As opposed to the best, the likes of India’s roads have been named some of the deadliest in the world, along with the rather chaotic fifty-lane motorway in China that almost immediately reduces to 20 in Beijing. Herewith Audi dealer, Vindis, we look at the top 5 countries with the best road infrastructure.
1. Motorway Madness: Germany – Frankfurt – Autobahn
All thanks to the Autobahn, Germany is considered to be the most appealing nation on the planet for those who love to put their foot down on the motorway. Tragically, the reputation the German road network has built itself over the years isn’t exactly one which boasts entire truth. For most of the Autobahn, tempo limits exist, which help aid traffic congestion and prevent serious collisions. Tempos drive down the limit in most parts to 80mph and in some sections even lower, dependent on weather congestions and location. Fortunately, all is not bleak and there is still fun to be had. Outside of the major cities, without the temporary limits, there are no laws, and cars have been known to drive in excess of 200mph — just remember it’s the left lane to overtake!
One thing to consider when driving down these motorways is that there are no road signs that note direction. Unlike the UK, where signs will suggest A1(N) or M8(E), the Autobahn simply consists of numbers, so we would suggest knowing the major destinations on your route before setting off. There is a quick rule of thumb though — if the number is even, it means it goes east or west, and similarly odd goes north and south.
2. Highway Heaven: Romania – Sibiu – Transfăgărășan
This 150-kilometer highway in Romania reaches heights of 2042 meters and is described by Jeremy Clarkson as the world’s greatest road. The road, which was built in 1974, leads to Balea lake and on both the ascent and descent you are able to indulge in some of the most breath-taking views this world has to offer (make sure you check your tires first!). Unfortunately, due to weather conditions, the road is usually only open during the summer months, as the top of the path can be subject to heavy snow and fog. What may exist as exhilarating hairpin turns in the summer can be treacherous and ultimately deadly obstacles in the winter.
3. Route 66’s Competition: Argentina – Rio Gallegos – Ruta 40
Commonly known for being the perfect sought-after highway to complete during a road trip, Route 66 in the United States is a must-do. However, Ruta 40 offers up stiff competition to its North American counterpart. Stretching for more than 3,000 miles, the route crosses the Andes mountain range on 27 different occasions, as well as running through 20 national parks and 18 major rivers. Much of the journey navigates through a completely desolate land, but the 5,000m steep journey provides travelers with the opportunity to indulge in some unbelievable attractions, including the Perito Moreno Glacier. Despite the road being built in 1935 and much of it being exposed to extremely harsh weather conditions all year round, the vast majority of the surface remains as smooth tarmac, creating an optimal driving experience.
4. Navigate Your Way Through Norway – Molde – Atlantic Road
After winning several awards for ‘the world’s best for car testing’, ‘the world’s best road trip’ road and ‘the world’s best place to mend a broken heart’, this aesthetically beautiful road in Scandinavia is a must-do. The engineering feat which connects a host of small islands and islets amalgamates land, sea, and sky like nothing else in the world. As you navigate your way along the 8km trek, take in the scenery by stopping at the various look-out points along the way. The Atlantic Ocean Road is located in the Midwest section of the Norwegian coastline and is one of the most breathtaking scenic drives around the globe.
5. Scotland – Edinburgh – Queensferry Crossing
Breaking numerous records for the world’s longest continuous concrete pour (15 days to be precise), Queens ferry crossing is built 207m into the sky and was originally there to precede the Forth Road Bridge. The bridge, which allows people to commute from Edinburgh to Fyfe, opened on 30th August 2017 and cost the Scottish government £1.3 billion. On average, approximately 77,000 vehicles cross the bridge every day and it proves a vital transport link between England and North Scotland cities, such as Aberdeen. Although existing as the longest three-tower, cable-stayed bridge in the world, the Queensferry Crossing took that crown from the bridge beside it, which is also an incredible engineering feat.
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