The Best Summer Road Trips To Take In Australia

Road trips are all about the journey, not the destination. That being said, here are some of the coolest destinations in Australia during the summer.

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Road trips are the definitive way to explore Australia’s gems. With so many gems scattered so far over the country, the only way to appreciate them all is through long, rambling drives. So, pack up your Polaroid camera, your best friends, and an aesthetic silk scarf to blow in the wind out your car window, because these are the best places to visit in the Australian summer

The Great Ocean Road

As iconic road trips go, the Great Ocean Road has been a pilgrimage for tourists and locals for a good reason. This is a drive where the journey means just as much as the destination; the sight of the sea from the roadside is awe-inspiring. Make sure you visit before the Twelve Apostles reduce in number even further.

Mt Macedon

This mountain is located in beautiful countryside that really accentuates the view from the mountain. In order to reach Mt Macedon, you have to drive through pretty, sun-lit forests. Climb the mountain to reach the summit, which is marked by a giant cross statue.

Wilson’s Promontory

This national park is filled with wilderness. Road trips here will always be filled by cute, fuzzy fauna, and green, leafy fauna. You can visit the beaches of rocks, covered in a thick crust of limpets and periwinkles, or rock pools of urchins and sea-stars. The Prom is a great place to watch wildlife.

The Black Spur

A beautiful, wood-lined drive. It’s great for photography, especially in a foggy, early morning or at sunset.

Kangaroo Island

Take your road trips off the mainland by bringing your ride on a ferry to Kangaroo Island. The remarkable rocks are a unique and uncanny sight. Spend your day climbing the rocks, and spend the night in a lighthouse as your accommodation.

Port Arthur

Road trips to Tasmania would not be complete without visiting this historic sight. A former penitentiary for convicts, Port Arthur preserves lots of beautiful architecture, as well as hosting spooky ghost tours.

Richmond

This ancient township was formerly a penal colony for convicts working as farmhands. It’s the Australian equivalent of a preserved Regency-era town, with bakeries selling delicious scallop pies.

Hahndorf

Road trips around South Australia absolutely must include a trip to Hahndorf. It’s one of the oldest towns in Australia since settlement and has a strong German influence in its creation. Hahndorf is a great pit-stop for coffee.

Victor Harbour

If you’re still in your horse phase, a road trip to Victor Harbour is in order. Here, horses pull trams along the foreshore causeway. There are also great snacks available from the best bakery in Australia.

Strathalbyn

Lush greenery, with beautiful old shops dotted around. Strathalbyn is a picturesque town, reminiscent of a British village.

Morpeth

Road trips to this inland fort have to include stops at the craft stores, lunch by the old bridge, and a tour of the traditional cordial company.

Glasshouse Mountains

Fans of Lord of the Rings should visit the Glasshouse Mountains for a taste of the shire with spectacular views among the bushy wilderness.

Canberra

Every Australian kid has spent a summer vacation going on a family road trip to the capital. Explore Questacon, the National Library, and enjoy a bike ride around Lake Burley Griffin.

Katoomba Mountains

Road trips don’t have to be stressful. Make sure you put the Katoomba ranges on your destination list to make the most of the scenic railway, art deco architecture, and relaxing spas.

Wollongong Coast

The perfect way to spend a summer day is to take a drive down the Wollongong Coast. Take in the sea air and picture-perfect views.

Dungog River

The perfect way to finish any road trip is to take a dip in this cool, splashing river.