10 Road Trip Routes for New Year 2026: Unforgettable Family Adventures

(Photo credit: freepik)

The cool breeze of December is calling. New Year 2026 is the perfect excuse to pack your bags, load up the car, and hit the road with your loved ones. But where should you go?

Thailand offers incredible driving routes, from winding mountain roads in the North to scenic coastal drives in the South. Here are 10 recommended road trip routes that are perfect for families looking to welcome 2026 with joy and breathtaking views.

(Photo credit: freepik)

Zone 1: Chasing the Cold & Mist

1. Nan (Road No. 3 & Bo Kluea)

• The Vibe: The ultimate "Slow Life" destination.
• Highlights: Drive along the famous "Sky Road" (Route 1081) with its iconic number '3' curve. Visit the ancient Salt Pits in Bo Kluea and camp under the stars at Doi Samer Dao.
• Driving Tip: The roads are winding and steep. Ensure your brakes and tires are in top condition.

2. Chiang Rai (Doi Chang & Phu Chi Fa)

• The Vibe: Coffee, flowers, and sea of mist.
• Highlights: Sip Thailand’s best Arabica coffee on Doi Chang, see the winter flowers at Mae Fah Luang Garden, and catch the first sunrise of 2026 at Phu Chi Fa.
• Driving Tip: Steep ascents require a car with decent torque (diesel or turbo recommended).

3. Phetchabun (Khao Kho & Phu Tub Berk)

• The Vibe: The "Switzerland of Thailand."
• Highlights: The Wind Turbine Farm, Wat Prathat Phasornkaew (colorful mosaic temple), and the coldest cabbage fields in Thailand.
• Driving Tip: Heavy traffic expected during New Year. Drive cautiously on the hairpin turns of Phu Tub Berk.
  
  

(Photo credit: freepik)

Zone 2: Nature & Glamping

4. Nakhon Ratchasima (Khao Yai)

• The Vibe: Classic family getaway, close to Bangkok.
• Highlights: Glamping sites are trending in 2026. Visit the vineyards, drive through the National Park to spot deer, or take the kids to Scenical World water park.
• Driving Tip: Easy drive, perfect for EVs (plenty of charging stations).

5. Suan Phueng (Ratchaburi)

• The Vibe: Cute, European-style countryside.
• Highlights: Feed alpacas, visit the Coro Field melon farm, and enjoy the morning mist at Huai Khok Mu viewpoint.
• Driving Tip: Just 2-3 hours from Bangkok. Roads are flat and easy for sedans.

6. Kaeng Krachan (Phetchaburi)

• The Vibe: UNESCO World Heritage nature camping.
• Highlights: Camp by the reservoir, watch the sunset over the suspension bridge, and spot butterflies at Ban Krang Camp.
• Driving Tip: The road to Phanoen Thung requires a 4WD vehicle.
  
  

(Photo credit: Go To Thailand)

Zone 3: Cultural & Relaxing

7. Sangkhlaburi (Kanchanaburi)

• The Vibe: A cultural melting pot on the border.
• Highlights: Walk the Mon Bridge (Thailand’s longest wooden bridge), take a boat tour to the sunken temple, and experience the misty morning alms giving.
• Driving Tip: The route is long and curvy. Take breaks often.

8. Chanthaburi (Scenic Route)

• The Vibe: Fruit orchards and the most beautiful coastal road.
• Highlights: Drive along the Chalerm Burapha Chonathit Road (Noen Nang Phaya Viewpoint). Eat fresh seafood and visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
• Driving Tip: Smooth roads, very scenic. Great for convertible cars or opening the sunroof.
  
  

(Photo credit: Agoda)

Zone 4: Quiet Beaches

9. Ban Krut (Prachuap Khiri Khan)

• The Vibe: Private, peaceful, and clean.
• Highlights: A golden temple on the hill (Wat Tang Sai) overlooking a long, quiet curved beach. Perfect for families who hate crowds.
• Driving Tip: A long straight drive down south. Watch out for highway fatigue.

10. Nakhon Si Thammarat (Kiriwong Village)

• The Vibe: The purest air in Thailand.
• Highlights: Swim in the natural stream at Kiriwong, drive along the stunning Khanom-Sichon coastal road (often compared to New Zealand).
• Driving Tip: The coastal road is hilly and twisty—fun for drivers!

Preparation is Key

Before embarking on these 10 routes, ensure your car is 100% ready. A breakdown on a mountain pass is not the way to start 2026.

Is your car ready for the mountains? If you are worried your old car can't handle the steep climbs of Nan or the long haul to the South, maybe it's time to upgrade before the trip. Check your car’s selling price with Motorist Thailand. Sell it fast, get the cash, and drive a new, reliable car to your New Year destination.

Read More:  Sell your car for the highest price in 24 hours

Looking for a  car appraisal?  You can contact us for a free car valuation within 24 hours…