15 Best Motorcycle Road Trips Around the World
Dreaming of the open road? From legendary motorcycle road trips across America’s Route 66 to epic mountain motorbike adventures in Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond, riders have endless opportunities to explore. These iconic motorcycle travel routes combine breathtaking scenery, thrilling switchbacks, long-distance motorcycle touring, and off-road challenges that belong on every rider’s bucket list. Whether you crave coastal highways, alpine passes, desert trails, or jungle curves, these are the best motorcycle rides worldwide – unforgettable journeys that fuel the spirit of adventure.
My Top 15 Picks
- Route 66 (USA) – The world’s most famous cross-country ride, full of Americana history.
- Stelvio Pass (Italy/Switzerland) – Iconic alpine switchbacks and stunning European scenery.
- Pacific Coast Highway – Big Sur (USA) – Legendary ocean cliffs, redwoods, and winding tarmac.
- North Coast 500 (Scotland, UK) – Remote highlands, castles, and wild coastal beauty.
- Carretera Austral (Chile, Patagonia) – Remote wilderness with fjords, glaciers, and gravel.
- Transfăgărășan Highway (Romania) – Dramatic alpine road, hailed as “the best in the world.”
- Himalayan Spiti Valley Circuit (India) – Extreme altitude, monasteries, and raw off-road adventure.
- Mae Hong Son Loop (Thailand) – 1,864 bends through jungle mountains and hill tribe villages.
- Ring Road (Iceland) – Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and glaciers in one epic loop.
- Great Ocean Road (Australia) – Surf beaches, rainforest, and the Twelve Apostles.
- Atlas Mountains Loop (Morocco) – High passes, desert roads, and Berber villages.
- Dalmatian Coast (Croatia) – Sparkling Adriatic coastline with medieval towns and islands.
- Great Alpine Road (Australia, Victoria) – Alpine switchbacks, wineries, and ocean finish.
- Garden Route (South Africa) – Wildlife reserves, coastal cliffs, and forested roads.
- Knuckles Mountain Range (Sri Lanka) – A short but thrilling off-road climb with misty peaks.
Route 66 (USA)
The historic 2,448-mile Route 66 ran from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Established in 1926 and nicknamed the “Mother Road”, it symbolizes American freedom, wanderlust, and the drive west—linking small towns, neon motels, and roadside oddities with a living museum of 20th-century culture.
Quick Facts
- Route: Chicago (Lake Michigan) → Santa Monica (Pacific Ocean)
- Distance: 2,448 miles / 3,940 km
- States: IL, MO, KS, OK, TX, NM, AZ, CA
- Road Type: Mostly paved; mix of historic alignments, byways, highways
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (long distances, weather & traffic management)
- Best Time: Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct (milder temps, fewer extremes)
Why It Matters
Route 66 helped drive westward migration during the Dust Bowl era and became the quintessential post-war American road trip. It’s immortalized in pop culture—think “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66”, the Route 66 TV series, and Pixar’s Cars. Today, surviving segments operate as historic byways, preserving diners, gas stations, motels, and murals that chart America’s changing landscape.
Highlights
- Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)
- Wigwam Motel (Holbrook, Arizona)
- Blue Whale of Catoosa (Oklahoma)
- Meramec Caverns (Missouri)
- Santa Monica Pier terminus (California)
- Neon signs, murals, classic diners & mom-and-pop motels
Safety & Ride Tips
- Plan fuel & overnights: Some stretches are sparse; book popular vintage motels ahead.
- Weather watch: Summer heat in the Southwest; spring storms in the Plains—layer up & hydrate.
- Historic vs. modern alignments: Some old segments are rough or discontinuous—use a current GPX/guide.
- Time your detours: Museum stops and photo ops add up—budget extra hours daily.
- Respect small towns: Mind local speed limits and support local businesses.
The magic of Route 66 isn’t just the landmarks—it’s the journey: serendipitous stops, friendly locals, and the feeling of riding through living history on America’s most storied road.
Stelvio Pass (Italy/Switzerland)
The Stelvio Pass is a legendary mountain road and the highest paved mountain pass in Italy, soaring to 2,757 meters (9,045 ft) within the Ortler Alps. Famous for its dramatic 48 hairpin turns and breathtaking alpine views, it connects Italy with the Engadin region of Switzerland, offering riders a mix of technical challenges, stunning scenery, and a journey through history and culture.
Key Features
- Altitude: 2,757 m / 9,045 ft (highest paved pass in Italy)
- Hairpin Bends: 48 iconic switchbacks on the NE side
- Scenery: Ortler Alps, glaciers, and Stelvio National Park
- History: WWI defensive positions and historic trails
- Skiing: Summer skiing on the Stelvio Glacier
- Culture: “Three Languages Peak” where Italian, German, Romansh meet
Visiting the Pass
- Best Time: Summer months (road closed in winter); visit early or late to avoid crowds
- Activities: Ride, cycle, hike, ski, explore WWI trails
- Amenities: Restaurants, souvenir shops, hotels nearby
- Location: Italian Alps, between Lombardy & South Tyrol, linking to Engadin, Switzerland
Riding the Stelvio Pass is more than just tackling switchbacks—it’s about experiencing one of Europe’s most iconic alpine roads, where engineering, nature, and history converge. A must-ride for motorcyclists seeking breathtaking views and a true test of skill.
Pacific Coast Highway – Big Sur (USA)
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) through Big Sur is famed for dramatic ocean cliffs, towering redwoods, and winding tarmac where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific. From Carmel to San Simeon, riders experience one of the world’s most iconic coastal routes, with engineering marvels like Bixby Bridge and natural wonders such as McWay Falls.
Key Characteristics
- Iconic Roadway: Highway 1’s challenging, winding path with constant ocean views
- Dramatic Cliffs: Sheer drops into the deep-blue Pacific along rugged headlands
- Redwood Forests: Majestic coastal redwoods frame canyons and creek valleys
- Engineering Marvels: The 1930s-era Bixby Bridge defines the coast’s silhouette
Top Sights & Activities
- Bixby Bridge: Iconic photo stop spanning a dramatic canyon
- McWay Falls (Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP): 80-ft waterfall dropping into a turquoise cove
- Pfeiffer Beach: Famous for its purple-tinted sand and sea stacks
- Vista Points: Numerous turnouts for panoramic ocean-and-mountain views
Driving / Riding Tips
- Direction: North → South gives better views and safer access to turnouts
- Plan Time: Frequent photo stops make the route slower than maps suggest
- Check Conditions: Weather & maintenance can cause closures—verify before departure
- Seasonal Caution: Fog (esp. mornings), wind, and tourist traffic—ride defensively
Quick Facts
- Route: Carmel-by-the-Sea → San Simeon (Big Sur segment)
- Distance: ~145 km / 90 mi (segment); extended PCH spans far beyond
- Road Type: Fully paved, narrow, winding coastal highway
- Difficulty: Moderate (tight curves, cliffs, weather/traffic variability)
- Best Time: Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct (milder weather, fewer closures)
Big Sur’s PCH is a ride of constant drama—cliffs, coves, redwoods, and sweeping curves. Take it slow, savor the overlooks, and let the coast’s raw beauty shape the journey.
North Coast 500 (Scotland, UK)
The North Coast 500 (NC500) is a 516-mile circular route around the Scottish Highlands, starting and ending in Inverness. Launched in 2015, it threads together wild coasts, mountain passes, beaches, lochs, and castle-studded headlands—one of the world’s great road trips and a very different experience from America’s Route 66.
Key Aspects of the NC500
- Scenic Driving: Mix of open coastal highways and narrow single-track roads.
- Diverse Landscapes: Rugged west coast, far-north cliffs, tranquil lochs, white-sand beaches.
- History & Culture: Ancient castles, fishing villages, Gaelic heritage, seafood & hospitality.
- Activities: Hiking, wildlife spotting (dolphins, red deer), photography, slow travel.
Planning Your Trip
- Duration: Minimum 5 days; 8–10 days allows hikes and detours.
- Accommodation: Book early—lodges, B&Bs, cabins, campsites fill fast.
- Navigation: Varied surfaces; good ground clearance and weather gear recommended.
- Direction: Many ride anti-clockwise; clockwise offers a fresh perspective.
Quick Facts
- Route: Inverness → West & North Coasts → East Coast → Inverness
- Distance: 516 miles / 830 km (loop)
- Road Type: Mostly paved; includes single-track with passing places
- Difficulty: Moderate (weather, wind, sheep, tight lanes)
- Best Time: May–Sep for longer days; shoulder seasons for fewer crowds
Safety & Ride Tips
- Single-Track Etiquette: Use passing places; let faster traffic by.
- Weather Ready: Four seasons in a day—pack layers, waterproofs, heated grips if possible.
- Fuel & Food: Services can be sparse—top up often and carry snacks/water.
- Wildlife & Livestock: Watch for sheep and deer, especially dawn/dusk.
- Respect Local Communities: Ride quietly through villages; leave no trace.
The NC500 is about wilderness and wonder—wind-carved cliffs, silent lochs, and roads that ask you to slow down and savor Scotland’s far-flung beauty at your own pace.
Carretera Austral (Chile, Patagonia)
The Carretera Austral is a legendary, mostly gravel road slicing through Chilean Patagonia’s remote wilderness—fjords, glaciers, temperate rainforests, turquoise rivers, and snow-capped peaks—from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins. Expect ferry crossings, tiny frontier towns like Caleta Tortel, and endless opportunities for hiking, kayaking, rafting, and glacier trekking. Prime season runs from late October to February.
What Is the Carretera Austral?
- Length: ~1,200 km / 750 miles through Chile’s Aysén Region
- End-to-End: Puerto Montt (north) → Villa O’Higgins (south)
- Character: Remote frontier route emphasizing isolation and self-reliance
Key Features
- Gravel Roads: Long unpaved stretches—bumpy, dusty, or muddy after rain
- Diverse Landscapes: Rainforests, fjords, glaciers, turquoise rivers, jagged peaks
- Remote & Unspoiled: Sparse services; long gaps between fuel and food
- Ferry Crossings: Multiple segments (esp. north) require scheduled ferries
Must-See & Activities
- Marble Caves: Boat/kayak on Lago General Carrera to surreal caverns
- Glaciers: Trek Glaciar Exploradores (N. Patagonian Ice Field)
- Queulat NP: View the famous Hanging Glacier above lush rainforest
- Caleta Tortel: Boardwalk village of cypress walkways over emerald water
- Adventure: Rafting Futaleufú, kayaking, trekking, fly-fishing
Planning Your Trip
- Best Time: Late Oct–Feb (long days, more stable weather)
- Transport: Car/camper or ADV bike with off-road tires; cycle touring is popular
- Ferries: Research/booking required; schedules change and sell out in season
- Prep: Carry extra fuel, tools, tubes, layers, and food—services thin out south
Quick Facts
- Road Type: Mixed paved/gravel (increasingly paved in sections)
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard (weather, ripio, ferries, remoteness)
- Direction: North→South or South→North; both are epic
- Pace: Allow 10–14 days for stops and weather buffers
The Carretera Austral is Patagonia at its most raw and rewarding: a ride where fjords meet glaciers, gravel meets rainforest, and the journey itself becomes the destination.
Transfăgărășan Highway (Romania)
The Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania’s most dramatic alpine road, carving through the Făgăraș Mountains in a cascade of tight hairpins, steep climbs, and sweeping vistas. It gained global fame when Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson (S14E01) called it the “best road in the world”—and riders still flock here for the scenery and the adrenaline.
Key Characteristics
- Dramatic Alpine Views: Steep gradients, stacked hairpins, panoramic ridgelines
- Historic Hype: 2009 Top Gear feature crowned it over Stelvio Pass
- Thrilling Ride: Fast elevation changes and technical corners reward skilled riders
Why It’s Popular
- Scenery: Towering peaks, glacial lakes, and jaw-dropping switchbacks
- Adrenaline: Continuous hairpins and cambered turns for an exhilarating flow
- Pop Culture: The “world’s best road” tag boosted its international fame
Quick Facts
- Route: DN7C between Bascov (near Pitești) and Cârțișoara (near Sibiu)
- Distance: ~150 km / 93 mi
- Road Type: Fully paved, narrow alpine highway
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard (tight bends, weather, traffic)
- Best Time: Jul–Sep (often closed by snow outside summer)
Safety & Ride Tips
- Check Status: Verify seasonal openings; snow and rockfalls can close sections
- Start Early: Beat tourist traffic and afternoon storms; watch for fog
- Surface Caution: Occasional gravel, potholes, and damp patches in tunnels
- Wildlife & Livestock: Keep speed in check—sheep and bears reported in region
- Fuel & Brakes: Top up before climbing; use engine braking on descents
Come for the myth, stay for the mountains: the Transfăgărășan delivers a sculpted ribbon of tarmac that blends raw Carpathian beauty with relentless, technical fun.
Himalayan Spiti Valley Circuit (India)
The Spiti Valley Circuit in Himachal Pradesh is a high-altitude adventure through stark Himalayan desert, ancient monasteries, and demanding off-road trails. Treks and bike tours connect remote villages and sacred sites—unforgettable, but only for riders prepared for extreme altitude and changeable conditions.
Key Characteristics
- Extreme Altitude: High-desert region; acclimatization essential
- Monasteries: Tibetan Buddhist gompas, murals, relics, and festivals
- Off-Road Adventure: Broken tarmac, gravel, water crossings, and rock gardens
- Dramatic Landscapes: Deep valleys, high passes, barren yet beautiful vistas
What to Expect
- Soul-Touching: Many describe the circuit as transformative
- Challenges: Rough surfaces, thin air, long days—guides make it manageable
- Cultural Immersion: Isolated villages, homestays, local food & customs
Planning Your Trip
- Operators: Consider experienced tour companies for logistics & support
- Season: Late May–Sep typically most accessible; expect weather swings
- Documents: Carry ID/permits where required; check regional advisories
- Bike Setup: Dual-sport/ADV with knobbies; tubes, tools, spares, and luggage
Quick Facts
- Route: Shimla / Manali gateways → Kaza hub → villages & passes
- Distance: ~600–900 km depending on detours
- Road Type: Mixed—paved, gravel, dirt, stream crossings
- Difficulty: Hard (altitude, weather, surface, remoteness)
- Highlights: Key, Dhankar, Tabo monasteries; Chandra-Taal (seasonal)
Safety & Ride Tips
- Acclimatize: Stage gains; hydrate; avoid alcohol early on
- Pace & Fuel: Short day ranges; top up often; carry extra if possible
- Gear: Layered cold-weather kit, waterproofs, heated grips if available
- Navigation: Offline maps; power bank; spotty signal
- Contingencies: Weather/landslides; keep buffer days and cash
Spiti rewards preparation with peak-to-peak drama, sacred spaces, and trail-tested grit— a Himalayan ride that stays with you long after the dust settles.
Mae Hong Son Loop (Thailand)
The Mae Hong Son Loop is a legendary circuit in Northern Thailand—1,864 bends through jungle-clad mountains, waterfalls, and hill-tribe country. Starting and ending in Chiang Mai, the route (notably Highway 1095) serves up challenging twists, sweeping vistas, and vibrant towns like Pai and Mae Hong Son. Popular with experienced riders, but doable by car as well.
Key Characteristics
- 1,864 Bends: Signature feature—continuous curves, especially on Hwy 1095
- Scenery: Jungles, deep valleys, waterfalls, mountain viewpoints
- Culture: Authentic Thai villages and hill-tribe communities
- Destinations: Bohemian Pai, tranquil Mae Hong Son, hot springs & caves
Practical Information
- Duration: Fast: ~3 days; Better: 4–6+ days for stops and hikes
- Transport: Ideal by motorcycle; also feasible by car
- Start/End: Typically a loop from Chiang Mai
- Challenges: City traffic leaving CM, slow trucks/tour vans, constant cornering
Tips for Your Trip
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush—stop at viewpoints and enjoy local culture
- Pace Yourself: The sheer curve count is tiring—rest often, hydrate
- Consider a Driver: If you’d rather relax and sightsee, hire a pro driver
- Safety: Watch diesel spills near corners; mind fog/rain in the wet season
Quick Facts
- Distance: ~600–700 km depending on detours
- Road Type: Fully paved, narrow & winding mountain roads
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard (relentless curves, weather, traffic)
- Best Time: Nov–Feb (cool/dry); Mar–Apr can be smoky; May–Oct wet season
With endless corners, lush jungle, and lively towns, the Mae Hong Son Loop delivers a ride-for-the-senses—best enjoyed unrushed, with plenty of stops to soak it all in.
Ring Road (Iceland)
Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) is a 1,332 km / 828 mi highway that circles the island, stitching together volcanoes, glaciers, black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and fjords. It’s the nation’s main artery and an iconic road trip—accessing Seljalandsfoss, Jökulsárlón, Vík’s sea cliffs, and more. Allow ~10 days+ for an immersive lap (fastest trips are possible, but rushed).
Key Features of the Ring Road
- Volcanic Landscapes: Craters, geothermal fields, vast lava plains
- Waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and countless hidden cascades
- Glaciers: Views of Vatnajökull and outlet glaciers meeting black sands
- Black-Sand Beaches: Dramatic south-coast shores near Vík & Dyrhólaey
- Fjords: Quiet inlets and mountains, especially in the east
Planning Your Ring Road Trip
- Duration: Can be 4 days fast; ideally 10–14 days for hikes & side trips
- Highlights: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dyrhólaey, Jökulsárlón lagoon
- Direction: Either way works; many go counter-clockwise from Reykjavík
- Season: Late May–Sep best for weather/daylight; winter riding is severe
Quick Facts
- Route: Looping Route 1 around Iceland, linking major towns
- Road Type: Paved highway with some narrow/rough segments
- Difficulty: Moderate (wind, weather swings, wildlife, tourist traffic)
- Fuel/Food: Regular services but space out stops in remote stretches
Safety & Ride Tips
- Weather: Changes rapidly; check forecasts and wind warnings daily
- Wind & Grip: Strong crosswinds; beware slick surfaces near spray zones
- Visibility: Fog/rain common—high-viz gear and anti-fog visors help
- Sheep & Birds: Watch for animals crossing, especially in rural areas
- Buffer Days: Keep spare days for storms or closed side roads
The Ring Road serves pure “fire and ice” drama—an ever-changing loop of waterfalls, glaciers, lava fields, and sea cliffs. Take it slow, chase the light, and let Iceland unfold.
Great Ocean Road (Australia, Victoria)
The Great Ocean Road in Victoria stretches ~664 km / 413 mi from Torquay to Port Fairy, showcasing Bells Beach, lush Great Otway rainforests, and the iconic Twelve Apostles. A National Heritage-listed road built by returning WWI soldiers, it’s one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives—combining engineering history with natural wonders.
Key Features & Attractions
- Twelve Apostles: Towering limestone stacks eroded by the Southern Ocean
- Surf Beaches: Bells Beach, home of the Rip Curl Pro surfing event
- Great Otway NP: Rainforests, waterfalls, treetop walks, zip-lining
- Wildlife: Spot koalas, kangaroos, emus, and native birds
- Coastal Towns: Torquay, Lorne, Apollo Bay—surf, food, and charm
- Great Ocean Walk: Hiking trail along cliffs and through national parks
Planning Your Trip
- Duration: Drive in ~9.5 hrs nonstop; better as a 3-day tour
- Starting Point: Melbourne → Torquay gateway to surf coast
- Activities: Surfing, hiking, lookouts, zip-lining, regional food
- Wildlife: Best seen near Otways & Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
Historical Significance
- Built: 1919–1932 by returned WWI soldiers
- Purpose: War memorial and employment project
- Listed: Recognized as a National Heritage road
Quick Facts
- Distance: ~664 km / 413 mi
- Route: Torquay → Port Fairy via coastal Victoria
- Road Type: Fully paved, coastal and forest sections
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (traffic, tourists, winding roads)
- Best Time: Nov–Apr for warm weather; winter is quiet but cooler
The Great Ocean Road is more than a drive—it’s a journey through Australia’s coastal soul, where surf, cliffs, wildlife, and history meet in one unforgettable ride.
Atlas Mountains Loop (Morocco)
An Atlas Mountains Loop delivers rugged passes, Berber villages, and arid desert roads in one unforgettable ride. From North Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal, to walnut-lined valleys and kasbah-dotted gorges, this journey blends scenic driving, trekking, and cultural immersion—all within easy reach of Marrakech.
Key Aspects of the Loop
- High Mountain Passes: Panoramic viewpoints linking summer pastures & villages
- Desert Roads: Transition from alpine switchbacks to arid plateaus & oases
- Berber Villages: Stone-and-mud hamlets, mule tracks, timeless customs
- Trekking: From short hikes to multi-day routes toward Jebel Toubkal
- Cultural Immersion: Stay in gîtes, savor tagine, observe farming & craft traditions
- Scenery: Lush valleys, barren rock, gorges, walnut groves, waterfalls
Popular Destinations
- Imlil: Gateway village to Toubkal National Park & trailheads
- Mount Toubkal: North Africa’s highest peak; trekking/climbing hub
- Tizi n’Tichka / Tizi n’Test: Iconic passes with sweeping vistas
- Aït Benhaddou: UNESCO ksar on the southern flank (common detour)
- Ourika / Azzaden Valleys: Waterfalls, orchards, and terraced farms
Getting There & Logistics
- Start: Typically from Marrakech—easy access to passes & valleys
- Tours: Local guides, cooks & muleteers support walks/treks
- Stays: Gîtes & guesthouses offer meals and cultural experiences
- Roads: Mix of paved mountain passes & rougher desert spurs—dual-sport ideal
- Best Time: Apr–Jun & Sep–Oct (avoid peak summer heat & winter snow on high passes)
Quick Facts
- Route: Marrakech → High Atlas passes/valleys → southern desert rim → return
- Distance: 400–800 km depending on detours
- Road Type: Mostly paved in mountains; optional gravel/desert side tracks
- Difficulty: Moderate (passes, traffic, weather) to Hard (off-pavement spurs)
- Highlights: Toubkal views, Berber culture, kasbahs, canyon roads
Safety & Ride Tips
- Altitude & Weather: Expect rapid changes—layers & wind protection
- Road Etiquette: Watch for buses/trucks on hairpins; use engine braking
- Fuel & Water: Top up frequently; carry water/snacks in remote stretches
- Navigation: Offline maps useful; some valleys have limited signal
- Respect Local Customs: Ask before photos; dress modestly in villages
From snow-dusted passes to sunbaked desert roads, the Atlas Mountains Loop offers a rich blend of riding, trekking, and culture—a North African epic within striking distance of Marrakech.
Dalmatian Coast (Croatia)
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast lines the Adriatic with clear, turquoise waters, hundreds of islands, and medieval cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar. It’s perfect for swimming, sailing, island hopping, and exploring Roman ruins—an ideal blend of history and seaside relaxation.
Key Characteristics
- Seaside Scenery: Sparkling waters, rocky coves, pebble beaches
- Hundreds of Islands: Hvar, Korčula, Brač—easy island-hopping
- Medieval Cities: Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar with intact walls & stone lanes
- Rich History: Roman sites like Diocletian’s Palace in Split
- Vibrant Culture: Wineries, seafood, and regional specialties
Things to Do
- Explore Medieval Towns: Walk walls & old towns (Dubrovnik, Zadar)
- Go Island Hopping: Ferries/small-ship cruises to Hvar, Korčula, Brač
- Enjoy the Adriatic: Swim, kayak, SUP, rent small craft
- Visit Historical Sites: Roman ruins & museums
- Taste Local Delicacies: Fresh seafood, olive oil, local wines
When to Visit
- Peak (Jun–Aug): Hot, sunny, perfect for beaches—also the busiest
- Shoulder (Apr–May & Sep–Oct): Warm seas, fewer crowds—great for exploring
Quick Facts
- Region: Croatia’s Adriatic coastline (Dalmatia)
- Road Type: Paved coastal highways; optional island ferries
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (summer traffic, coastal winds)
- Highlights: Dubrovnik walls, Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, island vistas
Ride cliff-lined coasts, wander walled towns, and hop sunlit islands—the Dalmatian Coast pairs historic charm with an endlessly swimmable Adriatic.
Great Alpine Road (Australia, Victoria)
The Great Alpine Road is a 308 km sealed scenic route from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale—Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road. It threads Victorian Alps switchbacks (via Mt Hotham), gold-rush towns, and gourmet wine regions before rolling to the coastal Gippsland Lakes (popular finish at Metung). Expect forests, valleys, vineyards, and sparkling waterways in one diverse ride.
Route Highlights
- Wangaratta & Ovens Valley: Murray to Mountains Rail Trail & river scenery
- Gourmet Food & Wine: Beechworth heritage, Milawa & King Valley wineries
- Alpine Peaks & Towns: Over Mt Hotham; villages like Harrietville & Bright
- Mount Buffalo NP: Granite domes, waterfalls, and walking tracks
- Gippsland Lakes: Coastal wind-down at Metung after Bairnsdale
When to Go
- Winter: Open, but chains required between Harrietville & Omeo in snow season
- Summer: Warm-weather hiking, cycling, camping, lake time
- Autumn: Bright’s famous foliage; mushroom foraging season
Key Considerations
- Snow Chains: Carry & fit during the declared snow season (Harrietville↔Omeo)
- Road Conditions: Fully sealed, but can be icy in winter—ride defensively
- Journey Time: ~5 hours nonstop; better as a multi-day tour with overnights
Quick Facts
- Route: Wangaratta → Mt Hotham → Omeo → Bairnsdale (popular coastal finish at Metung)
- Distance: 308 km core route (touring versions with detours ~339 km)
- Road Type: Sealed alpine highway with sustained climbs/descents
- Difficulty: Moderate (weather, altitude, corners, occasional snow/ice)
- Best Time: Nov–Apr for mild temps; winter for snow scenes (with chains)
From cool-climate vineyards to high-country switchbacks and a serene ocean finish, the Great Alpine Road delivers peak-to-coast variety—a signature Victorian ride worth savoring over days.
Garden Route (South Africa)
The Garden Route is a ~300 km coastal stretch across South Africa’s Western & Eastern Cape, known for lush forests, dramatic coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, wetlands, and abundant wildlife. Highlights include Knysna (lagoon), Plettenberg Bay (marine life & reserves), and Wilderness (lakes & wetlands)—a classic road trip of nature-rich towns and scenic drives.
Key Features
- Wildlife Reserves: Baboons, seals, antelope; some reserves offer Big 5 viewing
- Cliffs & Beaches: Rugged headlands, sandy strands, surfing & swimming
- Forests & Rivers: Ancient forests, wetlands, tranquil rivers & lagoons
Key Towns & Locations
- Knysna: Lagoon town, famed oyster festival
- Plettenberg Bay: Beaches, marine life & nearby game reserves
- Wilderness: Serene lakes, wetlands, long beaches
- The Crags: Family-friendly sanctuaries like Birds of Eden
Activities
- Scenic Drives: Coastal viewpoints and forest backroads
- Wildlife Viewing: Game drives (e.g., Plettenberg Game Reserve), marine sightings
- Birdwatching: Visit the world’s largest free-flight aviary—Birds of Eden
- Nature Exploration: Forest walks, wetland boardwalks, cliff lookouts
Planning Your Trip
- Duration: 5–10 days recommended to enjoy towns & reserves
- Starting Point: Popular from Cape Town via the N2 (or scenic coastal detours)
- Pace: Build in time for beaches, forest trails, and lagoon cruises
Quick Facts
- Distance: ~300 km coastal corridor
- Route: Mossel Bay ↔ Storms River (core), with detours to towns & reserves
- Road Type: Mostly paved (N2) with scenic side roads
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (traffic, wind, wildlife on roads)
From forest canopies to cliff-lined shores and wildlife reserves, the Garden Route blends coastal beauty with biodiversity—a flexible road trip that rewards slow travel.
Knuckles Mountain Range (Sri Lanka) — Motorcycle Ride
A compact but intense playground for dual-sport/ADV riders: the Knuckles Mountain Range mixes misty ridge roads, rough jeep tracks, river crossings, and tight hairpins through rainforest and cloud-forest. Expect wet clay, mossy concrete, slick rock, and jaw-dropping viewpoints—best tackled unrushed and with respect for the UNESCO-listed conservation area and its villages.
Riding Highlights
- Misty Ridges & Hairpins: Short, steep climbs with tight switchbacks and sudden fog.
- Mixed Surfaces: Paved lanes, broken tarmac, gravel, red clay, shallow fords.
- Big Views: Roadside access to vistas near Mini World’s End and high ridgelines.
- Waterfalls & Forest: Cool micro-climates, river valleys, and jungle soundtracks.
Suggested Day Routes (Legal Roads Only)
- Kandy ⇄ Knuckles Loop: Kandy → Hunnasgiriya → (viewpoints near Deanston) → back via Teldeniya. ~120–160 km, mixed surfaces.
- Matale ⇄ Riverston Spur: Matale → Rattota → Riverston Pass → Pitawala area → return. ~100–140 km; windy ridges, short gravel spurs.
- Eastern Valleys Taster: Ududumbara side roads to village valleys; turn back before hiking-only trails. Flexible distance; keep to public roads.
Important: Do not ride on hiking-only tracks inside the Conservation Forest. Stay on public roads/jeep tracks and heed local signage.
Bike Setup & Skills
- Bike: 250–650cc dual-sport/ADV ideal; lighter bikes shine on clay climbs.
- Tyres: 50/50 or knobbies (trail-friendly pressures); carry tubes/plug kit & tools.
- Protection: Handguards, bash plate, radiator/engine guards recommended.
- Gear: Waterproof layers, warm mid-layer, breathable armor; pack dry bags.
- Navigation: Offline maps/GPS; power bank. Signal can be patchy.
Safety, Rules & Respect
- Weather Windows: Drier spells are typically Jan–Mar and Jun–Sep; heavy rain makes clay sections treacherous.
- Permits & Access: Hiking areas may need permits; motorised access is restricted off public roads.
- Ride Light & Quiet: Slow near homes/temples; avoid roosting pedestrians or livestock.
- Fuel & Food: Top up in larger towns (e.g., Kandy, Matale); carry water & snacks.
- Guides: Local guides add safety, route knowledge, and cultural context.
Quick Facts
- Terrain: Sealed backroads + gravel/jeep tracks; steep, slick when wet.
- Difficulty: Moderate–Hard depending on weather & route choice.
- Distance: Compact day loops (80–160 km) feel longer due to pace/terrain.
- Highlights: Ridge vistas, forest canyons, roadside waterfalls, village life.
Short in miles, huge in character: Knuckles delivers technical climbs, rainforest mood, and ridge-top drama—an ADV sampler that rewards smooth throttle, patience, and local respect.
Ready to ride? Browse our latest motorcycle tours, and get turn-by-turn help with the Cardo Riser map navigation app.
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