TRUCKING FOR DAYS: 10 TOP SCENIC DRIVE ROUTES IN AUSTRALIA

With Australia moving slowly, but surely, towards unrestricted travel between all states and territories, there’s light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel. For when we do ease out of the four walls and venture out into the metaphorical—or literal—wilds, we’ve compiled 10 of the most scenic drive routes around the country for you to enjoy. With so many places to explore, the list we’ve put together here is by no means exhaustive, but hopefully might spark an idea for your next trucking adventure.

Explore your own backyard – safely

The rugged and scenic roads of Australia may not always be accessible with a regular vehicle, so a trusted set of wheels is a priority before setting out on any longer trips—even more so, if you’re bringing camping gear or towing a caravan or trailer. We always recommend double checking your vehicle’s towing capacity, the loaded weight of what you’re towing and ensuring sure your vehicle is sound before heading out on the road. If you are taking your Isuzu truck (and extra gear) on an adventure, we also recommend checking that your set-up does not exceed any local load limitations on the desired route—you can find a handy route planner from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and more information regarding state and territory guidelines here.

 Image credit: Red Centre Way NT

Red Centre Way, NT

An iconic charter into Australia’s outback ranges, the Red Centre Way is an unforgettable 1,135km drive along both sealed and unsealed road. From Alice Springs through to Kata Tjuta, Waterrka to Tjoritja and finally into to Uluru, allocate at least 6-days for this adventure that will take you through ancient gorges, spirited valleys and dusty red plains. 

Sea Cliff Bridge credit Shutterstock

The Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales

For those after something short and sweet, this 205 km jaunt is the route. It can be covered comfortably in four hours going from the outskirts of Sydney all the way to Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama, although you will want to allow more time to see the stop and explore. From the Kiama blowhole, to the Minamurra Rainforest and the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge—there’s plenty for the eyes to feast on.

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way, New South Wales

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way is a rollicking 405 km drive will take you through the heart of the Kosciuzko National Park, offering some of the country’s most dramatic mountain views. Depending on the season, you may even see snow along Thredbo and Tom Groggin, which is why this route is not recommended for vehicles towing large caravans.

Image credit: Queensland plan-your-holiday

Great Beach Drive, Queensland

Spanning 380 km of Queensland’s stunning East Coast, the Great Beach Drive follows the Sunshine Coast through to Fraser Coast in the north. Expect sunshine (hopefully), rolling beaches and coastal views that are guaranteed to take the stress from your soul and put a smile on your face.

Broome to Perth, Western Australia

You can take a four hour flight from Broome to Perth, or opt for the even better long and scenic drive along the 2,214 km stretch of road. The sight of a camel train across the spectacular and secluded Cable Beach is probably one of the most iconic images along this West Australian route. From there, it’s a sweet drive south along the coast to more epic views of the Pinnacles Desert, or a gander into the Karijini National Park. The natural wonder of Ningaloo Reef is a must stop.

Image credit: Visit Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Probably Victoria’s most popular coastal drive, the Great Ocean Road hugs the coast for approximately 250 km, stretching from Torquay through to Warrnambool. Expect lush rainforests, scenic ocean views, rolling mountains and coastal towns that are hot on the family favourite list. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the legendary Twelve Apostles!

The Great Alpine Road, Victoria

The Great Alpine Road is a gorgeous track of around 340 km into rural Victoria, passing through the soil of some of the state’s best wineries. From Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, the drive will take you through mesmerising valleys to shimmering lakes. Along the way are Mt Hotham, Victoria’s highest alpine village and Bright, a beautiful town renowned for its autumn foliage, which are worth stopping to appreciate.

The Eyre Peninsula, South Australia

Known as the ‘Seafood Frontier’, the Eyre Peninsula is a food lover’s paradise. From Whyalla to Port Lincoln, and back up to Ceduna, this route stretches 727 km long across some of the most stunning coast in Australia. Three days may be just enough time to sink your teeth into the sights of the Eyre Peninsula... and some of freshest seafood you’ll ever taste!

The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia

Some of the locals consider this 1,200 km drive an Australian right-of-passage. Stretching from Western Australia’s town of Norseman to South Australia’s Ceduna, the Nullarbor Plain is a seemingly endless stretch of tarmac and semi-arid country. There is just something mesmerising about the rolling outback, filled with lots of wildlife and horizon as far as the eye can see.

The Heritage Highway, Tasmania

As its name suggests, the Heritage Highway is literally a drive across history. Built through convict labour in the early 1800s, this epic 197 km road connects Hobart to Launceston, and will offer breathtaking views of Tasmania’s midlands as it takes you through stretches of farmland, rural estates and wineries. Safety is king when it comes to trucking, but what’s the difference between Active and Passive Safety Systems? Check out our blog on this topic here.