Embarking on an RV trip isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s a journey of freedom, adventure, and discovery. It lets you set your own pace, explore hidden gems, and immerse in new cultures. From the windswept Scottish Highlands to the sun-kissed beaches of California, some places are best experienced on four wheels. Here is the ultimate guide to the top 12 RV travel destinations that you should not miss.
1. The North Coast 500, Scotland: The European Route 66
Often referred to as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, North Coast 500 offers an enthralling journey through the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. This route stretches over 516 miles, weaving through crumbling castles, quaint fishing towns, and remote distilleries. The road is a rollercoaster ride, undulating through the mountains, valleys, and overlooking the shimmering lochs.
On your journey along the North Coast 500, you’ll come across the highest pass in Scotland, Bealach na Bà, and the northernmost point of mainland Britain, John o’ Groats. The route also offers a chance to explore the cozy pubs and impressive landmarks of Inverness, the largest city in the Highlands.
2. Iceland: A Unique Adventure
Iceland, a country known for its distinctive and varied landscapes, provides a singularly unique adventure for those who love to travel by RV. You can easily find a campervan Iceland rental then begin your adventure immediately. The country’s natural wonders are a sight to behold, offering a myriad of experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.
One of the most popular routes for RV travelers is the Ring Road, also known as Route 1. This well-traveled road circles the entirety of the country, providing awe-inspiring views of black sand beaches, majestic glaciers, soothing hot springs, and cascading waterfalls.
3. East Coast Australia: A Party on Wheels
Australia’s East Coast is a paradise for road trippers. Starting from the bustling streets of Sydney, the journey stretches to the tropical north of Cairns, unveiling an array of stunning national parks, offbeat islands, and vibrant cities along the way.
With a thriving nightlife, bustling surf towns, colorful coral reefs, and paradisiacal beaches, the East Coast is a party on wheels. And while there’s plenty of fun to be had, there’s also tranquility to be found in the quiet camping grounds strewn along the coast.
4. Overlanding in Namibia: A Wildlife Encounter
Namibia offers a unique blend of buzzing cities, stark desert landscapes, and wildlife-rich national parks. Most self-drive trips start in Windhoek, the capital city, and revolve around the Etosha National Park, a wildlife haven and one of the largest game reserves in Africa.
Apart from wildlife sightings, the journey offers spectacular drives through the shifting sand dunes of the Namib Desert and the rusting shipwrecks along the Skeleton Coast. The roads here are mostly gravel, so be prepared for off-road adventures.
5. Japan: A Cultural Extravaganza
Exploring Japan by road is a unique experience. The country offers a network of well-maintained highways, passing through snow-capped peaks, palm-fringed beaches, serene lakes, and ancient forests. The Hakone Skyline Course and the Mikuni Pass are particularly popular for their breathtaking views.
Japan’s highways take you through pulsating cities, ancient temples, traditional villages, and some parts of the country that most tourists don’t get to see. The journey offers a unique blend of modernity with a deep respect for nature and tradition.
6. New Zealand: A Hiker’s Paradise
New Zealand is often touted as the best destination for a camper van holiday. The country’s diverse landscapes, from glistening glaciers to wave-lashed shores, make every road trip a grand adventure.
Whether you’re navigating through the North Island’s volcanic heartland or exploring the South Island’s windswept West Coast, you’ll find a legion of campsites making the scenic beauty easily accessible. The country’s Department of Conservation runs over 200 campsites, offering affordable stays amid stunning rural settings.
7. Chile’s Pan-American Highway: A Journey of Landscapes
Chile’s Pan-American Highway is a foolproof route for road trippers. This highway, running almost straight down the spine of the country, takes you through colorful colonial cities, arid deserts, and verdant national parks.
The journey showcases a staggering variety of landscapes. From the Atacama Desert – the driest place on Earth, to the vineyard-carpeted Elqui Valley and the ice-blue glaciers of Patagonia, this route offers an impressive cross-section of the country’s geographical wonders.
8. Alberta, Canada: A Family-Friendly Route
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, offers a condensed version of the Canadian wilderness. This 230-km route passes through Banff and Jasper National Parks, offering views of sparkling glaciers, wildflower meadows, snow-capped mountains, and cascading waterfalls.
The route is particularly beautiful in May, when the spring colors are in full bloom. In addition to the natural beauty, the journey offers a chance to explore the sandstone hoodoos of Alberta’s Badlands and the Dinosaur Provincial Park, a family-friendly campsite with a brilliant visitor center.
9. South Africa: The Garden Route
The Garden Route in South Africa is a short but stunning drive. Stretching over 124 miles, this route is famous for its diverse scenery, including mountains, rainforests, beaches, and caverns.
The journey offers an endless supply of resorts, making it an ideal route for those seeking comfort and luxury. Moreover, South Africa’s wine country and abundant wildlife add an extra layer of charm to the journey.
10. America: The Grand Circle
The Grand Circle, located in the desert southwest of the United States, is a unique landscape offering a wide array of awe-inspiring sights. The journey starts in Phoenix, Arizona, covering over 500 miles in 14 days.
This route takes you through some of the most iconic landmarks in the US, including the Grand Canyon. The journey offers a chance to immerse yourself in the vast beauty of the great plateau.
Conclusion
Now what are you waiting for? Choose the best destination for you and begin your adventure in your lovely campervan.
