Australia has some of the world’s most spectacular natural landscapes and sights. From coastal towns, striking national parks, soaring mountains and even award-winning wineries, you’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy. The best way to experience and immerse yourself in everything this country has to offer is through a road trip. Whether you have seven days or longer, hiring a motorhome or campervan will give you the freedom to roam freely and enjoy the amenities and comforts on offer whilst on the road. We’ve compiled a list of our top destinations that we recommend exploring this year.
The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
This iconic drive will take you through some of the most spectacular beaches Australia has to offer. Winding along the wild Southern Ocean, this drive offers striking ocean, cliff, and countryside views along the way. You will pass through numerous small towns during this trip, with epic hiking and bike trails, native wildlife, and fantastic surf breaks. There’s no shortage of things to see and do along the way. The famed 12 Apostles are a must-see. These limestone pillars have been in existence for over 10 to 20 million years and their base erodes at a rate of 2 centimeters per year. Make a stop at Teddy’s Lookout to admire these renowned formations above the ocean.
Hire a vehicle from our Melbourne or Bendigo branches to embark on this adventure.
The 12 Apostles via Tourism Australia
Margaret River, Western Australia
Indulge in craft breweries, boutiques, and surrounding wineries whilst enjoying the beaches and surf breaks that line the coast nearby at Margaret River. This stunning region is only 3-hours from Perth and is full of exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Abseiling, coasteering and scenic helicopter adventures are plenty, and if you prefer to explore on ground, there are many guided walks along the famous surf coast. If you’re an animal lover, Sugarloaf Rock is a must-visit when you’re in the region. One of the most striking and unique coastal landforms in the area, it’s a haven for nesting seabirds, red-tailed tropic birds (nesting from September to February), as well as bottlenose dolphins, humpback, and southern right whales. It’s truly a spectacular sight where you’ll feel connected to the natural landscape.
Pick up a vehicle from our Perth branch to take on this adventure.
Barossa Valley, South Australia
Wine lovers will have a field day at the Barossa Valley. This award-winning wine region boasts more than 150 wineries and 80 cellar doors. There are so many ways you can explore and experience everything the Barossa has to offer, from Farmers Market tours, gin experiences, cooking classes, hosted wine masterclasses and so much more. Step inside a working vineyard and learn about the intricacies of winemaking as well as the generations who have invested time into curating magical blends. Foodies can enjoy a food and wine matching class to indulge in cheese, chocolate, and other produce from the region. Wherever your interests lay, the Barossa Valley offers a wide range of experiences for everyone to enjoy. Our Adelaide branch is only a short, hour drive away from this region!
Beautiful Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley via Australian Traveller
Kakadu, Northern Territory
Immerse yourself in the beauty of one of Australia’s largest national parks and connect with the oldest living culture on earth. Discover ancient landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, wetlands, and rainforests as well as exotic wildlife and striking ancient Indigenous rock art. Head to Gunlom Plunge Pool on Waterfall Creek to experience the seasonal waterfall and tranquil plunge pool. Take a relaxing dip in the crystal-clear pools or enjoy a walk to Murrill Billabong for some birdwatching. Enjoy a nice meal underneath the tall gums in the grassed picnic area. Kakadu has so much in store, you’ll never run out of things to see or do.
Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Looking for an immersive subtropical holiday destination? Then the Sunshine Coast is for you. This destination is full of pristine beaches, subtropical rainforest, and magnificent mountains, offering the best of everything. Villages with rich history and fresh, local produce are plenty, you’ll want to extend your trip just to experience everything on offer! There’s no shortage of water activities in this region, however we recommend visiting the Noosa Everglades, one of two everglades’ systems on earth. This 60 km stretch of unspoiled waterways with stunning natural sights is located in the upper section of the Noosa River. More than 40% of Australia’s bird species are found here, and this distinct environment is one of the most diverse ecosystems in Australia. This area is best explored in a kayak or eco-cruise so you can immerse yourself in the calming natural surrounds. Hire a vehicle from our Brisbane branch to begin exploring the Sunshine Coast and all its gems.
The River of Mirrors, Noosa Everglades via Visit Noosa
Great Alpine Road, Victoria
The Great Alpine Road is Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road, but it’s known for so much more. It passes through lofty mountain ranges, rolling vineyards, and plunging valleys along the route to Gippsland’s coast. Start at Wangaratta and make your way down to immerse yourself in the regional towns, soaring mountains, beaches, and amazing wildlife. Head to Mount Buffalo, an all-adventure playground which features unique rock structures, sheer cliffs and striking alpine scenery. Enjoy fun mountainside activities, such as cycling, hiking, fly fishing or hang gliding. Venture further through this route to enjoy the rich food and wine scene at different regional towns. You can also choose to try this route in reverse by starting in Gippsland and travelling north from Bairnsdale. Hire a vehicle from our Gippsland branch in Bairnsdale and undertake this iconic route.
Sapphire Coast, New South Wales
Home to Australia’s wilderness coast, the Sapphire coast is rich in native forests, ancient landscapes, and secluded beaches. If you prefer untouched natural sights, then this region is for you. Known for its undiscovered coastal wilderness and uncrowded beaches, the Sapphire Coast is any explorer’s dream. Dotted with coastal towns, you’ll get to uncover pristine beaches, coves, estuaries, and inlets to enjoy the soft sand and beautiful wildlife. With Bermagui in the North and Wonboyn in the South, these villages each have their own adventures and foodie experiences to enjoy. Taste local produce from the land and sea and indulge in the history and culture of these remarkable towns. Head to Bega to surround yourself in rolling green hills and rich pastures for that farm experience. The Sapphire coast truly has everything you need to have the best holiday, and you can hire a Let’s Go vehicle from our Sydney branch to embark on this journey!
Blue Pool in Bermagui via Visit NSW
Whatever adventure you’re looking for, these top locations will fulfil all your holiday needs. With beaches, mountains, wineries, national parks, and so much more to see and do, a road trip is the best way to explore everything Australia has to offer in 2022.
Hire a Let’s Go vehicle and head off on your next great adventure. Get a quote today.
Featured image via Tourism Australia.