1. RUTA DE LOS SIETE LAGOS: ARGENTINA Where: Patagonia, Argentina Distance: 107 km
Best For: serenity seekers and lovers of alpine lakes Tucked away in the stunning wilderness of north- ern Patagonia, the “Route of the Seven Lakes” runs between the towns of San Martín de los Andes and Villa La Angostura. Don’t be fooled by its modest dis- tance, this short stretch punches far above its weight in terms of scenery. Think jagged peaks, glacier-fed lakes, lenga forests and the kind of deep, soul-stirring quiet that only remote places can provide. There’s little traffic here, especially outside the January toFebruary tourist high season. Bring a rug- ged vehicle, a picnic and a camera. This is a road made for slow exploration and spontaneous stops. 2. JEBEL HAFEET MOUNTAIN ROAD: UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Where: Al Ain, UAE Distance: 11.7 km Best For: driving purists and night cruisers It might be short, but the road up Jebel Hafeet, a lone mountain rising from the UAE’s desert plains, is noth- ing short of spectacular. With 60 sharp corners and smooth tarmac laid with precision, it’s often com- pared to a Formula 1 circuit carved into rock. The climb delivers panoramic views of the desert below, and by night, the twisting snake of headlights against black stone is otherworldly. Locals know it as a late-night hangout for gearheads and bikers. Arrive just before dusk for a dramatic sun- set ascent, then stay to enjoy the stars.
46
Powered by FlippingBook