Lifestyle – Travel
14 fabulously scenic drives Southern Ocean Drive - Rapid Bay
Source: Jem Cresswell
Australia is made for road trips. Coast‑hugging touring routes, rainforest‑clad paths, inland adventures, and trails showcasing anything from waterfalls to wineries.
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e’ve rounded up some of the most scenic drives in Australia that you simply must follow. Prepare for roads full of visual feasts and enthralling encounters.
Northern Territory Red Centre Way Where: Alice Springs loop via Watarrka/Kings Canyon and Uluru Distance: 1135km, or 1750km for a completely sealed road In a nutshell: Witness some of Australia’s most mesmerising, iconic, and significant natural creations, including rock formations, gorges, and watering holes. Central Australia’s famous red desert sands are a signature of this unforgettable, epic touring route, which is rich in Indigenous history and culture. Must-see attractions: UluruKata Tjuta National Park, the many highlights of Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, and Kings Canyon. Where to stay: BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park in Alice Springs.
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Your Retirement Living – 8th edition
Nature’s Way Where: Darwin loop via Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks Distance: 735km
In a nutshell: This route joins a trio of captivating national parks, led by World Heritage-listed Kakadu along with Nitmiluk and Litchfield. Be enchanted by their bountiful natural treasures and couple this with visits to inviting townships, refreshing springs, and other Top End delights. Must-see attractions: Ancient rock art and Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu, Nitmiluk Gorge and Leliyn/Edith Falls in Nitmiluk, termite mounds and Florence Falls in Litchfield, and Berry Springs Nature Park. Where to stay: BIG4 Howard Springs Holiday Park near Darwin.
New South Wales Waterfall Way Where: Coffs Harbour to Armidale Distance: 210km
In a nutshell: A path bursting with spectacular scenery. Expect to encounter World Heritage national parks, swathes of seemingly
never‑ending rainforest, and a handful of enthralling waterfalls among more. And the two cities that mark the route’s start and end points warrant extended stays thanks to their many excellent attractions. Must-see attractions: Dorrigo National Park’s Skywalk lookout and Crystal Shower Falls, Wollomombi Falls in Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, Ebor Falls in Guy Fawkes River National Park, and the Dangar Falls near Dorrigo. Where to stay: BIG4 Park Beach Holiday Park or BIG4 Sawtell Beach Holiday Park in Coffs Harbour, and BIG4 Armidale Highlander Van Village.
Grand Pacific Drive Where: Royal National Park to Jervis Bay Distance: 180km
In a nutshell: Sparking coastal vistas abound on this snaking path that begins south of Sydney in the world’s second-oldest national park. The sparkling water views contrast with sharp towering coastal cliffs and rainforest-dominated vistas. A highlight is the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge, which exemplifies the breathtaking beauty for 665 metres. Must-see attractions: Royal National Park, Symbio Wildlife Park, Nan Tien Temple, and Kiama Blowhole. Where to stay: BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park in Kiama.
