Australia is a country that is blessed with natural beauty in abundance. From stunning beaches to picturesque mountains and rugged terrain, there’s no dearth of picturesque landscapes in Australia.
One of the best ways to explore this gorgeous country is by hitting the road and embarking on a road trip. But with so many incredible routes to choose from, what’s Australia’s best road trip? In this article, we’ll explore some of the most scenic and popular routes for a truly unforgettable journey.
The Great Ocean Road
One of Australia’s most famous and iconic drives, the Great Ocean Road offers breathtaking views of the coastline, winding roads through lush rainforests, and historic towns full of charm. The 243-kilometer route stretches from Torquay to Allansford and takes you past some of Australia’s most famous landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, London Bridge, and more. Be sure to stop at one of the many scenic lookouts along the way for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
The Nullarbor Plain
For those who crave adventure and don’t mind driving long distances, the Nullarbor Plain offers a unique and challenging road trip experience. The route stretches over 1,200 kilometers from Ceduna in South Australia to Norseman in Western Australia.
Along the way, you’ll encounter vast open plains that seem to stretch on forever, as well as incredible wildlife such as camels and kangaroos. This drive is not for the faint-hearted but promises an experience like no other.
The Red Centre Way
The Red Centre Way takes you through some of Central Australia’s most stunning landscapes. Starting in Alice Springs, this 1,100-kilometer route takes you through gorges carved by ancient rivers and past towering red rock formations such as Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas).
Be sure to take in the stunning sunrise and sunset views of these iconic landmarks. You’ll also get the chance to immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture with visits to cultural centers and guided tours.
The Great Alpine Road
For a more scenic drive, The Great Alpine Road takes you through Australia’s High Country and offers breathtaking views of the Victorian Alps. The 308-kilometer route starts in Wangaratta and ends in Bairnsdale, taking you past charming towns such as Bright and Mount Beauty. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning vistas, lush forests, and winding roads that offer a thrilling driving experience.
The Tasmanian Loop
Tasmania is known for its rugged wilderness, pristine beaches, and historic towns. The Tasmanian Loop is a 1,400-kilometer road trip that takes you around the island state’s coastlines.
Starting in Hobart, you’ll drive past rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches. You’ll also encounter wildlife such as wombats and wallabies along the way. Be sure to visit quaint towns such as Port Arthur and Coles Bay for an immersive experience.
- So which one is the best?
It’s difficult to pick just one road trip as Australia’s best as each offers its own unique experiences. If you’re looking for a scenic drive with breathtaking coastlines, then The Great Ocean Road is perfect for you. But if adventure is what you seek, then The Nullarbor Plain promises unforgettable memories.
For those who want to immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture while taking in stunning landscapes, then The Red Centre Way is a must-do. And if it’s picturesque mountain vistas that thrill you, then The Great Alpine Road should be your choice. Finally, if beach hopping around an island state sounds like your kind of road trip, then The Tasmanian Loop is perfect for you.
No matter which road trip you choose, make sure to plan your journey well in advance and take the time to enjoy each destination along the way. Australia’s best road trips promise a truly unforgettable journey.