Once you have your insurance, you’re ready to choose your destination and pack the supplies you need for an unforgettable journey.
Australia features eight of the 14 ecosystems found in the world. Scenic drives in Australia offer you the opportunity to explore rugged coasts, ancient woodlands, grasslands, deserts, and more. Whether you're drawn to the ocean or want to explore the Australian Outback, a road trip can be the perfect way to enjoy the diverse, spectacular scenery that can be found on this continent.
Before you depart, turn to iSelect's car insurance compare tool, which will allow you to review insurance providers to determine who offers the best coverage. iSelect will compile the coverage offered by each plan, as well as the price. Make an informed decision to ensure you have optimal car insurance.
Once you have your insurance, you're ready to choose your destination and pack the supplies you need for an unforgettable journey.
1. The Southern Shores
The Great Ocean Road follows 243 kilometers along Victoria's coastline. Stop at Port Campbell National Park to see the limestone stacks known as the 12 Apostles. Port Campbell National Park is also home to cliffs known as the Gibson Steps and Loch Ard Gorge. Stop in Torquay to see its breathtaking beaches and visit the Australian National Surfing Museum and Port Danger Marine Sanctuary while you're there.
2. The Eyre Highway
The Eyre Highway is 1041 miles in length and has a section that runs in a straight line for 91.1 miles. You'll have a chance to see camels, dingoes, emus, and kangaroos in the wild as you journey from Norseman to Port Augusta. The road doubles as a runway for emergency planes. This highway traverses the Nullarbor Plain, which is a treeless plain in the southwestern part of Australia. Golf fans will want to check out Nullarbor Links, the longest golf course in the world.
3. The Pacific Coast
A trip from Sydney to Brisbane will take you along Australia's stunning Pacific coastline and give you a chance to visit two of Australia's largest cities. Once you've had a chance to check out the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi beach, head out towards Brisbane. You'll have a chance to visit some of Australia's best surfing destinations and several national parks. Port Stephens is the perfect place to stop so you can go whale watching or swim with dolphins. You can also take a 4WD tour of the nearby sand dunes.
4. The Savannah Way
Journey across the continent along the Savannah Way. Visiting Cairns offers you the perfect chance to see the Great Barrier Reef before heading out on this epic road trip. From Cairns, this route will take you through several World Heritage areas and national parks. It's best to plan your trip during the dry season, from April to October. Be sure to visit Chillagoe's ancient limestone caves and the Undara Lava Tubes.
5. Tasmania
Tasmania is one of Australia's six states. It is an island, so you can either fly to Tasmania or take the ferry from Melbourne. The ferry ride is almost 10 hours long, and it doesn't run every day, so it's crucial to book ahead. Once you reach Hobart, you can begin your exploration of Tasmania's coast. Visit Freycinet National Park to get a chance to see several mammals, including wombats, pigmy possums, the long-nosed potoroo. Visit Binalong Bay and check out the red rocks and spectacular coastal scenery at the Bay of Fires.
6. The Red Center
Plan a trip through the Red Center to get a chance to see Australia's Outback. This desert region is in the heart of the continent and boasts red sands. The region was first settled thousands of years ago by Indigenous Australians. This is an ideal destination for those who crave adventure. You can plan to explore on mountain bikes or four-wheel drive vehicles. The waterholes offer a chance for swimming, and nature lovers will enjoy the opportunity to experience bush camping. Don't forget to visit Watarkka National Park and Uluru during your trip.
7. The Big Lap
The Big Lap follows the perimeter of Australia. This is a journey that will take several months to complete. Along the way, you will get a chance to see the remote cities of Broome and Perth, as well as the more populated urban centers on the Pacific Coast, including Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. The Big Lap encompasses the Great Ocean Road and parts of The Savannah Way. You'll also get a chance to visit the Outback and the Nullarbor Plain.
