The best way to truly explore Australia is through a motorhome or campervan, but what happens when all the well-known spots are fully booked? We’ve compiled a list of our favourite regions to discover that are quieter throughout the year but provide plenty of immersive experiences to suit everyone. Enjoy a relaxing trip and avoid crowds whilst exploring a new spot that may not be on your radar.
Renmark, SA
Situated on the banks of the Murray River, this quaint town has plenty of experiences to enjoy. You can make your way to Headings Cliff lookout to enjoy the picturesque view of the river and the golden limestone cliffs. Enjoy a stroll through Bert Dix Memorial Park or Jarrett Memorial Gardens, great spots for a nice picnic. If you’re a fan of historical experiences, we recommend visiting the Argo Barge, a static display at Olivewood Historic Home and Museum which was built in 1915. Walking trails and river trails are also abundant in this area.
Renmark is just under a 3-hour drive from Adelaide. Hire a vehicle from our Adelaide branch and get exploring.
Goondiwindi, QLD
Goondiwindi has something for everyone, with a variety of beautiful gardens, attractions, and family-owned businesses to explore. Visit the botanic gardens on the western outskirts to discover the diversity of bird life and Australia’s native fauna and flora. The gardens are home to a large range of unique, native plant communities. Head to lake Coolmunda or Goondiwindi Natural Heritage and Water Park to enjoy an array of watersports.
Hire a vehicle from our Brisbane branch and embark on the 4-hour journey to Goondiwindi.
Pine Creek, NT
Pine Creek is a gold mining town in the NT with a variety of attractions for everyone. If you’re a history lover, this quiet community will deliver an amazing cultural experience with mining relics. Explore the Railway Station Museum and the Station Masters House to learn about the detailed history of the district. From the Railway Station Museum, you can head to the ‘Walk Through Time’ footpath, which records the history of the town through a series of nine bays of tiles. Head to Lake Copperfield and Umbrawarra Gorge Nature Park to get a taste of the famous NT waterholes and red gorge walls.
Located just over 2 hours south-east of Darwin, you can book a vehicle from our Darwin branch and head down to Pine Creek to relish in its history.
Hamilton and Dunkeld, VIC
Hamilton is a large town in south-west Victoria offering visitors a variety of immersive experiences. Foodies can enjoy dishes with locally grown produce at a range of restaurants and cafes in the region. We recommend visiting Roxburgh House, a beautiful two-storey bluestone establishment, famous for its coffee and Italian style pizza. The Sir Reginald Ansett Transport Museum is a must-see for transport and aircraft buffs.
A short drive from Hamilton and you’ll find yourself at Dunkeld. This picturesque town is the gateway to the southern Grampians, with stunning views of Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt in all directions. If you’re a fan of hiking, you’ll want to tackle these mountains for panoramic views of the southern Grampians range. There are a range of tours available to join, as well as the Arboretum’s walking track, which will expose you to the native flora and serene billabongs. Watch the sunset over Mount Abrupt to finish the trek. Complete your visit with a delicious meal at the Royal Mail Hotel.
Hire a vehicle from our Melbourne or Bendigo branch and embark on the 3-hour journey to explore these regions.
Orbost, VIC
Located in the heart of the Snowy River country, Orbost is a striking town that boasts beautiful coastlines, sheltered bays, national parks, forests, and beaches. If you’re a nature lover, then it’s a must-visit. Drive through the Snowy River National Park to view the Little River Gorge – Victoria’s deepest gorge, and Little River Falls, a high waterfall that’s worth the trek. The nearby town of Marlo is well-known for river and estuary fishing as well as water and beach activities. Cape Conran Coastal Park in Marlo has spectacular rock formations, you can even take on the 3-kilometre Cape Conran Nature Trail to enjoy the white beaches, rock pools, lookouts, and boardwalks.
Pick up a vehicle from our Gippsland branch and start exploring.
Albany, WA
Albany boasts a picturesque coastline, historical experiences, unique forests and wildflowers, as well as vineyards producing fine wine. Head to Binalupi/Middleton Beach for swimming and recreational beach activities all year round. Hop on a bike and explore the scenic trails throughout the town or opt for a walk through the variety of walking trails on offer to experience the beautiful plant life and surrounds. Visit Australia’s last whaling station, showcasing a range of interactive whale exhibits. Wherever your interests lie, Albany has a range of experiences for everyone.
Hire a vehicle from our Perth branch and make your way down to Albany for an unforgettable experience.
Cooma and Jindabyne, NSW
The largest town in the alpine region, Cooma is the gateway to the NSW Snowy Mountains region. A large variety of experiences and attractions are available, such as Alpine Helicopters from the nearby town of Jindabyne, which soar over the Kosciuzko National Park, including Mount Kosciuszko and Mount Townsend lakes and surrounding ranges. Hop on a hot air balloon to get an aerial view of the stunning region or visit Charles Davis Gallery for an alpine art experience. If you’re looking to do something adventurous, try fliteboarding over Lake Jindabyne. Cooma and Jindabyne have a wealth of things to see and do.
Hire a vehicle from our Canberra or Sydney branch to explore these scenic towns.
Armidale, NSW
Known as the Cathedral City, Armidale is an elegant town with vibrant autumn leaves and a cool breeze in the summer. The town offers 19th century churches and a mixture of modern restaurants and cafes to enjoy. Explore the center with a self-guided heritage walk or a guided bus tour to get a glimpse of the grand cathedrals and colonial buildings. Explore Saumarez Homestead, a National Trust listed Edwardian Mansion that’s a short drive southwest of Armidale. If you’re an art lover, then a visit to the New England Regional Art Museum is a must, with a range of collections and works by renowned artists. Quality restaurants and trendy bars are plenty in Armidale, you can even sample locally brewed craft beers at The Welder’s Dog.
Hire a vehicle from our Coffs Harbour branch, just under 3-hours away from Armidale.
Whether you’re looking to avoid crowded areas or you would like to explore a new town that you’ve never been to, this list outlines several regions across Australia that are worth the visit. Simply hire your desired Let’s Go vehicle from the nearest branch and start planning your journey.
Images sourced via Tourism Australia.