When it comes to a holiday, there are plenty of people who are more than happy to spend their time relaxing by the pool or soaking up the sun on the nearest beach.

At the end of the day, a holiday is usually the opportunity to escape the trials and tribulations of everyday life, where you don’t need to worry about work and just focus on having some fun.

Not everyone wants to relax however and for some, a holiday is the ideal way in which to go off and explore somewhere new – taking in the sights and embracing local cultures and traditions.

There are various ways in which you can do that, but one of the best ways is to hire a car and hit the open road.

Now to some, the thought of spending your time away from home driving around is something that won’t appeal in the slightest, but bear in mind that it isn’t going to be like sitting in a traffic jam on the M25.

In fact, taking a trip along some of the roads we’ve selected on our top twelve road trips is an experience in itself, and something you won’t be forgetting in a hurry.

Our series will kick off in earnest on Friday but as a little teaser, here’s one that didn’t quite make it onto the list…

Atlantic Ocean Road - Norway

Although not worthy of the term road trip in its own right, the Atlantic Road in Norway does deserve a special mention.

Opened in 1989, the 8.3km stretch of road is regarded as one of the most beautiful routes in the world, connecting the island of Averøy with the mainland.

Declared as a National Tourist Route, the road is famous for the eight bridges that need to be crossed to get one from end to the other, including the 850ft long Storseisundet Bridge and the three Hulvågen Bridges that are more than 960ft combined.

No matter whether you are tackling the journey on a clear summers day, or when ocean storms are being whipped up by a storm, you’ll be treated to some of the most astonishing views possible on a trip along the road, whilst the surrounding area features a range of attractions that include caves, boat trips and museums.

Given the short nature of the Atlantic Ocean Road, you might even elect to ditch the car and take to your bike to get even closer to nature over the course of the trip.

Coming next - one for the bucket list with a trip to the Alps...