Top 10 Driving Holidays for 2012

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Guest Article by CarShop*

For those who like the independence that private transportation offers, there are many parts of the world just waiting to be explored by car. Below is a quick look at some of the areas I feel have the most to offer.

1. Pacific Coast Highway (USA)
Offering some of the best views of the Pacific coastline of California and passing by cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco, this route is a great choice for those who love the feeling of being on the open road.

2. Great Ocean Road (Australia)
Stretching from Warrnambool to Torquay in Victoria, although it is only 150 miles in length many visitors to Australia are keen to explore the Great Ocean Road. With sights such as the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone rock formations in the sea, and beautiful secluded bays along the way, it is easy to see why.

3. The Romantic Road (Germany)
Running from Würzburg in the south of the state to Füssen in the north, with a slight detour into the neighbouring state of Baden-Württemberg, this Bavarian highway passes by many charming towns as well as a good few picturesque castles that to many people embody the unique charm that this part of Germany possesses.

4. Amalfi Coast (Italy)
Popularised in books, films and video games over the years, a 25-mile drive from Maiori to Positano along the Amalfi Coast will take you through the whole area so it is not a destination for those who want to spend days behind the wheel. However, the mild Mediterranean climate and beautiful coastal towns attract many visitors every year and you can drive to Naples after exploring this Italian commune if you are still hungry for adventure.

5. Côte d'Azur (France, Monaco)
The Cote d'Azur has been popular with British holidaymakers for many years and one of the best ways to explore this region at a leisurely pace is by car. Taking a vehicle across the channel is simplicity itself these days and the views from the coastal road that connects resorts such as Cannes, St Tropez and Nice are fantastic.

6. Route 62 (South Africa)
A great way to explore the southern tip of Africa, this scenic highway will take you from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, passing through many of South Africa’s most famous wine growing regions along the way.

7. The Alaska Highway (USA)
If you fancy the idea of exploring a pristine wilderness, with snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes, the Alaska Highway is certainly worth considering. Nearly 1,400 miles in length, it is a route that only real motoring enthusiasts should attempt as it would probably take more than a day to complete even with no planned stops along the way.

8. Sydney to Cairns (Australia)
Another long journey of around 1,500 miles, you could easily spend a couple of weeks or more on this route that includes highlights such as Byron Bay and Gold Coast. Be sure to pack a variety of clothing, as Sydney can be rather chilly at times whereas Cairns has a tropical climate.

9. The Cornish Coast (UK)
Whether you choose the northern or southern route, you can travel from one end of Cornwall to the other in just over a couple of hours but with many beautiful beaches and great spots to stop for a bite to eat along the way, I would recommend taking your time.

10. The Irish Coast (Ireland)
Ireland boasts miles of dramatic coastline and you could spend weeks discovering it by road if you have the time to spare. Dingle Peninsula and the Copper Coast are two of the most popular areas that visitors head for but there are many more from which to choose.

I hope that these suggestions have invigorated your inspiration for the open road – summer holidays do not have to always be two weeks in a home from home, but can provide the opportunity to explore stunning areas of the world by road.
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* Founded in 1999, Car Shop is a leading online car specialist, with offline branches across the UK. They aim to provide the best information on getting the most out of your automobile.

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