In our everyday lives, driving can often be a chore. We drive to work, to go shopping and to do the school run. It’s not often that many people in the UK drive for sheer pleasure. Our congested roads, high petrol prices and urbanised environment mean that it’s difficult to imagine driving for fun. However, this isn’t the case everywhere. There are many roads in the world that are a joy to drive, while you relax and enjoy the scenery.

Atlantic Road, Norway

Voted the Norwegian construction of the century, this road bridges small islands and crosses wild seas, making for a thrilling ride as the waves crash beneath you.

Route 6, New Zealand

Taking you through the southern Alps, where much of Lord of the Rings was filmed, this road winds its way past glacial lakes, through narrow mountain scenery, and then descends down to the coast, where you can unwind on the beach after the drive.

Route 6A, New England, USA

A scenic drive through one of the most historic parts of America, this road trip New England will take you through an older America, free from modern commercialisation. The route hugs the coast and is lined with charming villages, salt marshes and open land.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

This road follows the south Australian coast for around 155 miles and combines the best of both worlds: ocean scenery with mountains. There are lots of places to stop along the way when you want a break, and with the beach on one side of you and a pristine national park on the other, there are lots of opportunities to explore.

Col de Turini, Austria

This is not a road for the faint hearted, but one which will be remembered forever. The mountain views will take your breath away. Soaring to 5,275 feet, the road is narrow and twisting – drivers need to concentrate hard to negotiate it successfully. Those that do will be in good company – it has been used as part of the World Rally Championship for the last fifty years.

Route 66, USA

The historic Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles no longer appears on maps, but it is still possible to drive it using a guidebook. Route 66 holidays will take you between east and west through six states. You’ll see a microcosm of America, both good and bad, along the way, as you follow in the footsteps of the many migrants who have worked their way from the east coast to the west.