The Best Winter Road Trips You Need to Take This Season
Winter road trips can be a magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes, cozy small towns, and thrilling scenic routes. Whether you’re looking for a coastal drive with ocean views or a journey through snow-capped mountains, a winter road trip is the perfect way to explore new destinations. Here are some of the best winter road trips to take this season, complete with breathtaking stops and must-visit attractions.
1. Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is one of the most iconic road trips in the United States. In winter, the California coastline offers dramatic waves, misty cliffs, and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to take in the stunning views.
What to See:
Drive through Big Sur and stop at popular viewpoints like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls.
Visit the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea for some holiday shopping and a cozy meal.
Explore the historic Monterey Bay Aquarium and see marine life up close.
Why Go: The Pacific Coast Highway offers breathtaking ocean views, serene coastal towns, and a relaxing drive perfect for a winter getaway.
2. Icefields Parkway – Alberta, Canada
The Icefields Parkway is a must-do winter road trip for those who love snowy mountain scenery and adventure. Stretching 230 kilometers between Banff and Jasper, this road is lined with frozen lakes, majestic glaciers, and some of the most stunning views in the Canadian Rockies.
What to See:
Stop at Lake Louise to see the lake transformed into a magical ice skating rink surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Visit the Athabasca Glacier and take a guided snowshoe tour on the ice.
Take in the breathtaking views of Peyto Lake, which appears even more striking in winter.
Why Go: The Icefields Parkway is a true winter wonderland, offering unparalleled natural beauty and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.
3. The Ring of Kerry – Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is a scenic loop in southwestern Ireland, offering rugged coastal landscapes, historic castles, and charming villages. In winter, the lush greenery of the Irish countryside is sprinkled with frost, and the crowds are significantly smaller, making for a peaceful and picturesque drive.
What to See:
Explore the historic Muckross House and Gardens in Killarney National Park.
Take in the views from Ladies View, one of the most famous viewpoints along the route.
Visit the charming town of Kenmare for a cozy pub meal by the fire.
Why Go: The Ring of Kerry in winter offers a tranquil escape with stunning landscapes, traditional Irish charm, and a quieter experience compared to the summer months.
4. The Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia
If you’re looking for a warmer winter escape, head to Australia and take a road trip along the Great Ocean Road. This iconic coastal drive features dramatic cliffs, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. In the Southern Hemisphere, December through February is summer, so you can enjoy warm weather while exploring the stunning coastline.
What to See:
Stop at the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks rising out of the ocean, for an unforgettable sunset.
Explore the lush landscapes of Otway National Park and take a walk through the treetop canopy.
Visit the famous Bells Beach, known for its world-class surfing waves.
Why Go: The Great Ocean Road offers a unique road trip experience with breathtaking coastal views, wildlife encounters, and a chance to escape the winter chill.
5. The Romantic Road – Bavaria, Germany
The Romantic Road in Bavaria is a dreamy road trip filled with medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, and snow-dusted landscapes. In winter, the region’s charm is enhanced by holiday markets, festive lights, and the magic of freshly fallen snow.
What to See:
Visit the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where you can stroll through the Christmas market and explore the well-preserved medieval architecture.
Stop at the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle, which looks like a scene from a snow globe in winter.
Explore Augsburg and enjoy traditional Bavarian cuisine at a cozy local restaurant.
Why Go: The Romantic Road in winter is a storybook experience, offering a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
Honorable Mentions:
Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina & Virginia, USA: Drive through the Appalachian Mountains and enjoy stunning winter views and cozy mountain towns.
Trollstigen and the Atlantic Road – Norway: Experience the dramatic fjords and snow-covered peaks of Norway’s winter landscape.
South Island Road Trip – New Zealand: Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, from glaciers to picturesque coastal towns.
A winter road trip is the perfect way to explore new places, enjoy the beauty of the season, and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re chasing the sun along Australia’s Great Ocean Road or embracing the winter chill in the Canadian Rockies, these road trips offer something for every traveler.
