While some people find joy in admiring the scenic countryside during their trips, others are stuck gazing at the bustling traffic and highways of the Golden-domed River. We'd like to extend an invitation for you to explore five of the most breathtaking highways on our planet. These roads are a harmonious blend of Mother Nature's handiwork and human ingenuity. Traveling these routes won't just take you from one place to another; they will provide you with an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendor and variety of our natural landscapes.
Transfăgărași highway, Romania
The Transfăgărașan Highway in Romania is a prime example of a military road transformed into a beloved tourist destination. Spanning 261 km, it meanders through scenic valleys, golden wheat fields, vibrant lakes, reservoirs, and quaint Romanian villages. Journeying on this road offers a rich cultural experience.
The city of Sibiu is particularly noteworthy. Here, you can delve into the traditional Romanian architecture, showcasing the region's unique historical and cultural heritage. Visitors staying in local villages will find an array of architectural marvels, including Orthodox and Catholic churches and mosques, each representing the region's diverse religious and cultural tapestry. The Transfăgărașan Highway offers a window not only to Romania's natural beauty but also to its cultural richness.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
The 243 km long road winds along the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Unlike Transfăgărașan, this road was not intended as a practical transport route – it was built as a memorial dedicated to the victims of the First World War. Three decades after its opening, in 1962, it was recognized as one of the most picturesque highways in the world.
Traveling along it, you can enjoy breathtaking views not only of the endless waters of the ocean, but also of the famous "Shipwreck Coast": more than 600 ships were wrecked on this section of the coast at different times, each of which wrote its own page in the history of the area. This road is not just a path between points A and B on the map, but also a journey through history, nature and culture, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Big Gate Road, China
China, known for the Great Wall, also boasts one of the world's most extraordinary serpentine roads to Mount Tianmen. This 11 km road makes 99 turns, reflecting the number 9's significance in Chinese culture, symbolizing imperial power and heavenly blessings. Legend suggests nine heavenly palaces await humans.
The road is immensely popular, with the Heaven's Gate Cave along the route enhancing its mystical allure.
Chuysky Trakt, Russia
The Chuysky Trakt, an ancient road linking Russia and China, offers a journey through history and stunning landscapes. Starting in Biysk, passing through Gorno-Altaisk, and skirting the Katun River, it leads deep into taiga forests.
This route is an adventure at every turn, revealing new horizons and opportunities to explore. It invites travelers to stray from well-trodden paths and immerse in Siberia's unique ambiance, from towering mountains to vast taiga. It's not just a nature trip but a journey into the region's ancient history and heritage.
Verdon Gorge, France
Though smaller than the Grand Canyon, France's Verdon Gorge is equally magnificent, boasting Europe's largest canyon. It demands a full day to appreciate its grandeur fully.
The 25 km road along the canyon is a continuous sequence of twists, dips, and climbs, revealing breathtaking panoramas and landscapes. Traveling here offers a chance to witness one of Europe's most renowned natural wonders in all its majestic beauty.
