From the coast to the mountains

As the salty sound of the sea gradually fades behind you and the outlines of mighty mountain ranges appear on the horizon, one of the most impressive convertible tours in Europe begins. The connection between the coast and the mountains is more than just a scenic delight – it is an interplay of elements, cultures, and the driving experience. Open driving allows you to experience all of this up close: the light, the scents, the sounds, and the constant change of the surroundings.

This kind of route promises not only variety but also a true road trip feeling – with many stops, regional specialties, photo spots, and breathtaking viewpoints. If you're looking for a route that combines sea breezes with high-altitude air, you will find countless options across Europe that couldn’t be more different – but all have one thing in common: the feeling of genuinely experiencing something on the journey.

Starting by the Sea: Mediterranean Flair, Gentle Cruising

The journey often begins in a relaxed manner. The coastal roads along the Mediterranean – whether in France, Italy, Croatia, or Spain – invite you to glide leisurely while looking at the sparkling water. Here, the engine runs smoothly, the landscape is open, and the atmosphere is light. The Mediterranean towns and fishing villages, with their southern charm, provide a gentle introduction to the tour.

Especially in the early morning hours, it is a delight to drive along the coast with the roof down, inhaling the scents of pines, salt, and blooming oleander, and making the first stops at viewpoints or beach cafés. The mood is relaxed – ideal for getting acquainted with the car, the surroundings, and the weather.

The Middle of the Route: Transition, Curves, and Culture

Once you move away from the sea, the landscape changes. The transition is often fluid but quickly perceptible. The roads become curvier, the vegetation denser, and the temperatures drop slightly. Between hilly landscapes, small river valleys, and steep climbs, a great variety of impressions is offered. Now begins the more active driving part of the route – ideal for those who want to use the convertible not just for cruising but also for driving.

Villages with natural stone facades, hidden monasteries, wineries, and local markets line the way – here it's worth occasionally easing off the gas and taking a detour off the beaten path. Depending on the region, you can discover a wealth of cultural treasures and regional cuisine. In Italy, for instance, the trattorias of Tuscany, in Croatia, old mountain villages with fantastic views down to the coast, and in Spain, monasteries and historical passes from Roman times.

High Above: Mountain Air, Panoramas, and Driving Pleasure

From about 1,000 meters above sea level, not only does the view change – the driving experience becomes more intense. Passes like the Col de la Bonette, the Stelvio Pass, the Mangart, or the Timmelsjoch Pass offer spectacular routes, tight turns, and magnificent views. The clear, fresh mountain air, the changed vegetation, and sometimes bizarre rock formations create a driving and nature experience that can only be felt so intensely with an open roof.

A special experience occurs when clouds tower beneath you while driving or suddenly the panorama opens up to an entire valley. Everything changes acoustically as well – fewer city noises, replaced by bird calls, the rustle of the wind, and the crunch of tires on alpine asphalt. Upon reaching the top, you can rest, incorporate a small hike, or simply enjoy the view. Many mountain locations offer small inns, mountain hotels, or picnic spots – perfect for taking a break in the journey.

Route Suggestions for Coast-Mountain Combinations

Here are some examples suitable for multi-day convertible tours – depending on taste and travel duration:

1. Côte d’Azur – Maritime Alps – Piedmont
Start in Nice, over the Col de Turini and Col de la Cayolle into the French Alps, then towards Cuneo or Turin. A blend of coastal flair, high mountains, and Italian culinary culture.

2. Cinque Terre – Apennines – Chianti Region – Florence
Start at the Ligurian coast, through La Spezia and Aulla into the Apennines, through Tuscany to Florence. Ideal for culture, culinary delights, and varied route guidance.

3. Croatian Coast – Plitvice Lakes – Velebit – Slovenian Alps
From Zadar into the hinterland, past waterfalls and rocky landscapes, over the Vratnik Pass into Slovenia. Many natural highlights in a compact area.

4. Catalan Coast – Pyrenees – Andorra – Aude Valley
Start in Sitges or Tarragona, over small passes into the Pyrenees, then on to Andorra and towards Carcassonne. A convertible trip through wild nature, culture, and quiet high altitudes.

5. Istria – Gorski Kotar – Julian Alps – Carinthia
From the Adriatic through the Croatian highlands to Slovenia and then to Austria. A great combination of a Mediterranean start and an alpine destination.

Conclusion: Diversity on One Route

Convertible tours that lead from the sea to the mountains offer maximum variety – in landscape, climate, culture, and driving experience. For those who love open driving and want to collect not just kilometers but impressions, this type of trip is ideal. The transition from summery coastal life into cool mountain worlds, from the smell of fish to alpine herbs, from straight roads to serpentines – all of this adds to the allure of this special route.

Those who drive consciously also plan time for stops – at viewpoints, local markets, or in small inns. In the end, there is the feeling of having experienced two journeys in one: the relaxed coastal tour and the engaging mountain drive. And all with the roof down – perfectly made for those who want to feel the rhythm of the land directly on the road.