Although planning a holiday during the colder months comes with its own set of challenges, it also has quite a lot of perks. Some parts of the country are simply magical when the weather is cooler, and it’s the kind of magic we just don’t get to experience in the sweltering heat. And what’s a better way to experience all the country has to offer than to get behind the wheel, blast your favourite nostalgic tunes and hit the road? Here is our lowdown of some of the finest road trips to take during the winter for a cold but memorable getaway.
1. Great Ocean Road
Typically, any Australian road trip list at any time of the year would include the Great Ocean Road. And for good reason. This iconic drive is remarkable in many ways. Replete with turquoise blue waters, lush rainforests and overall scenic views, the Great Ocean Road stretches over 243 kilometres. The first stop, Torquay, is between an hour to 90 minutes away from Melbourne. Along the drive, be sure to pay a visit to the famous Bells Beach, check out Great Otway National Park, admire the spectacular Erskine Falls, see the unforgettable Twelve Apostles, explore the beauty of Loch Ard Gorge and catch the sunset at Bay of Islands.
2. Sydney to Blue Mountains
Another staple Australian road trip, the Blue Mountains are just a 90-minute drive from Sydney, which make it an ideal day-trip destination. However, the greater Blue Mountains area is so expansive that it would take at least two to three days to explore it in all its rugged, glorious splendour. Stops you absolutely must add in your itinerary include the charming town of Katoomba, the sprawling Three Sisters and Echo Point lookouts and ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Blue Mountains aka Leura Village. We also highly recommend visiting the Jenolan Caves which are easily accessible from Sydney and Katoomba and popular for there magnificent limestone crystal formations.
3. Rainforest Way
The Rainforest Way road trip is the stuff of dreams. Starting at Byron Bay and traversing into Queensland, you get to view up close some serious hills, trees and long winding roads along the way. There are heaps of routes you can take depending on where you are travelling from and what you want to see. We recommend passing through the charming little town of Bangalow, a stop at the very unique and somewhat wacky town of Nimbin and the surreal Minyon Falls.
4. Southern Highlands
A personal favourite, the Southern Highlands might just be one of the most gorgeous road trips from Sydney. We recommend a stop at Bowral for some seriously good coffee and a generally lively café scene. The lovely little town of Berrima, just a 15-minute drive from Bowral is another staple on this road trip. Make sure you find a secluded spot to view the stars late at night. It’s a sight to behold.
5. Launceston to Cradle Mountain
Take a trip to see the famous Cradle Mountain in Tasmania. Located one hour and 45 minutes away from Launceston, take a drive to see this mighty peak, and enjoy magnificent countryside views along the way. Stop at Mole Creek and check out some caves, or swing by the town of Sheffield and see their many murals. At Cradle Mountain, you’ll see the divine Dove Lake and misty landscapes. In the winter, this experience is truly special, because there’s always a chance of snowfall.
6. Alice Springs to Uluru
Speaking of iconic winter road trips, Alice Springs to Uluru is an absolute must primarily because it takes you to the very heart of Australia. During the summers, the route is dusty, hot and super dry, thankfully the winters provide a respite from all that while still providing exceptional landscape views. This ginormous and dramatic landscape includes the amazing Palm Valley, spellbinding views of Kings Canyon and of course, the magnificent Uluru. If you go in August, you might even see wildflowers blooming in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. What is unmatched on this particular road trip is the feeling of being completely lost in the country’s vast and expansive beauty. You feel simultaneously lost but at home with the universe.
7. Sydney to Jervis Bay
Perhaps the most popular road trip from Sydney, Jervis Bay is always abuzz with activity and culture. Although somewhat a victim of its own popularity, it’s incredibly difficult to find one of its pristine white-sand beaches to yourself especially in the summer months. Which is why the winters make for the perfect time to explore the area. The trip takes you along the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive, some of the world’s whitest sand upon arrival and sprawling views. If you’re not pressed for time, the coastal towns of Wollongong and Kiama are great additions to this winter road trip providing a quaint and serene ambience if you’re looking for some peace and quiet.
8. Launceston to Hobart
The drive from Launceston to Hobart only takes about two and a half to three hours, but you’ll want to take your time on this road trip. The scenic route will take you along the ‘Heritage Highway’, where you’ll see plenty of quaint and picturesque towns. These spots are the perfect place for you to stop, stretch your legs and grab a delicious bite to eat. Hobart itself has a pretty eclectic cultural scene so make sure you explore the nooks and crannies of the city. Popular stops include The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mount Wellington and the Salamanca Markets.
9. Cairns to Broome
The drive from Cairns to Broome is more popularly known as Savannah Way. And when it comes to winter road trips in Australia, this one is an absolute must at least once in your life. It is a sprawling 3700 kilometre route linking the historic town of Broome in Western Australia with Cairns in Queensland. The intriguing drive is filled with natural wonders and idyllic landscapes. You can also view up to five World Heritage Sites and 15 national parks on the way. It’s an absolutely massive trip that will take you through remote areas, so plan carefully, and break it up into sections if that’s easier. If you want to experience the Australian outback without the heat and discomfort of the summer months, winter is a great time for you to visit.
10. Great Alpine Road
If you’re looking for winter road trips in Australia, you can’t miss the stunning Great Alpine Road. Picture snowy mountains, long winding roads, striking forests and loads of stunning valleys. This 339km drive will take you from Wangaratta, up and over Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain, and down to Metung in East Gippsland. This trip is wonderful all year round, but in winter, the snow makes this trip that much more magical.