Another short stretch of road that begs for two or three days worth of exploration, Alaska's Seward Highway showcases the US state's gravity-defying mountain ranges, thick forests and stunning glaciers. A haven for recreationally minded travelers, this part of the world offers a wealth of experiences if you're into camping, hiking, fishing, skiing and the untamed outdoors. Best driven in summer when the days are long, the weather temperate and the wildflowers are in bloom, the scenic highway constantly changes as it winds through the spectacularly tidal Turnagain Arm - where the water levels can change by up to 38 feet (12 metres). From here the Portage Glacier deserves a visit, as does Ptarmigan Creek Recreational Site where thousands of red salmon can be seen heading upstream to spawn during July and August.

 

Luxury Stay. Tutka Bay Lodge. A detour is required to reach this luxury wilderness lodge, but it's worth the extra driving for yet another stunning vista. Turn off the Seward Highway when it meets the Sterling Highway and head on down to the seaside town of Homer. From here it's a 25-minute boat ride to the luxurious Tutka Bay Lodge. Situated at the head of a seven-mile fjord, the tranquil nature-bound lodge offers everything from hiking and nature watching to deep-sea fishing, and is also has its own cooking school.