Way back when, road trips were the bread and butter of travel. We’re talking before planes were largely accessible. Families used to pack up their station wagons and hit the road, stopping at popular camping towns from Port Macquarie in NSW to the Great Ocean Road in VIC. It was a favoured means of sightseeing for its affordability, until air travel became cheaper and slowly dominated the scene, making road trips a thing of the past.
That said, in recent years, road trips have experienced a resurgence, with more travellers opting for self-guided adventures in their own backyard. Embarking on an epic Australian road trip is more than just a journey from point A to point B. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage, encounter unique wildlife, and witness some of the most impressive landscapes on Earth.
With the growing popularity of travel apps, improved road infrastructure, and a desire for more personalised and immersive journeys, road trips will likely remain a popular choice for travellers seeking freedom, adventure, and the joy of exploration.
With that, here are 10 of Australia’s most iconic drives you should tackle in your lifetime.
The Great Ocean Road
This 243-kilometre road trip along Victoria’s coastline is renowned for its dramatic scenery. With breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean, this breezy scenic drive takes you past the famous Twelve Apostles, charming coastal towns, and lush rainforests. It’s a captivating experience, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting, beachside relaxation, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Australia’s southern coast.
Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive
The Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive is a captivating road trip that spans over 1,000 kilometres, hugging the picturesque coastlines of New South Wales and Victoria. This journey offers diverse experiences, from pristine beaches to charming seaside towns and stunning national parks. Stop into Jervis Bay for white sandy beaches and chase waterfalls in Great Otway National Park along the way.
The Savannah Way
The Savannah Way is an epic transcontinental road trip that stretches over 3,700 kilometres across Australia’s tropical north, connecting Cairns in Queensland to Broome in Western Australia. This iconic route takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests and savannah plains to rugged gorges and ancient Aboriginal sites. It’s a journey of discovery, offering glimpses of unique wildlife, stunning waterfalls, and the captivating cultural heritage of the region.
The Nullarbor Plain
Embarking on the Nullarbor Plain road trip is an adventure like no other. Covering approximately 1,200 kilometres, this iconic journey takes you across the vast expanse of the Nullarbor, revealing seemingly endless horizons, dramatic cliffs, and the mesmerising beauty of the Great Australian Bight. Encounter unique wildlife, witness stunning sunsets over the Southern Ocean, and experience the raw, untouched allure of Australia’s outback on this unforgettable road trip.
The Great Barrier Reef Drive
The Great Barrier Reef Drive is a scenic coastal road trip that winds along Queensland’s stunning coastline, offering access to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. Stretching from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, this journey showcases pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and ancient rainforests. Snorkel in turquoise waters, explore the Daintree Rainforest, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region on this unforgettable drive.
Red Centre Way
Embarking on the Red Centre Way drive is a captivating journey through the heart of Australia’s outback. Spanning 1,400 kilometres, this iconic route unveils the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Red Centre. From the majestic Uluru and Kata Tjuta to the ancient Kings Canyon, this road trip offers a deep immersion into Aboriginal culture, ancient rock formations, and stunning desert scenery, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The Explorers Way
The Explorers Way road trip is a historical journey that follows the path of early explorers through the heart of Australia. Spanning from Adelaide in South Australia to Darwin in the Northern Territory, this route takes you through diverse landscapes, including the dusty red and rugged Flinders Ranges and the iconic Kakadu National Park. Experience towering gorges, encounter unique wildlife, and uncover the rich history and natural beauty that defines the Explorers Way.
Tasmania East Coast
The Tasmania East Coast road trip is a picturesque adventure that winds along the stunning eastern coastline of Tasmania. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside towns. Explore the Bay of Fires, with its vibrant orange lichen-covered rocks, hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout in Freycinet National Park, and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of the East Coast on this unforgettable journey.
Great Alpine Road
The Great Alpine Road trip in Victoria is a scenic and exhilarating journey through the state’s high country. This captivating drive showcases stunning mountain views, picturesque valleys, and charming alpine villages. Travel through the Alpine National Park, visit the vibrant town of Bright, and explore outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing. With its sensational landscapes and alpine charm, the Great Alpine Road trip promises an adventure in Victoria’s majestic high country.
Gibb River Road
The Gibb River Road is an epic and challenging road trip adventure in Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Stretching for 660 kilometres, this rugged track takes you through untamed wilderness, crossing rivers and showcasing breathtaking gorges, ancient rock art sites, and gushing waterfalls. Explore the tapestry of El Questro, Manning Gorge, and Windjana Gorge, immersing yourself in Kimberley’s remote and sheer beauty on this unforgettable journey.
Related: Hit the Road and Take on One of New South Wales’ Most Scenic Drives
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