Jumping in the car and heading off in search a new adventure is a fantasy many of us dream of, but few do. What could be more thrilling than leaving work behind and letting the open road take you where it pleases -- across different landscapes, into different countries and towards new experiences?

Such journeys are not just for the big screen. They can, with a little planning, be enjoyed by everyone; from those looking for a unique holiday idea, to those on a gap year. Needless to say, the road you choose to take will be packed full of new sights and sounds, with different options for length of trip, areas covered and accommodation.

However, for those looking for a little guidance on their way, here are a few of the most adventurous road trips for you to consider.

"Storm over Dry, Dusty Fields" by Indigo Skies Photography via Flickr Creative Commons

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

One of the most famed adventurous road trips is to be found in America, along the Pacific Coast Highway in California. A winding road that takes you from the Mexican border to the Oregon border, this drive provides spectacular views of the Pacific and its surrounding landscapes.

Begin in Cambria after a long relaxing walk along the beach and travel along the coastline towards sights such as Hearst Castle, the pine woods of Point Lobos State Reserve and the marina at Monterrey.

Blue Ridge Mountains

For those who prefer a road trip based inland, try the Skyline Drive in Virginia and drive along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains across some of America's finest parkland. This road trip is 105 miles long, beginning in Fort Royal and concluding just above the Shenandoah River valley. Along your Skyline Drive, you'll see where early American Indians lived and the places where settlers moved across on their way to the western frontier.

America may well offer a variety of different road trips for the intrepid traveler, but there are many more adventures to be found in other countries. Whilst Europe offers a number of different holiday destinations, a circular road trip across Norway makes for great first time road trip experience.

Norway

With your adventures beginning in Bergen and finishing in Oslo, you'll have plenty of time to stop and enjoy the local villages, shops and restaurants whilst enjoying the peace and serenity of the county's wide open spaces.

As you leave Bergen behind, the fresh green landscapes stretch ahead of you and it's not long before the green hills turn to snow topped mountains, deep woodland and the type of buildings that seem to belong in a fairy tale. Stop for a break and enjoy a trip in a cable car up to the top of the mountains and, when you reach the half way mark, enjoy the sea views at Norway's southernmost point at Mandal.

Germany

For a more challenging road trip, try the classic route along the Alpine Road in Germany. Here you'll not only find meadows, mountains and forest greenery, but you'll find yourself traveling through an unique mix of ancient streets and local villages situated alongside the spectacular Bavarian Alps.

Starting in the town of Lindau located on Lake Constance, you'll pass a range of villages such as such as Oberammergau, Ettal, Garmisch, Oberstaufen and Bad Tölz. Along the way you'll have many opportunities to view areas of historical importance, including King Ludwig's Neuschwanstein castle and the Linderhof palaces.

New Zealand

If you're feeling really adventurous, travel further afield and make your way to New Zealand to travel the Northland to Auckland road. Northland is often called the birthplace of New Zealand and offers a historical take on this vast and varied country.

Beginning in Paihia, you can try your hand at a number of water sports such as sailing and kayaking. Then, to begin your adventure, drive on towards Waitangi, where in 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between the Maori chiefs and the British Crown.

Head north towards the town of Kerikeri and make another stop to enjoy the local craft markets and vineyards. As you move further West, you'll find yourself at Awanui and the top of New Zealand, where you'll find an ancient buried kauri forest and its ancient relics displayed at Gumdiggers Park.

Heading back South onto the Kohukohu Road, you'll travel across Hokianga Harbour to Rawene, which offers an unique insight into Northland's Maori and European history. From Rawene, it's south through the Waipoua Forest traveling by the Kai Iwi Lakes, on to Matakohe, the site of the acclaimed Kauri Museum.

All too soon of course, you'll be heading back to Auckland having completed this amazing tour. However, once back again, you'll have the perfect chance to reflect on your adventurous road trip with a lunch or dinner at one of the local pubs or restaurants.

No matter where you decide to travel to, you'll find that a road trip satisfies the most avid adventurer in everyone, with picturesque views, exciting new activities and a cultural history, all narrated and revealed as you drive.