As more countries relaxed their travelling restrictions over the summer period, road trips became the primary means of transportation even for those who used to prefer flying to faraway destinations. According to a recent survey conducted by the U.S. Travel Association, 68% of travellers “continue to feel safest when travelling by personal vehicle”. Nearly half of the respondents (45%) indicated they are likely to travel by car due to the reduced social contact, as travel companions are likely to be part of the same household. As colder weather has seen a return of Covid-19 infections, the car will solidify its position as the safest mode of transportation. With summer behind us, it is time to look ahead at the opportunities that the cold season brings. Below are some of our favourite road trips as inspiration.
On the East Coast
New York city to Berkshires, MA
This drive will transport you through dense, lush forests and rural New England charm as you go from town to town, Lenox, Stockbridge, and Great Barrington all charming in their own right.
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 3 hours
Recommended hotel: The Inn at Stockbridge
Recommended restaurant for dinner: Once upon a Table
Lincoln to North Conway, NH
There are few better places for leaf-peeping than the Kancamagus Highway, a 34.5 miles scenic stretch in New Hampshire’s breathtaking countryside. Before you embark on this autumnal adventure, make sure to fuel up as there is a lack of gas stations, restaurants, stores, and hotels on the trail. Conversely, the landscape is dominated by the magnificent White Mountains, Sabbaday Falls, and national forest campgrounds.
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 1 hour
Recommended hotel: The White Mountain Hotel and Resort
Athol to Williamstown, MA
Today, the Mohawk Trail is a wonderland for nature lovers, but originally the trail connected Native American tribes scattered across the Atlantic coast. The route offers 69 miles of astounding views of the Berkshires and Taconic Mountains, running parallel to the Deerfield River and the Connecticut River. The trail is also a driver’s paradise as its infamous hairpin turn, cannily named Dead Man’s Curve, tests even the most experienced drivers.
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 2 hours
Recommended hotel: The Orchards Hotel
Miami to Key West, the Florida Keys
From the tip of Florida, US-1 runs along a chain of subtropical isles where the Atlantic meets the Gulf of Mexico, connected by over 40 bridges. The 126-mile drive through the brilliant tropical landscape of blue sea, reefs and lush vegetation is a once in a lifetime experience.
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 4 hours
Recommended hotel: The Marker Key West
Recommended restaurant for dinner: Louie’s backyard
On the West Coast
San Francisco to Los Angeles, California State Route 1
Whether starting in San Francisco or Los Angeles, the most beautiful route available is Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway), close to 600 miles of scenery that simply can’t be beaten! Different sections have different names including Pacific Coast Highway, Cabrillo, Highway and Shoreline Highway. The memory of driving down this road is bound to stay with you forever!
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 9 hours
Recommended hotel: Inn at the Pier complete with fine dining and a rooftop bar in Pismo beach
San Diego Scenic Drive
San Diego’s 59-mile scenic drive loops its way through the city’s charming neighbourhoods and reveals unique attractions and natural wonders. Enjoy sweeping, panoramic views of the coastline, the shimmering yacht-dotted bay, downtown’s skyline, Mexico, and the surrounding mountains along the way. Start at the Embarcadero in downtown San Diego and follow the blue and yellow signs bearing a white seagull every quarter mile, which will take you through 22 idyllic locations.
Driving time: Approximately 4 hours
Recommended restaurant for lunch: Goerges at the cove
Napa Wine Valley
One hour north of San Francisco, 30 miles long and five miles wide, this small slice of heaven is home to more than 500 wineries throughout a collection of six quaint towns, Napa, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena, and Calistoga. Make it a weekend getaway and enjoy the wine and delights this region has to offer. You may even take part in grape picking as September marks the beginning of the wine harvest.
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 2 hours
Recommended hotel: Hotel Yountville or L’Auberge du soleil
Recommended restaurant for dinner: Bouchon Yountville / Goose & Gander
The Grand Canyon
When you want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, take the road to the Grand Canyon, we recommend the North Rim that will reward you with smaller crowds and some of the Grand Canyon’s best views. Once there, we recommend the Grand Canyon North Rim Scenic Drive. This is a 25-mile drive that usually takes half the day if you’re stopping for photos or short walks.
Driving time (one-way): Approximately 5 hours
Recommended hotel and restaurant for dinner: El Tovar Lodge
From Chicago to Los Angeles
And saving the best for last…Well, if you ever plan to motor west, take the highway and get your kicks on Route 66. One of the most iconic road trips of all, the historic Route 66, starting in Chicago all the way to Los Angeles going through 8 states and covering 2,450 miles. Unique itineraries are available depending on how long you want to stay on the road.
Tell us what kind of car gets your blood going, where you want to go, what you want to see, and let us work our magic. Whatever your mood, contact us and we will get the car of your dreams delivered to your door!
