Four wheels move the body; two wheels move the soul – Lani Lynn Vale.
The freedom of tearing down a long highway in open country on a motorcycle is a joy that can’t ever be explained – it needs to be experienced: the wind rushing past, the growl of the engine, and the breathtaking scenery unveiling at a manageable speed. This is how life is supposed to be. If you’ve been chomping at the bit for a motorcycle journey that provides all of this and more, then look no further. We’ve got five of the best motorcycle trips to do before you die.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Before strapping on that helmet, revving the engine, and doing your best Peter Fonda impression, it’s always worth remembering the risks involved. If you find yourself in a bad situation, a motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the aftermath and ensure you’re protected. Now, with the obligatory safety warning out of the way, let’s talk about the unforgettable Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway, and perhaps most evocatively, Big Sur. Stretching over 600 miles along California’s coastline, this is about as iconic as it gets.
Towering cliffs, rolling waves, and quaint seaside towns provide a staggering backdrop to a motorcycle journey that’s difficult to beat.
The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Winding for 150 glorious miles between the Victorian towns of Torquay and Allansford, Australia’s Great Ocean Road is simply mesmerizing. Golden beaches, lush rainforests, and the famous Twelve Apostles rock formations are just some of the sumptuous highlights of this motorcycle trip. The only problem? You might find yourself stopping every few miles to take photos—it’s really that good.
The Route des Grandes Alpes, France
Perhaps the Alps are calling? The Route des Grandes Alpes is legendary, a journey spanning 425 miles from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. Expect plenty of hairpin bends, soaring mountain passes, charming alpine villages, and the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved mountain pass in Europe. This is a part of the world where you and your motorcycle feel infinitely small against the dramatic mountain backdrops that dominate each day’s riding. It’s big, glorious, and fantastically fun.
The Mae Hong Son Loop, Thailand
From the grandeur of Europe’s highest peaks to the lush rainforest and misty mountains of Northern Thailand. The Mae Hong Son Loop is perfect for riders looking for a mix of culture and adventure.
Covering roughly 400 miles, this loop snakes through landscapes that appear so perfect that they could be painted by some divine being. You’ll pass through Pai, a laid-back town, and tackle Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak. The road conditions can vary, and local wildlife might make unexpected appearances, so ride cautiously. It’s an unforgettable experience if you’re up for something a bit more exotic.
North Coast 500, Scotland
Dubbed “Scotland’s Route 66,” the North Coast 500 offers 516 miles of rugged beauty and diverse landscapes, beginning and ending in Inverness. You’ll see windswept beaches, ancient castles, and remote highlands, no doubt while humming the tune to Braveheart as your heart races and you think how lucky you are to be alive. Watch for narrow roads and unpredictable weather. Pack warm layers – it’s Scotland, after all – even in summer, heat should never be taken for granted.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
