10 Best Road Trips in Australia
Experience the Best of Australia on the Open Road
The best road trips in Australia showcase the country’s dramatic landscapes, incredible wildlife, and spectacular World Heritage-listed sites. Trek through serene rainforests or race down thrilling ziplines. Bask in glorious sunshine on pristine beaches or challenge yourself with a canyon hiking trail. The breathtaking views change with the seasons too. Locals love to take road trips and camp under the stars in summer, hike through stunning fall foliage, and drive to the mountains to hit the ski slopes in winter.
Australia is a vast country, and you’ll love exploring its diverse regions, local cuisine, and quaint towns and villages. So, fill up your tank, get your camera ready, and explore some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery on the open road.
1. Great Ocean Road
Coastal scenery and iconic landmarks
适合： 冒险, 照片
For sensational views, the Great Ocean Road trip is an excellent choice. Depart from the surfing town of Torquay in southern Victoria and enjoy over 270 km of coastal breeze as you head west towards Port Fairy. You’ll soon leave the cliff-top views of golden sands behind as you enter Great Otway National Park.
Stretch your legs with a gentle hike through the lush vegetation of this rainforest and keep an eye out for cuddly koalas. Try the treetop canopy walk or a thrilling ziplining ride, if you dare. Further along the route, snap Instagrammable photos of the Twelve Apostles. You’ll be awestruck at these incredible rock formations standing majestically in the ocean.
Great Ocean Road
2. Brisbane to Cairns
Historic towns and spectacular beaches
适合： 照片, 历史, 情侣/夫妇
The road trip from Brisbane to Cairns is best done at a leisurely pace, giving you time to explore Queensland’s breathtaking coastline. The route stretches over 1,900 km, weaving its way first along the dazzling Sunshine Coast, with its popular beach resorts and mangrove forests. You’ll then reach the iconic Great Barrier Reef. Soak up the incredible hues of the emerald water around the Whitsunday Islands as well as its sparkling white beaches.
Be sure to stop off at some of the historic towns along the way too. Bundaberg is a wonderful place to discover world-class rum and catch a glimpse of hatching turtles. And you’ll find a long, tropical beach and fascinating shipwreck in Townsville.
Brisbane to Cairns
3. Great Barrier Reef Drive
Cityscapes and jungle treks
适合： 照片, 冒险, 历史
The Great Barrier Reef Drive will take you north from the bustling city of Cairns to the small rainforest village of Cape Tribulation. In a stretch of just 145 km, you’ll pass alongside not 1, but 2, World Heritage-listed sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Take a break from the wheel at Mossman Gorge for a refreshing dip in the river, then join a fascinating guided tour of Aboriginal culture.
This is a wonderful drive for wildlife lovers. On the ferry across the Daintree River, you’ll spot crocodiles lurking in the water, and cassowaries can often be seen on Cape Tribulation’s rainforest trails. For panoramic ocean views and amazing photos, Rex Lookout is a top choice.
Great Barrier Reef Drive
4. Grand Pacific Drive
Architectural feats and natural wonders
适合： 照片, 与众不同, 经济
Starting just south of Sydney, the Grand Pacific Drive will take you on an awe-inspiring coastal trip down New South Wales. The highlight is undoubtedly the Sea Cliff Bridge, where you’ll wind around cliffs as noisy waves crash below you. It’s a wonderful spot to stretch your legs and take in the mesmerizing view. Between May and November, look out for migrating whales in the water.
The extraordinary blowholes at Kiama are not to be missed either. The largest one, next to the lighthouse, is simply spectacular. You can also see the Little Blowhole which is consistent, and you’ll still get the wow factor. If you’re driving, consider parking at the smaller blowhole.
Grand Pacific Drive
5.
The Great Eastern Drive of Tasmania
Nature reserves and local cuisine
适合： 餐饮, 家庭, 照片
The Great Eastern Drive of Tasmania is one of the best road trips in Australia for families. Heading north from Hobart to the Bay of Fires, you’ll find several national parks for outdoor fun. Kids will love playing on the curved beach at Wineglass Bay, with its soft, white sand.
Further along the route, St Helens has rugged trails for hiking and mountain biking that are a great way to burn off some energy after several hours in the car. Kids of all ages will enjoy wildlife spotting. This town is also known for its freshly sourced seafood, especially oysters, so why not indulge in a delicious meal overlooking the picturesque bay?
The Great Eastern Drive of Tasmania
6. Red Centre Way
The stunning landscapes of central Australia
适合： 情侣/夫妇, 历史, 照片
Go hiking and camping on your Red Centre Way road trip to take in the incredible sights. Leave Alice Springs, in the heart of the Northern Territory, and drive through Australia’s iconic outback. You’ll be awestruck at the vibrant red sands lining the route as far as the eye can see in this immense, arid region.
At Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, explore the hiking trails and visit the Cultural Centre to discover the spiritual importance of this unique UNESCO site. Kings Canyon merits a detour on this road trip to attempt the Rim Walk. It’s a challenging, 6-km trek with a steep climb, but it’s worth the effort. Hike at sunrise for unforgettable views and to avoid the midday heat.
Red Centre Way
7. The South West Edge
World-class wine, food, and scenery
适合： 照片, 餐饮, 情侣/夫妇
Drive The South West Edge road trip for a wondrous blend of beaches, national parks, and wineries, stretching 1,200 km from the vibrant city of Perth to Esperance. If you’re looking for a relaxing trip with dazzling, white beaches and clear, turquoise water, take a break at Busselton. It’s a popular spot with locals for snorkeling.
Foodies should stop at Ferguson Valley or Margaret River. They offer lovely vineyard visits, wine-tasting experiences, and high-end restaurants, as well as being known for their surfing and kayaking tours. Leave the coastal path and head inland for some unique geological sites too. Wave Rock will delight you with its sheer size and detailed patterns.
The South West Edge
8. The Great Alpine Road
Snow-covered landscapes
适合： 餐饮, 照片
Discover breathtaking mountain scenery on The Great Alpine Road. You’ll see the Victorian Alps up close on this stunning road trip from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale. Over 320 km of alpine landscapes and charming villages await you. Harrietville is a popular destination for hiking and horse riding, and you’ll love the cozy cafes to enjoy drinks and light bites after all that mountain air.
In winter, you’ll see crowds of skiers gliding down the slopes of Mount Hotham, and it’s a sought-after spot for snowboarders too. If you prefer sunshine to snow, try this road trip in summer, when the surrounding fields are filled with wildflowers. Hike or bike at Dinner Plain for the prettiest highland views once the snow disappears.
The Great Alpine Road
9. Gibb River Road
Wildlife and waterfalls
适合： 冒险, 照片
Western Australia will astound you with its rugged beauty on the Gibb River Road trip. Take off on an outback adventure in the remote, northern region of Kimberley and discover some of Australia’s most secluded gorges. Broome is the starting point, but you’ll soon swap the resort town and its beaches for scrubland and wilderness.
Visit Windjana Gorge National Park to spot rare birds and fierce crocodiles, before driving on to Bell Gorge with its impressive waterfalls. The trail is often slippery, so families with younger kids should continue to the horseshoe-shaped Galvans Gorge instead. It’s much easier to access. Hire a 4x4 for this road trip as you’ll be driving through remote, rocky terrain, often in isolated areas.
Gibb River Road
10. Nullarbor Plain
An epic journey across southern Australia
适合： 照片, 与众不同
Nullarbor Plain is a good choice for a road trip if you’re seeking tranquility and vast, open spaces. The long stretch of road between Adelaide and Perth takes you through the desert-like wilderness of Nullarbor Plain, which covers an area 4 times the size of Belgium.
Play a round of golf in scrubland, teeing off next to the legendary site of NASA’s Skylab wreckage. Watch out for any lurking snakes though. Then, follow the coast, taking in the sheer beauty of the Great Australian Bight. The bay is popular for whale watching, but if you’re an avid birdwatcher, spend the night at Eyre Bird Observatory. You’ll be treated to wonderful ocean views, delicious home-cooked food, and sightings of local birds.
Nullarbor Plain
本文包含 Go Guides 编辑团队的意见。Hotels.com 好订网对作者出现在本网站上的文章给予补偿；此类补偿可能包括差旅费和其他费用。