Geographic obstacles across Europe, like mountains, moors, rivers and fjords forced early travelers, merchants and invading armies to get creative when crossing the continent. If any sort of commerce and interaction between the regions was going to happen, the first explorers needed to plot a course through some of the most treacherous topography in the world. Hundreds of years later, the successful passageways — the safest ones — were eventually paved, threading tarmac over and between 15,000-foot peaks and around hundreds of square miles of dense forest thanks to the first road engineers. Those winding throughways are now some of the best driving roads in Europe.
Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
Officially opened in 1974, the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania was built so the military could have quick and easy access over the Southern Carpathian mountain range. Topping out at 6,699 ft, the Transfagarasan sweeps through steep canyons, thick forests and even winds past the castle of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s character Dracula. The portion of the highway lending itself to the best driving is from Poenari Citadel, north 57 miles to Cartisoara — it’s full of switchbacks, tunnels and cliffside sweepers.
Drive Distance: 57 Miles
Best Car for the Drive: Audi RS3
D2566, From Sopsel to Lucéram, France
The roadway D2566, more famously known as Route de Turini, has featured as one of the more torturous stages of the Tour de France. Though the run north from Sospel to Col de Turini and back down to Lucéram can be considered one of the best driving roads in the world, there are countless other stretches of road in the area that’ll provide more than enough thrills. An entire list of great driving roads can easily consist of those crisscrossing the French Alps — it’s no wonder this is where the World Rally Championship tends to kick off each season.
Drive Distance: 28 Miles
Best Bike for the Ride: Ducati Supersport
