The Most Scenic Road Trips in Australia
Introduction
Imagine that open road, wind blowing through your hair, endless vistas out at you, variety stretching out before you. In a country this size and as diverse as Australia, a road trip is so much more than what, compared to most of the Western world, getting from A to B means — it’s a destination in itself. From ragged beaches to vast outbacks, the land of Australia is simply full of some of the most beautiful and breathtaking road adventures which will not only leave one speechless but also experience the real meaning of wonder. It is in these kinds of journeys — be it for the seasoned traveler or just once in a lifetime — that one shall be able to gain insight into the natural beauty and hidden gems Australia possesses.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Journey Highlights
Victoria’s Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous drive. It offers you majestic cliffs that plunge into the ocean, salty sea breeze kissing your face and waves pounding on the coast. The Twelve Apostles (those big limestone stacks rising dramatically out of the Southern Ocean) are the headliner of the show. Further down the twisting road, you’ll have the Loch Ard Gorge, surrounded with history, tragedy, and haunting beauty.
Best Time to Visit
While one can take the Great Ocean Road at any time, it’s best during the November-to-February period for clear weather so as to have full views of the Twelve Apostles. Summer months provide the best weather for a beach outing, but it can get crowded at popular spots.
Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia
The Adventures of Nullarbor
While others enjoy the isolation and lack of traffic, for those, well, the Nullarbor Plain delivers something a bit different. It links South Australia with Western Australia and passes through some of the most rural areas in the country. You might guess from the name; “Nullarbor” which comes from the Latin word “nullus arbor,” or “no trees,” and as you drive through captivating terrain, you’ll understand why.
Unique Attractions along the Way
While the Nullarbor itself is desolate, it is dotted with unique attractions that make the journey worthwhile: the Head of Bight, where you may see southern right whales breaching and playing close into shore; and if you’re a golf enthusiast, Nullarbor Links — the world’s longest golf course — offers a one-of-a-kind challenge with holes spread across the plain.
The Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales
Scenic Lookouts
For those who like coastal driving, New South Wales’ Grand Pacific Drive should come top of the list of must-dos. The journey takes you from the Royal National Park, south of Sydney, on an adventure past beautiful rainforests with their waterfalls and on to lovely seaside communities before crossing the great engineering wonder of the Sea Cliff Bridge as the road gently arks its way out over the water below.
Best Stopovers
There are plenty of rest stops along the Grand Pacific Drive. Wollongong itself is a very lively city with good beaches and an excellent arts scene. A bit further along the coast lies Kiama, with its famous blowhole, shooting up great loads of seawater high into the air and impressing all who see it.
Savannah Way, Queensland to Western Australia
The Outback Experience
The Savannah Way is about being free. It traverses from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia and has a great loop through the absolute heart of the Australian desert. A tour of opposites, it sees you move from the lush wet tropics in the east to the desert savannahs in the west, with plenty of rough territory in between.
Must-Visit Natural Wonders
Along the Savannah Way you will pass some of Australia’s most unique natural wonders: explore the Undara Lava Tubes, remnants of volcanic activity over 190,000 years ago, or take a boat cruise or canoe through Nitmiluk National Park’s stunning sandstone gorges at Katherine Gorge.
The Gibb River Road, Western Australia
A Kimberley Odyssey
The Gibb River Road is not for the faint-hearted. This 660 kilometer road through the Kimberley region will offer you some of Australia’s most deserted and rugged terrain. Red dirt roads, towering escarpments, and secret waterholes ideal for a cool swim after a long day of driving await.
Essential Stops
There are some great stops along the Gibb River Road, from luxury to adventure at places like the El Questro Wilderness Park, with everything from glamping to gorge hiking. There’s Bell Gorge, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Kimberley for a swim and a picnic.
The Great Alpine Road, Victoria
Mountain Views and Alpine Villages
From the desert to the highlands, Victoria’s Great Alpine Road offers breathtaking views. This road journey takes you through the Victorian Alps with their snow-capped peaks and green valleys. You will have perfect alpine villages where you can sit back and relax by the fire or indulge in a hearty dinner after a day full of activity.
Things to Do on This Route
No matter the time of year, there’s much to do on the Great Alpine Road. It becomes a skiing and snowboarding center during winter. In summer, it invites people for hiking, biking, and taking in the alpine trails. Not to miss, too, would be the Mount Buffalo National Park for breathtaking views and a feel of the alpine wilderness.
The Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
Discover the Heart of Australia
The Red Centre Way is a beautiful hiking deep into the spiritual heart of Australia, with stunning scenery through the Northern Territory’s Red Centre region. Aside from stops at a few familiar sites, like Uluru and Kata Tjuta, visitors might find themselves interested in some of the other trails. If so, try checking out some hidden gems destinations in Europe that show their own special beauty and culture.
Cultural Encounters
Uluru and Kata Tjuta are two of Australia’s most famous natural wonders. Beyond the natural beauty lies an area deeply significant to the Indigenous Anangu people. Take your time to learn about their culture, stories, and connection with the land — it will add a profound dimension to your journey.
Conclusion
The scenic road trips in Australia have the combination of diversity and experiences that range from oceanic views and coastal drives to the records of the rugged outback adventures that have an offering into the heart of the country. Each of these routes has something exclusive to them in terms of natural beauty, history, and adventure — all combining to make Australia the road-trip paradise. Whether you are chasing the sun along the Great Ocean Road, the red deserts of the Northern Territory, or through the snow-capped peaks of the Great Alpine Road, the journey will be at least as rewarding as the destinations themselves. Just pack up and ready with fuel; just come down for that fabulous drive, for drives in what must be the most picturesque places in the world — Australia.
FAQs
What time of the year is best to take road trips in Australia?
This would depend on the region. Coastal routes, like along the Great Ocean Road, do best during summer. However, outback trips are preferably done during the cooler winter months.
Are there any road trips suitable for beginners?
Yes. The Great Ocean Road and the Grand Pacific Drive are good road journeys for novices because they are easy to follow and include many attractions along the route.
What should I pack on an Australian road trip?
Take a few liters of water, some sunscreen, first-aid kit, and navigation aids. On outback trips, pack extra fuel and some warm clothing.
