The best way to see Australia’s hidden gems is by road. Cruising the sunburned country’s coastline should be on everyone’s bucket list and for good reason too. From hidden beaches to wildlife interactions, local eateries and much more, a road trip through Australia is a must.
Although travelers will find a selection of great hotels, the true Australian way is to rent a campervan and let your inner adventurer wander. Today’s campervans are equipped to provide the comfort and necessities a family, a couple or a solo traveler would need without compromising on luxury. If you’re looking for an Australian adventure with all the benefits of luxury, renting a campervan is the best way to do it.
Whether you have a month or a few weeks, there are many different itineraries you can decide on or create to suit your list of places to see. One of the top 10 road trips of Australia is Cairns to Darwin, which crosses the Savannah Way – a stunning dry and desolate part of the country. Here, travelers get a real sense of the outback while also experiencing a lush rainforest. The roads on this trip are sealed, easy to navigate and some come with the best views – it’s a campervan paradise. Stop in almost every town and there will be a camping area with their own amazing facilities. To put it to the test, here is a trip you can experience from the comfort of your luxury campervan.
Day 1
Start your epic road trip in far north Queensland, otherwise known as Adventurer’s paradise. Here, travelers will find tropical weather, white sandy beaches and access to the world’s most famous coral reef – The Great Barrier Reef. Stay for a day to take advantage of the snorkeling and diving as well as the cuisine.
Day 2
The next day the drive will take you inland to sights of rolling hills, charming farms, quaint villages, and volcanic crater lakes. The Atherton Tablelands is a welcome break from the humidity of the coast and the winding roads are just as soothing as the sights. Stay in Atherton overnight to experience the best of country hospitality.
Day 3
The next leg of the trip is a long one, but it also takes you into the heart of cattle country. The small town of Georgetown has a population of 250 people, but you will find the largest collection of rocks and minerals here. You can also stop in Normanton, the last stop before the sealed road becomes gravel. This outback hub is a good place to stock up on supplies and to take in the sights of the old mining town.
Day 4
If you thought the last two were remote areas, you haven’t seen anything yet. The towns of Cloncurry and Mount Isa are also mining areas where the green landscape turns to classic outback red dirt. It’s a sight to see. This is when you know you’re well and truly into Australia’s Northern Territory.
Day 5
The next stop you’ll find is Tennant Creek, the town best known for Devil’s Marbles – an unusual rock formation that should be on every road trippers bucket list – along with Uluru. Speaking if Uluru, this monolith is an extra five-hour drive away in Alice Springs, for those who are interested in making sure they see everything, add this detour for a sight you’ll never forget.
Day 6
The next town from Tennant Creek is Daly Waters and Katherine. In Daly Waters, a stop at the roadhouse is a must for a pint of cold beer and local banter before heading to Katherine, which is two hours up the road. Here, travelers are spoiled with hot springs and the Nitmiluk Gorge – a spectacular canyon that deserves a whole day to explore. You can take out kayaks, join boat tours or wander the national park.
Day 7
As you continue north, Australia’s stunning rainforest will begin to appear. Stop in Litchfield National Park for sights of waterfalls that contrast against the stark red scene you just left. Hike to the natural swimming pools or kayak down the river and discover why Australia has one of the most diverse landscapes. This is also a great place to set up camp under the stars as light pollution is practically nonexistent.
Day 8
From Litchfield National Park there is just over an hour to Darwin. The final leg of the journey showcases more of the Northern Territory’s diverse landscape before abruptly being pulled into the big city. In Darwin, sit back and relax with a glass of wine and Fromage board. You can also enjoy a sunset cruise on the stunning harbour or wander around a museum and learn about the area’s culture.
Image credit at the very top of the article: Phillip Minnis/Bigstock.com
