For those who love adventure and long, straight or winding roads, here's our roundup of some of the most scenic routes you can drive in Australia.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Perhaps the most well-known is the Great Ocean Road, a 243km heritage listed, oceanside drive. Start in Melbourne and continue past the 12 Apostles, Apollo Bay, Lorne and Port Fairy ending in Torquay. With panoramic views for most of the way, make the most of your trip and drive slowly. Don’t forget to drive down to the tip of Cape Otway and keep your eyes peeled for koalas hiding out in the tall gum trees.
Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales
Stretching 140km between the Royal National Park and Shoalhaven, this coast-hugging road passes through multiple seaside towns all begging you to stop and soak up the views. Drive over the Sea Cliff Bridge, a 20km section suspended over the water. It can easily be done in a day, or extend your drive and camp beachside.
West Coast Wilderness, Tasmania
A total of 277km, this drive checks off three World Heritage Areas. See Cradle Mountain, the wild rivers of the Franklin and lower Gordon River and the wilderness of Lake St Clair.
Discover Tasmania recommends to drive it in 3-4 hours, starting at Cradle Mountain and ending at Lake St Clair. Go from ocean views to alpine wilderness and hairpin turns all in one drive.
Central Grampians, Victoria
The rugged mountain range in Victoria is full of scenic, and secret, drives. If you’re looking to get a taste, the Central Grampians drive is just your ticket, and also perfect for those with short deadlines. Winding its way through the mountains, the short day trip features many of the Grampian National Park’s most popular sites including MacKenzie Falls, Halls Gap and The Balconies.
Nullarbor Plain, SA & WA
Drive the longest, flattest, straightest road in Australia. Stretching 1256km and crossing a state line, the Nullabor Plain offers everything from coastal views to red sand and barren, treeless plains. Averaging around six days including stops, the drive requires plenty of preparation but is ideal for those wishing to experience the vast array of landscapes Australia has to offer.
Gibb River Road, Western Australia
One of the greatest outback drives in Australia, this 660km stretch of road winds its way through the vast Kimberley. Not only will you be exposed to beautiful vistas, you'll also be privy to an abundance of wildlife including birds, freshwater crocodiles, lizards, brumbies and even wild donkeys. Cool off in the many gorges and watering holes along the way.
Lasseter Highway, Northern Territory
The sealed 244km highway takes you through the centre of Australia, pausing at some of the major highlights including Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Expect to see vast plains of red sand, scrub and spinifex. Camp in the many camping spots dotted along the way and wake up with views of Uluru – a sight not to be easily forgotten. You'll also see plenty of wildlife.
23 Feb