of the most spectacular roads in the world.

White Rim Road – Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA

Looping under the island in the Mesa sky, the 100-mile White Rim Highway in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park offers drivers vast views of the surrounding area. You’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle (and camera).

Stelvio Pass, Italy

One of the most emblematic roads in Europe must be the one that passes through the Stelvio Pass in Italy. It is the third highest road in the Alps, with an impressive 48 hairpin bends on the north face. It was voted the best road in the world in 2008, and here is a driving itinerary.

Denali Road, Alaska, USA

Alaska offers some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, and drivers tackling the 135 long section of the Denali Highway from Paxson to Cantwell will enjoy spectacular views along the way.

Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa

Affectionately known as #Chappies, Chapman’s Peak Drive follows a toll road that follows the Atlantic coast at the southwestern tip of South Africa between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. This road is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world.

Going-to-the-Sun-Road, Montana, USA

If you’re planning a trip to the land of the big sky, the “Going-to-the-Sun” route will allow you to feel that you could actually reach the sky. Plan to go there in July-early September, when the alpine section of the road is usually fully open.

Rohtang Pass, India

The Rohtang or Rohtam Pass is a high mountain pass which is located at an altitude of 13,054 feet above sea level. Passing through the eastern range of the Pir Panjal in the Himalayas, it is a humbling journey not to be made for novice drivers. The name of this pass translates as “the soil of corpses” because of the many landslides that occur there. It’s beautiful and historic, but if you’re not a daredevil or thrill seeker, choose something else.