Exploring Australia by car offers an adventure full of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities. From the Great Ocean Road to the Savannah Way, these routes provide endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences. Whether you are an avid traveler or a local looking for a new adventure, these best road trip routes in Australia will captivate your wanderlust.
Great Ocean Road: A Scenic Coastal Drive in Road Trip Routes
The Great Ocean Road stands as one of Australia’s best road trip routes. Starting in Torquay and stretching to Allansford, this 243-kilometer journey offers stunning ocean views, lush rainforests, and charming coastal towns. Along this route, you will encounter iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles, London Arch, and Loch Ard Gorge. These natural wonders provide perfect spots for photography and exploration.
Driving along the Great Ocean Road, you will pass through the Great Otway National Park. This park features lush rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Make sure to stop at the Maits Rest Rainforest Walk for an immersive experience. The seaside towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay offer delightful stops for local cuisine and relaxation. Lorne, with its vibrant arts scene and beautiful beaches, makes a perfect place to unwind. Apollo Bay, known for its fresh seafood, provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely break.
As you continue, the road winds through Port Campbell National Park. Here, you will find the breathtaking Twelve Apostles. These limestone stacks rise majestically from the Southern Ocean, creating a dramatic and picturesque landscape. The park also offers other remarkable sights such as the Loch Ard Gorge, the Razorback, and the London Arch. Each spot has its unique story and beauty, making this section of the journey particularly memorable.
The Savannah Way: A Tropical Adventure
The Savannah Way ranks high among Australia’s best road trip routes. Spanning from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia, this route covers over 3,700 kilometers. It takes you through tropical rainforests, vast savannahs, and historic outback towns. The diversity of landscapes along this route offers a unique and enriching experience.
Starting in Cairns, you will travel through the Atherton Tablelands. This region is known for its waterfalls, rainforests, and wildlife. Stop at the Millaa Millaa Falls for a refreshing swim or explore the Curtain Fig Tree for a glimpse into ancient flora. The Tablelands also host charming towns like Yungaburra and Malanda, where you can enjoy local hospitality and explore heritage sites.
Continuing west, you enter the Gulf Savannah region. Here, vast savannah landscapes and rich Aboriginal culture await. The Undara Lava Tubes provide a fascinating geological experience. These tubes, formed by ancient volcanic activity, create a unique underground world. Guided tours offer insights into their formation and history.
The Nullarbor Plain: An Epic Cross-Country Journey in Road Trip Routes
Driving across the Nullarbor Plain offers a quintessentially Australian road trip experience. This route, stretching from Ceduna in South Australia to Norseman in Western Australia, covers about 1,200 kilometers of vast, open landscapes. Despite its arid environment, the Nullarbor presents unique sights and experiences that make it one of Australia’s best road trip routes.
Starting in Ceduna, you will pass through the Yalata Aboriginal Lands. This region offers a chance to learn about Indigenous culture and history. Further along, the Nullarbor Roadhouse provides a necessary stop for fuel and supplies. It also offers unique attractions like the Nullarbor Links, the world’s longest golf course. This 18-hole course spans the entire length of the Nullarbor Plain, with each hole situated in different towns and roadhouses.
As you drive, the landscape’s vastness and solitude become apparent. The expansive plains stretch to the horizon, offering a sense of freedom and tranquility. Wildlife sightings are common, with kangaroos, emus, and wedge-tailed eagles often spotted along the route. Keep your camera ready to capture these moments.
One of the highlights of this route is the Bunda Cliffs. These dramatic sea cliffs rise vertically from the Southern Ocean, providing stunning views and excellent photo opportunities. The Head of Bight, a renowned whale-watching spot, offers a chance to see southern right whales during their migration season. This natural spectacle is a must-see for any traveler on the Nullarbor Plain.
The Great Alpine Road: A Mountainous Escape
The Great Alpine Road is another gem among Australia’s best road trip routes. This 339-kilometer drive takes you from Wangaratta in Victoria’s northeast to Bairnsdale in the Gippsland region. The route winds through picturesque alpine landscapes, offering breathtaking views, charming villages, and outdoor adventures.
Starting in Wangaratta, the journey takes you through the King Valley. This region, known for its wineries and gourmet food, makes a delightful first stop. Sample local wines and enjoy farm-fresh produce at one of the many cellar doors and restaurants. The King Valley’s Italian heritage adds a unique cultural flavor to the experience.
As you ascend into the Victorian Alps, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. The town of Bright, nestled in the heart of the mountains, offers a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. With its vibrant autumn foliage, cozy cafes, and adventure activities, Bright attracts visitors year-round. From Bright, you can take a detour to Mount Buffalo National Park. This park features granite peaks, alpine meadows, and stunning vistas. Hiking trails like The Horn and The Cathedral offer rewarding views of the surrounding landscape.
Conclusion
Exploring Australia’s best road trip routes offers an unparalleled experience of the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures. Each route, from the coastal beauty of the Great Ocean Road to the expansive wilderness of the Savannah Way, provides unique adventures and unforgettable memories. Prepare for an epic journey through some of the world’s most scenic and iconic roads.
