Ralph Waldo Emerson was right; ‘it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.’ There’s something special about sitting back, tucking into your travel snacks and gliding past spectacular scenery, all from the comfort of your comfy coach seat!
We may be biased, but we think a scenic coach drive is the best way to see a country; to meander through ever-changing landscapes and marvel at magnificent vistas at every turn. If you’re in need of some spring and summertime inspiration, we’ve pulled together our favourite scenic tours; it’s time to hit the road!
Germany's Romantic Road
One of the oldest touring routes in the world, Germany’s Romantic Road winds its way from Würzburg to Füssen, through the southern provinces of magical Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Loosely based on an old Roman route, this scenic byway links some of the country’s most picturesque towns and fairytale castles, offering a treasure trove of cultural and natural landscapes. Journey among medieval walled towns, seemingly untouched by time, full of half-timbered gingerbread houses, cobblestone alleys and crooked streets, charming, chocolate-box villages, lush green meadows and meandering rivers – this picturebook perfect route embraces some of the loveliest and most historical places in the country.
The Dolomites
If you have never experienced the majesty of The Dolomites in the northern Italian Alps, then now’s your chance. This scenic drive through the striking mountain range with UNESCO World Heritage status should be at the top of everyone’s 2023 list! Think sheer cliffs and impressive snow-capped peaks combined with famous stretches of mountain road, tranquil lakes and luscious valleys. Cameras at the ready for Molveno, where the crystal-clear waters of Lake Molveno reflect the peaks of the surrounding mountains, and the atmospheric city of Trento, with its quintessentially Italian skyline, pretty piazzas and the beautiful Buonconsiglio Castle.
Lake Garda
Boasting an otherworldly air of tranquility and picture-perfect scenes of deep azure waters fringed by pastel-coloured villas and lemon groves, Lake Garda is the sparkling jewel of Italy’s lakes. With so many historic towns to discover, a picturesque coach tour is a wonderful way to take in the highlights. Part of the famous road encircling the lake was also featured in the 22nd James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace, where he outruns his pursuers in an Aston Martin. It’s no surprise that Winston Churchill once called it the eighth wonder of the world with its awe-inspiring vistas of shimmering waters, clusters of terracotta-roofed buildings and towering mountains. Along the way, there’s time to stop off in one of the idyllic lakeside resorts, so you can fill up on souvenirs and local Italian treats before continuing with the scenic journey!
Wild Atlantic Way
As the world’s longest defined coastal route, everyone should experience the Wild Atlantic Way at least once in their lifetime! Winding along the west coast of Ireland for over 1,600 miles, it encompasses everything from rugged beaches, dramatic cliffs, crumbling castles, folk villages, striking ocean panoramas and more. Whether you’d rather take in the stretch of coast between charming Donegal and the spectacular Slieve League Cliffs or head further down to Galway, any drive along this magnificent route doesn’t disappoint! Or how about the coastal journey from the castellated mansion of Glenveagh Castle to the former fishing port of Dunfanaghy? There’s just so much to see, and we make seeing it all easy!