Australia, with its diverse landscapes and expansive open roads, is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. From coastal drives with breathtaking ocean views to journeys through the rugged outback, the land down under offers some of the most iconic and scenic road trip routes in the world. Here are the best road trip routes in Australia that promise unforgettable adventures.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous road trip routes, stretching 243 kilometers along the southeastern coast of Victoria. This drive offers stunning coastal scenery, including the iconic Twelve Apostles, towering limestone stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming seaside towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, as well as lush rainforests and picturesque waterfalls.
Pacific Coast Touring Route, Queensland to New South Wales
The Pacific Coast Touring Route takes you on a scenic journey from Brisbane in Queensland to Sydney in New South Wales. Covering approximately 900 kilometers, this route passes through beautiful coastal towns, pristine beaches, and the renowned Byron Bay. Highlights include the Gold Coast’s vibrant nightlife, the natural beauty of the Tweed Coast, and the lush hinterlands of Coffs Harbour.
Red Centre Way, Northern Territory
For those seeking an outback adventure, the Red Centre Way in the Northern Territory is a must. This route covers around 1,135 kilometers and takes you through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Starting in Alice Springs, the journey includes iconic landmarks such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), and Kings Canyon. The dramatic landscapes and rich Aboriginal culture make this road trip a unique and profound experience.
The Savannah Way, Queensland to Northern Territory
The Savannah Way is an epic road trip that stretches over 3,700 kilometers from Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia, passing through the Northern Territory. This route traverses diverse landscapes, including tropical rainforests, vast savannahs, and remote outback regions. Key attractions include the Undara Lava Tubes, Katherine Gorge, and the breathtaking Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park.
The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia
Driving across the Nullarbor Plain is a quintessential Australian road trip experience. This vast, treeless plain spans approximately 1,200 kilometers between South Australia and Western Australia. The journey offers a sense of isolation and adventure, with unique sights such as the Bunda Cliffs, the longest straight stretch of road in Australia, and the occasional encounter with wildlife like kangaroos and emus.
Great Alpine Road, Victoria
The Great Alpine Road is Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road, stretching 339 kilometers from Wangaratta in the northeast of Victoria to Bairnsdale in the Gippsland region. This scenic drive takes you through the Victorian Alps, offering stunning mountain vistas, charming alpine villages like Bright and Mount Hotham, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and fishing.
Tasmanian Ring Road, Tasmania
Tasmania’s Ring Road, also known as the Tasmanian Loop, is a circular route that covers around 1,500 kilometers, showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes. Starting in Hobart, the road trip takes you through historic towns, lush rainforests, and along rugged coastlines. Highlights include the Bay of Fires, Cradle Mountain, the Tarkine wilderness, and the picturesque Huon Valley.
Conclusion
Australia’s road trip routes offer a unique way to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re driving along the breathtaking coastlines of the Great Ocean Road, experiencing the cultural richness of the Red Centre, or traversing the vast outback on the Savannah Way, each journey promises unforgettable memories and adventures. Pack your bags, fuel up your car, and set off on an Australian road trip that will leave you with stories to tell for a lifetime.