The Great European Road Trip

THE GREAT EUROPEAN ROAD TRIP. .5 stunning drives Driving in Europe isn't all that different from the UK, especially if you're well-prepared and learn the rules. Here are our tips, as well as a guide to some of the best routes around the continent. There really is no better way to see Europe than by car, whether you're after an exhilarating adventure on mountain roads or a breathtaking coastal drive, here are 5 of the best routes: Mountain views Col de la Bonette South-east France At 2,715m above sea level, this is the highest road in Europe. It winds through the Alps and offers breathtaking scenery and sweeping views across the border into Italy. The ascent is a pleasant steady climb, but be prepared - the steep way down is slightly more testing! Did you know? More tourists visit France than any other country worldwide! Cultural hotspot Sintra to Cabo da Roca Western Portugal One of Portugal's most historic places, the entire town of Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Narrow roads wind upwards through mountains, out of which fairy tale palaces and monasteries appear as if out of nowhere. Drive through on your way to Cabo da Roca - the westernmost point of Europe - before heading on to the coastal towns of Cascais and Belem to the east. Did you know? Portugal is the oldest country in Europe - it's had the same borders since 1139! Romantic roads The Amalfi Coast Southern Italy This narrow, winding coastal road takes in the best of Italy's pretty scenic towns. Amalfi, Positano and Ravello can all be reached along the route, which takes in expansive vistas over turquoise waters, dramatic cliff faces and romantic domed churches. Did you know? Southern Italy is home to mainland Europe's only active volcanoes - Etna, Stromboli and Vesuvius. Adriatic adventure Did you know? Croatia comes Northern to Southern Croatia top of UNESCO's Cultural Heritage list in Europe, thanks to its varied culture, food, music and more. The highway along the Adriatic coastline runs for 350km from Rijeka in the north to Dubrovnik in the south. The journey takes in varied landscapes from karst formations to breathtaking national parks, with detours to secluded waterfalls along the way. Grand Prix Monte Carlo Central Monaco Go on your very own lap of the famed Formula 1 circuit overlooking Monte Carlo - the ultimate driving experience, minus the race car. The picturesque route takes you along the marina, past glamorous casinos, taking in hairpin bends and passing by the rich and famous. Did you know? Although Monaco is a country, there are no airports there at all! Know the laws Documents You may be asked to produce your documents at any time, so make sure you always carry the following: • Valid full driving licence Licence counterpart • Vehicle registration document (if taking your own car) Motor insurance certificate • Passport It's compulsory in some European countries for drivers to carry certain equipment. Here's a few essentials to make sure you don't get caught out or have to pay a hefty fine: GB Sticker Hi Vis Jacket GB Ifyour number plates do not display the GBeuro-symbol 2 are required in Spain ED Headlamp Beam Converters First Aid Kit Getting there There are a number of ferry crossings from the UK into Europe, here are some of the most A Warning Triangle NF Approved Breathalyser common: Ireland - France, Plymouth - France/Spain, Dover - France, Hull - Holland France only Sources: The AA: http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/overseas/general_advice.html Ultimate Drives: http://www.ultimatedrives.net/top-10-roads/ Yahool: https://travel.yahoo.com/ideas/europe-s-10-prettiest-drives.html Visit Monaco: http:/l/www.visitmonaco.com/ ATS. Take to the road with a Free Vehicle Health check at ATS Euromaster. Our Free Vehicle Check will ensure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition, ready for a spectacular road trip across Europe. We'll check your tyres, brakes and batteries in only 30 minutes! For more details go to www.atseuromaster.co.uk/car-services/vehicle-health-check Find your nearest ATS Euromaster Service Centre at: www.atseuromaster.co.uk/centres/centre-locator EUROMASTER France lebnuod croatia Italy France