The Adriatic Highway (Highway D8), Croatia
The D8, popularly known as the Adriatic Highway, runs along much of Croatia’s coast and offers views of some of the most beautiful scenery in the eastern Mediterranean. The stretch between Zadar and Dubrovnik is particularly spectacular with its combination of sea, mountains, and an endless string of islands.
Most of the highway runs close to the water’s edge, passing through fishing villages and looking out towards the Dalmatian archipelago. Along the way, you’ll encounter towns such as Šibenik, Trogir, Split, and Makarska, all of which have lively historic centers.
One of the highlights of the journey comes as you approach Dubrovnik. The city rises up against the sea like a vision, especially at sunset, when the stone walls take on golden hues.
It’s an ideal route for enjoying a mix of scenic driving, beaches, and sightseeing without having to cover long distances each day.
Nacional 125 Highway, Portugal
The N125 highway runs through Portugal’s Algarve region from east to west, offering an opportunity to explore the country’s southern coast at a leisurely pace. Although it veers slightly inland in some sections, most of it passes besides beaches, cliffs, and fishing villages that make this one of the most appealing road trips on the Iberian Peninsula.
Begin your journey among the white houses and the peaceful atmosphere of the charming town of Tavira and then continue alongside the lagoons and sandbars of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. One after the next, you’ll enter towns such as Olhão, Faro, Albufeira, and Lagos, each with its own distinct character. You can explore traditional fishermen’s quarters, wander along lively marinas filled with yachts, and get lost in historic centers with cobblestone streets.
As the route approaches the western tip of the Algarve, the landscape changes completely. Long, golden beaches give way to imposing limestone cliffs and headlands battered by the Atlantic. The finale in the popular surf town of Sagres is particularly spectacular, with sunsets at the nearby Cape St. Vincent a highlight.