Aramoana Road: One of the Most Beautiful (and Sometimes Nerve-Wracking) Coastal Drives in the World

Aramoana Road: One of the Most Beautiful (and Sometimes Nerve-Wracking) Coastal Drives in the World

New Zealand, oceania

Length

10.7 km

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

easy

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Aramoana Road in New Zealand's South Island, right where Otago Harbour meets the Pacific. Seriously, this coastal drive is something else. It's like driving at sea level, with the ocean practically glued to your side!

You'll find this gem northeast of Dunedin, winding its way from Port Chalmers up to Aramoana - a name that means "pathway of the sea" in Māori. The road itself is paved and clocks in at about 10.7 km (6.64 miles). Quick heads up: Aramoana carries a sad history, having been the site of a mass shooting back in 1990. There's a memorial near the Aramoana Mole if you want to pay your respects.

Now, back to the fun stuff! People rave about the views – endless, breathtaking coastal scenery as you hug the bays. But fair warning: some drivers find it a bit intense being so close to the water without guardrails. If you're not a fan of driving right on the edge, it might get your heart pumping! But if you're up for the adventure, you're in for one unforgettable ride.

Where is it?

Aramoana Road: One of the Most Beautiful (and Sometimes Nerve-Wracking) Coastal Drives in the World is located in New Zealand (oceania). Coordinates: -42.8878, 173.9691

Share this road

Road Details

Country
New Zealand
Continent
oceania
Length
10.7 km
Difficulty
easy
Coordinates
-42.8878, 173.9691

Related Roads in oceania

Driving the Scenic Haast Highway Along the West Coast of the South Islandeasy

Driving the Scenic Haast Highway Along the West Coast of the South Island

🇳🇿 New Zealand

Okay, picture this: the Haast Highway, a legendary ribbon of road snaking along the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island. Seriously, it's one of *those* drives you dream about! It's part of State Highway 6, and fully paved so don't worry! You're looking at about 276 kilometers (171 miles) of pure driving bliss along the rugged coastline, carving its way through the Westland District. Think Haast, a cute little town by the Haast River, all the way up to Hokitika, the district's main hub. Without stopping (but why wouldn't you?!), it's a 3-4 hour cruise. But trust me, you'll want to budget extra time. This route hugs the coast with hidden bays and scenic stops practically begging for you to pull over and soak it all in. I'm talking postcard-perfect views, people! It's a must-do for any South Island road trip.

Where is the Wielangta Forest Drive?moderate

Where is the Wielangta Forest Drive?

🌍 Tasmania

Okay, picture this: you're in southeastern Tasmania, itching for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Head straight for the Wielangta Forest Reserve and get ready for the Wielangta Forest Drive! This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking about a completely unpaved track slicing right through towering eucalypt forests. You'll definitely need a 4WD to tackle this one, and be warned, some sections get a little rough around the edges. Check your rental agreement, because it might even be off-limits in hire vehicles. This wild ride stretches for about 19.4km, connecting the Tasman Highway to the Arthur Highway. Forget manicured lawns and pristine views — you're in for a rugged, raw, and totally unforgettable Tasmanian experience! Just keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready.

Why is it called Ernest Giles Road?hard

Why is it called Ernest Giles Road?

🇦🇺 Australia

Okay, picture this: Ernest Giles Road, smack-dab in the Northern Territory outback. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking 100 km (62 miles) of red dirt stretching from Luritja Road into the wild, a vital artery for cattle stations and the resilient communities out here. Forget your low riders—this is strictly 4WD territory. Think dips that'll test your suspension, bone-rattling corrugations, and patches of sand that'll swallow you whole. Oh, and did I mention the wet season? Yeah, this track pretty much becomes a no-go zone when the rains hit. Speaking of challenges, this isn't a road you just wing. Do your homework, pack your gear, and prepare to be self-sufficient. We're talking water, spare tires (plural!), and a solid plan. Cell service? Nope, you're off the grid. You'll be navigating a raw, remote landscape that demands respect. Expect river crossings, potential flooding, and ever-changing road conditions thanks to the desert's unpredictable nature. So, why bother? Because this is an adventure, pure and simple. You'll be navigating one of the richest red, mystic, dusty roads you will ever travel along. Plus, it leads you to awesome spots like the Henbury Meteorite Craters! This is a chance to disconnect, challenge yourself, and witness the stark, stunning beauty of the Aussie outback firsthand.

Berglund Roadmoderate

Berglund Road

🇦🇺 Australia

Okay, buckle up, adventure-seekers! Tucked away in Victoria, Australia's dreamy Toomuc Valley, you'll find Berglund Road – and "brutal" barely covers it. This 2.8km stretch throws you into the deep end with gradients hitting a crazy 30%! Think loose gravel, hairpin turns, and views that'll make you forget how hard your car's working. Fun fact: you'll hit random patches of pavement where the gravel just couldn't handle the incline. And a heads up, truckies – this one's strictly for the smaller vehicles. Get ready for an unforgettable, challenging, and seriously stunning ride!

Aramoana Road: One of the Most Beautiful (and Sometimes Nerve-Wracking) Coastal Drives in the World - New Zealand - RoadScout | RoadScout