The map above shows how long it takes to drive from one end of Texas to the other (Sabal Palm Sanctuary to Buffalo Springs, Texas 79022, USA).
A distance of 917 miles (1,476 km) and which can easily take over 14 hours.
Compare that to driving from London to Milan which is only as little as 742 miles (1,194 km) and can be done in as little as 12 hours and 20 minutes.
And in case you’re wondering here are the some of the most scenic drives in Texas.
1. Willow City Loop
Located near Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country, this 13-mile loop offers stunning views of rolling hills, wildflowers (especially bluebonnets in the spring), and rugged landscapes.
2. Texas State Highway 170 (River Road)
Running along the Rio Grande in Big Bend Ranch State Park, this drive offers dramatic desert landscapes, towering canyons, and views of the Rio Grande. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
3. The Bluebonnet Trail
This route around Ennis, Texas, is famous for its fields of bluebonnets in the spring. The trail covers approximately 40 miles of rural roads lined with these vibrant flowers.
4. Texas State Highway 16
This highway runs from San Antonio to the Texas Panhandle, passing through the Hill Country and offering scenic views of rolling hills, ranches, and small towns. The stretch between Kerrville and Llano is particularly beautiful.
5. The Davis Mountains Scenic Loop
This 75-mile loop in West Texas offers breathtaking views of the Davis Mountains, some of the highest peaks in Texas, as well as diverse wildlife and unique rock formations.
6. The Lonesome Highway (US Highway 385)
This drive through the Texas Panhandle offers wide-open spaces, expansive views of the Llano Estacado, and a sense of solitude. It’s particularly scenic near Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the United States.
7. FM 170 – River Road
Another scenic drive in the Big Bend area, FM 170 winds through the Chihuahuan Desert along the Rio Grande, offering spectacular views of mountains, river valleys, and desert flora.
8. The Mission Trail
Located in El Paso, this historic route covers 9 miles and includes three of the oldest missions in Texas: Ysleta Mission, Socorro Mission, and San Elizario Chapel. The drive offers a glimpse into the state’s rich history and beautiful desert scenery.
9. The Twisted Sisters (Ranch Roads 335, 336, and 337)
These three ranch roads in the Texas Hill Country are popular among motorcyclists and car enthusiasts for their challenging curves and stunning scenery. The route offers views of rugged hills, deep canyons, and clear streams.
10. Galveston Island Scenic Pleasure Pier Drive
This coastal drive offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico, sandy beaches, and the historic Galveston Island Pleasure Pier. It’s particularly scenic during sunrise and sunset.
And if you fancy doing the London to Milan route and are less concerned about getting there as quickly as possible here are some scenic options:
1. Via Reims and Geneva
Route: London – Reims – Dijon – Geneva – Mont Blanc – Milan
Highlights:
- Champagne Region: Passing through Reims, enjoy the rolling vineyards and historic champagne houses.
- Burgundy Region: The area around Dijon is known for its wine, historic architecture, and beautiful countryside.
- Geneva: Situated by Lake Geneva with stunning views of the Alps.
- Mont Blanc Tunnel: Drive through this iconic tunnel to cross from France into Italy, with breathtaking mountain scenery.
2. Via Paris and Lyon
Route: London – Paris – Lyon – Turin – Milan
Highlights:
- Paris: Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, charming streets, and world-class cuisine.
- Burgundy Region: Pass through this renowned wine region.
- Lyon: Known for its cuisine, historic sites, and beautiful old town.
- Alps and Mont Cenis Pass: After Lyon, head towards the Alps and enjoy the stunning scenery as you cross into Italy.
3. Via Strasbourg and Lucerne
Route: London – Strasbourg – Lucerne – Milan
Highlights:
- Strasbourg: A picturesque city with a blend of French and German influences, famous for its historic center and cathedral.
- Black Forest: Drive through the scenic Black Forest region of Germany.
- Lucerne: Nestled by a lake and surrounded by mountains, this Swiss city offers stunning views and a charming old town.
- Gotthard Pass: One of the most scenic mountain passes in Switzerland.
4. Via The Romantic Road and Innsbruck
Route: London – Frankfurt – Innsbruck – Milan
Highlights:
- Romantic Road: A scenic route in Germany, featuring medieval towns, castles, and beautiful countryside.
- Frankfurt: A city with a mix of modern and historic architecture.
- Innsbruck: Located in the Austrian Alps, known for its stunning mountain views and charming old town.
- Brenner Pass: Cross into Italy through this scenic mountain pass.
5. Via Luxembourg and Zurich
Route: London – Luxembourg – Zurich – Milan
Highlights:
- Luxembourg: A small yet beautiful country with a stunning capital city.
- Black Forest: Drive through Germany’s picturesque Black Forest.
- Zurich: A vibrant city situated by a lake, offering both cultural and natural attractions.
- Gotthard Pass: Another route through this beautiful Swiss pass into Italy.
Where would you rather drive?
