We dream of open, empty roads most days. However, the harsh realities of our daily commute often throw up congestion, accidents and, worse still, unattended road works. It is at times like these that our minds wander. As we sit still in our cars, Hondas, BMWs etc. seemingly never likely to move, we all, at times, dream of a sports car, often a convertible, driving down a beautifully scenic and more importantly empty stretch of tarmac heaven. If we are not driving ourselves, then we are being chauffeured, which in turn allows us to also admire the drive as we cut through the air at speed.

But where are these roads? Do they even exist? And if they do are they too congested and snarled up? Blissfully no; here we look at the best drives across Europe, where the journey is more exhilarating than the destination, and where we can truly experience the wonders of the open road.

So fill up your faithful Honda, and pack some trusty Honda parts as it is going to be one hell of a long and enjoyable journey.

Isle of White - Military Road

The A3055, lovingly known as the Military Road, was built in preparation for a Napoleonic invasion, but is now more famed for the fabulous views of a National Trust coastline. At only 12 miles, it should be enjoyed leisurely.

Furka Pass - Swiss Alps

The very definition of mountain driving across the Alps and has itself been immortalised in film, during the car chase in Goldfinger featuring James Bond and his Aston Martin DB5 in a race with a less civilised Ford Mustang.

Route Gentelley - Alps Maritimes

Commencing in Vence, heading through mountainous roads and onto the D2, the Route de Gentelly, is perhaps one of the most perfectly picturesque drives across Europe. There are also a good number of stopping points should you want an adrenaline free moment.

Verdon Gorge Circuit - France

Some 115 miles through villages, towns and countryside and a suggested driving time of at least a day. Starting and finishing in Lorgues, anything quicker may be reckless.

Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse Austria...

...Or High Alpine Road - passing through National Park, 37 mountains, hairpin roads, through pine clad hills, rocky outcrops, glaciers and, of course, the Alps. Motorbikes and sports cars alike head in their droves to this 30-mile drive and there is a toll of around £30.

Iceland Route One

Like driving on the moon, only crazier, Iceland is like no other place on Earth and deserves a visit because of this. Route One is 800 miles long and you could probably spend a lifetime driving it, and should spend as much time as you can afford to!

Susten Pass - Swiss Alps

Another route based around the glorious Alpine regions of Switzerland. It is less well known than Furka, but the benefit therefore is that it is a little quieter, offering similar views, with more tarmac of your own. You can also be enticed to stop from time to time to soak in the wonders of nature.

Romantische Strasse - Germany

Combine castles, palaces and walled towns, over 220 miles. Make a week out of the journey as there'll be plenty of reasons to stop along the way.

Ring of Kerry - Ireland

Encircling the Iveragh Peninsula, you will see the Killarney National Park, and the contrasting mountains and lush green fields. Take a couple of days to cover the 110-mile trip.

Spoleto to Norcia & Sibillini Loop - Italy

Tunnels and vistas, mountains and towns, beauty and nature all in a fabulous 101-mile trip.

Trollstigen - Norway

Just four miles, but with many viewing platforms as you ascend the mountain road and numerous extremely tight hairpin bends. That on average it takes four hours suggests some of the views are worth looking at for a long time.

Transfagarasan - Romania

Ceausescu created the road as an escape route in case the Russians came, suggesting quite correctly therefore that the road is built to enjoy at pace, utilising tunnels, bridges and aqueducts - a truly magnificent getaway track. That Jeremy Clarkson loved it would underpin this statement. It is 71 miles long, but should really be enjoyed over three hours.

North Coast 500 - Scotland

This is 500 miles of beautiful Scotland in all of its true glory, from mountains to seas, from villages and towns to peaceful nothingness. A truly great driving experience that demands and delivers enjoyment. It will take longer than you plan for, as you will want to stop every few hundred yards - truly idyllic.

These routes offer both passenger and driver alike true perfection. Whether short or long, they all deliver on awe and amazement. They vary of course and each can be enjoyed at differing times of the year to witness even more variety. All you need now is your trusty Honda, and some spare Honda parts for the journeys.

Promoted by Alejandro Carrillo - 10 May 2017