Picture this: a world full of stunning roads and remarkable vehicles, just waiting to be discovered.
Last week, we threw out a fun question: if you could instantly teleport anywhere in the world with your own car for an idyllic 24-hour driving spree, where would you go? What car would make the journey with you, and why? The responses we received were a tapestry of unique tastes and interests from our adventurous Jalopnik readers, and we had a blast diving into their imaginative ideas.
A DRIVER’S PLAYGROUND
A standout favorite among respondents was the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife.
However, it’s worth remembering that while thrilling, driving at ‘The Ring comes with a price.
Each lap costs around $37, offering roughly 15-20 minutes of high-octane driving, depending on your car’s performance.
Open for tourist laps on weekends from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., a full day could quickly add up to about $1,200.
It’s definitely an investment in exhilaration—but something to weigh before hitting the track!
Reflecting on my own experiences in Germany, I recall a particular road trip I took from my company’s headquarters near Wuppertal to a plant close to Trier/Saarburg.
Although GPS often led me to the dull highways, my insightful colleagues recommended a more scenic route.
This picturesque drive spanned over 50 kilometers of unrestricted joy along the A1 and featured breathtaking countryside views.
Every journey included a delightful pause at a local bakery for a hearty schnitzel sandwich and a creamy Milchkaffee.
Driving through those winding roads was exhilarating, especially in the compact FWD hatches I typically rented—although one unforgettable trip was in a pristine MX5, turning an ordinary journey into sheer driving bliss.
ITALIAN ESCAPES
This past year brought changes to my life, which meant parting ways with my beloved RHD E30.
However, I’ve welcomed a gently-used Z3 M Roadster into my world.
I can’t help but dream about retracing that enchanting scenic route in this spirited little car.
Of course, upgrading to the S54 version would be fantastic—but the current S52 engine brings me a lot of joy, especially with its more secure cup holder for my coffee!
If I could twist the rules of teleportation, I’d send everyone else to different locations, allowing me to savor my favorite local roads in peace.
When I think about driving my previous 2008 Subaru Legacy Spec.B, I’m drawn to the stunning Trentino-Alto region of the Italian Dolomites.
Tucked away from the tourist hotspots, Lake Idro sits at the foot of majestic mountains, offering beautiful scenery and endless winding roads.
With charming towns and unique local cuisine, the area is perfect for outdoor adventures.
Having just returned from a two-week stay in Lake Idro, I can vouch for the region’s allure.
While my rental Alfa Tonale handled the curves beautifully, nothing beats the thrill of a dedicated sports sedan.
FANTASIES OF SPEED
Imagine a summer drive along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria, where the stunning landscapes transform an ordinary trip into a lifetime adventure.
Many breathtaking scenic routes lie just beyond U.S. borders, particularly in Austria and Switzerland during those warm months.
The German Autobahn calls my name! Being able to experience the rush of having competent drivers yield to faster traffic would be a dream realized.
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful roads on the planet, the Icefields Parkway has long captured my imagination.
Though I’m sure there are many equally stunning paths out there, I yearn to teleport my Miata to this iconic highway—preferably during late spring for the best driving conditions!
I envision transporting myself to the famous Stelvio Pass in my Abarth 124 Spider.
If only I could clear the road of other traffic and enjoy this exhilarating route in peace.
If granted the chance, I’d set my Ford Fiesta ST’s GPS to November 19, 1954, in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, to unleash some fun at the Carrera Panamericana!
In this adventurous exploration of thrilling roads and captivating drives, we encourage you to dream big and embrace the joy of the open road.
Let your imagination take flight as you consider where your next great driving adventure might lead!