Australia is one of the greatest countries in the world for road-tripping. Is there anything better than tackling the open road, your favourite tunes on the radio and the GPS pointing you towards new adventures?
We’ve got five of the best road trips around Australia, guaranteed to delight with their spectacular scenery. Whether you are travelling with mates or your family, for just a day or for several weeks, these road trips have to make it onto your bucket list.
- Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Distance: Approximately 250kmThe Great Ocean Road is justifiably famous for some of the most sensational scenery in Australia. Although you can do it in one day, it’s worth taking your time. The Great Ocean Road starts an hour outside of Melbourne in Torquay and winds up the coast to Warrnambool.
The way up offers the sight of waves breaking against the rocky outcrops of the Twelve Apostles. Stop for a picnic at Apollo Bay or one of the other idyllic towns en route.
- Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
Distance: Approximately 690km
If you find yourself in the Red Centre and driving from Alice Springs to Uluru, bypass the Stuart Highway and take the scenic route along the Red Centre Way. You will discover the hidden treasures of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Uluru itself is one of the most spectacular sights in Australia but its beauty is matched by the majesty of Kings Canyon and Glen Helen Gorge.
- Launceston to Hobart, Tasmania
Distance: Approximately 560kmTasmania boasts some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery. With World Heritage listed sites and sweeping green fields, it’s also one of the best driving destinations.
Spend a morning perusing the Antiquarian bookshops of Launceston before hitting the road and heading for St Helens and the gorgeous Bay of Fires. Head south through Freycinet National Park and call in at Port Arthur, which holds so much history for this country. Arrive in Hobart and warm up with a wood-fired pizza before visiting the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), one of the world’s top contemporary art galleries.
- Sydney, New South Wales to Brisbane, Queensland
Distance: Approximately 900km
One of the most popular driving routes in Australia is down what’s known as the ‘Legendary Pacific Coast’ between the two major capitals of Sydney, NSW and Brisbane, QLD.
Given the distance and the fact you’re crossing states, this trip offers diversity - incredible beaches, rolling hills, wineries and hinterland.
Stop to (responsibly) enjoy the fruits of The Hunter Valley vineyards, have your photo taken with The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour and enjoy a beer (again, responsibly) at the famous “Top Pub” after diving into the sea in Byron Bay. - Broome to Perth, Western Australia
Distance: Approximately 2,785km
The West Coast of Australia sports some of the best beaches in the country.
At almost 3,000km, driving time is around 32 hours but we recommend taking your time to breathe in everything this part of the world has to offer. You will want to stop at The Pinnacles in Nambung National Park and of course diverge to Rottnest Island, which has some of the most aquamarine water in the world.
Wherever you’re headed, be sure that your car and tyres are in optimum shape before you hit the road. Tyres & More stock Australia’s favourite tyres. Speak to one of our experts about the best tyres for your car and the conditions that you will be facing.
We also carry out free safety examinations to give you peace of mind when you’re out on the open road. We will check all the fundamentals – including wheel alignment, tyre pressure battery quality and brake fluid – to ensure smooth driving. Find your local Tyres and More store now.
Resources:
http://www.visitnsw.com/things-to-do/drives-and-road-trips
https://www.ytravelblog.com/best-road-trips-in-australia/#RCW