UK adventurers are sharing their most cherished European road trip experiences, painting a vivid picture of the continent's diverse landscapes and hidden gems. From the rugged peaks of the Carpathian Mountains to the serene beauty of the Norwegian fjords, these reader-submitted accounts highlight journeys filled with stunning scenery, cultural discoveries, and unexpected encounters.
One particularly thrilling adventure involved navigating Romania's Transfăgărășan Highway, famously lauded by Jeremy Clarkson. Described as a 'motoring perfection' with its challenging hairpin bends and mountain climbs, the route also presented an unexpected wildlife spectacle: roadside bear sightings, with one even posing for photographs. This section of the road, leading to Bâlea Lake, is only accessible for a few summer months due to harsh winter conditions in the southern Carpathian Mountains, adding to its allure and pristine beauty.
Closer to home, a comprehensive 1,000-mile road trip around Ireland captured the hearts of another couple. Starting from Belfast after an overnight ferry from Liverpool, their journey encompassed iconic locations such as Dublin, Cork, and Galway. Highlights included the picturesque Ring of Kerry and the unique karst landscape of the Burren in Co Clare, alongside beautiful beaches, historical sites, and, of course, the renowned Irish hospitality and pub culture.
Scandinavia also featured prominently, with a Norwegian fjord expedition offering breathtaking views from Bergen to Vossevangen, including a diversion to Flåm for a sauna experience. The route incorporated the Myrkdalen road, known for its waterfalls and exciting descents, and ferry crossings along the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest. Meanwhile, a full circuit of Iceland's Ring Road provided dramatic landscapes, varied weather conditions, and the unique opportunity for whale-watching and swimming in geothermal pools, albeit in a country noted for its higher cost of living.
Further south, Germany's Romantische Strasse (Romantic Road) captivated travellers with its 286-mile journey through Bavaria. This themed tourist route, a successful post-war initiative, took drivers through picturesque medieval towns like Nördlingen – uniquely built within a meteor crater – culminating at the fairytale Schloss Neuschwanstein. The trip was complemented by hearty Bavarian cuisine, local beers, and stays in charming local hotels. Even within the UK, the road to Orkney was celebrated, with stops at Scottish landmarks such as the Falkirk Wheel, the Kelpies, and historic castles, all set against the spectacular Caithness coastline.
These shared experiences underscore the enduring appeal of road trips as a way to explore Europe, offering freedom, flexibility, and the chance to forge unforgettable memories, whether encountering wildlife, discovering hidden villages, or simply enjoying the open road.