There’s something about winter that makes us wish to be anywhere else but our current dwellings. Luckily, Australia provides us with a broad spectrum of stunning getaways for the colder months.
And if your winter fatigue calls for the sacred Aussie tradition, a road trip, then we have just the right tips for you. Gloss over our list of our favorite winter road trip destinations, and keep in mind that you can find a campervan for free and enjoy your excursion to the fullest.
Dove Lake, Tasmania
You will have a hard time finding a more idyllic winter setting in all of Australia than that of a snow capped boatshed on the edge of Dove Lake. And although the aforementioned boatshed lives in the collective Aussie consciousness as a summer spectacle, its winter edition is truly an awe-inspiring sight.
The lake and its surroundings shine with a special sparkle in winter, making the 6km hike around the lake’s shore an absolute must for all true nature enthusiasts. Warm winter clothes and footwear go without saying, and even though the hike will take up a large portion of your day (particularly in the case of heavier snowfall), but your effort will be rewarded with an array of winter sights hardly found in this corner of the world.
How to get there: get your vehicle onto the overnight ferry from Melbourne to Devonport (trust us, overnight is much better than day crossing), and from there it is a 1.5 hour drive to the Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park.
Albany, Western Australia
There are countless scenic roads to travel in Australia, but not all of them keep their magical sheen in winter time. The one that does so admirably is the south-bound trip from Perth to Albany. The whole drive spans about 400 km, and it provides a variety of sights, smells and impressions that make for a complete road trip.
From the palate-soothing wineries along the Margaret River to whale spotting on Little Beach (voted as the 5th best Australian top secret spot) in the Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, with a whole bunch of history, local culture and cuisine in between in places such as Bridgetown, Pemberton or Denmark, this road trip can fill a whole campervan with memories and impressions.
How to get there: travel from Perth to Margaret River across Busselton, and make sure you take a few stops along the way. The second leg from Margaret to Albany is much shorter, but also provides an array of gorgeous local places to visit.
Peninsula Hot Springs, Victoria
When life gives you winter, some will make a proverbial “winternade”, while others will seek out some warmth for the frozen bones. If it’s warmth you seek, warmth you shall find in a magical place known as the Peninsula Hot Springs.
As their name suggests, the Peninsula Hot Springs are mineral hot water springs scattered about in a busy order across winding paths. Each individual spring is marked for water temperature and designed in a unique spa fashion, so you won’t have a hard time finding a pool that’s just right. Once you do, just enjoy the pleasing sensation of warmth on your naked body as you think of all the poor cold souls you left behind.
How to get there: From Melbourne, the Hot Springs are a relaxed hour and a half drive away as you traverse the Mornington Peninsula.
The Prairie Hotel, South Australia
It wouldn’t be a proper road trip selection without venturing into South Australia’s outback, now would it? Not only is the drive there a sensational experience in any season, but the glorious sights awaiting at the final destination are alone worth the trip.
Established in 1876, The Prairie Hotel is a slice of cowboy heaven located in the grassland flats looking over the remote Flinders Ranges. It offers dining fit for a king, as well as numerous trails for hiking and cycling. In wintertime the days are usually clear and warm, but rarely annoyingly hot, while the nights are quite fresh and the temperatures can sometimes even drop below zero, calling for some obligatory extra blanket time, which we consider an essential part of the experience.
How to get there: With Adelaide as your starting point, you’re in for a serious drive. Take a three and a half hour ride from Adelaide to Port Augusta, and then another two hour drive to Parachilna, although some of the sights you come across may nudge you towards a detour or two.
Port Douglas, Queensland
Released under a Creative Commons license by Malcolm Jacobson – www.24track.net
Finally, for those of you who like your summer all year round, we’ve saved a slice of summer heaven for last. Winter rarely comes to Australia’s north in any semblance of its true form, and the water temperatures are pleasant throughout the year. Better yet, in winter months you will miss the brunt of the usual tourist onslaught, savoring this slice of tropicana without worrying about any stray elbows.
How to get there: Port Douglas is only a one-hour drive away from Cairns, but we strongly urge you to consider the (admittedly far longer) road from Brisbane. It will take you well over a day to reach your destination, but if you can carve out the time you will have a fame scenic route to keep you company all the way.
As you can see, Australia has plenty to offer to road trip aficionados this time of year. Make sure you grab yourself a free transfer car to make your splendid winter adventure even more convenient and affordable.
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The East coast of Australia is not the only place where you can take an unforgettable road trip, you know. In fact, the Land Down Under is so vast that you can find adventure and beauty anywhere you go, and the challenging Adelaide to Darwin stretch is laden with both. This one is not for the faint of heart, though, as covering more than 3,027 km (1,881 miles) is not an easy task. With several days’ worth of travel and numerous exciting destinations along the way, now’s the time to grab your free transfer car and head out to an Aussie adventure of a lifetime.
Adelaide to Flinders Ranges
Starting from Adelaide, you’re going to take the A1 north towards Port Augusta, but instead of crossing the bridge and joining the A87 motorway, you’re going to take a little side quest and head northeast along the B83 motorway instead towards Flinders Ranges. Why should you do this, you ask?
Because Flinders Ranges is located in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, an absolute gem in South Australia your nature-loving persona wouldn’t want to miss. Plus, the detour will definitely pay off in a number of ways, as you can ride the historic Pichi Pichi Railway aboard the century-old steam train nicknamed the Coffee Pot, enjoy a fresh feral mixed grill dish, and spend the night under the stars at Arkaba Station overlooking Wilpena Pound.
Flinders Ranges to Coober Pedy
Okay, time to backtrack a bit to Port Augusta, and take the A87 all the way to Coober Pedy, making sure you take a quick detour to visit Lake Gairdner National Park along the way. Here you want to take a moment to revel in the beauty of the salt lakes expanding from east to west, and maybe even visit some of the sacred sites of the Kokatha people.
Once in Coober Pedy, take a few hours to rest and recuperate, enjoy a local meal, refuel, and maybe even visit Lake Cadibarrawirracanna to the east or the Breakaways Conservation Park some 30 kilometres up north.
Coober Pedy to Uluru and Alice Springs
Once you’re ready to hit the road again, you can plot your route to Uluru, some 750 kilometres north along the A87 motorway. Instead of continuing straight to Alice Springs, turn left at the Erldunda Roadhouse and make your way to the iconic Uluru sandstone rock formation that has graced many famous Australian postcards.
Once you’ve taken in the sights (don’t try to climb Uluru, be respectful of the local culture) you can head back on the road towards Alice Springs. Once there, you can leave the car to rest for the night and enjoy hiking along the Larapinta Trail, visit the West MacDonnell National Park and explore the town itself. Don’t forget to visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary.
Alice Springs to Devil’s Marbles and Mataranka
Not a five-hour drive north, the Devil’s Marbles Conservation Reserve awaits – a place of great cultural and spiritual importance to the Aboriginal people that used to own the land. The reserve aims to protect one of the oldest religious sites in the world, along with the iconic rock formations the Aborigines call “Karlu Karlu”. So snap a few photos and move along towards Mataranka.
About half-way to Mataranka, you can make a stop at the Lake Woods Conservation Covenant and take a leisurely stroll to the lake itself. Once in Mataranka, you can take a breather and visit the Elsey National Park and the Roper River. You can also spend the night at one of the local cottages in the town.
Kakadu National Park and then finally Darwin
Moving along on that final stretch to Darwin, you want to make a few stops here and there to explore the natural wonders of the surrounding National Parks, and maybe even enjoy the local cuisine in one of the quaint towns along the road. Be sure to visit the Kakadu and Nitmiluk National Parks to the east, and the Litchfield National Park to the west before rolling into Darwin. When you reach Darwin, you can park the car and spend a couple of days exploring the historic outpost and its thriving city culture. Enjoy museums and galleries, artisan pubs and restaurants, and much more.
The perfect Australian road trip doesn’t have to begin or end with the popular east coast, as there are hundreds of natural and urban beauties waiting for you along the roads permeating the central outback. What’s more, by taking a free transfer car or campervan you will be able to cover this grand stretch efficiently and pave the road to an Aussie adventure of a lifetime.
Haven’t visited the Hunter Valley yet? Then you’re missing out. This little gem is one of the best destinations in New South Wales and beyond. Escape the rat race in Sydney and take the 2 hour drive to a whole new world. This paradise is a foodie heaven, with a huge array of decadent chocolates, vodkas and wines produced in this region. Hunter Valley is the ideal trip for any food enthusiast!
Over 150 wineries
You can take your pick of over 150 fabulous wineries in acres of rolling green vineyards. Whether you’re looking for a full-bodied, rich red wine or a light and sparkling chardonnay, you’ll find more than one wine to suit your taste here! Elect a dedicated driver and take a trip to a handful of wineries to compare the produce!
Award winning restaurants
Once you’ve had your liquid lunch, refuel with something more substantial. Hunter Valley is home to many award winning restaurants. You don’t have to stay stuck in the city to enjoy quality foods, you’ll likely find some of Australia’s very best meals located right here.
Food and drink festivals
The Hunter Valley know the quality of their produce, that’s why they celebrate it. Head to The Hunter Valley to experience one of the regional food and drink festivals. Here you’ll be able to sample all of the finest goods in one sitting – perfect for those of you with a limited time frame!
Chocolate and cheese
Dairy goods are immensely popular in Hunter Valley, and you can spend an entire day visiting various chocolate factories and cheese shops. You’ll find dairy products ranging from rich and bitter dark chocolate to smooth, creamy white chocolate or mature, crumbly cheeses to melt-in-your-mouth soft cheeses. No matter your preference, you can be confident in a quality, tasty product made from locally produced ingredients.
Vodka and spirits
If wine and cheese isn’t to your taste, The Hunter Valley can still be the perfect weekend trip for you. They specialise in strong vodkas and spirits for those of you with a sharper palate. You can try your vodkas straight up, with a twist, on the rocks, or if you’re feeling more exotic, why not try a flavoured vodka? There are a huge array of vodkas and gins infused with botanicals and fruit to diversify the range.
Other experiences in the Hunter Valley
We’re sure by now we’ve tickled your tastebuds and you’re dying to dive right into some of Hunter Valley’s local delicacies. But, there’s even more to The Hunter Valley than the food and wine. The Hunter Valley is also one of the most beautiful places in all of Australia. There are beautiful green fields for as far as the eye can see, friendly kangaroos in the wild among amazing lake and hill views. Escape the city and detox from your busy life here.
Include the Hunter Valley on your next Sydney based tour for wine, vodka and chocolate, or take a special weekend getaway to explore the best of what the region has to offer.
The summer might be over but that doesn’t mean that the party stops in the Land Down Under. Quite the contrary, with beautiful weather gracing the Aussie continent all year round (or most of the time), the opportunities are numerous for a festival road trip around the country. So pack your bags, round up your posse, and grab a free campervan because you’re going on a tour around Australia, experiencing the sights, sounds, and shivers of the best festivals Australia has to offer in the following months.
Wide Open Space, 4th to 6th of May
If dwelling into the heart of Australia was your dream, then you definitely shouldn’t miss this magical cultural experience taking place in NT this fall. The Wide Open Space Festival celebrates the beauty life itself, expressed through breathtaking natural vistas, various musical performers, uniquely Australian art, and timeless cultural heritage.
Accompanied by numerous workshops and panels, the three-day festival offers a comprehensive, engaging, and immersive experience that will cleanse your mind, liberate your soul, and allow you to let yourself go in the beauty of the present moment. So be sure to visit Ross River Resort, 80 kilometres outside Alice Springs this fall.
Groovin the Moo, April 27th to May 12th
This one will take you across Australia, so get ready, as the festival takes place in Wayville (Adelaide), Maitland (outside Newcastle in NSW), Canberra, Bendigo (VIC), Townsville (QLD), and Bunbury (south of Perth). Groovin the Moo features national and international artists ranging in styles and genres, from R’n’B through electronic beats and house, to a mix of everything, so the festival has something for everyone. If you are looking to have an amazing time listening to the energetic, irresistible beats, don’t skip the festival’s headliners such Cosmo’s Midnight, Alex Lahey, Duke Dumont, and many more.
Big Pineapple Music Festival, 26th of May
Less than an hour and a half car ride north of Brisbane is Sunshine Coast, the host of a truly magical one-day camping even known as the Big Pineapple Music Festival, gathering artists from around the country and beyond. This is another one for all of you nature lovers out there looking to chillax in pristine tree-lined surroundings while listening to the innovative beats from numerous performers ranging from energetic and wild all the way to “chill, dude” type of laid-back. The friendly atmosphere radiating from performers and crowds alike will make you wish the day (and night) would never end.
Happy Daze Festival, 1st to 3rd of June
Defined as so much more than a music event, the Happy Daze Festival is a cultural experience celebrating art and mindful living. This is not just a place where you want to party all night long, this is the place where you also are to grow, learn, connect with yourself and others, and leave as a better earthling.
Along with numerous concerts, you can enjoy art installations, various mindful workshops, and a myriad of activities on a daily basis. Some of the headliners this year will be The Strides, Fat Picnic, Talpa, Mickey Space, and many more, so be sure to grab your tickets while they’re still available.
Splendour in the Grass, 20th to 22nd of July
Held in the North Byron Parklands, Splendour in the Grass is one of Australia’s biggest festivals and an established host of top-line performers hailing from across the globe. This is the festival you don’t want to miss this season, as some of the biggest stars in the music industry such as Kendrick Lamar and Lorde will be gracing the stage. But great music is not the only thing this world-renowned festival has to offer, as you can visit the science tent, enjoy a good laugh at the Splendour comedy club, and enjoy a myriad of other activities that will leave you yearning for more when the time comes to pack your bags!
When the summer ends, so does the partying, at least for the rest of the world – but not in the Land Down Under. Actually, the party is just about to begin, so be sure to grab your tickets in time, plan your route, and take a free transfer car in order to live out a cultural adventure of a lifetime across beautiful Australia.
They are some world-famous beaches around the Great Ocean Road that shouldn’t be missed. Not only that there are some other beauties you must experience, such as the Twelve Apostles, the Otway Rainforest, and the beautiful beachside town of Lorne.
However, sometimes you want the chance to explore something a little bit different or unknown. We have put together some of our favourite hidden gems along the Great Ocean Road, that only the locals know about.
Milanesia Beach
Milanesia beach is a can be a little bit difficult to reach, but it certainly worth the effort. You need to walk 14 kilometres (8.6 miles) to reach this beautiful beach. Along the way, you pass through stunning farmlands and rugged cliffs that lead to the breath-taking views of this area. Our first time here we learnt that several dinosaur footprints were found in this area.
This hidden beach has a plethora of wildlife and wild plants to take in. It’s located near Blanket Bay, be sure to take the time to walk to Parker Inlet which is near Blanket Bay Road.
To find Milanesia Beach, head southwest out Lavers Hill Township. Keep an eye out for a sign indicating Milanesia beach, from the car pack you will find lots of signage all the way to the beach. Simply follow it too and discover this hidden beauty.
Parker Inlet
Parker Inlet is a unique little spot. It is where a freshwater river and a stunning bay meet. The inlet is sheltered in a hidden cove in-between Blanket Bay and Cape Otway light station. However, it can be quite a walk to it with some 300 steps.
Whenever we visited we found that it was only ever a few families and fisherman there. This means you can swim in peace as well as explore the inlet. In spring you will find the entire inlet covered in wildflowers in bloom, which are a magnificent array of colours.
Parker River is often just a shallow and easily crossed stream. However, do be careful we have seen it run high and fast following heavy rains and high tides. So make sure check the weather forecast before you head out to this beach.
Rivernook Beach
If you want to head some quiet on the Great Ocean Road then this is our top pick. It has some of the best views of the coast. This beach is also famous for fishing. So you if you enjoy throwing in a line, head to the local shop, they have a huge array of bait. We also managed to catch some for dinner at Rivernook.
If you want to head to Rivernook Beach, head east on the Old Coach Road coming from Princeton. On this road, you will an find a path the veers off of the Great Ocean Walk that will take you to this spectacular secluded beach. Station Beach
Although the locals are certainly well aware of Station Beach, only a few travellers have what it takes to reach this beautiful beach. To get there, you’ll need to go west from Cape Otway, you will hit a marked trail that will take you there. It’s about a 90-minute walk to this secluded beach, so make sure you take some snacks with you.
When you arrive at Station Beach, you’ll be able to see Rainbow Falls and explore the many rock ledges that can be found here. You can also search for hidden treasures and simply enjoy your time away from the busier beaches along the Great Ocean Road.
If you’ve got the time for the 90-minute walk it takes to get to this hidden gem. This beautiful beach is perfect for explorers and adventurers. Here, you will find Rainbow Falls, which features incredible rock ledges. Or, you can fossick for treasures that can be discovered in this scenic location. Urquats Bluff Beach
This is another amazing hidden set of beaches around the Great Ocean Road. It’s so off the beaten path, in fact, that you’ll want to make sure you pack a lunch as they no vendors in this area.
Halfway arriving from Fairhaven, you’ll find the picturesque Urquhart Bluff. It sits on a stretch of coastline riddled with rugged reefs, eroding bluffs and limestone cliffs. You will see the bluffs rise 20m to 50m. There is a collection of 12 inviting beaches that have a wild vibe with their impressive headlands.
The first five beaches stretch out in an endless stretch of golden sands and turquoise waters. It can be difficult to reach however there a car park at the bluff, or you can enter via the beach access tracks at the Point Road Knight end of the shoreline. If you plan on heading to the Great Ocean Road (which you must) you will notice how busy it gets. Now you have some local knowledge on the hidden gems you have to seek out. Some are a little more difficult than others, but trust us, it worth the effort.
Brittnay is an Aussie and one half of the The Travelling House Sitters. She lived in London for the past two years before making the move to back to Melbourne. She managed to squeeze in 21 trips to Europe & Africa in that time (including lots of cheese, wine & beaches). Find out where will Jay & Britt will end up next by following them at The Travelling House Sitters or on Instagram @thetravellinghousesitters.
With summer finally here, couples across Aussie Land are setting the plans for their summer season escapades in motion. And so should you, if you want to rekindle the flame with your significant other and score some much-needed points in the game of long-term love and happiness.
Fortunately for you, Australia is second to none when it comes to romantic sightseeing and lodging opportunities, so all it takes is your soul mate and a free transfer car to make your journey a breeze. Let’s dive in!
Wallaroo and the Yorke Peninsula
Just a two-hour drive north from beautiful Adelaide, the small coastal town of Wallaroo and the iconic Yorke Peninsula await your adoration. And rightfully so. The quaint little workers’ town is home to numerous wonderful lodgings, restaurants and cafes, but where this place truly shines is its nearby beaches and two caravan parks with beachside cabins.
You can stay at the Beachhouse at Wallaroo overlooking the picture perfect view of the Spencer Gulf, from where you can explore the town or spend your days lounging about at the famous North Beach. Be sure to venture deeper into the Yorke Peninsula as well, as there will be numerous unique sightseeing opportunities waiting for you.
Port Elliot and the Fleurieu
This time an hour’s drive south from Adelaide, Port Elliot is one of those small towns that has managed to preserve its historic charm, and is just perfect for romantic getaways. You’ll have everything you need to make your intimate escapade a success: the quaint bookshops and cafes, the roiling waves crashing up against the golden beaches and, of course, the magnificent views.
Be sure to walk along the picturesque scenery of Horseshoe Bay, stopping by for a romantic nightcap at the Flying Fish Restaurant & Café overlooking the ocean. While at Port Elliot, don’t forget to take your car to some of the romantic nature getaways across the Fleurieu Peninsula.
Waikerie and the Murray
All right, this location is nowhere near the coast, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not a wonderful place to spend your summer escapade. In fact, its breathtaking riverside scenery overlooking the Murray River might just be the perfect place for lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The Waikerie Hotel Motel is the place to stay if stellar service and beautiful accommodation is what you’re after. During your stay, you can visit the Hart, Ross, and Maize Island lagoons. Sailing up and down the Murray River is a must, as well.
Coffin Bay and the Eyre Peninsula
The Eyre Peninsula is home to many natural wonders and of course, Coffin Bay, a small town renowned for its fishing opportunities, but also for its neighbouring National Park that awaits your exploration and inevitable adoration. The national park is home to magnificent natural sceneries, entailing surf beaches, soaring cliffs, and coastal bushland. Coffin Bay town is famous for its oysters, so be sure to try out this famous aphrodisiac during your stay.
Semaphore in Adelaide
Adelaide is a beautiful, thriving city with no shortage of excitement awaiting in the urban jungle. However, there is a place where you can go on a true summer getaway – the suburb of Semaphore. Located just twenty minutes from the heart of the city, the previously working class suburb has seen quite a few changes in recent years, with the scenery portraying a more cosmopolitan vibe imbued with life and vigour at every corner.
There are plenty of fine dining restaurants around, with beautiful lodgings at the Semaphore Blue Apartments overlooking St Vincent Gulf.
Robe and the Southeast
Finally, Robe is a small town located in the Limestone Coast, not a four-hour drive south from Adelaide. Robe has managed to preserve its charm, yet with a sophisticated, upscale twist. This is the place where people go to pamper their loved ones and spend unforgettable moments staring at the sunset from the Harbour View Motel. The town itself is jam-packed with activities, from restaurants and cafes, to live shows and movie theatres.
As you can see, South Australia has a lot to offer during the summer season, especially if you’re looking to find your own peaceful place under the stars. Have you started packing yet?
There are countless scenic roads to travel in Australia, but not all of them keep their magical sheen in winter time. The one that does so admirably is the south-bound trip from Perth to Albany. The whole drive spans about 400 km, and it provides a variety of sights, smells and impressions that make for a complete road trip.
From the palate-soothing wineries along the Margaret River to whale spotting on Little Beach (voted as the 5th best Australian top secret spot) in the Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, with a whole bunch of history, local culture and cuisine in between in places such as Bridgetown, Pemberton or Denmark, this road trip can fill a whole campervan with memories and impressions.
How to get there: travel from Perth to Margaret River across Busselton, and make sure you take a few stops along the way. The second leg from Margaret to Albany is much shorter, but also provides an array of gorgeous local places to visit.
When life gives you winter, some will make a proverbial “winternade”, while others will seek out some warmth for the frozen bones. If it’s warmth you seek, warmth you shall find in a magical place known as the Peninsula Hot Springs.
As their name suggests, the Peninsula Hot Springs are mineral hot water springs scattered about in a busy order across winding paths. Each individual spring is marked for water temperature and designed in a unique spa fashion, so you won’t have a hard time finding a pool that’s just right. Once you do, just enjoy the pleasing sensation of warmth on your naked body as you think of all the poor cold souls you left behind.
How to get there: From Melbourne, the Hot Springs are a relaxed hour and a half drive away as you traverse the Mornington Peninsula.
It wouldn’t be a proper road trip selection without venturing into South Australia’s outback, now would it? Not only is the drive there a sensational experience in any season, but the glorious sights awaiting at the final destination are alone worth the trip.
Established in 1876, The Prairie Hotel is a slice of cowboy heaven located in the grassland flats looking over the remote Flinders Ranges. It offers dining fit for a king, as well as numerous trails for hiking and cycling. In wintertime the days are usually clear and warm, but rarely annoyingly hot, while the nights are quite fresh and the temperatures can sometimes even drop below zero, calling for some obligatory extra blanket time, which we consider an essential part of the experience.
How to get there: With Adelaide as your starting point, you’re in for a serious drive. Take a three and a half hour ride from Adelaide to Port Augusta, and then another two hour drive to Parachilna, although some of the sights you come across may nudge you towards a detour or two.
