Tag: nature

Sunrise at crystal clear alpine Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. Beautiful pine trees and snow covered mountain in the distance

The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip Itinerary For Nature Lovers

Written by Rentalmoose on . Posted in Travel guides, United States of America. 4 Comments

This road trip itinerary will take you on a picturesque Colorado road trip around the state’s best National parks. See the state’s best natural beauty with this curated travel guide.

  • Sunrise at crystal clear alpine Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. Beautiful pine trees and snow covered mountain in the distance

Driving directions:

Denver to the Garden of The Gods– 70 miles (120 km) 

Garden of The Gods to Great Sand Dunes – 230 miles (370 km) 

Great Sand Dunes to Mesa Verde– 200 miles (330 km) 

Mesa Verde to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison– 240 miles (380 km)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison to Rocky Mountain– 450 miles (720 km) 

Rocky Mountain to Denver– 70 miles (120 km) 

2000 miles (3200 km) in total

Before you go

Are there any National Parks near Denver?

Yes! Denver itself is known as a city that provides a great mix between urban life and natural beauty, and the Rocky Mountain National Park is only around 90 minutes away from the city center. This park is a must on any Colorado road trip.

What National Parks are in Colorado?

Colorado is home to four different National Parks:

  • Great Sand Dunes
  • Mesa Verde
  • Black Canyon of the Gunnison
  • Rocky Mountain

This Colorado road trip itinerary will take you across all four of these parks, along with some other great attractions!

Road Trip Extension to Utah

Why not combine this road trip with a drive around Utah and the state’s spectacular parks, such as Zion or Bryce Canyon? When in Mesa Verde, you can continue west into Utah and explore some of the best natural beauty in this part of the US! Click here for the itinerary.

Denver

Denver colorado, often called the mile high city, seen from above. Aerial view of the city, rocky mountains in the distance, clear skies
Photo by David Mark

Your road trip begins in Denver, the largest city in all of Colorado. For maximum convenience, Rentalmoose recommends picking up your rental car directly from the Denver International Airport. Unless you’ve driven here in your private vehicle, of course.

What is Denver known for?

Denver, often referred to as the Mile High City due to its elevation precisely one mile above sea level, is a fascinating city where culture meets the outdoors. The city’s countless outdoor attractions are overlooked by the iconic Rocky Mountains. Proximity to parks makes Denver the perfect destination for a road trip.

Continue reading to check out some of the best attractions for nature lovers in and around the city of Denver.

Denver City Park

The City Park is a peaceful park near downtown Denver that dates back to the 1880s.

Some of the attractions within the City Park include a selection of trails ideal for a stroll or cycling, a golf course, tennis courts, and the world-class Denver Zoo.

If you’d like to spend your day actively, consider renting a bicycle from Wheel Fun Rentals directly within the park.

Admission to the City Park is free of charge, though some of the attractions inside may require a ticket. Tickets to the Denver Zoo have to be booked online, consult the official website for details.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater

The Red Rocks Amphitheater is a one-of-a-kind attraction that’s an absolute must during a road trip in Colorado. Come by for one of the live shows (check the calendar on the venue’s website) or to simply enjoy the spectacular backdrop.

If you get hungry, grab a bite to eat at the Ship Rock Grille, all while taking in the spectacular views.

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is a great scenic getaway around 40 minutes away from Downtown Denver. Admire red rock formations as you stroll along the winding hiking trails. Choose from a large network of trailheads, each ranging between .5 to 8 miles in length. For more details, check out the park’s official website.

Admission to this state park costs $9 per vehicle.

The Fort Restaurant

A day of exploring the city will surely make you hungry. In this case, head over to The Fort Restaurant, dubbed Denver’s favorite Western eatery. This restaurant features delicious regional dishes with an elegant twist.

Tasty food aside, The Fort is worth visiting even just for its authentic decor.

Check the restaurant’s website for opening hours, reservations, and the menu.

Four Seasons Denver

Consider spending the night in town before continuing on your road trip. Luxury seekers should check-in at the elegant Four Seasons Denver. The 5-star property features upscale rooms and suites, as well as countless amenities such as a rooftop pool, a spa, and a fitness center. Add in a perfect location in the heart of the city, and you get one of the best stays in town.

Warwick Denver

Travelers on a slightly tighter budget should consider spending the night at the Warwick right in the heart of Denver. This classy property features modern rooms & suites, along with facilities such as an outdoor pool.

Next: Garden of The Gods, 1 hour

Garden of The Gods

spectacular red rock formations in garden of the gods park in colorado springs near Denver. Pikes peak can be seen in the distance.
Photo by B Wellensiek

The first leg of the journey is a short drive to the Garden of The Gods, a State Park near Colorado Springs. The drive from Denver to the Garden of The Gods will take you around an hour. Admission to the park is free of charge, and it is not to be missed during a Colorado road trip!

Consult the park’s official website for current opening hours as well as any closures.

What to do at Garden of The Gods?

Visitor Centre

Begin your visit to this public park by dropping by to the visitor center. In here, you can pick up a map of the park with a highlighted 15-mile trailhead network within the park.

Once you’ve picked up your map, drive inside the park and admire the spectacular rock formations from the comfort of your car. There are lots of different photo opportunities and lookouts throughout the park. Follow the one-way Juniper Way Loop.

Kissing Camels

After you drive into the park, a walking tour of the Kissing Camels rock formation is an absolute must during your road trip. Drop your car off at the car park and follow the paved trailhead. The moderate hike is wheelchair accessible and provides breathtaking views along the way.

Siamese Twins

Next, continue along the one-way Juniper Way Loop, then turn into Garden Drive. Next, leave your car at the Spring Canyon car park and follow the Palmer Trailhead until you reach the Siamese Twins rock formation. The elevated rock formation is known for panoramic views of the rocks, as well as Pikes Peak in the distance.

The Palmer Trail is a little more challenging than the previous, paved trailhead. The hike is around 0.5 miles (800 meters) round trip.

Balanced Rock

The final must-see point in the Garden of The Gods is the Balanced Rock formation at the southern tip of the park. The gravity-defying rock formation is hard to miss- it’s directly next to the road. Stop by for a great photo opportunity.

Balanced Rock is a popular tourist attraction in Garden of the Gods park in Colorado Springs near Denver.
Photo by Beverly Lussier

Don’t forget to post your photos from this trip online using #rentalmoose for a chance to win a free rental car!

Pikes Peak Highway Scenic Drive

Before you continue to the next point on this road trip, consider driving up the scenic Pikes Peak Highway up to the summit of America’s Mountain. It is the essential point of any road trip in Colorado, it’s one of the best scenic drives in the country!

The scenic drive is open all year round, as long as the weather allows it. Admission costs around $15 per adult as of October 2020. Check this website for current information on pricing and closures.

Next: Great Sand Dunes National Park, 2 hours 40 minutes

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park are a spectacular sight not to be missed on a Colorado road trip.
Photo by Mike Goad

The second leg of this road trip is a drive from the Garden of Gods to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, into the heart of Southern Colorado. It should take you below 3 hours to complete this leg of the journey.

The admission fee to the park is $25 per vehicle for a 7-day visit. Note that the fee is not charged when the visitor center and entrance station is closed.

Check for current closures and updated pricing information on the park’s official website right here.

What are the best things to do in Great Sand Dunes National Park?

These are some of the best must-see attractions in the newest National Park in the United States.

Hike the sand dunes

Pass the Visitor Center and enter the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Drop your car off at the large car park off of Medano Creek Road and explore the dunes on foot!

The great thing about this National Park is that pets are, unlike most parks, allowed to roam the area with you.

If you want the absolute best panoramic views of the area, hike the 750-feet (230 meters) High Dune. Don’t forget to post your photos online using #Rentalmoose for a chance to win a free rental car for your next road trip.

Rent a Sand Board

Sandboarding and sledding are great activities for all ages. Rent your equipment from the Oasis Store and hit the dunes! It’s an experience like no other to be able to go sledding in the sand.

A full-day board rental costs around $20 as of October 2020.

Drive down the Medano Pass

If you came here in a 4WD vehicle, why not drive down the Medano Pass Primitive Road? The 22-mile road will prove challenging for any off-roading enthusiasts, and a great adventure for the entire family. Pass through creeks, admire the panoramic views, and don’t get stuck in the sand!

A 4×4 vehicle with high ground clearance is required to drive the Medano Pass Primitive Road. For current conditions, check the park’s website and consult the Visitor Center before departing.

Are you a fan of camping? There are 21 camping sites along the pass, each one is free of charge. Free spots are given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

Zapata Ranch

If you want to spend more time in the area, consider checking-in at the Zapata Ranch. The working ranch features upscale accommodation, great cuisine, and a wide array of activities. Explore the natural wonderland during a horseback tour, or give rock climbing a shot. After dusk falls, enjoy stargazing at one of the darkest skies in the country.

Note that the Zapata Ranch requires a 2-night minimum stay during the winter, and at least three nights during the summer season.

Best Western Movie Manor

It is no secret that Colorado is filled with quirky stays and attractions, and the Movie Manor is definitely one of them. Located less than an hour west of the Great Sand Dunes, the Best Western Movie Manor is an absolute must-see for any cinema enthusiast on this Colorado road trip.

This is possibly the world’s only drive-in cinema with an attached motel. Yes, you read that right. Instead of a small TV in the room, guests can peek outside the bedroom window and enjoy a movie screening.

UFO Watchtower

If you’re a fan of quirky attractions like the Movie Manor, be sure to drop by the UFO Watchtower. It only requires a small detour on the way to the drive-in motel, yet it is arguably even quirkier. The small watchtower features panoramic views of the San Luis Valley, infamous for UFO sightings.

Admission, as of October 2020, costs $2 per person. For the ultimate quirky experience, spend the night at the campground by the tower for just $15 per tent.

Next: Mesa Verde National Park, 4 hours 20 minutes

Mesa Verde National Park

cliff dwellings in mesa verde national park, colorado.
Photo by Kristy Lee

This is the longest leg of this Colorado road trip. The drive will take you around 4 and a half hours.

Rentalmoose insider tip: This part of Colorado is very close to Utah. Take a look at this national park travel guide to Utah and extend the trip further.

The fee to enter Mesa Verde National Park is $20 per car between May & October and $15 outside of those months. Take a look at the park’s official website prior to visiting to see current information on pricing, closures, and any safety alerts.

What to do at Mesa Verde National Park?

These are the must-see attractions in Mesa Verde during your Colorado road trip.

Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum

Pay a visit to the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum when visiting this Colorado park. That way, you can learn about the history of the region before exploring it for yourself.

The museum itself dates back to 1922, when it replaced a small cabin that had previously stored the park’s precious artifacts. It’s one of the oldest archeological museums in any national park in the US.

You can check the opening hours on the park’s website.

Petroglyphs

Did you know that Mesa Verde National Park is home to some of the best-preserved Petroglyphs in all of Colorado? You can admire them along the Petroglyph Point Trail. The moderate hike is around 2.4 miles (3.9 km) long. The hike begins right next to the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum.

Cliff Dwellings

Don’t miss Mesa Verde’s famous cliff dwellings, the park is known for these sites that date back as far as the 13th century.

The best way to see these dwellings is during a guided tour. You can book your tour in advance at the park’s official website, or pop by the Visitor Centre at the park’s entrance. Note that the tickets are given on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s best to book them online during peak season.

The most popular dwellings in this park are:

  • Cliff Palace
  • Long House
  • Balcony House

COVID-19 Update: As of October 2020, the Cliff Dwelling tours are suspended until further notice. Check the park’s website for updates.

Mesa Top Loop Road

If you have a limited amount of time, be sure to at least drive around the scenic Top Loop Road within the Mesa Verde National Park. The 6-mile driving road features at least 12 different stops along the way, either to admire archeological sites or to enjoy the panoramic views from overlooks.

Don’t be fooled by the road’s short length. Expect to spend plenty of time here, you’ll be stopping practically every few hundred yards to take in the breathtaking landscape.

Metate Room

Before departing, consider booking a table at the Metate Room restaurant for dinner. This upscale eatery features a selection of delicious meals served with a panoramic view of the park.

Rentalmoose insider tip: Walk-ins may be possible based on availability, though it is highly recommended to book a table in advance!

Spend the night

Looking to spend extra time in Mesa Verde? Stay the night at one of the park’s lodges. The Metate Room is located within the Far View Lodge.

If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, check out some accommodation alternatives in Cortez, a town just a stone’s throw away from Mesa Verde. Consider checking-in at the Holiday Inn, for example.

Next: Black Canyon National Park, 3 hours 30 minutes

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

black canyon of the gunnison, stunning canyon and rock formations seen during a colorful sunset in colorado.
Photo by rjdoc

The 3-and-a-half hour drive to Black Canyon is one of the most scenic highways in this part of Colorado. The road, full of exciting turns and elevation changes, will take you across green hills and mountains.

Million Dollar Highway Scenic Drive

When going to the Black Canyon, check the driving directions carefully. The shortest route will be the 145, however, one of Colorado’s most scenic drives is just a stone’s throw away. Drive along the 160 to Durango, and head north along the Million Dollar Highway. The detour will only add 10 minutes to your trip, and it is well worth it!

This park got its name from the monstrous dark cliffs that plummet 2000 feet down (600 meters) into the Gunnison River. It’s an otherworldly view that’s a must-visit point on any Colorado road trip itinerary.

The entrance fee for the Black Canyon National Park is just $15 per vehicle. Check the park’s official website for current closures and safety alerts before coming.

What to see at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park?

These are the best attractions in Black Canyon National Park. The majority of the park can be seen by driving down the roads listed below.

South Rim Road

Begin with driving down the South Rim Road. This 7-mile road hosts 12 panoramic overlooks of the Black Canyon. Make sure to stop at the following overlooks for the best views in Black Canyon National Park:

  • Gunnison Point
  • Pulpit Rock Overlook
  • Chasm View
  • Painted Wall View
  • Sunset View

The South Rim Road finishes at the High Point, the short trailhead offers some more panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Note that the South Rim Road is closed beyond Gunnison Point during winter.

East Portal Road

The East Portal Road is an exciting driving road that will take you down to the Gunnison River. This steep road (16% grades) features lots of chicanes and tight hairpins. Once you’re down by the river, you can relax at the Curecanti National Recreation Area. Here, road trippers can enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, and picnicking.

During the summer, you can take part in a ranger-led boat tour of the Gunnison River.

Note that vehicles longer than 22 feet (6.7 meters) are not permitted to enter the East Portal Road. The drive is closed during winter.

North Rim Road

Before continuing to the next destination on your Colorado road trip adventure, drive down the North Rim Road. This road offers 6 different viewing points. The best viewpoints and overlooks along the North Rim Road are:

  • The Narrows View
  • Exclamation Point
  • Island Peaks
  • Kneeling Camel View

Much like the majority of this park, the entire North Rim Road remains closed throughout winter.

The Inn at Tomichi Village

After dusk falls, consider booking a room at The Inn at Tomichi Village. This well-rated property features cozy rooms with complimentary wifi, a pool, a gym, and free parking.

Next: Rocky Mountain National Park, 4 hours 40 minutes

Rocky Mountain National Park

Sunrise at crystal clear alpine Lake Haiyaha in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. Beautiful pine trees and snow covered mountain in the distance
Lake Haiyaha by Skeeze

The last leg of this Colorado road trip is a drive up to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Follow the scenic driving road as you cross the mountains and approach Denver.

A 1-day pass to the Rocky Mountain National Park will set you back $25 per vehicle. For current closures and safety alerts, consult the park’s official website.

What are the best things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Trail Ridge Road

Arguably, the best way to enter the Rocky Mountain National Park on your Colorado road trip is via Trail Ridge Road. This picturesque drive is one of 10 America’s Byways in Colorado, and a national All American Road. You can’t miss it!

Driving along the Trail Ridge Road, you will see unbeatable views of the Rockies virtually everywhere you look. Expect to make many stops along this 48-mile road, the route is packed with overlooks to take in the unbelievable views.

Old Fall River Road

The Old Fall River Road is a piece of local history, it was the first road constructed within this National Park back in 1920. The narrow road has a speed limit of just 15 miles per hour, it is definitely worth a drive if you have the time. The road passes through the subalpine forest and offers an intimate, one-on-one experience with the local nature.

Beware, the road is relatively safe for motorists but there are no guard rails.

Old Fall River Road is closed during winter.

Hiking- Bear Lake, Glacier Gorge & Emerald Lake Trail

Stretch your legs after hours of driving during this road trip. Drive up to the beginning of the Bear Lake Trailhead, right by the Bear Lake Comfort Station. From here, you can stroll around the picturesque Bear Lake, or choose from one of the other trails.

Alberta Falls is worth dropping by, too. Follow the Glacier Gorge Trailhead until you reach the spectacular waterfall. Alternatively, follow the 3.5-mile Emerald Lake Trail and see crystal-clear lakes along the way.

Check out more details about the local trailheads here.

Next: Denver, 1 hour 30 minutes

Don’t forget to book your rental car via Rentalmoose for your next adventure. On our platform, you can find the top rental companies at the best price, along with tens of curated travel guides around the globe. Get your car from Rentalmoose!

We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.

Post your pictures from your next road trip online using #Rentalmoose! Our favorite ones will be featured in the upcoming blog posts.

large seljalandsfoss waterfall surrounded by green fields and small river seen during sunset in iceland

The Complete Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Written by Rentalmoose on . Posted in Iceland, Travel guides. 1 Comment

Explore the natural wonderland of Iceland. See the country’s majestic glaciers, massive waterfalls and mountains, all while following one of the most scenic roads in this part of the world. This travel guide takes you on an exciting road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road, discovering the country’s best attractions along the way.

1350 kilometers (840 miles) in total

Before You Leave For The Iceland Ring Road

Before setting off on your road trip in Iceland, have a look at some of the essential information listed below.

Is Iceland Worth Visiting

For starters, the remote country is home to some of the most dramatic, untouched landscapes on the entire planet, and the lack of civilization is beyond fascinating. 

Explore the best of this country during an epic road trip in Iceland, with a start and finish in Reykjavik, the capital city. Admire the monumental waterfalls, photograph the astonishing glaciers, and relax in the never-ending green fields all around the country.

Best Time To Visit Iceland

If your main priority is experiencing the best weather, consider going between June and August. Keep in mind that it is also the peak tourist season and some of the spots might get relatively crowded.

Planning a road trip to Iceland between September and November? That’s when the weather gets harsher, though there are fewer tourists and you will have a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Book A Rental Car in Iceland

Driving around Iceland is an absolute pleasure, the scenic driving roads provide spectacular views and are very well-maintained. What’s more, the freedom to change your itinerary, skip a city, or extend the road trip whenever you please can only be achieved when traveling by car. 

Car rental companies in Iceland offer a range of cars, from budget-friendly compacts through to buffed-up 4×4’s that will get through any terrain. 

For extra peace of mind during your road trip, Rentalmoose recommends adding excess coverage when booking your rental car.

Once you’ve picked up the car, don’t forget to take photos of the car to qualify for a 50% discount from the excess coverage fee.

Don’t forget that driving off-road is illegal in Iceland. Don’t wander off paved roads or gravel paths. 

Tourists Driving In Iceland- Practical Information

International Driving Permit Is Not Required In Iceland

Tourists can drive in Iceland as long as their domestic driver’s license is written in the Roman alphabet. If your license is in a different alphabet, i.e. Arabic or Mandarin, you will need to obtain an International Driving Permit in your home country before leaving. Click here to learn everything you need to know about IDPs.

Remember that you always need to present your driver’s license along with your International Driving Permit.

 Additionally, UK driver license holders need to provide evidence of any driving endorsements.

Fines For Speeding In Iceland

Think twice before speeding in Iceland. Not only is it very dangerous due to the roads’ unpredictable conditions, it can also drain your trip budget. Penalties for speeding in Iceland vary between 180 and 630 Euros. 

If you do happen to get caught speeding in Iceland, there are two options for tourists to pay their fines.

If you’re pulled over by a police officer, you can choose to either pay on the spot (the penalty is then reduced), or pay the full price once you receive your ticket in the mail.

 You can dispute a speeding ticket and go to court if you believe you were fined unfairly.

Iceland Ring Road Itinerary

Reykjavik

reykjavik iceland calm town skyline panoramic view from distance with large mountain and water in background on a sunny day

Photography by Marcel S.

Your trip around Iceland’s Ring Road begins in Reykjavik, the capital of what is probably the most remote country in Europe. Pick up your rental car in town and begin exploring the marvelous country of Iceland!

Things To Do in Reykjavik

  • Hallgrimskirkja
  • Einar Jonsson Museum
  • Blue Lagoon

Hallgrimskirkja

Hallgrimskirkja is a monumental, unique church in the heart of Reykjavik and the second tallest building in Iceland. Its strange architecture is inspired by the country’s nature, travelers can admire the exterior or take the stairs atop the tower that overlooks the entire city. Admission costs around 1000 ISK (6.7 EUR).

Einar Jonsson Museum

Walk across the street from Hallgrimskirkja cathedral and you will end up in the Einar Jonsson Museum. The artist offered all of his works as a gift to the people of Iceland in 1909, in return for receiving a museum to house the art. The idea followed through and the museum has remained open ever since.

Examine the sculptures inside of the gallery, as well as the ones scattered around town. The museum is open all week except Mondays between 12 PM and 5 PM.

Blue Lagoon

Drive south for roughly 40 minutes until you reach Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s most famous geothermal spa.

Admission costs around 7000ISK (46 EUR) per person. Go for a swim in the warm outdoor pools, have a drink at the in-water bar or relax in the sauna.

The Blue Lagoon is open all year round.

Looking for more attractions in Reykjavik?

If you’re looking for more fun things to do, check out this insightful travel guide by Ecksplorer.

Where To Stay in Reykjavik

  • Ion Adventure Hotel
  • Hlemmur Square Hotel and Hostel

Ion Adventure Hotel

For your first night in Iceland, consider checking in at the remote Ion Adventure Hotel.

The stylish 4-star hotel is a getaway situated around 45 minutes from the city, featuring spacious rooms and suites with a panoramic view as well as an outdoor pool and a spa, along with a selection of day tours and adventures. Guests can unwind at weekly yoga sessions, perfect before an exhausting day.

Hlemmur Square Hotel and Hostel

Would you rather stay in the city?

Spend the night at the affordable Hlemmur Square Hotel and Hostel.

The 3-star hotel offers 18 elegant rooms, either ensuite or with a shared bathroom, as well as a convenient location along one of Reykjavik’s main shopping streets.

Next on your Iceland road trip: Vik, 2 hours 30 minutes

Reykjavik to Vik

Seljalandsfoss waterfall captured by Ecksplorer.

As you head towards Kalfafell, there are multiple hotspots that are worth at least a quick peek. Set off from Reykjavik early in the morning to have enough time to see all of the attractions.

Iceland Ring Road- Reykjavik To Vik

  • Seljalandsfoss
  • Skogafoss
  • DC-3 Airplane Wreck
  • Reynisfjara Beach

Seljalandsfoss

The first stop on your road trip is at Seljalandsfoss, a gorgeous 60-meter tall waterfall. It is one of the most popular waterfalls among tourists, as it can be admired from every angle. Tourists can walk inside the cave to get behind the powerful stream of water and appreciate it from a unique perspective.

Keep in mind that although admission is free, visitors are required to pay 700ISK (5.7 EUR) for parking. The funds are used to maintain the car park and nearby facilities.

Skogafoss

Continue along the Ring Road for another 30 minutes until you reach another, equally monumental waterfall: the Skogafoss. This waterfall features a drop 2 meters longer than the Seljalandsfoss and is situated along the former coastline.

On the right-hand side of the waterfall, you will find a hiking trail that will take you up the cliff where you can photograph Skogafoss from above.

Unlike Seljalandsfoss, the parking at Skogafoss is free of charge.

dc-3 plane wreck tourist attraction on black pebble beach seen on a misty day in iceland

The DC-3 plane wreck is a photographer’s dream. Photography by Steve Riot.

The DC-3 airplane wreck

Follow the Ring Road for another 10 minutes. To be completely honest, this attraction is very easy to miss as it is not visible from the road at all. Roughly 10 kilometers away from Skogafoss, you will see a car park and a gate in the middle of the field. Park your car and follow the black sand trail for around 50 minutes.

If you pass any tourists on your way, you are probably in the right place. At a certain point, you will see an eerie plane wreck emerge on the horizon.

The DC-3 had crash-landed on the beach (everyone onboard survived) in the 70s and remained in the same place ever since,  becoming one of the country’s photography hotspots.

Reynisfjara Beach

A sight you can’t miss in the South Coast of Iceland is Reynisfjara Beach. Located just 20 minutes from the car park leading to the DC-3 wreck, the glorious black sand beach is unlike any other place on the planet.

Stroll along the black sand beach, examine the surreal rock formations or watch the view while enjoying a sip of coffee at the Black Beach Restaurant.

Then, continue along the South Coast of Iceland to the town of Vik.

Where To Stay in Vik

  • Hotel Kria
  • Farmhouse Lodge

Hotel Kria

Spend the night in Vik, a peaceful village by Reynisfjara Beach. Consider checking in at the Hotel Kria, a stylish 3-star hotel that features modern rooms and suites with a breathtaking view, a bar and restaurant, and a complimentary car park.


Farmhouse Lodge

Hotels in Iceland are relatively costly, therefore it may be crucial for some travelers to find budget-friendly accommodation.

Book your room at the cozy Farmhouse Lodge, a property roughly 10 minutes away from Vik and just 250 meters off the Ring Road. Parking is available at no extra cost.

Next on your Iceland road trip: Höfn, 3 hours 30 minutes

Vik to Höfn

svartifoss waterfall from unique rock formation interesting cliff iceland natural beauty

Svartifoss Waterfall. Photography by Ronile.

As you continue along the road, make sure you have enough petrol prior to leaving Vik. After Vik, there is no gas station for around an hour.


Iceland Ring Road Attractions- Vik To Hofn

  • Fjadrarljufur
  • Skaftafell National Park
  • Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
  • The Diamond Beach

Fjadrargljufur

Make your first sightseeing stop of the day at Fjadrargljufur.

The massive river canyon is believed to be almost ten thousand years old. Game of Thrones fans might recognize it, as the canyon was featured in the series.

The canyon stretches for around 2 kilometers and is roughly 100 meters high. The slight detour from the Ring Road is definitely worth it!

Skaftafell National Park

The next spot that’s worth a visit is the Skaftafell National Park, specifically the Svartifoss Waterfall inside of it (pictured above).

The waterfall’s surroundings are green, despite being situated near the glacier.

The hike between the car park and the waterfall itself is below 1 hour each way and can be challenging compared to Seljalandsfoss.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

No Iceland road trip would be complete without a stop at the Jokulsarlon Ice Lagoon.

Turn left right as you cross the monumental bridge and park your car at the car park. From there, you can choose to go on a boat tour around the lagoon or explore the ice caves (seasonal) on a guided tour.

The current pricing can be found here. There is a cozy cafe by the car park where you can choose from a selection of snacks and beverages. 

If you’re not in a rush, cross the road onto the beach. The area was named “The Diamond Beach”, as there are large chunks of ice resting on the black sand all over the coastline. Rentalmoose wouldn’t qualify the beach as an absolute must-see, but it is worth dropping by if you’re already at the Ice Lagoon.

Where To Stay in Hofn

  • Milk Factory
  • Aurora Cabins

Milk Factory

Stop for the night in Hofn, one of the largest towns in Southeastern Iceland. Consider booking a room at the cozy Milk Factory. The guesthouse features 17 recently-renovated modern rooms with spectacular views of the Vatnajokull glacier, great hospitality, and a complimentary car park.


Aurora Cabins

If you want to experience a night in a cozy cabin, and have slightly deeper pockets, book your stay at the Aurora Cabins.

The cabins feature modern interior, a sun terrace and unbeatable views of the area. Complimentary parking is available for all guests.

Next on your Iceland road trip: Egilsstadir,3 hours 30 minutes

Höfn to Egilsstadir

Vestrahorn Mountain captured by Ecksplorer.


Set off from Hofn in the morning, your first stop is not far out of town. Turn right from the Ring Road right when you see the small sign for Stokksnes (directly before a large left turn) and follow the road all the way to the end.

Ring Road Attractions Between Hofn and Egilsstadir

  • Stokksnes
  • Hengifoss

Stokksnes

You can park your car and take a stroll along the beach, with a perfect view of the Vestrahorn mountain in the background. Tour the village that was part of the “Vikings” hit series filming set. If you’re lucky, you might spot a sea lion or too.

The entry fee to Stokksnes is below 1000ISK (6.6 EUR).

Next, enjoy a scenic drive along the Ring Road all the way up to the town of Egilsstadir, the largest town in Eastern Iceland. Be prepared, as there isn’t much civilization between Hofn and Egilsstadir, make sure you are topped up on petrol before continuing the trip. Enjoy the absolutely unreal views, if you’re lucky you might spot reindeers and sheep.

Hengifoss

 If the weather allows it, you can take a detour from the Ring Road and visit Hengifoss, one of the tallest waterfalls in the entire country, prior to your arrival in Egilsstadir.

The waterfall is roughly a 50-minute hike from the car park, and there are lots of activities available nearby. Adventure junkies can go on ATV tours, relax at the hot springs or discover the ruins of a 16th-century monastery at the Skriduklaustur cultural center.

hengifoss tall waterfall coming from colorful cliffs and rocks in foreground iceland

Hengifoss Waterfall photographed by Jacqueline Macou.

Once dusk falls, consider spending the night at the Valaskjalf Hotel.

The cozy hotel offers clean rooms in a quiet part of town. Enjoy a daily breakfast buffet or a fun evening at the hotel bar. Complimentary parking is available.

Next on your Iceland road trip: Akureyri, 3 hours 20 minutes

Egilsstadir to Akureyri

hverir geothermal site evaporating from geysers in iceland

Unbelievable Hverir geothermal site. Photography by Adrian Kirby.

Don’t Miss These Spots On The Iceland Ring Road

  • Dettifoss
  • Hverir
  • Godafoss

Dettifoss

Depart from Egilsstadir and continue along the Ring Road, crossing the country’s glorious mountain passes and highlands. Turn right at a junction onto route 864 and follow it for roughly 30 minutes until you reach the Dettifoss Waterfall car park.

Hike down for around 15 minutes and you will get a clear view of Europe’s most powerful waterfall. Half a million liters of water plunge down the 44-meter drop every single second. The sight is truly spectacular.

If you follow the 864 gravel route until it finishes, then turn left onto route 85 and turn left to visit the Asbyrgi, a breathtaking glacial canyon. Enjoy one of the hiking trails or photograph the lake in the middle of the canyon.

Hverir

Once you get back on the Ring Road, make a stop at Hverir right before the lake of Myvatn. The fascinating geothermal site sits at the foot of the Namafjall volcanic mountain. Observe the out-of-this-world hot springs, steam vents and many more.

The site looks like the surface of another planet and can’t be missed when in Iceland!

Godafoss

Next, make a stop at the Godafoss Waterfall, meaning “Waterfall of the Gods”. This natural wonder is located just off the Ring Road, no detour is necessary. The hike to get the best view of the waterfalls may be challenging as the rocks are wet and slippery, mind your step! 

It’s a must on any Iceland road trip!

The hiking trail loop to Godafoss is just below 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) in length.

godafoss wide short waterfall ice and snow covered in winter iceland

Godafoss Waterfall photographed by Nathan from Pixabay.com

For your night in Akureyri, consider checking in to Hotel Kea.

The 4-star hotel is located in the center of town and is a great alternative to the remote hotels around the country. Modern rooms, breakfast buffet included in the room rate as well as complimentary parking make Hotel Kea an attractive choice in town.

Next on your Iceland road trip: Reykjavik, 5 hours

Akureyri to Reykjavik

small garage metal and wooden shed on the shore of water and snow covered mountains in background on a cloudy day in akureyri iceland black and white

Photography by Marcel S.

The final day is also the longest, with almost 400 kilometers to cover. The West of Iceland is the most remote part of the country and the majority of attractions here require a major detour off the Ring Road.

Iceland Ring Road- Attractions Between Reykjavik and Akureyri

  • Grabrok Crater
  • Borgarnes
  • The Settlement Center

Grabrok Crater

Don’t miss the Grabrok Crater on your way to Reykjavik.

The massive crater rises around 170 meters above ground level, so it is hard to miss. Park your car at the public car park and hike up to the stairs for the best view.

The hike up the crater and back to the car will take you under an hour in total and is most definitely worth doing.

Borgarnes

As you approach Reykjavik, be sure to stop by the cute town of Borgarnes.

The little village is situated on a picturesque peninsula, if you’re lucky you can spot two glaciers from Borgarnes.

Stroll around the colorful streets, enjoy the view from the coast and indulge in the town’s peaceful atmosphere.

When you get hungry, go for lunch at the Settlement Center.

The restaurant, one of the oldest in the area, serves a variety of Icelandic dishes, such as fresh fish and lobster tails. After lunch, enjoy one of the exhibitions hosted at The Settlement Center, where you will gather insight about the region’s history and culture.

Don’t have a car you can take on an Iceland road trip? No problem!

Don’t forget to book your rental car via Rentalmoose for your next road trip. On our platform, you can find the top rental companies at the best price, along with tens of curated travel guides around the globe. Get your car from Rentalmoose!

We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.

Post your pictures from your next Iceland road trip online using #Rentalmoose! Our favorite ones will be featured in the upcoming blog posts.

Manuel Antonio National Park. Green, thick rain forest and long sandy beach, calm crystal blue sea on a clear day in costa rica.

Pura Vida Road Trip- Costa Rica Itinerary

Written by Rentalmoose on . Posted in Costa Rica, Travel guides. 1 Comment

Pura Vida – the magical word combination that all of us are searching for in this life. Simply translated Pura Vida means “pure life” or “simple life”. This is the motto of the people in Costa Rica. Not just a motto but actually a way of living. Discover your Pura Vida with our curated Costa Rica itinerary.

Shouldn’t it be the same for all of us? That’s why I decided to fly to Costa Rica and travel around the country by car – to find this magical Pura Vida for myself during an unforgettable Costa Rica road trip. 

Click here for detailed directions

Summary (click the red pins for directions) :

San Jose to Arenal Volcano- 135 kilometers (85 miles)📍 

Arenal Volcano to Papagayo Peninsula- 170 kilometers (105 miles)📍 

Papagayo Peninsula to Jaco- 230 kilometers (140 miles)📍 

Jaco to Manuel Antonio- 70 kilometers (45 miles)📍

Manuel Antonio to Pacuare Lodge- 265 kilometers (165 miles)📍

Pacuare Lodge to Limon- 70 kilometers (45 miles)📍

Limon to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca- 60 kilometers (40 miles)📍

1000 kilometers (600 miles) in total

Planning- Before You Leave

Before setting off to explore Costa Rica with our detailed itinerary, take a look at some essential information listed below.

Why should you visit Costa Rica?

Costa Rica has it all – the rainforests, the volcano, powerful waterfalls, the tropical jungles and beautiful Caribbean beaches (both white sand and black sand). There really is everything in this small country – from relaxation to hard parties. Let’s start to explore!

Rentalmoose tip: Get yourself a four-wheel-drive car to explore Costa Rica as some of the roads can get bumpy. And some places might not have roads at all. Find a suitable car for your Costa Rica road trip using Rentalmoose.

Can tourists drive in Costa Rica?

Absolutely! All you need to drive in Costa Rica is a driving license issued in your home country. International Driving Permits are not mandatory.

Although the general traffic rules are similar to those in other countries, the enforcement of traffic laws leaves a somewhat gray area. With that in mind, it is advised to follow all of the regulations.

Traffic in Costa Rica is one the right side of the road.

Now that you’re all set, let’s dive into your Costa Rica itinerary!

San José

san jose costa rica whitewashed government building, white facade traditional architecture in the heart of san jose on a sunny day. Costa Rican flag in the foreground.

San Jose photographed by Jose Conejo Saenz.

My flight took me to the capital of Costa Rica – San José – the biggest city in the country. I decided to stay here for a few nights to discover the city as well. San Jose is an absolute must on any Costa Rica itinerary by car.

My suggestion would be to stay 1 day or 1 night as Costa Rica countryside has so much more to offer than this big and noisy city.

It’s good to know that San José is the least violent city in the Latin American region! Some people even say that Costa Rica is the Switzerland of America. 

The architecture in San José is mostly not very beautiful with some exceptions. The pretty buildings can be found around the Paseo Colon. 

What can’t you miss in San Jose?

Teatro Nacional is a stunning Neoclassical building that is home to Costa Rica’s national opera and ballet companies.

If you have decided to spend a night in the city then go see a show – this is the best way to see the beautiful architecture of this building and of course to enjoy the lovely performance. 

It’s also possible just to buy a tour in the building if you have no time for the show. 

Rentalmoose insider tip: There are often art exhibitions or different performances on the square in front of the Theatre! These are free for the public, so keep your eyes open!

If you are interested in the history of the country then there is the National Museum of Costa Rica in San José. It’ll keep you occupied for a while. 

Another lovely building close-by is San José’s Metropolitan Cathedral. It’s famous for its stained glass windows but there’s a lot to see on the inside as well – like delicate tile work and sculptures. 

Where to stay in San Jose?

 There are some hotels with lovely Colonial-style architecture  – for example, Hotel Grano de Oro (which was chosen as a top hotel in Central America and Caribbean region by Condé Nast in 2018!) which has beautiful wooden decor in its rooms. 

The hotel also has a fabulous gourmet restaurant with the same name, which is one of the top restaurants in San José! Grano de Oro’s famous restaurant serves a fusion of Costa Rican and European cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

Rentalmoose tip: When booking a hotel or a restaurant in San Jose, be careful – there is a city with the exact same name in the US as well! Make sure you make your reservations to the right city! Learn from other people’s mistakes (read – mine haha!). 

Next on your Costa Rica itinerary: Arenal Volcano, 3 hours

Arenal Volcano

Large arenal volcano mountain seen from a nearby rain forest. The tip of the volcano is covered by large white clouds, seen on a sunny day in costa rica.

Arenal Volcano in the clouds

 After wining and dining in San José it’s time to start the engine and set off on your Costa Rica road trip! The first stop is the Costa Rican volcano – Arenal. 

Arenal is one of seven historically active Costa Rican volcanoes along with Poás, Irazú, Miravalles, Orosí, Rincón de la Vieja complex, and Turrialba. 

There are 2 roads that can take you to Arenal, but we chose the longer one because there is a beautiful waterfall on the way and, well – who doesn’t love chasing waterfalls? 

La Paz Waterfall

My chosen road goes through Alajuela and I made a stop at the La Paz waterfall. It’s in the middle of the tropical forest – such a lovely view and refreshing air! By the way, it’s a popular wedding ceremony destination so you might get to witness one as well! 

Poas Volcano

 Very close to La Paz waterfall is another volcano called Poas volcano. It’s an active 2,708-metre stratovolcano. A stratovolcano is a conical volcano built up by many layers of hardened lava, tephra, pumice, and ash. 

There is an open viewing point from where you can actually see inside the crater of the volcano! A very cool experience indeed! 

Arenal Volcano

After experiencing the La Paz and Poas, it’s time to continue the drive to your final destination of the day which is Arenal Volcano National Park. The perfectly symmetrical Arenal was Costa Rica’s most active volcano until 2010. And it’s in the top 10 of World’s most active volcanoes. 

 Thanks to the volcanoes, the area has another thing it’s famous for – its hot springs.

The whole area together with its hotels is basically a large spa, perfect after traveling the whole day! 

These springs originate in a geothermally heated underground river. Local hotels tap into this source and bring the water to the surface, creating mineral-rich hot springs for their guests to enjoy.

Need any more reasons to stay? I didn’t think so! 

Where to stay near the Arenal Volcano?

There are several hotels to choose from, my recommendations would be Tabacon Thermal Resort, The Springs Resort, or The Royal Corin Resort. Now relax and enjoy your time!

Next on the Costa Rica itinerary: Papagayo Peninsula, 3 hours

Papagayo Peninsula

empty, white sandy beach in papagayo peninsula in costa rica. Small waves, blue ocean and green resort lawn lined with tall palm trees. Sunny day in costa rica

You are probably totally soaked and relaxed and it’s time to live the wellness area behind because another resort is waiting for you – welcome to Papagayo Peninsula. The place with pretty beaches and tropical forests. 

The peninsula has been formed this way by the volcanic activity and weather.

There are 31 separate beaches on the 15mi / 24km of the peninsula. Not too many private wild beaches left in the world but this is your chance to find one!

 You now have 2 options – whether you prefer to stay in the peninsula to discover more of it or go hunt other beaches on the coast. 

Where to stay in the Papagayo Peninsula?

If you’d like to stay in the peninsula for longer and indulge yourself in the tropic but at the same time in luxury then the Four Seasons hotel is a place for you. A luxury in the jungle! 

Andaz Costa Rica Resort will also be just as good of an option for treating yourself. Find your inner explorer as the place has many experiences to offer, choose from hiking, surfing, paddleboarding, animal spotting, snorkeling, diving, and many more outdoor activities. 

What are the best beaches near Papagayo?

If you don’t plan to stay in the peninsula then hit the road again and start driving to the South. There will be many beautiful beaches along your way – Playa Flamingo, Playa Grande and Tamarindo to name a few. If you have plenty of time to discover Costa Rica – go and see all these different beaches and villages next to those. 

If you are on a strict time limit, then choose one of the following beaches: 

Playa Flamingo

Playa Flamingo is one of Costa Rica’s most popular beaches because it has the finest white sand, clear blue water, and lagoons. The prettiest and probably most crowded due to that.

Playa Grande

Playa Grande is, as its name suggests, a long beach. It is an important part of the national park because it’s a nesting place for leatherback turtles. It is still open to the public but it’s very protected. So take only pictures and leave only footprints!

Tamarindo

 Tamarindo is a surfers’ paradise, you can really feel the hippie lifestyle vibes here. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightlife in addition to beach life here. 

Rentalmoose tip: If you want to discover even more of the peninsula, you can also visit these beaches: Santa Teresa, Montezuma, Samara (this one is quiet with nice sand and trendy cafes), Ostional (home of turtles!) and Nosara beach. 

Next on your Costa Rica itinerary: Jaco, 3 and a half hours

Jaco

Jaco – the Costa Rican nightlife capital. Photography by Juliette Giannesini

 This will also be an optional visit along the route as Jaco is not just a town – but a beautiful and energetic beach spot. I put Jaco in the Costa Rica itinerary because it’s the surfing and partying capital of the country. So if you would like to do some dancing during your trip then this is the place for that! 

What is the best beach in Jaco?

Hermosa Beach

If you love surfing then head to the Hermosa beach to catch the big waves. By the way, the International Quicksilver Championship is held at this beach. If you happen to travel at the same time, you can enjoy the show while comfortably sunbathing on the beach. There are also smaller surfing competitions going on every Saturday!

Hermosa is also a great place for beginners so why not surprise yourself and take some surfing lessons or even participate in a surf camp?

2-hour surf lessons cost about 50.- US dollars per person and there are many cool surfing schools, like School of the World, Tortuga, and Jaco Surf School.

Playa Jaco

Playa Jaco is a very nice and clean beach and popular with tourists. Be aware that there are very strong tides here, so if traveling with kids, keep an eye on them at all times! 

Jaco is okay to travel with kids as its not party all over, there are plenty of other things to do and see here as well – like horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, ATV tours, kayaking, boat rides, rafting, canopy zip line, waterfall tour, a catamaran tour along the coast or a walking tour on the hanging bridges at the Rainmaker Park. I mean there is a lot to do for adventure seekers!

Rentalmoose tip: A good idea would also be a day trip to Tortuga Island. This will get you a real Caribbean feeling with its white sand and clear blue waters!

Herradura Beach

The best beach for kids would probably be Herradura beach – a more tranquil beach, which is also perfect if you need a break from the pulsing energy of more heavily-populated areas. 

The nightlife

 And now back to the party talk. After surfing this is the next reason people come to Jaco. There are many beer bars where the surfers go but also some fancier options to choose from. 

Popular clubs in Jaco are Le Loft, ManCave and Orange Pub. There are also two good beach clubs to check out – Black Marlin and Jaco Blu. 

After surfing and partying like there is no tomorrow, it’s time to escape from Jaco and head to a quieter place.

Next on the Costa Rica itinerary: Manuel Antonio, 1 hour

Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park. Green, thick rain forest and long sandy beach, calm crystal blue sea on a clear day in costa rica.

The wonderful nature and beaches of Manuel Antonio photographed by Gloriana Anchetta.

 You have arrived at your next destination – Manuel Antonio National Park – the jewel of Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio is the most popular national park in all of Costa Rica. It’s not the biggest but it is so beautiful and has a diversity of wildlife. 

Manuel Antonio National Park has several beautiful beaches, especially if you’re into snorkeling! You’ll instantly fall in love with the place.

What is the best beach in Manuel Antonio National Park?

If you love white sand beaches then Playa Manuel Antonio is the place to be for you! By the way – Playa Manuel Antonio was voted as number 1 beach in the world by travelers in Tripadvisor’s “Traveller’s Choice Award 2019”. 

Or maybe you’ll prefer a little hidden beach? Head 20 mi / 32 km south from the Manuel Antonio National Park and you’ll get to the Playa Linda. This will be a complete escape from the highly visited typical tourist attractions. 

Next to Playa Linda, there is another hidden gem- Playa Matapalo. 

Local Farmers’ Market

 Another great experience near Manuel Antonio National Park is a local farmers market called Quepos Feria. Local feria in Quepos starts late afternoon on Friday and is open until 12 pm on Saturday. 

You can find everything you need for your perfect vacation from the Feria – local seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisanal fresh cheeses, fresh fish/chicken/meats, homemade desserts, jams, herbs and spices, flowers, fresh pipa water right out of the shell (coconut water) and even locally made jewelry and clothing. 

After the exciting time at the feria with the locals, go to Nahomi Park to enjoy the end of the day with tranquil sunset views. 

Whether you are traveling with a family, couple or friends, eco-tourists, seeking exciting adventures, or just to relax, you have come to the right place.

Next on the Costa Rica itinerary: Pacuare, 5 hours

Pacuare Lodge

single boat rafting down pacuare river. exciting sport to get to pacuare lodge is via whitewater rafting. The river surrounded by rainforest and large rock.
Rafting is the best way of getting to the lodge. Photography by Paco Martinez.

 Now it’s time to discover a real natural rain forest. Unfortunately, Costa Rica doesn’t shine with its roadways so you have to take the same road back which you used to come to Manuel Antonio.

Drive through Jaco and head towards San Jose. After passing the capital city and Irazu volcano you are about to arrive. 

Pacuare Lodge is a hotel that lies in the midst of the rainforest. It’s not possible to reach it by car, you have to leave your car at some parking place and the hotel transfer minivan will come to pick you up from there. 

Getting to the Pacuare Lodge

Take only a small bag with you because the journey to the hotel is something you have probably never experienced before – your bag will be put into a bigger waterproof bag and you will have to go rafting to the hotel through a Pacuare river! 

Rentalmoose tip: Keep in mind that the tides can be strong and the road to the hotel can be jumpy so it’s not the best idea when traveling with small kids. 

Once you arrive at the hotel you’ll be soaking wet, so keep that in mind when choosing the clothes for your rafting trip. 

The property

The hotel and its area are absolutely amazing. You are lucky if the weather is sunny but otherwise remember that you are in the rainforest so it can rain. A lot. Like, 48 hours straight. 

The rain won’t stop this place to be nothing but amazing. Your room is like a little wooden house – it doesn’t have windows or doors, just the insect net – which comes in handy as you can imagine what kind of life goes on in the rainforest! You will have an outdoor shower as well. Instead of slippers, you will have complimentary rain boots and umbrellas in your room.

The hotel provides many excursions in the forest which are good to participate in. The restaurant is amazing – great cuisine and an excellent wine list! 

For more romantic dining, they have a table built on the tree. That is something very different, so I definitely recommend giving it a try!

I think 2-3 days it the rainforest will be enough. After that the journey back will be (yeah, you guessed it) through the river rafting again!

Next on the Costa Rica itinerary: Limon, 1 hour 30 minutes

Limon

royal palm trees tall palm trees planted on a green lawn in limon costa rica. seen from below, natural beauty of costa rica on a clear day.

Royal palm trees are a frequent sight in Limon. Photo by Falco/pixabay.com

 After getting constantly wet on the rainforest there is no better plan than to go to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, to warm yourself up at the beach! The road trip heads to Limon,  the second-largest city in Costa Rica with a population of about 55 000 people. Arriving here can make you feel a bit confused – I sure felt like I had arrived in Jamaica instead. 

Limon is the home of the Afro Costa-Rican community. A part of the community traces its roots to Italian, Jamaican and Chinese laborers who worked on a late nineteenth-century railroad project that connected San José to Puerto Limón.

 Puerto Limon is not a very touristic place. Although big cruise ships dock here, most of the tourists still head to the West coast of the country. The port mostly is for exporting fruits. It can be a good thing to see a side of Costa Rica that is untouched by the Western world (with its port as an exception). 

Is Limon worth a visit?

Limon is a big port city, so it is good to visit it just for a day and head to a calmer place to spend the night. Unless you happen to visit it during mid-October when the 12-days annual Carnival takes place. 

What are the best places to eat in Limon?

 Treat yourself to a true Caribbean style meal in either of these restaurants: Soda El Patty, Mirador Da Domenico Red Snapper, or Caribbean Kalisi Coffee Shop. 

Next on the Costa Rica itinerary: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, 1 hour

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Small wave splashes the black sand coast of playa negra. black sand beach in puerto viejo de talamanca costa rica. Dark sand and mangroves near the shore.

Exotic black sand beach – Playa Negra

 After a day well spent in the Puerto Limon, it is time to head even more south – almost to the border of Panama – to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. It’s a more quiet seaside resort where it’s good to have your final rest before heading back to the airport.

The best beaches around Puerta Viejo

Although it’s on the Caribbean side and you’d probably expect some white sand beaches, this place is actually known for its black sand beach – Playa Negra. For a white sandy beach experience try one of these – Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, Playa Blanca.

Surfing in Puerta Viejo

 Puerto Viejo is already known for the surfers, it is actually becoming a hot spot for them. They come here to ride the famous Salsa Brava waves which have made the place one of the top-rated surfing paradises in the world. Be warned of the waters here, they have a strong rip current. So, swimming is not advised. This beach is for surfing experts only. 

Don’t worry, there are many other tropical beaches just within walking distance where it is safe to relax and swim. 

If you are not the one who has the patience to just chill on the beach, the place has many activities as well – horseback tours of the area, snorkeling, diving, mountain biking, kayaking, or boogie boarding. 

You can take a chocolate tour. Yes – chocolate is an important crop in this area of Costa Rica and you can take a tour to learn how they grow cacao trees, process the cocoa bean, and make chocolate. 

Nightlife

Puerto Viejo also has a lively nightlife – there are many bars, clubs, and restaurants in the area. It’s also great to know that the prices are not too high here (probably another reason after surfing why the place is popular amongst the hip youngsters). 

I must add that the roads here are in very poor condition. Except for the main highway, all the other roads are dirt paved. But it’s actually kind of cool to have a rustic place that hasn’t been changed by human hand so much.

As I have already mentioned that Costa Rica doesn’t shine with the amount of highways, you have to take the same road back to San Jose to reach the airport and drop off your rental car just nearby it. Browse through available rental cars for your road trip to Costa Rica via Rentalmoose. 

 Costa Rica is not about glamour. It’s about letting yourself be part of nature. Forget your daily worries that don’t have any meaning in the long terms of life. Be part of Mother Earth, appreciate it and all the living creatures on our planet. Take care of it. Enjoy what it has to offer and try not to change it. This is the meaning of living Pura Vida that I discovered for myself during this trip. 

Don’t have a car you can take on a road trip in Costa Rica? No problem!

Don’t forget to book your rental car via Rentalmoose for your next adventure. On our platform, you can find the top rental companies at the best price, along with tens of curated travel guides around the globe. Get your car from Rentalmoose!

We plant a tree for every booking made with our platform.

Post your pictures from your next road trip online using #Rentalmoose! Our favorite ones will be featured in the upcoming blog posts.

The Ultimate South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Written by Rentalmoose on . Posted in France, Travel guides. 3 Comments

This Southern France road trip itinerary ideal for passionate hikers and nature lovers. Explore the best of the South of France by car!

 When thinking about the South of France, people mostly start imagining the Eiffel tower, croissants, wine, the riviera, ski resorts, etc. Our first thought is probably never hiking. But did you know that the European version of the Grand Canyon is in France? That you can find crystal blue water just like in the Maldives, in France too? 

Click here for detailed directions

Summary (click the red pins for directions) :

Nice to Castellane- 85 kilometers (55 miles)📍 

Castellane to Verdon Gorge- 30 kilometers (20 miles)📍 

Verdon Gorge to Calanques- 170 kilometers (105 miles)📍 

Calanques to Camargue- 115 kilometers (70 miles)📍

Camargue to Montpellier- 70 kilometers (50 miles)📍

470 kilometers (290 miles) in total

 Yes – France is a dream road trip destination for hiking in picturesque nature. And you don’t need to be a professional hiker with all the gadgets, A pair of New Balance trainers will do just as fine! These places are all about enjoying yourself and the amazing scenery, perfect to be explored during a road trip in France.

 Hiking trails and nature parks from this article are located in the South of France. When planning your road trip, try to find flights to Nice Côte d’Azur airport. If it’s your first time there, then take a few days to rest and see the place before hitting the road.

Planning: Before you go

The road trip starts from Nice and ends in Montpellier. If your flights arrive and leave both through the Nice airport, return to Nice after visiting Camargue National Park. The route is 255 km (159 miles) and will take about 2,5 hours.

How long does it take to complete this road trip?

 The length of this road trip is about 310 miles (about 500 km / 310 miles) and the total driving time will be about 8 hours. The total duration of the trip depends on you – how long you plan to spend time at each destination.

The minimum recommended program would be 3-4 days but Rentalmoose suggests taking a week off so you can fully enjoy all the locations. 

What is the best time to visit the South of France?

The best time for this road trip would be late Spring (end of April until June) or early Autumn (September – the beginning of October) – it’s also ok during the summer months but weather temperatures and prices are way higher than usual and places are definitely more crowded this time of the year.

Keep in mind that it is recommended to have excess coverage when booking your vehicle through Rentalmoose. Make sure to take check-in photos of the rental car to qualify for a 50% rebate from the excess coverage fee. Please also be aware not to leave anything valuable in the car.

There are plenty of rental car options in the Nice airport to fit all of your needs (traveling as a couple, with kids, a group of friends, etc).

Take a look at available car rental options for your travel dates using Rentalmoose.

Road Trip Extensions

If you have the extra time, consider extending your road trip even further! Check out these two recommendations by Rentalmoose.

Basque Country

Drive west to the scenic Basque Country and experience one of the best gourmet experiences in your life. See wonderful cities in France as well as Spain. Click here for the guide.

Normandy & Brittany

After you’ve seen the best of Southern France, make your way up north to Paris. After a few days in the city of love, continue onwards to Normandy and Britany for a total change of scenery, before finishing in Nantes. Click here for the guide.

Can tourists drive in France?

Yes! France is a part of the open-border Schengen Zone, this means crossing countries is quick and hassle-free. France accepts foreign driving licenses from most countries. International Driving Permits are recognized, but not mandatory.

Speeding in France is forbidden and the rules are strictly enforced. Tourists are required to pay any tickets on the spot. Fines for speeding in France range from 45 Euros all the way up to 3750 Euros. 

Traffic in France is on the right-hand side of the road.

Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into this French road trip itinerary!

Nice

the coast of nice, france. Promenade des anglais, pebble beach, green palm trees and buildings in the distance. cloudy day in cote d'azur. Visit the city during a France road trip

The heart of Nice looks stunning, even on a cloudy day.

 Welcome to the French Riviera! We recommend taking a few days to get to know the city and its pebble beaches before beginning your road trip.

What can you do in Nice?

Day trip to Cannes

You can visit Cannes – a glamorous city where the annual Cannes Film Festival takes place (it’s the end of May, so if you happen to be there at the same time, maybe you’ll see Brad Pitt or Sharon Stone walking around town). 

Go see the two famous hotels: InterContinental Carlton and Martinez where all the stars live during the festival. Or why not stay in one of these hotels if the price range is acceptable for you. Cannes is just a 50-minute drive from Nice. 

Pebble beaches

 When discovering Cannes is not on your list of things to do and you just want to relax on the beach then you can either enjoy the pebble beaches that Nice has to offer or drive to some beach club close-by. 

Plage Blue Beach nice france pebble beach during off-season, no tourists, pretty blue sea and calm waves, green hill and villas in the background on a sunny day in cote d'azur, french riviera.

One of Nice’s pebble beaches.

Anjuna Plage beach club

There is an amazing tropical restaurant & beach club just about half an hour driving distance from the center of Nice – Anjuna Plage in Eze Sur Mer.

And when talking about Eze – it’s a small ancient village in the mountains just above that beach club. Add it to your road trip itinerary if you’re in the area. Continue reading to learn more about it.

Eze

When planning to visit the beach, visiting the village itself is a must! It is about a 15-minute drive from the beach. The views from there are something you’ll never forget so take your camera with you.

Post your best photos online using #Rentalmoose for a chance to win a Rentalmoose discount or even a rental car free of charge!

promenade des anglais, large boardwalk filled with tourists in nice, cote d'azur, south of france. Tourists and segway tours, palm trees and luxury hotels in the distance on a sunny day in the french riviera

The famous Nice Promenade des Anglais

Where can you find a parking spot in Nice?

There are public parking lots and most of them offer 1-hour free parking. And for paying, keep in mind that the parking machines take only coins. So keep some cash with you always! Read more about the detailed parking plans here.

Parking in Nice can be tricky because it’s not always very easy to find. There is no free street parking downtown – so you might want to check if the hotel you book has a parking space or not. 

Once you’ve explored Nice, it’s time to hit the road and begin your French road trip!

Next on your Southern France road trip: Castellane, 2 hours

Castellane

medieval well-preserved church in the heart of castellane village in the south of france. Green plants in front of the entrance to the small church, empty town with mountain in the background on a sunny day in cote d'azur.

The historic center of Castellane. Photography by Yannick Moschetti.

Rentalmoose tip: The road trip goes through Route Napoleon- a picturesque Alpine road which has been named as one of the top 10 best roads in the world, don’t miss it!

Route Napoleon- Scenic Driving Road

 The Route Napoléon is the route taken by Napoléon in 1815 on his return from Elba, when Napoleon Bonaparte first set foot on Golfe-Juan beach, after one year of exile. By his side, 1200 men ready to conquer Paris and sit their emperor on the throne once again.

 It is now concurrent with sections of routes N85, D1085, D4085, and D6085. The road was inaugurated in 1932 and meanders from the French Riviera north-northwest along the foothills of the Alps. It is marked along the way by statues of the French Imperial Eagle.

The route itself is 315 km long so this road trip doesn’t cover all of it. Our road trip will continue along Route Napoleon until Castellane. 

scenic driving road outside of nice, cote d'azur, france. Single-lane paved road with a right-chicane, surrounded by low trees and green bushes, cliffy mountain in the background. clear, sunny day in the french riviera.

When driving around Southern France, you are bound to run into spectacular scenery!

 Take the route through Mougins and Grasse to make sure you’ll get to drive the famous Route Napoléon. Both are cute small villages so if you have more time, feel free to check these out too! 

 Rentalmoose lunch stop recommendation: A few kilometers before Castellane, in a village called La Garde there is an amazing Michelin Guide restaurant “Auberge du Teillon”. 

The next stop on your Southern France road trip is the European equivalent of the Grand Canyon!

Next: Gorges du Verdon, 1 hour

Verdon Gorge National Park

verdon gorge national park, turquoise calm lake surrounded by large limestone cliffs covered in green bushes. No tourists on this sunny day in french riviera, cote d'azur.

Boating in the turquoise water of Verdon Gorge

 You have reached the European Grand Canyon! Yes – the water in Gorges du Verdon is exactly as blue there as in this picture here! The park is an absolute must-see on any road trip in France, be sure not to miss it.

Rentalmoose recommends taking some time off and staying here for a few days if possible. One day, take your rental car to lap a circle around the edge of the gorge – only from up there, you can see how deep it actually is. 

If you are really lucky like I was – you can see a vulture as well. A huge bird who lives in the caves of the gorge. 

Another day, go and see the gorge from below – either rent a small boat or a kayak to discover the breathtaking beauty of the place. 

You can easily spend half a day there, so take some snacks and water with you. Take it easy – sunbathe and swim and enjoy to the fullest what this unique place offers.

Where to stay near Verdon Gorge National Park?

For an overnight stay, it’s good to check hotels at the Moustiers Sainte Marie – a village that was once named the prettiest in France. 

La Bastide de Moustiers

For a more exclusive stay, check out the La Bastide de Moustiers hotel. It belongs to the world-known French chef Alain Ducasse and of course, his 1* Michelin restaurant is in the hotel. 

la bastide de moustiers michelin star restaurant by celebrity chef alain ducasse. four white-covered, fancy tables in a dining area with no guests. Moustiers Sainte Marie village in cote d'azur, france

Alain Ducasse Michelin 1* restaurant 

Le Colombier

 If you don’t plan to spend this much on a hotel on your road trip, another good hotel in the village to look into is  Hotel Le Colombier. 

Rentalmoose insider tip: Most hotels in the Verdon Gorge area offer car parking and are very helpful in organizing your stay there.

Now that you’ve seen the European Grand Canyon, the next stop during this road trip is a National Park that may remind you of the Maledives!

Next: Massif des Calanques, 2 hours 30 minutes

Calanques National Park

kayaking on the crystal clear turquoise waters at calanques national park in the south of france. Clean lake surrounded by low limestone hills covered with green trees.

Kayaking in Calanques crystal clear waters

Whenever you are ready to leave the amazing gorges, continue your road trip to Massif des Calanques – another breathtakingly beautiful location in the South of France! 

Aix-en-Provence

Drive through Aix-en-Provence and perhaps go on a walk and treat yourself to a delicious lunch in this cute French town. If you happen to be there in July, make a photo stop in the beautiful purple lavender fields that Provence is so famous for.

Remember to post your best photos using #Rentalmoose for a chance to win a free rental car!

What can’t you miss in Aix-en-Provence?

Hotel de Caumont

 When driving inside this historic town, make sure to visit its Hotel de Caumont – it has everything for a perfect afternoon: amazing French architecture, a gorgeous garden, art exhibitions, and a cute cafe. 

Cours Mirabeau

 Also, go for a walk in the Cours Mirabeau – a great boulevard for people watching and resting your feet before hitting the road again.

Luxury shopping & local markets

 There are various markets happening on different days as well. And of course, the shopping streets which also start from this boulevard. You can find both – exclusive designer boutiques and souvenir shops here. 

Calanques National Park

About an hour more to drive before you reach your next destination: Calanques. It’s also recommended to take some time to see more of the natural wonders of this place before continuing on your French road trip.

Numerous pre-marked hiking trails in Calanques have different lengths but they will last some time so take water and some snacks with you. Especially when the weather is hot. 

 You can discover Calanques by hiking on the mountainous routes or by kayaking on the crystal clear waters. Water is very tempting for swimming but it’s quite cold there, so you can try to go swimming after you are getting too hot from hiking. 

Dinner in Cassis

Rentalmoose recommends: Treat yourself to the amazing Michelin 2* restaurant La Villa Madie in Cassis. It gets busy, tables should be booked before! 

There is also a variety of different restaurants in the fishing port – most with a view to the castle Chateau Cassis. Spend at least one evening in this beautiful port. 

Parking in Cassis

There is one parking place in Cassis that is free of charge – Parking des Gorguettes. But it is a bit further from the center so when traveling with small kids, keep this in mind.

Parking places in the center are not free. Pay with coins at the parking machines. 

Where to stay near Calanques National Park?

When deciding to spend some nights here, check hotels in the beautiful fisherman village of Cassis. Cassis has many cute boutique hotels to choose from, for example, Chambre d’hotes Clos du Petit Jésus and the beachfront Hostellerie La Farandole.

Next: Camargue, 2 hours

Camargue National Park 

a group of flamingos in shallow wetland water in camargue national park, south of france. Pictured near green fields that appear golden during sunset. must-see on a france road trip itinerary.

Pink flamingos of the Camargue National Park. Photography by Association Posidonia.

Camargue is a natural region located south of Arles, France, between the Mediterranean Sea and the two arms of the Rhône delta. It’s also one of Europe’s largest wetlands and a must-see destination during any great road trip in France.

Is Camargue National Park worth visiting?

Most definitely! From watching thousands of flamingos to horse riding at the beach – there are a lot of fun things to do. The Camargue offers great hiking and cycling opportunities for those who like flat terrain and no hills. There are tracks and trails across the Rhone delta. 

Deserted beaches

To the east of Saintes Marie, there are miles of largely deserted sandy beaches, only accessible along tracks or on foot, on horseback or bike. Some places are accessible by car, but not all.

Bullfighting

 You can also go on the river trips or see the bullfights (which are not like the Spanish ones – meaning no one gets harmed). Tickets to the bullfights can be purchased in the city or online, which will save you some time from standing in the queues.

Aigues Mortes & the pink lake

  

Also, why not visit the medieval city Aigues Mortes which used to be a Mediterranean port back in the day. Don’t forget to see Salin d’Aigues-Mortes, one of the few pink-colored lakes in the world. 

Parking in Arles

There are 2600 regulated parking spaces in Arles which are divided into 4 different pricing zones. Some of them offer the first 1 hour for free. For detailed information and map see here.

Where to stay near Camargue?

When spending the night in Camargue there are a few options – Camargue has only small establishments that need to be booked in advance.

There are more options to stay are in the city of Arles which is about a 20-minute drive from this Wild West of Europe. 

L’hotel Particulier & Hotel le Rodin

For a more fabulous (and costly) stay opt for the L’hotel Particulier. A really nice hotel is also Hotel le Rodin which is a better option money-wise.

After a day (or more!) in Camargue, it is time to hit the road one last time and drive to the last destination on this Southern France road trip.

Last stop on your road trip: Montpellier, 1 hour

Montpellier

famous place de la comedie main square in montpellier south of france. Grand architecture, people rushing around the square and clear, sunny skies. See the city during your road trip in France

Place de la Comedie in Montpellier. Photo by Ennelise Napoleoni-Bianco

It’s about a 50 minute trip from Camargue to Montpellier airport – the final destination of your French road trip. But it’s also always a good idea to see a new place – so if you haven’t been to Montpellier before it’s a great reason to go now. 

Rentalmoose recommends going to enjoy a cup of coffee and croissants in one of many beautiful terraced cafes on pink marble Montpellier city court (pictured above). Or take a little walk to the popular Coldrip Food & Cafe for a great brunch. 

What can you do in Montpellier?

Go walk in Place de la Comédie – the link between Old Montpellier and newer city districts.

This area has a lively ambiance with many of its bars, restaurants, and shops. Wonder in and around the Fabre museum which holds one of the best collections of Baroque art. 

See Montpellier Cathedral and Arc de Triomphe and if traveling with kids – go see the Montpellier Zoological Park.

There are more than 750 animals in the park and an educational farm for the littlest visitors where are tamed goats and sheep to feed. 

Where can you park your rental car in Montpellier?

Overflow car parks are located on the outskirts of the city and linked to the tram line (car park+tram), covered or outdoor car parks and parking areas (nearly 5000 spaces).

This option is recommended when doing a day trip to Montpellier.

If you’re staying overnight and your hotel doesn’t offer a private car park, see your options here.

Drop-off

If your flight goes from Nice and not from Montpellier airport, you can return back via the highway and return your rental car in Nice. If you do find a flight back from Montpellier, you can just drop your car off at the airport.

Don’t have a car you can take on a road trip? No problem!

Don’t forget to book your rental car via Rentalmoose for your next adventure. On our platform, you can find the top rental companies at the best price, along with tens of curated travel guides around the globe. Get your car from Rentalmoose!

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Post your pictures from your next road trip online using #Rentalmoose! Our favorite ones will be featured in the upcoming blog posts.

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