Most Scenic Drives in Australia – Top Road Trips You Must Experience
- 1. Great Ocean Road
- 2. Pacific Highway
- 3. Tasmanian Wilderness
- 4. Red Center Way
- 5. Snowy Mountains Highway
1. Great Ocean Road
One of the most iconic scenic drives in Australia, the Great Ocean Road stretches along the southern coast of Victoria. This incredible 243-kilometer journey offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, including famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. The drive allows you to experience lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure or simply want to soak in stunning views, this road trip is a must-do.
A personal highlight on the Great Ocean Road is stopping at the charming town of Apollo Bay. Here, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and wander along the quiet beaches. The road leads you past dramatic cliffs and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, including koalas and native birds.
2. Pacific Highway
Stretching from Sydney to Brisbane, the Pacific Highway offers a diverse range of landscapes, from surf beaches to lush hinterland. Known for its spectacular coastal views, this road trip takes you through thriving towns like Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay. The 1,000-kilometer drive is dotted with beautiful beaches perfect for a swim or a surf session, as well as plenty of nature reserves for hiking.
One standout location along this route is the stunning Nambucca Heads. The shimmering waters and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the coastal beauty of New South Wales. Whether you're a beach lover or a nature enthusiast, the Pacific Highway has something for everyone.
3. Tasmanian Wilderness
For those seeking a truly rugged and remote experience, the Tasmanian Wilderness is an exceptional road trip. This drive offers spectacular views of pristine forests, rugged mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The journey through Tasmania’s World Heritage Area takes you through historic towns, ancient rainforests, and wild rivers.
Traveling through Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is a highlight, where the towering peaks of Cradle Mountain provide a stunning backdrop for hikes and wildlife encounters. The road also winds past some of Tasmania's most isolated and scenic landscapes, making it perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
4. Red Center Way
The Red Center Way is the heart of Australia’s outback, taking you on a journey through the iconic desert landscape of the Northern Territory. The 1,100-kilometer drive connects Alice Springs to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This route offers a chance to witness some of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks, including the massive red rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
A personal story from the Red Center Way includes a sunset at Uluru, where the changing colors of the rock as the sun sets behind it are truly awe-inspiring. Along the way, travelers can also explore the beautiful West MacDonnell Ranges, where breathtaking gorges and waterholes await.
5. Snowy Mountains Highway
Located in New South Wales, the Snowy Mountains Highway offers a completely different kind of scenic drive. This route winds through the Snowy Mountains and provides picturesque views of alpine meadows, pristine rivers, and the towering peaks of Australia’s highest mountains.
Travelers can explore the charming towns of Tumut and Cooma, as well as the famous Kosciuszko National Park. Here, visitors can hike to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia’s highest peak, or simply enjoy the fresh mountain air and stunning vistas.
These scenic drives in Australia not only offer unforgettable views but also provide the opportunity to experience the diversity of the country's landscapes. From coastal cliffs to desert roads, there’s a road trip for every kind of traveler. Ready to hit the road and explore these breathtaking drives? Want to learn more? Click here to book your dream road trip and start your adventure today!
