Top 7 'Cliffside-and-Coastline' Epic Drives to travel to in Europe for Unforgettable Ocean Vistas - Goh Ling Yong
There's a certain magic that happens when asphalt meets the ocean. It's a feeling of pure, unadulterated freedom—the kind you only get with the windows down, the salty air whipping through your hair, and an endless expanse of blue stretching out to the horizon. It’s more than just a drive; it’s a journey where every turn reveals a new, breathtaking vista, each more spectacular than the last. This isn't about getting from Point A to Point B; it's about the cliffs, the coves, the charming villages, and the sheer, dramatic beauty of a continent's edge.
Europe, with its jagged coastlines and ancient seaside towns, is a treasure trove of these experiences. From the sun-drenched glamour of the Mediterranean to the wild, untamed beauty of the North Atlantic, the continent offers a road trip for every kind of adventurer. These are the drives that become stories, the routes that fill camera rolls, and the memories that stick with you long after you've returned the rental car keys. Here at the Goh Ling Yong blog, we believe that some of the best travel moments are found behind the wheel, on a road less ordinary.
So, buckle up and get your playlist ready. We've curated a list of the top seven 'cliffside-and-coastline' epic drives in Europe. These routes promise not just a journey, but an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning ocean panoramas, cultural discoveries, and the thrill of the open road.
1. The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana), Italy
The legendary Amalfi Coast drive is the supermodel of scenic routes—impossibly beautiful, a little intimidating, and utterly unforgettable. The SS163, as it's officially known, is a narrow ribbon of road that clings precariously to a sheer cliff face, winding its way for 50 kilometers between the towns of Sorrento and Salerno. On one side, you have the rock wall; on the other, a heart-stopping drop to the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s a drive that demands your full attention, but the rewards are immeasurable.
Your journey will take you through a string of pastel-hued villages that seem to defy gravity, tumbling down the cliffsides to meet the water. Positano, with its chic boutiques and steep, flower-draped lanes, is the iconic first stop. Further along, the historic town of Amalfi itself, once a great maritime power, boasts a magnificent cathedral and a bustling piazza perfect for a mid-drive espresso. The real magic, however, is found in the spaces between these towns—the hidden coves, the terraced lemon groves, and the viewpoints that will have you pulling over again and again.
Pro-Tips:
This is not a drive for the faint of heart or the impatient. In peak season (July-August), traffic can be overwhelming. We recommend traveling in the shoulder seasons (May, June, or September) for a more pleasant experience. Rent the smallest car you can comfortably fit in; you’ll thank us when you meet a tour bus on a hairpin bend. For the best views of the sea, drive from west to east (Sorrento to Salerno). And whatever you do, stop for a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or a taste of delizia al limone—a divine lemon-infused sponge cake.
2. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
If the Amalfi Coast is a polished supermodel, Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is a rugged, windswept poet. Stretching an epic 2,500 kilometers along the entire west coast of Ireland, from County Donegal in the north to County Cork in the south, this is one of the longest defined coastal touring routes in the world. It’s a journey of raw, untamed beauty, where the full force of the Atlantic Ocean has carved a coastline of breathtaking drama, from soaring cliffs and windswept beaches to secluded bays and mystical islands.
This isn't a route you conquer in a weekend. It's designed to be savored in sections, each with its own unique character. You can stand on the edge of Europe at the majestic Cliffs of Moher, catch a ferry to the ancient, stone-walled Aran Islands, or surf the world-class waves in County Sligo. You’ll drive through the otherworldly limestone landscape of The Burren and navigate the stunningly scenic Ring of Kerry. Along the way, you'll be greeted by the legendary warmth of Irish hospitality in cozy pubs where traditional music sessions are a nightly occurrence.
Pro-Tips:
The weather is part of the experience, so pack for all four seasons in a single day! Follow the distinctive blue and white wave signs that mark the route. Don’t be afraid to take detours down unmarked country lanes—this is where you’ll often find the most authentic and beautiful spots. Be sure to build in plenty of time for impromptu stops, whether it's for a photo of grazing sheep on a cliff edge or a chat with a friendly local in a village pub.
3. The Atlantic Ocean Road (Atlanterhavsvegen), Norway
Sometimes, the most epic drives aren't the longest. Case in point: Norway's Atlantic Ocean Road. At just over 8 kilometers long, this incredible stretch of County Road 64 is less of a road trip and more of a rollercoaster. It hops across an archipelago of small islands and skerries, linking them with a series of eight spectacular bridges that dip and curve over the Norwegian Sea. The most famous of these, the Storseisundet Bridge, has a dramatic, almost artistic twist that makes it look like a bridge to nowhere from certain angles.
Driving this road is an experience in itself, especially on a stormy day when waves crash over the barriers, sending plumes of sea spray high into the air. But the beauty isn't just in the engineering marvel. The surrounding coastal landscape is stark and stunning, offering panoramic views of the open ocean and the distant mountains. It's a testament to human ingenuity in harmony with wild nature. As a travel writer for Goh Ling Yong, I find it’s these unique intersections of design and landscape that create truly memorable moments.
Pro-Tips:
The road is part of a longer, equally beautiful scenic route between the towns of Kristiansund and Molde. Combine the drive with a visit to the charming fishing village of Bud. There are several designated stopping points along the way with walkways that allow you to get out, feel the sea spray, and take incredible photos of the bridges and the surrounding seascape. For the best light, try to drive it during the "golden hour" just before sunset.
4. The North Coast 500, Scotland
Often called "Scotland's Route 66," the North Coast 500 (NC500) is a 516-mile circuit that starts and ends at Inverness Castle, tracing the rugged coastline of the North Highlands. This is a journey into the heart of wild Scotland, a land of mystical lochs, ancient castles, towering mountains, and vast, empty glens. The coastline here is a dramatic tapestry of sheer cliffs, pristine white-sand beaches that could be mistaken for the Caribbean (if not for the water temperature!), and charming fishing villages.
The route takes you through varied landscapes, from the windswept, craggy coast of Caithness in the far northeast to the impossibly scenic and mountainous west coast. You'll navigate the hair-raising hairpin bends of the Bealach na Bà pass—one of the UK's most challenging drives—and be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the Isle of Skye. You can explore the otherworldly beauty of Smoo Cave, sample whisky at world-renowned distilleries, and spot incredible wildlife, including dolphins, puffins, and majestic red deer.
Pro-Tips:
Book your accommodation well in advance, especially if traveling in the summer, as options in the more remote areas are limited. The route is increasingly popular, so be prepared for single-track roads with passing places—patience and a friendly wave to other drivers are essential. Take your time; rushing the NC500 would be a crime. Allow at least 5-7 days, and even then, you'll be left wanting more.
5. The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
For a sun-drenched drive that combines ancient history with island-studded seascapes, look no further than Croatia's Dalmatian Coast. The Jadranska Magistrala, or Adriatic Highway (E65/D8), snakes its way south from Rijeka to Dubrovnik, hugging a coastline of spectacular beauty. To your right, the Adriatic Sea shimmers in a thousand shades of turquoise, dotted with over a thousand islands. To your left, rugged limestone mountains rise dramatically from the shore.
This drive is a journey through time. You'll pass Roman ruins in Split, where you can explore the magnificent Diocletian's Palace, and end in the perfectly preserved medieval walled city of Dubrovnik, famously known as King's Landing from Game of Thrones. In between, you'll discover charming seaside towns like Zadar, with its unique Sea Organ, and Šibenik, gateway to the stunning Krka National Park. The route offers countless opportunities to pull over for a swim in a secluded cove or to hop on a ferry for an island-hopping adventure to places like Hvar or Korčula.
Pro-Tips:
While the main highway is excellent, don't be afraid to take the smaller coastal roads for more scenic views and access to hidden beaches. Ferries are an integral part of the experience, so check schedules in advance. The food along this coast is a highlight—be sure to stop at a konoba (a traditional tavern) for fresh grilled fish, local olive oil, and a glass of crisp Croatian white wine.
6. The Côte d'Azur (French Riviera), France
The drive along the Côte d'Azur is a journey into a world of timeless glamour, artistic inspiration, and breathtaking Mediterranean beauty. While you can take the fast A8 motorway, the real magic is found on the three 'Corniche' roads that are carved into the cliffs between Nice and Menton: the Grande Corniche (the highest and most dramatic), the Moyenne Corniche (with stunning views and access to the village of Èze), and the Corniche Inférieure (which runs right along the coast through the towns).
This is the legendary French Riviera, a playground for artists, writers, and movie stars for over a century. Start in Nice with a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais before hitting the road. Wind your way up to the medieval hilltop village of Èze for panoramic views that will steal your breath away. Cruise through the glitzy principality of Monaco, trying your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino, before continuing on to the lemon-scented town of Menton near the Italian border. Every stop is a postcard, from the superyachts in the harbors to the vibrant flower markets and impossibly blue water.
Pro-Tips:
For the ultimate experience, try driving a section of all three Corniche roads to get different perspectives. The Grande Corniche offers the most expansive, cliffside views and was famously featured in the James Bond film GoldenEye. Parking can be a challenge in the small towns, so look for designated car parks on the outskirts. Allow time for a long, leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant in a town like Villefranche-sur-Mer.
7. The Basque Circuit, Spain & France
For a road trip that’s as much a feast for the palate as it is for the eyes, the Basque Circuit is an unbeatable choice. This route follows the rugged coast of the Bay of Biscay, straddling the border between southwestern France and northern Spain. It’s a region with a fiercely independent identity, a unique language, and arguably the best food scene in all of Europe. The coastline here is wilder and greener than the Mediterranean, with dramatic cliffs, world-class surf breaks, and sophisticated seaside cities.
Starting in the chic French resort town of Biarritz, you can follow the coastal road south across the border into Spain. Your first major stop should be San Sebastián (Donostia), a city renowned for its golden beaches and its staggering number of Michelin-starred restaurants. The culinary adventure here is found in the old town's pintxos bars, where you can hop from one to another, sampling incredible bite-sized creations. Continue west along the coast, passing through charming fishing villages like Getaria and surfing hotspots like Zarautz, before ending your journey in the dynamic city of Bilbao, home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum.
Pro-Tips:
This drive is all about the food, so plan your stops around mealtimes. In San Sebastián, dedicate an entire evening to a pintxos crawl. The roads along this coast are excellent, but be sure to visit the viewpoint for San Juan de Gaztelugatxe (another Game of Thrones location), a tiny hermitage perched on an islet connected to the mainland by a winding stone bridge. It's a breathtaking sight that perfectly captures the spirit of this unique coastline.
Your Adventure Awaits
From the sun-kissed shores of Italy to the misty highlands of Scotland, Europe’s coastlines offer a symphony of sights, sounds, and experiences just waiting to be discovered. These roads are more than just routes on a map; they are invitations to explore, to get a little lost, and to create stories that will last a lifetime. They remind us that sometimes, the most beautiful destination is the journey itself.
So, which of these epic coastal drives is calling your name? Is there a cliffside route we've missed that you think deserves a spot on the list?
Share your dream road trip in the comments below! We’d love to hear about your adventures.
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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