There is nothing quite like a classic fall road trip. As the trees light up with bright reds and golds, hitting the open highway with your loved one is a fantastic way to unplug, enjoy each other’s company, and take in the natural beauty of the season.
Read on for our tips on planning the ultimate romantic road trip.
Finding the Best Routes
A great fall road trip combines a few planned stops with plenty of room for spontaneous fun. If you’re ready to take the adventure beyond the United States, there are some spectacular routes worth adding to your list.
Canada — The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
For classic autumn scenery, the Cabot Trail is hard to beat. This roughly 300-kilometer loop winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, following dramatic Atlantic coastline, mountain roads, fishing villages, and forests that come alive with fall color. October is especially beautiful, making this a wonderful choice for couples who want a road trip that feels both scenic and cozy.
Plan a Cabot Trail road trip with Nova Scotia Tourism
Scotland — The North Coast 500
If your idea of romance involves misty mountains, seaside cliffs, castles, and winding Highland roads, put Scotland at the top of your list. The North Coast 500 begins and ends in Inverness and covers about 516 miles through some of northern Scotland’s most dramatic scenery. VisitScotland recommends allowing at least five to seven days, giving you plenty of time to stop in villages, explore beaches, and enjoy a warm meal.
Plan the North Coast 500 with VisitScotland
France — The Alsace Wine Route
For something a little more charming, drive through France’s Alsace Wine Route, where vineyards, medieval villages, and colorful half-timbered houses create a storybook backdrop. The 170-kilometer route stretches between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine plain, passing villages such as Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim. Autumn is particularly lovely as the vineyards and surrounding forests change color and the harvest season gets underway.
Explore the Alsace Wine Route
Germany — The Romantic Road
The name says it all. Germany’s Romantic Road travels roughly 400 kilometers from Würzburg to Füssen, passing medieval towns, vineyards, rolling countryside, and fairytale castles along the way. Make time for Rothenburg ob der Tauber and finish near Neuschwanstein Castle for a road trip that feels cinematic.
Plan your journey along Germany’s Romantic Road
Japan — Kiso Valley
For a completely different autumn experience, head to Japan’s Kiso Valley. Forested mountains turn brilliant shades of red, gold, and green in autumn, surrounding historic villages along the ancient Nakasendo route. The area is especially beautiful for travelers who want to combine scenic driving with short walks, traditional inns, hot springs, and old-world Japanese culture.
Explore Kiso Valley with the official tourism office
Wherever you go, don’t worry about sticking strictly to a schedule. Turn off the map for an hour, pull over for a scenic photo, stop for coffee in a little village, and enjoy every mile together. Sometimes the best part of the journey is the stretch of road you never planned to take.
Editor’s Pick
Amour Abroad Tumbler in Brown
Take our tumbler along for every mile and stay hydrated on the road.
Your Quick Road Trip Checklist
- Create a Happy Playlist: Mix your favorite worship songs, classic favorites, and fun audiobooks for the drive.
- Pack an Autumn Picnic: Bring along fresh apples, local cheeses, crusty bread, and warm cider in a thermos for a peaceful stop along the way.
- Find a Cozy Place to Stay: Choose a welcoming bed-and-breakfast or a rustic cabin with a fireplace to relax in the evenings.
Don’t worry about sticking strictly to a schedule! Turn off the map for an hour, pull over for a scenic photo, and enjoy every single mile together.
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