Hottest Aussie road trips to take in 2017
Australia has a vast landscape that makes for some epic road trips, that are never the same! Check out this list of where to hit the road and places to stay
The Legendary Pacific Coast (Sydney to Byron)
For the ultimate beginner’s road trip, you can’t go wrong with taking the Legendary Pacific Coast. The journey stretches along 800 km and takes about 10 hours from Sydney to Byron. Walk along Nobby’s beach in Newcastle, go whale watching in Port Macquarie, drop a visit to Bouddi National Park, and why not stop to visit Coffs Harbour’s iconic Big Banana along the way?
Where to stay
- Ease into the trip with a 3 hour drive to Smiths Lake and spend your first night at this Mexican-Inspired Log Cabin
- Next, soak up what nature has best to offer in Crescent Head at this Crezzo Point View Home
- Continue up the coast to Yamba and make this this oceanfront home yours, even if it’s just for a night!
- Only moments from the town’s main strip and beach, end your trip at The Shack in Byron Bay for the ultimate trip’s end.
Great Ocean Road
It’s one of Australia’s most iconic drives, and the Great Ocean Road does not fall short of expectations. In all, the trip takes about 9.5 hours and stretches across 664 km. Take on the surf in Torquay, stop to see the iconic 12 Apostles, before ending at the historic fishing village of Port Fairy.
Where to stay
- Take your first stop at this modern beach house in Lorne where you can spend a few nights taking in the ocean views
- Make you way down south and discover Apollo Bay through the eyes of a local in this listing just off the Great Ocean Road
- Finally, book a room in this studio retreat, enjoying spectacular views of the lake and dunes of Port Fairy’s rugged coastline.
East Coast Escape (Tassie)
Don’t be deceived by its size, Tassie the one of the country’s most dramatic and beautiful coastal drives. If you’re not a local, catch a flight to Hobart and hire a car or campervan to get you started on this five-day drive. Learn about the state’s history in Port Arthur, climb the trail to the picturesque Wineglass Bay Lookout in Swansea, and join a penguin tour in Bicheno before stopping to discover the natural beauty of the Bay of Fires in St Helens.
Where to stay
- If you’re looking for a unique shack to start your trip, stay to enjoy the quirky charm of this 1960s-inspired shack in Taranna, a small village just by Port Arthur
- Follow the coastline up to Dolphin Sands, and spend a couple of days in this Banksia Cabin, just a few steps away from your own private beach
- With enough room for the whole entourage, stay in this Bay of Fires Binalong Bay Getaway before making the trip back
Trip to the Tip (Cairns to Cape York)
The trip up Cape York offers an unforgettable adventure to mainland Australia’s northernmost point. Take the coastal route via Cape Tribulation, the Daintree Rainforest and the Bloomfield Track to Cooktown for an incredibly scenic route, or opt for the Inland route and turn off at Lakeland towards Laura. Note: a 4WD is highly recommended.
Where to stay
- Start by discovering the city of Cairns and make this Funky City Queenslander Cottage your home away from home
- An hour’s drive north to Port Douglas will find you at the Retro Banana Home where relaxation comes naturally
- As you continue your journey towards the tip, recharge in this secluded Bellarose Guest House
- And finally, don’t forget to pack your tents; camping is a must once you wrap up your Trip to the Tip!
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