The first-ever Alternative Road Trip Index has been released, showcasing the best routes around the UK that offer quieter alternatives to popular routes affected by overtourism
The number two road trip on the index starts in Cardiff
Wales has been crowned the second-best location in the UK for a tranquil road trip, following Southern England, according to the inaugural Alternative Road Trip Index.
The index presents an in-depth study of less crowded routes around the nation, offering peaceful alternatives to popular paths impacted by overtourism.
The index was developed by Camplify UK, in response to the burgeoning Van Life movement in the UK. This comes after some of the most renowned and established routes, such as Scotland’s North Coast 500, have experienced significant traffic congestion.
The added traffic has hindered explorers due to limited parking and pitching options, restricting their ability to fully embrace the van life experience.
The Index highlights lesser-known routes, taking into account both enjoyable and practical factors that contribute to a memorable road trip: from the number of petrol stations and public toilets enroute, to the scenic views and sightseeing opportunities along the way.
Wales secured three spots in the top ten of the index, while England boasts five and Scotland only two.
The best routes
According to the rankings, the Historic South provides the best chance for a serene road trip this summer. The 720km (447 miles) journey, which takes between seven and ten days to complete, guides drivers through some of England’s richest heritage.
This encompasses attractions ranging from the historic city of Canterbury and its World Heritage-listed cathedral to the historic docks of Portsmouth – with visits to the captivating sites of Stonehenge and Avebury also featured.
Wales’s Cambrian Way secured second place on the index. The Cambrian Way guides motorists through some of the most stunning regions of Wales.
Beginning in Cardiff, the 185-mile journey starts with a cultural experience before leading you through meadows, woodlands, and peaks. You’ll witness the Brecon Beacons, Pen-y-Fan and the Cambrian Mountains, with numerous chances to pull over and discover the sights.
Scotland’s Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast rounded off the top three, earning high marks for the number of attractions featured along the routes, as well as the quantity and standard of campsites where adventurers can spend the night.
This 240-mile journey can be completed over an extended weekend and is recognised as one of the finest the UK offers for spectacular mountains and lochs.
All three routes boast ample toilet facilities too, which proves essential for road trip enthusiasts. Coastal and heritage routes dominate the top ten, providing travellers with numerous excellent locations to explore.
Tom Quayle at Camplify UK said: “Whether you’re new to Van Life or have lost count of how many road trips you’ve been on, everyone can agree that taking to the open road and seeing the beautiful countryside around the UK is an incredibly fulfilling experience.
“Routes like Scotland’s North Coast 500 are popular for a reason – they offer beautiful, bucket-list experiences that understandably appeal to lots of us – but the UK is home to countless others that have the same characteristics but with fewer visitors. With this study of the best alternative road trips, we hope more holidaymakers feel inspired to get closer to nature along the wealth of routes our country has to offer.”