Road trips are never just about reaching the destination; it’s about glimpsing the passing sea, forests, and grasslands through the car window. Australia is vast and sparsely populated, offering many long and stunning scenic drives with few cars around. Here are a few recommended soul-stirring road trip routes!
Top Scenic Drives in Australia You Should Check Out
Sea Cliff Bridge — Above the Cliffs
Located about 1 hour south of Sydney, this bridge soars above the cliffs, giving the illusion of cars floating on the sea when viewed from afar. The scenic beauty of the ocean can be fully appreciated from the car, especially during sunset when the golden hues spread across the water, creating a beautiful sight.
Nearby, there’s a lookout where you can get a bird’s-eye view of the road, making it a great photo spot. Park your car at Rube Hargrave Park, follow the yellow signs to the lookout, and you’ll find benches to sit and enjoy the view. The bridge also offers convenient parking and walking areas for photo opportunities.
Drive all the way to Kiama town to witness the spectacular sight of water spouting from the coastline’s blowholes and savour local delicacies.
The Black Spur Drive — Winding through the Forests
About a 1.5-hour drive east of Melbourne, this route takes you through one of Australia’s oldest primeval forests, the Yarra Valley.
The road winds and twists through lush green forests, with sunlight streaming through the gaps in the leaves, creating a captivating play of light and shadow. Towering eucalyptus trees remind us of our insignificance, as the dense greenery seems like a scene out of a fairytale. Driving on this road, listening to your favorite music, and watching the scenery unfold on both sides, it feels as if all worries are left behind.
The forest is home to a variety of animals and birds, providing a fantastic opportunity to get close to nature. With a colourful car and outfit, it’s easy to capture stunning pictures here.
The Great Ocean Road — Along the Coastal Wonders
The famous Great Ocean Road, a must-visit for everyone arriving in Australia, is about a 1.5-hour drive west of Melbourne, stretching along Victoria’s southern coast for 243 kilometres. This road takes you through beaches, cliffs, pristine jungles, magnificent rock formations, and breathtaking bays, allowing you to experience a myriad of coastal wonders.
There are numerous picture-perfect spots along the way, such as the Split Point Lighthouse, Gibson Steps, Twelve Apostles rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Arch. Each place showcases nature’s exquisite workmanship and is a must-visit on your Australian journey.