Take a deep breath, hold it, think about the long weekend coming up, and…release it with a sigh of relief. For all you city dwellers seeking a change of scene, we’re with the best road trips for each of the 6 states. Relaxed, rugged, romantic, or …rambunctious? No matter where you are, or what you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered.
Road tripping from Sydney
Sydney: Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi, etc, etc, yawn. For a change of scene from the everyday, drive South and in less than an hour you’ll be cruising The Grand Pacific Drive. This 140-kilometre scenic route will take you through breathtaking rainforests and over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. Plan to be spontaneous, you’ll want to explore the many bushwalks in the Royal National Park where the drive begins; keeping an eye out for secret swimming holes, and extend your stop-offs to enjoy the hospitality in lovely coastal towns along the way, including Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, and Shoalhaven.
Hire a Car from Sydney from A$60** Stay at Novotel Wollongong Northbeach from A$282*
Road tripping from Brisbane
Make the most of every long-weekend minute with a three-day adventure along the Border Range Loop Drive. The route runs from Brisbane to Ipswich; across the Great Dividing Range to Warwick, finally heading to the villages of Tamborine Mountain. Over the course of 529 kilometres you can explore the state’s oldest provincial city, enjoy mountain views and wildlife, and check out a World Heritage-listed rainforest reserve. With so much to take in, you may arrive back at work exhausted, but at least you’ll be content and with a smile on your face.
Hire a Car from Brisbane from A$50** Stay at Amore Mt Tamborine from A$192*
Road tripping from Melbourne
Right, on to Melbourne. The choice is yours; one, two, or three-day trips are all on the cards. Pop over to Marysville for the day, or take a full three days to really soak in the surroundings. Don’t miss The Dandenong Ranges; a unique protected rainforest that is home to the world’s largest hardwoods and a wide variety of wildlife and birds. More demure, but also beautiful, are the many gardens scattered along the way; the Silvan Reservoir Park and National Rhododendron Gardens are particular highlights. The Yarra Valley is known especially for its pinot noirs and sparkling wines, but for a truly unique experience, enjoy a champagne breakfast while floating gently over swathes of gorgeous vineyards in a hot-air balloon.
Hire a Car from Melbourne from A$52** Stay at Vibe Hotel Marysville from A$199*
Road tripping from Adelaide
Anyone visiting Darwin should make the time to do a road trip along Explorer’s Way. But even locals already familiar with the otherworldly, red-hued outback, will benefit from exploring their own backyard – whether driving the full 3000 kilometre journey from Adelaide to Darwin or just dipping their toe in for a stretch. Pass a satisfying day wine-tasting at the world renowned Clare Valley vineyards, or hiking the valley’s walking tracks. If you do have more time, make sure to stop at the Alligator Gorge in Mount Remarkable National Park, take a scenic flight at Wilpena Pound, or discover The Woomera Heritage Centre and Interactive Rocket Range Museum.
Hire a Car from Adelaide from A$45** Stay at The Desert Cave Hotel from A$149*
Road tripping from Perth
Yeah, we know. Perth is beautiful and natural attractions are everywhere you look. Having said that, the Armadale Serpentine Trail definitely shouldn’t be overlooked. Boasting an impressive 34 scenic walks and trails to choose from; this is the perfect getaway for adventurers or nature enthusiasts. With only a 250 km round-trip you can balance the feeling of the open road with the majesticness of the great outdoors, with no time pressure at all. For something less rugged and a bit more cultivated, the Araluen Botanic Park is a stunning contrast to the surrounding bushland.
Hire a Car from Perth from A$55** Stay at Boadwalk by the Beach from A$260*
Road tripping from Darwin
Not far from vibrant Darwin lie the natural wonders of the Northern Territories Nature’s Way, a cross-section of spectacular nature and the unique opportunity to learn about Australia’s heritage and Aboriginal culture. The trip can easily be done over two days. Head to Pine Creek on day one to relax by the Adelaide River – or take a not-so-relaxing crocodile viewing tour – then on the second day drive from Pine Creek to Jabiru, via the Kakadu National Park. Try to hit the road early, the scenery of rugged peaks and lush greenery leaves little wonder why Kakadu is one of the most famous parks in the country.
Hire a Car from Darwin from A$115** Stay at The Knotts Crossing Resort from A$145*
*The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) are per night per room for double occupancy and were collated on 3 June 2016 for travel in June 2016, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release with a minimum 3 star rating. Prices are subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The car rental prices (including taxes and fees) for the above are per day and were collated on 6 June 2016 for travel in June 2016. Prices are based on the cheapest available vehicle, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
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