Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, but beyond the iconic honky-tonks and live performances, the city offers an abundance of scenic drives that car lovers will appreciate. With rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and winding roads just outside the city, Nashville is an ideal destination for manual drivers who crave the thrill of navigating curvy, scenic routes. From lush landscapes to historical landmarks, Nashville’s surrounding areas provide a perfect blend of beauty and adventure. Did you know Nashville is home to more than 180 recording studios, making it the heart of the country music industry? Now, let’s explore some of the most breathtaking drives for manual car enthusiasts around Nashville.
1. Natchez Trace Parkway
One of the most famous and scenic drives near Nashville, the Natchez Trace Parkway offers a serene escape into nature. Stretching over 440 miles, this historic route starts just southwest of the city. While you may not drive the full length, the portion near Nashville is perfect for an afternoon drive. Manual drivers will love the gently winding roads surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and open fields. Along the way, you can stop at scenic overlooks, historic landmarks, and peaceful hiking trails. The lack of commercial traffic makes it an ideal drive for enjoying the open road without interruption.
2. Highway 100 to Loveless Café
A local favorite, the drive along Highway 100 towards the iconic Loveless Café is both beautiful and enjoyable. This route takes you through lush, green countryside with gentle curves and expansive farmland. It’s a great drive for manual car lovers who enjoy a mix of city escape and rural charm. The winding roads make for a fun driving experience, and once you reach Loveless Café, you can stop for some of Nashville’s best Southern comfort food before heading back.
3. Old Hickory Boulevard
Old Hickory Boulevard wraps around Nashville, offering a scenic route with a variety of landscapes, from suburban stretches to open farmland. One of the most scenic portions of the drive takes you through the Radnor Lake State Park area, where you’ll be surrounded by lush woods and gentle hills. This route is especially great for manual drivers looking for a drive with a mix of elevation changes and winding roads.
4. The Trace (Tennessee Highway 50)
Located just outside of Nashville, Tennessee Highway 50, known as “The Trace,” is a hidden gem for those looking for a more rural, peaceful drive. As you head west of the city, this highway takes you through the rolling hills of Tennessee’s countryside, with plenty of opportunities for manual drivers to enjoy sharp turns and elevation changes. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming small towns, scenic farmland, and long stretches of open road perfect for shifting gears.
5. Percy Priest Lake Scenic Loop
For those who enjoy lakeside views, the Percy Priest Lake Scenic Loop offers a tranquil drive close to Nashville. The loop around Percy Priest Lake provides stunning waterfront vistas, lush greenery, and quiet roads that make for a relaxing yet engaging drive. Manual drivers will enjoy the gentle curves and varying road conditions as they navigate around the lake, with plenty of spots to stop for a picnic or take in the serene surroundings.
Conclusion
For manual drivers in Nashville, these scenic routes offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and driving excitement. Whether you’re navigating the gentle curves of the Natchez Trace Parkway or enjoying lakeside views at Percy Priest, Nashville’s surrounding areas have something for every car lover. So, get behind the wheel and explore these scenic drives that showcase the best of Tennessee’s landscapes.
Ready to take your driving skills to the next level? Book a manual driving lesson in Nashville with Manual Driving Academy here. Whether you’re just starting out or want to refine your technique, we’re here to help you navigate Nashville’s roads with confidence!
