ROADTRIPS OF FAMOUS COASTLINES THAT NEED TO BE ON YOUR LIST (in my humble opinion)
One of my favourite travel styles are roadtrips. Coasting down the highway with the windows rolled down, wind blowing in my hair and the tunes turned up to epic volumes so I can sing as loud as I want. Now THAT'S a ride!
And just as an added perk - I can book your own self-driving trip to many of them.
The following are some I've either done, sent my clients on or need to yet be taken. Here's some of my favs for you to consider.
BIG SUR CALIFORNIA
This stunning slice of the Pacific Coast Highway - located between Carmel and San Simean in central California - is famous for its dramatic cliffs, towering redwoods, hidden covers, and fabulous views of the Pacific Ocean.
I travelled this road many a time when I was attending college in Santa Barbara, CA. Living in the Okanagan at the time, I'd go back and forth to school, return home, then drive to Winnipeg for family holidays.
It's beauty has intrigued adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and artists of all kinds for generations.
Music legends like the Beach Boys, writer Henry Miller and Francis McComas, an australian-born landscape artist who declared the area the "greatest meeting of land and water in the world."
As popular as it is, Big Sur remains relatively isolated and sparsely populated due to environmental protections, access to its steep coastal mountian range and rugged coastline.
Breathtaking vistas are a must-see, including Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls, where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean.
GARDEN ROUTE - SOUTH AFRICA
Spanning 125 miles along the southern coast of South Africa, the Garden Route extends from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape.
This glorious stretch of coastline, hugging the Indian Ocean, is known for its natural beauty - from lush forests to sparkling lakes, rocky mountains, and pristine beaches.
Visitors can enjoy the Garden Route in a variety of ways: road tripping with surreal coastal views, taking in the picturesque marinas of enchanting towns such as Knysna, hiking the mountains of Plettenberg Bay, or daring to traverse the famous suspension bridge in Tsitsikamma National Park.
South Africa often conjures up lions, giraffes, leopards and many exotic animals - but why not add onto that - the incredible coastline of the Garden Route, since you're already going that far.
TURQUOISE COAST - TURKEY
Most recently, I had clients who were doing a cruise from Turkey to Athens. So we arranged a pre-cruise land private tour for them, in Turkey. They were hesitant to say the least, of going. Once they came back, they couldn't say enough about how beautiful this country was and so glad they had the chance to see it.
Also known as the Turkish Riviera, this famous coastline curving along Turkey's southwest shore is as beautiful as the name suggests.
The word turquoise comes from the French "pierre tourques" meaning Turkish stone - the first brought to Europe via Turkey.
The coast has bays that sparkle the distinct turquoise blue, in particular the otherworldly lagoon known as Olu Deniz (Dead Sea).
It's also rich in history and culture, with ancient Lycian tombs, rock-cut churches, and bustling bazaars.
AMALFI COAST - ITALY
Having seen this coastline from both sea and land, I can attest to its incredible beauty. I had the pleasure of escorting a group to Italy in October 2019 to this beautiful region.
Situated along the southern edge of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula, it's famous steep limestone cliffs and coves, terraced vineyards, and lemon groves - all overlook the crystal-clear waters of teh Tyrrhenian Sea.
Charming towns such as Positano, Amalfi, Ravello and Sorrento dot the coast - each with distinct old-world and leisurely charm.
The region boasts a rich historical heritage, dating back to Roman times.
Visitors can explore several historica sites, ranging from cathedrals to ancient ruins and significant works of art.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also tackle scenic hiking trails such as the Path of the Gods, while foodies have their pick of abundant lemon farms to visit.
The BEST fresh clam spaghetti dish I ever had, was in Positano. Not to mention limoncello in Sorrento.
Designated a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE in 1997, its topography, history and culture, are second to none.
Recently, the Italian government started to restrict the number of visitors allowed and limited driving directions. Be sure you know before you go (that's what I'm here for).
GOLD COAST - AUSTRALIA
Coastlines don't have to be all about natural beauty. Australia's Gold Coast is a prime example. Spanning over 40 miles along Queensland's southeastern coastline - from Paradise Point along the Pacific Highway to Coolangatta at the New South Wales state border - Gold Coast is a bustline seaside city famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant urban culture and stunning skyline.
Iconic resort areas like Surfers Paradise, situated on its namesake beach, and Broadbeach, located on Kurrawa Beach, make the Gold Coast a mecca for surfers and sunbathers alike.
The city is also home to world-class theme parks like Dreamworld and Warner Bros. Movie World, as well as the lush bushwalks of teh Gold Coast Hinterland.
We offer Long Stays in Coolangatta - a different kind of a winter getaway considering their seasons are opposite ours, so perfect time to go!
FRENCH RIVIERA - FRANCE
World-famous for its idyllic beaches, mild Mediterrean climate and azure-blue waters (Cote D'Azur region), the French Riviera's been a magnet for artists, celebrities and tourists for centuries.
This South of France coastline is home to glamorous cities like Cannes and Nice; rolling hillsides of Provence; and the hilltop town of Eze - which feels like straight out of a fairytale.
It's also home to fascinating historic sites such as Monaco Opera and the Trophy Augustus.
PS - Join Us on my Escorted River Cruise through the South of France this fall 2024 - ask me for the deets.
GREAT OCEAN ROAD - AUSTRALIA
The Great Ocean Road, spanning 150 miles along Australia's southern coastline, is not only one of the country's most popular tourist destinations, but also a historical marvel.
Constructed by Australian soldiers returning from World War 1 between 1919 and 1932, this coastal highway offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the stunning vistas along Australia's southern edge, while also commemorating an important chapter in the nation's history.
As it meanders alongside the mighty Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road showcases dramatic seaside cliffs, the lush Maits rainforests, and the towering 12 Apostles limestone rock formations of Port Campbell National Park.
CABOT TRAIL - NOVA SCOTIA, OH CANADA!
The Cabot Trail is a 186-mile long roadway winding through Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Highlands.
Offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Gulf of St Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean - it's named in honour of explorer John Cabot. This breathtaking coastal area on the northern tip of the island also features old-growth Acadian forests, diverse wildlife, dramatic headlands and cliffs, and charming fishing villages rich with Celtic culture.
The Cabot Trail is especially famous for its vibrant autumn foliage, making it a popular destination for those seeking picturesque coastal scenery in the maritime provinces of Canada.
Take 2 days - 2 weeks - but take the time to see this incredible natural beauty.
ANTRIM COAST - NORTHERN IRELAND
Whenever I've clients wanting to do a trip to Ireland, I always tell them - you've not seen Ireland, until you've seen Northern Ireland - and especially the Antrim Coast.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize the Antrim Coast as one of the principal filming locations of the blockbuster show. Located in Northern Ireland, the captivating coastal region offers some of the most dramatic and varied countryside vistas in the country.
In fact, the region is so stunning it's been designated an official "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty". uh-huh - it most certainly is.
The coast is best explored through the Causeway Coastal Route. Across about 120 undulating miles, visitors can explore the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the historic Dunluce Castle perches on a cliff's edge, and most notably, Giant's Causeway, famed for its tens of thousands of interlocking basalt columns tht are a result of an ancient volcanic eruption. And if you happen to be there on a clear day - you can see Scotland from it.
Take the time and spend time in the coastal town of Portrush - home to the Portrush Golf Club - but also home to some of the finest beaches, people and hospitality you'll find anywhere.
Well, I hope I've inspired you to consider some self-drives (that I'm happen to plan/book for you). Not feeling confident to drive in some of the countries that drive on the left? We can always hire you a driver. We've got you covered.
When you're ready to travel, you know where to find me.
CONTACT ME cause planning a vacation makes you happy - and me too!