When you have such an expansive countryside filled with diverse landscapes and impressive geography, it’s no wonder that road tripping became an intrinsic part of Australia’s culture. In fact, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say it is almost just as important as surfing. Taking the quickest route from point A to point B is simply not the designated style of such relaxed people and if you ever get a chance to go on an aimless adventure across the endless highways of the Land Down Under, here are Australia’s 4 greatest road trips.
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
It is the quintessential Australian road trip – a rite of passage for everyone who wants to travel across the Land Down Under in a four wheeler. People tend to argue where this road begins and where it ends, but it can broadly be defined as a stretch of insanely spectacular coastline between Warrnambool and Torquay.
The drive itself is not particularly long – it’s 250 kilometers of pure road that cuts through some of the most fascinating beachside scenery you’ll likely see in your entire life. Since the journey is not that long and you’ll have a lot of leeway to relax along the way, make sure to visit one of Victoria’s renowned vineyards along the way for a taste of sublime wine and a delicious meal.
If you decide to go down this road, you’ll definitely learn why it is considered to be one of the most iconic road trips of Australia.
Savannah Way, Queensland to Western Australia
If you have all the time in the world and you are in the mood for a true adventure, Savannah Way might be a road trip for you. Be warned thoug, it is truly a taxing undertaking that can take up to two weeks to complete. If you are not afraid to cut through some of the most awe-inspiring and gargantuan landscapes, this can end up being a life-changing experience.
Savannah Way is actually a perfect road trip for families. It is a way to strengthen their bonds and spend quality time together. The road begins in Cairns, on the eastern coast of Australia. From there it stretches across the northern part of the continent. It takes you through lush rainforests, alien-looking national parks, rustic towns and rocky deserts.
Typically, Savannah Way ends in Darwin, Northern Territory, but for those who want to go all in for the ultimate road tripping experience, you can rest in multicultural Darwin for a few days before you continue your trip that ends in Broome, Western Australia. In the end, you’ll end up with 2,800 kilometers behind you and an awe-inspiring journey to remember.
The Legendary Pacific Coast, New South Wales to Queensland
The Legendary Pacific Coast is to the Eastern shoreline of Australia what the Great Ocean Road is to the South. However, this specific road trip is noticeably longer than Victoria’s favorite stretch of highway. In fact, the Legendary Pacific Coast begins in Sydney and follows about 900 kilometers of asphalt to Brisbane. Or the other way around, which depends on your perspective and the city of origin/visitation.
Regardless of your destination it’s important to ensure you get there in one piece. Remember that the road trip entails a risk of being far away from your regular mechanic. Plus you could be traveling in a more remote area, on a weekend or public holiday. These factors make a mechanic harder to come by. Therefore be sure to consult a reliable mobile mechanic from Brisbane about the checklist to prepare your car, ensuring a smooth ride and helping to prevent a breakdown.
Along the way, you’ll have an opportunity to sleep in spectacular coastal accommodations. Why not hit some of the most popular surfing hotspots on the continent. If you have enough time on your hands, take a small detour in Newcastle and go west to the Hunter Valley which has all the charm of the Mediterranean region – with five-star restaurants, legendary chocolate and an incredible assortment of cheeses.
The Great Eastern Drive, Tasmania
Tasmania needs to become a priority on the list of any globetrotting traveler. It is a wondrous island with a lush biosphere and some of the most jaw-dropping natural sites. You’ll have a privilege of seeing: mountain slopes, waterfalls and lakes. The Great Eastern Drive is a good opportunity to get acquainted with Australia’s smaller sister island.
The Great Eastern Drive begins in Hobart. The charming and rustic Tasmanian capital comfortably tucked away in the bay at the south-eastern tip of the island. The road progresses northward, through thick forests and along incredible vistas. The end point is the legendary Bay of Fires and its picture-perfect white sand beaches.
If you just want to have a relaxing vacation or get lost in the endless landscape with friends or family, embark on a road trip across Australia. It is not only a good way to get acquainted with this incredible continent, but also a high meditative experience. This can be a way to rediscover the simple beauties of life. Occasional gas stations, welcoming towns, intriguing roadhouses and spectacular landmarks are like isolated microcosms and portals into a rich and tranquil life of people with interesting backstories. It is an experience you’ll hardly ever forget.
Author’s Bio:
Olivia is psychologist and entrepreneur from Brisbane. She is a mother of two beautiful children and proud owner of two silly boxer dogs. She is a passionate writer, a traveller and conscious consumer, seeking healthy and sustainable products to incorporate into the lives of her family. Her motto is “Be the change you want to see in the world”.
Beautiful