Stunning 191-mile UK road trip filled with seaside towns and golden beaches

A captivating coastal road trip tracing the north coast of Cornwall and Devon has been named among the UK's most sensational driving routes by a travel expert.

Insights manager at Away Resorts, Dan Doherty, crowned the the Atlantic Highway as the fourth-most scenic summer drive the UK has to offer. With reports revealing that 71 per cent of Gen Z plan to visit viral travel hotspots, Dan has compiled a list of five unforgettable drives.

For anyone yearning to explore the UK's coastline this summer, the Atlantic Highway promises an unforgettable adventure. The 191-mile stretch, officially known as the A39, stands out for its intoxicating blend of sea views, charming coastal towns and rolling Cornish countryside. It comes after beachgoers are left stunned after rare sea creature spotted off British coast.

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Dan said: "Running along the north coast of Cornwall and into Devon, the Atlantic Highway, A39, offers a blend of sea views, historic towns, and rolling countryside. Stretching from Barnstaple to Newquay, this scenic route passes dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and surf towns like Bude and Padstow.

"The road offers glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean at various points, especially between Tintagel and Port Isaac, both steeped in legend and local charm. It’s an ideal drive for summer months, with plenty of stop-offs for icecreams and coastal walks."

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Traveling along the A39, drivers journey through a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes and quaint seaside villages, each offering its own unique allure. The route sweeps past pretty fishing villages like Boscastle and the vibrant culinary hotspot of Padstow, famous for its charming harbour and spectacular seafood.

Each of these coastal gems is perfect for leisurely strolls, sampling local treats and soaking in the captivating views. The final destination, Newquay, is the surf capital of Cornwall, boasting vast golden beaches that make it a favourite for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Travel expert Dan’s top five most scenic UK drives are as follows:

North Coast 500, Scotland

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

The Lake District’s Kirkstone Pass, Cumbria

Atlantic Highway, Cornwall and Devon

Snake Pass, Peak District

Dan added: "With the rise of staycations and a growing appetite for more flexible, weather-proof travel options, road trips provide the perfect way to explore at your own pace. Whether you have a day or a week to spare, scenic road trips are the perfect way to explore the UK’s natural beauty.

"From spontaneous detours to peaceful viewpoints, travelling by car lets you enjoy the journey without the stress of crowds or fixed schedules. These routes offer the freedom to roam with the comfort of staying close to home, making them ideal for a relaxed and memorable summer escape."

So whether you yearn to explore ancient castles, fancy fish and chips in picturesque harbours, or simply wish to savour the sparkle of sunlight on the waves while you cruise the coastline, the Atlantic Highway delivers a sensational summer road trip showing off the timeless beauty of Britain’s shores.

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