10 Dreamy Destinations in Europe You Can Only Access by Car
Europe is full of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and hidden gems that remain untouched by mass tourism. While many of the continent’s major destinations are accessible by train or plane, some of the most spectacular places can only be reached by car. If you love road trips and discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, these 10 dreamy destinations should be on your list!
1. Hallstatt’s Alpine Hinterland, Austria
Hallstatt itself is world-famous, but the real magic begins when you drive beyond the village. Take a car into the heart of Austria’s Salzkammergut region, where emerald lakes, dramatic mountain peaks, and untouched hiking trails await. Public transport won’t take you to the best viewpoints—only your own wheels can!
2. Lac de Cap-de-Long, France
Tucked away in the French Pyrenees, this stunning alpine lake is only reachable by car via winding mountain roads. The journey itself is an adventure, with hairpin bends and breathtaking views. Once there, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters and some of the best hiking trails in the region.
3. Trollstigen, Norway
One of Europe’s most epic mountain roads, Trollstigen (the “Troll’s Ladder”) in Norway, is a masterpiece of engineering and nature combined. With steep inclines, sharp turns, and jaw-dropping vistas, this road is strictly for those who love a thrilling drive. No buses or trains—just you, your car, and the wild Nordic landscapes.
4. Giethoorn’s Countryside, Netherlands
While Giethoorn itself—often called the “Venice of the Netherlands”—is famous for its canals, the surrounding countryside is only accessible by car. A drive through the rural landscapes of Overijssel province reveals windmill-dotted fields, hidden lakes, and charming farmhouses far away from the crowds.
5. Sibillini Mountains, Italy
This remote mountain range in central Italy is a paradise for adventurers, and it’s nearly impossible to explore without a car. Driving through the Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini lets you discover ancient hilltop villages, wildflower-filled meadows, and secret hiking paths leading to breathtaking viewpoints.
6. The Faroe Islands’ Hidden Valleys
While the Faroe Islands are small, many of their most picturesque locations—like Saksun and Gjógv—are completely inaccessible without a car. Public transport only takes you so far, but a car will let you explore dramatic cliffs, deep fjords, and isolated villages untouched by time.
7. Cabo de Gata, Spain
Located in southern Spain’s Almería province, Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is one of the most unspoiled coastal areas in Europe. Its hidden coves, volcanic landscapes, and whitewashed fishing villages are only reachable by car, making it a dream for road-trippers seeking solitude and stunning scenery.
8. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
While parts of Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way can be accessed by public transport, the real magic lies in the remote stretches. The rugged coastline, secret beaches, and tiny villages—like Malin Head and Keem Bay—can only be reached by car, making this one of the best road trips in Europe.
9. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
Dubbed “the best road in the world” by Top Gear, Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway is a must-drive for road trip enthusiasts. With its tight turns, steep climbs, and breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains, this road is inaccessible by public transport and remains one of Europe’s most thrilling drives.
10. Bavaria’s Hidden Castles, Germany
While Neuschwanstein Castle is well-known, Bavaria is full of lesser-known fairytale castles that can only be accessed by car. Drive through the rolling hills and forests to discover hidden gems like Burg Eltz, Hohenzollern Castle, and Lichtenstein Castle—magical places far from the usual tourist crowds.
Ready for the Ultimate European Road Trip?
Owning your own car in Europe makes these dreamy destinations accessible without relying on public transport. If you’re a long-term traveler, expat, or adventure seeker, CarTurf can help you buy, register, and insure a vehicle for your journey. Say goodbye to rental fees and limitations—drive your own European adventure!
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