The Top Three Road Trips in Every State and Territory Revealed

The nation’s best road trips are in; it’s time to decide which to do first.

Roll down the windows. Crank up the tunes. This spring, we’re inviting you to rediscover Australia, one unforgettable drive at a time. We’ve rounded up the top three best road trips in each state, from a seafood trail that offers a taste of SA’s merroir to a 4WD track that runs the length of the NT.

Grand Pacific Drive, NSW

the Sea Cliff Bridge from above — Sea Cliff Bridge snakes along the Illawarra escarpment. (Image: Destination NSW/Daniel Tran)

This scenic route extends for 140 kilometres from Sydney to Jervis Bay, exiting the city before snaking along the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge. While the South Coast is best known for its beautiful beaches, a perfect weekend away should also include its burgeoning foodie scene.

a woman soaking in a tub with wine in hand at Cupitt’s Estate inShoalhaven — Soak in the surrounds at Cupitt’s Estate in Shoalhaven. (Image: Destination NSW)

Don’t miss: A taste of the region’s terroir at restaurants such as Bangalay Dining , Cupitt’s Estate and Milk HAUS . Also, be sure to stop at the rugged headland near Kiama Blowhole during whale season – it’s the perfect vantage point to spot the majestic marine animals.

Northern Rivers Hinterland Way, NSW

the emerald coast and hinterland on a Northern Rivers road trip — Zigzag between emerald hinterland and coast on a Northern Rivers road trip. (Image: Destination NSW/Ain Raadik)

The countryside along the Northern Rivers Hinterland Way is reminiscent of a green patchwork quilt. Covering a lot of the same ground as the Rainforest Way, this journey starts in Tweed Heads, tumbles through the Tweed Valley and loops into Lismore before taking in the coastal locales of Ballina and Byron Bay, with the option to extend into Casino.

Don’t miss: The historic villages, artist studios and hinterland cafes filled with hippie local characters. Find your tribe at the Saturday farmers’ markets in Bangalow then spend the afternoon at leisure in lovely Lismore, and be sure to check out the town’s regional gallery.

Mountains & Gold Rush Road Trip, NSW

a couple exploring Lowe Wines — Taste the terroir at Lowe Family Wine Co, Mudgee. (Image: Destination NSW/Jesse Smith)

Starting in the majestic Blue Mountains, make your way inland into NSW’s Central West. Learn about the region’s colourful gold rush history on a self-guided itinerary that triangulates between Bathurst and Orange before exploring the spoils of the Mudgee wine region.

Don’t miss: The heritage towns of Hill End and Sofala, a bottle from Lowe Family Wine Co in Mudgee and a nature-based boutique farm stay at Glenayr Farm .

Grampians Road Trip, Vic

Written by: Elizabeth Whitehead

two women exploring the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Grampians Road Trip — Visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat. (Image: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria)

A Grampians road trip is a romantic drive that carries passengers from the buzzy streets of Melbourne to laid-back life in the country. Allow plenty of time to meander west of the big smoke, stopping at Ballarat to peruse the art galleries, before making a beeline for the dramatic sandstone peaks of the Grampians. Loop back via the gold rush town of Ararat to soak up more of the Central Highlands’ country charm.

Stay in a Down Under Log Cabin in the Grampians/Gariwerd. (Image: Visit Victoria/Tess Kelly)

Don’t miss: A taste of pastoral life in a dinky DULC (Down Under Log Cabins) . The timber structures are in the heart of beautiful Grampians bushland.

Great Alpine Road, Vic

Written by: Elizabeth Whitehead

the Victorian Alps on a Great Alpine Road trip — Follow the Great Alpine Road through the rumpled folds of the Victorian Alps. (Image: David Kirkland)

Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road, the 300-kilometre Great Alpine Road weaves through the Victorian Alps, taking in mountains, country wineries and quaint alpine towns such as Bright.

Don’t miss: Be sure to drive to the top of Mt Hotham for those panoramic alpine views. You’ll want to pack your hiking boots to wander along the walking trails. End your trip in Beechworth, a gold rush-era town brimming with heritage buildings, bushranger tales and excellent local food and wine.

Great Victorian Bathing Trail, Vic

a woman relaxing at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa — Soak in the soothing waters of Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. (Image: Jesse Hisco)

Swimmers and a floppy hat are essential items when packing for the Great Victorian Bathing Trail. The 900-kilometre-long route connects the dots between hot springs, mineral pools and sea baths, so you can literally immerse yourself in the landscape.

Don’t miss: Wellness is the focus here, but it’s worth carving out time for indulgent detours. Stop in Daylesford for a scenic lunch at the iconic Lake House . Stay onsite at The Sanctuary at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa , a brand-new retreat built in the dunes above the hot springs.

Gibb River Road, WA

a person visitingTunnel Creek on a Gibb River Road trip — Carve out time to visit Tunnel Creek while driving the Gibb River Road. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/Jarrod Saw)

This mostly 4WD track snakes for about 660 kilometres through the heart of Western Australia between Derby, the western gateway to the Kimberley, and Kununurra, in the east.

Don’t miss: Dimalurru (Tunnel Creek). The subterranean waterway formed about 350 million years ago, making it WA’s oldest-known cave system. Adding to the drama of Dimalurru are the large stalactites dripping down from the ceiling like whimsical chandeliers, as well as chance encounters with freshwater crocodiles and ghost bats. Roads accessible between May and October.

Perth to Broome Coastal Drive, WA

an aerial view of West Australian Coastline and Ningaloo Reef — Embark on an epic road trip along the West Australian Coastline and Ningaloo Reef. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/Jarrad Seng)

The coastal drive from Perth to Broome takes a whopping 24 hours (at least). We would recommend pacing yourself, so you can enjoy some side trips to explore Exmouth, Ningaloo and Karijini National Park.

Don’t miss: Swimming with whale sharks off the coast of Ningaloo, hiking around the ancient limestone structures at Lake Thetis and getting your claws into some fresh seafood at the legendary Lobster Shack in the fishing village of Cervantes.

The Southwest Edge Loop, WA

the Turquoise Bay on the Southwest Edge Loop — Track towards Turquoise Bay on the Southwest Edge Loop. (Image: Tourism Western Australia/Rick Van Brakel)

Pack your bathers: this epic loop of south-west Australia traverses some 1200 kilometres between Perth and Esperance, tracing the curves of the coast before cutting a swathe through the outback.

Guido van Helton’s mural at Wellington Dam — Visit Wellington Dam to see Guido van Helton’s mural, Reflections. (Image: Tourism Australia/Jarrad Seng)

Don’t miss: A visit to the quirky village of Gnomesville in the Ferguson Valley should be on your radar. As should a stop at Wellington Dam to see Reflections, the large-scale mural painted by artist Guido van Helten splashed across its 8000-square-metre surface.

Nature’s Way Loop, NT

the sandstone walls of Nitmiluk Gorge, NT road trip — The soaring sandstone walls of Nitmiluk Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/Lachlan Gardiner)

The Nature’s Way Loop is a road trip made memorable thanks to the Northern Territory’s wild landscapes. From the ritual of watching the sun set over the Timor Sea at Mindil Beach Markets in Darwin to observing the shifting colours of Kakadu, wild swimming at Litchfield National Park and appreciating the untamed beauty of Nitmiluk, this Top End trail is unlike any other.

See Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr in Kakadu. (Image: Tourism NT/As We Wander)

Don’t miss: The Aboriginal rock art galleries at Ubirr and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) in Kakadu and a soak in Katherine Hot Springs.

Binns Track, NT

a 4WD traversing Binns Track on an NT road trip — Bounce along Binns Track bound for the Red Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/Jake Appleby)

Crank up the car karaoke as you bounce along the 2230-kilometre Binns Track in Central Australia – named after Bill Binns, a former NT Parks and Wildlife ranger who created the 10-day 4WD trip. The epic track, which runs almost the entire length of the state, covers some of the lesser-known attractions of the NT between Mt Dare and Alice Springs.

Don’t miss: Mac Clark (Acacia Peuce) Conservation Reserve, home to one of the world’s rarest trees.

Red Centre Way & East Macdonnell Ranges Loop, NT

a scenic flight over Ulur-u Kata Tjut–a National Park — Fly over Ulur−u in the dusky dawn light. (Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott)

Red Centre Way and the East Macdonnell Ranges loop offers road-trippers the quintessential outback experience. The drive combines two road trips: it circles around the navel of Australia between Uluru and Alice Springs, taking in iconic attractions such as Kings Canyon and the Macdonnell Ranges.

Don’t miss: Watching Uluru change colours like a mood ring at different times of the day. And, if your budget allows, taking a scenic flight over Kings Canyon from Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon .

Great Eastern Drive, Tas

an aerial view of Wineglass Bay on a Tasmania road trip — Drink in views of Wineglass Bay. (Image: Tourism Tasmania/Scott Sporleder)

This drive between Hobart and St Helens along Tassie’s east coast is known for its stunning capes, beautiful bays, great seafood and cellar doors.

Enjoy al fresco oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Don’t Miss: The pristine Freycinet Peninsula for both its scenery and seafood. Trace the white sands of Wineglass Bay on foot and call in at Freycinet Marine Farm for fresh oysters. Spotting penguins in Bicheno is also a must.

Northern Forage Trail, Tas

the Floating Sauna at Lake Derby — Go off-grid at Floating Sauna, Lake Derby. (Image: Emilie Ristevski)

The food and wine scene is booming on the Apple Isle. This foodie-focused road trip in northern Tasmania starts in Launceston before weaving through the Tamar Valley and onto Devonport, Sheffield and Stanley.

Don’t miss: Grazing your way along the Northern Forage Trail to gain a sense of place. Unearth black truffles at the Truffle Farm in Deloraine . Sip your way through the cool-climate wines of the Tamar Valley. Pick up provisions at farm gates, breweries, distilleries and cellar doors that showcase the best of the region’s bounty. Be sure to factor in a visit to the Floating Sauna, Lake Derby , Australia’s only floating woodfired sauna.

Cradle to Coast, Tas

Written by: Elizabeth Whitehead

an aerial view of Gordon River — Join a wilderness journey with Gordon River Cruises. (Image: RACT Destinations)

It’s one of Tasmania’s most rewarding road trips. The drive circles the breathtaking Cradle Mountain –Lake St Clair National Park, taking in both of the region’s headline acts – iconic Cradle Mountain in the north and serenely beautiful Lake St Clair in the south. You can’t simply cut through the national park, and it’s just as well – there’s plenty more to see driving the long way around.

Don’t miss: The wild west coast town of Strahan, the starting point for cruises along the Gordon River. Also, the dramatic, lunar-like landscapes of Queenstown, the gateway to Tasmania’s rugged west coast.

Scenic Rim Road Trip, Qld

the summit of Mt Barney in the Scenic Rim — The rugged peak of Mt Barney in the Scenic Rim. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Queensland’s Scenic Rim, on the Traditional Lands of the Yugambeh People, is all about taking your foot off the pedal for an extended epicurean adventure. The region, which extends more than 4000 square kilometres, is jam-packed with everything from paddock-to-plate eateries to cafes that turn up the country charm.

Don’t miss: There are plenty of foodie-focused pit stops to be made along the way, but The Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm is a must in August when it’s in bloom.

Pacific Coast Way, Qld

an aerial view of Shute Harbour, Whitsundays — Shute Harbour is the jumping-off point for a lot of tours in the Whitsundays. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Kyle Hunter)

The Pacific Coast Way is like a string of pearls that loops from the Gold Coast all the way to Cairns. Succumb to its charms, from sunsets airbrushed pink on the Fraser Coast to the blue-green waters of the Capricorn Coast and swaying palms of Tropical North Queensland.

Don’t miss: A side trip to the Whitsundays, where you can swing in a hammock over the milky-white sands of Hayman Island.

Mt Isa Discovery Drive, Qld

the dinosaur trail, Mt Isa Discovery Drive — Follow Australia’s Dinosaur Trail. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The Mt Isa Discovery Drive is a compelling route that cuts right through the guts of Australia.

Set off from Townsville under a painted-on blue sky bound for Mt Isa on this 12-day adventure that links the Overlander’s Way with Australia’s Dinosaur Trail , where you can witness incredible 130-million-year-old dinosaur footprints.

kayaking at LawnHill Gorge, Wugudaji/Adels Grove — Kayak around Lawn Hill Gorge at Wugudaji/Adels Grove. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland/Reuben Nutt)

Don’t miss: Having a coldie and a yarn with some of the colourful locals at the Middleton Hotel, one of the most isolated outback pubs in Queensland.

Namadgi National Park Scenic Drive, ACT

the giant boulders in Namadgi National Park — Look out over the shoulders of giant boulders in Namadgi National Park. (Image: Visit Canberra)

Namadgi National Park is one of the vast tracts of pristine wilderness highlighted in Australian Geographic’s Escape to Nature. It’s the ACT’s only true national park, a mix of meadows carpeted with wildflowers and alpine, inland, tableland and coastal environments.

Don’t miss: Pack your hiking boots so you can take advantage of the multitude of tracks that crisscross throughout the park. The paths take in cascading waterfalls and sweeping alpine vistas.

Canberra’s Snowies Alpine Way, ACT

Written by: Elizabeth Whitehead

the Kosciuszko National Park — Kosciuszko National Park is a delight in summer. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Who says the Snowy Mountains are best visited over winter? Leave your skis behind and head south from Canberra where the terrain rises up as you enter Alpine Country on your way to the so-called roof of Australia in Kosciuszko National Park.

Don’t miss: Throwing a line into one of the Snowy’s trout-rich rivers, or taking a refreshing dip in an icy alpine stream and doing your best Wim Hof impression. Take advantage of the abundance of alpine trails, including the summit of Kosciuszko, and treat yourself to a post-hike brew with a view at the Dalgety Brewing Company .

Canberra Wine Region, ACT

Enjoy an express lunch at Pavilion Restaurant at Pialligo Estate. (Image: Ben Calvert)

Most of the vineyards that make up the Canberra Wine Region are, in fact, outside the city limits. All up, there are 140 vineyards with more than 40 wineries within 35 minutes of the nation’s capital, from Murrumbateman to Gundaroo, Bungendore and Collector.

Don’t miss: Lunch at the paddock-to-plate Pavilion Restaurant at Pialligo Estate on the banks of the Molonglo River. You can also enjoy refined country fare at Grazing Restaurant , housed in the 1865 Royal Hotel in the charming township of Gundaroo.

SA Seafood Frontier, SA

an oyster farm tour in Coffin Bay — Experience Coffin Bay Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

You could spend weeks sampling the very best of South Australia’s so-called Seafood Frontier. The self-drive trail stretches for about 1000 kilometres around the Eyre Peninsula, taking in Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay before finishing up at the Head of Bight.

Don’t miss: The seafood, of course! The ultimate Eyre Peninsula itinerary should include swimming with giant cuttlefish in Whyalla, sampling kingfish in situ in the Spencer Gulf and embarking on an oyster farm tour of Coffin Bay .

Explorers Way Loop, SA

a woman exploring the hills of Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park — See the spectacular painted hills of Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park. (Image: Take Us With You)

The iconic Explorers Way that journeys into South Australia’s outback starts in Adelaide and meanders around the Clare Valley, Coober Pedy and up to Oodnadatta. The return route is via unsealed 4WD roads, taking in Flinders Ranges National Park and Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary .

Don’t miss: The majestic amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound is a sight to behold.

Mighty Murray Way, SA

people relaxing at Wilkadene Brewery on the banks of the Murray River — Visit Wilkadene Brewery on the banks of the Murray River. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The Mighty Murray Way follows one of the world’s longest rivers, tracing it all the way through SA’s Riverland region to the Victorian border. There are plenty of opportunities to visit distilleries, pubs and breweries, such as the Wilkadene Woolshed Brewery , as you drive through the changing pastoral landscape.

Don’t miss: Lunch at the historic Overland Corner Hotel , on the section between Morgan and Barmera. If you have time, continue via ferry from Cape Jervis for a victory lap around Kangaroo Island.

No matter your interests, you’re bound to find a unique and utterly memorable experience along the mighty Murray River.

Along the Murray River lies a network of towns that are at once intertwined and wildly diverse. Linked by the legendary waterway yet strikingly distinct, each has its own personality, pace and collection of experiences you won’t soon forget.

1. On the river

fishermen on Lake Mulwala — Get out onto the pretty Lake Mulwala. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

A visit to the region wouldn’t be complete without a jaunt on the iconic river. If you’re something of an adventurer, Lake Mulwala – an inlet on the Murray – is perennially popular for all kinds of watersports. Glide among ghost gums on a kayak or stand up paddleboard, or pick up the pace by waterskiing or windsurfing.

For a more relaxed (but no less immersive) river experience, hop on board one of the famed paddle steamers. Departing from Echuca Moama, Swan Hill and Yarrawonga Mulwala, these historic boats provide a nostalgic view of the Murray.

2. First Nations culture

Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk, murray river — Wander the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk.

The river is a meeting place of ancient cultures, home to over 50 First Nations clans and an integral part of their communities, storytelling and way of life.

To learn more about the Traditional Owners, take yourself on a guided stroll through the Wagirra Trail. Situated in Albury/Wiradjuri country, the trail passes through red gum forest, riverside wetlands and the Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk.

Alternatively, visit the Dharnya Centre in the heart of Barmah National Park on Yorta Yorta country. The centre tells the history and stories of the Yorta Yorta people, offering guided walking tours and cruises.

3. Delicious eats

the Mildura Boat House — Savour a relaxed riverside meal at Mildura Boat House.

For a representative taste of the Murray’s epicurean highlights, a few destinations are well worth your time (and appetite).

Opa in Echuca is a local staple, serving up authentic and bold Greek dishes in lively surrounds. Greek not your thing? The twin towns of Echuca Moama have numerous top-notch drinking and dining spots to choose from and an ever-evolving food scene.

In Albury, the River Deck Cafe is perched right on the river, delivering scenic vistas and a vibrant daytime menu. Expect lemon meringue waffles or Green Goddess smashed avo for breakfast, or a zippy duck salad with Southeast Asian flavours for lunch. For more waterfront dining options, head to Mildura Boathouse . Enjoy iconic views and a modern Australian menu focused on local producers and wines.

4. Hiking and biking trails

two people on bikes at Lake Boga — Discover the Murray Region on two wheels. (Credit: Ewen Bell)

The best ways to experience the Murray’s surrounding landscapes are on foot or by bike. Luckily, plenty of well-marked trails take you through the diverse scenery.

The Mildura Riverfront has a shared path for both walkers and cyclists, connecting the town centre with a string of parks and lookouts. The path lets you take in the entire town and its distinctive terrain at a leisurely pace, and is relatively flat throughout.

For a more challenging experience, head to the Huon Hill Parklands or Nail Can Hill Reserve in Albury Wodonga. Both feature a varied network of bushwalking and mountain biking trails through undulating terrain.

5. Best views along The Murray

swan at wonga wetlands in the murray — Spot the birdlife at Wonga Wetlands. (Credit: Visit Albury Wodonga)

The Murray region is perhaps unsurprisingly a prime destination for epic vistas. The Wonga Wetlands just outside Albury are an aquatic feast for the eyes, a winding web of billabongs and lagoons. Take a stroll through the tranquil landscape and see if you can spot one of the more than 170 bird species living within.

Stop by Moama Beach at sunset to catch the dazzling display. Vivid hues of pink, amber and gold flare against a backdrop of river red gum trees and are reflected in the river’s glassy waters.

Head away from the Murray itself, 15 mins from Albury Wodonga, for stunning mountain views at Lake Hume. Or head to Gunbower National Park, a picturesque place boasting a diverse wonderland of waterbirds, wildlife and aquatic plants.

6. Art and culture

People viewing art at Murray Art Museum. — Immerse yourself in art at the MAMA, Albury. (Tourism Australia)

The region’s diverse mix of galleries, museums and cultural hubs provides a window into its past and present.

One of the most prominent is Murray Art Museum Albury (MAMA), which has a rotating roster of contemporary exhibitions. The Burrajara Gallery is another Albury gem, with a powerful collection of works from local First Nations artists.

There are several smaller museums and galleries scattered across Echuca Moama and Mildura reflecting the artistic depth of the Murray. Popular picks include The Foundry Arts Space and Customs House Gallery in Echuca Moama, and the Arts Centre, Riverfront Gallery and NAP Contemporary in Mildura.

7. Murray Region Events

band on stage at Riverboats Music Festival — Time your trip around one fo the regions live music events. (Credit: Riverboats Music Festival)

Each year, the Murray hosts events as unique and characterful as the region itself.

The Massive Murray Paddle takes place every November, a 415-kilometre, five-day river paddle raising money for local charities. Whether you take part in a canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboard or boat, or watch from the riverbanks, you’ll be in for a memorable experience.

If you’re a music lover, you’re in luck throughout the year. In summer, plan a trip for Riverboats Music Festival . And in the cooler months, head to the Echuca Moama Winter Blues Festival for four days of performances across different venues.

8. Best stays along The Murray

the Cozy Dome at Charm Lodge accommodation — Find unique stays by the river or in the countryside.

Throughout your busy few days of exploring, you’ll need a comfortable spot to rest.

Echuca Moama Riverside Holiday Park is right on the river and has gorgeous views. Pick from riverfront and pet-friendly lagoon cabins, or set up camp at one of the powered sites set among native bush. Or head into the countryside to stay in the quaint glamping or lodge options of Charm Lodge .

Alternatively, treat yourself to a night or two at The Sebel Yarrawonga Silverwoods , which has stylish modern rooms and luxe amenities. There’s a heated infinity pool, day spa and an on-site restaurant doing elevated fare with local produce.

For a quintessential Murray experience, hire a houseboat from one of the many operators in Mildura. Available for weekend and week-long adventures, these well-appointed boats immerse you in the leisurely rhythm and quiet beauty of the Murray River.

Discover what’s new on The Murray at visitthemurray.com.au

Australia‘s top 3 road trips in every state and territory revealed

The nation’s best road trips are in; it’s time to decide which to do first.

Grand Pacific Drive, NSW

Northern Rivers Hinterland Way, NSW

Mountains & Gold Rush Road Trip, NSW

Grampians Road Trip, Vic

Great Alpine Road, Vic

Great Victorian Bathing Trail, Vic

Gibb River Road, WA

Perth to Broome Coastal Drive, WA

The Southwest Edge Loop, WA

Nature’s Way Loop, NT

Binns Track, NT

Red Centre Way & East Macdonnell Ranges Loop, NT

Great Eastern Drive, Tas

Northern Forage Trail, Tas

Cradle to Coast, Tas

Scenic Rim Road Trip, Qld

Pacific Coast Way, Qld

Mt Isa Discovery Drive, Qld

Namadgi National Park Scenic Drive, ACT

Canberra’s Snowies Alpine Way, ACT

Canberra Wine Region, ACT

SA Seafood Frontier, SA

Explorers Way Loop, SA

Mighty Murray Way, SA

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8 iconic ways to experience the Murray

No matter your interests, you’re bound to find a unique and utterly memorable experience along the mighty Murray River.

1. On the river

2. First Nations culture

3. Delicious eats

4. Hiking and biking trails

5. Best views along The Murray

6. Art and culture

7. Murray Region Events

8. Best stays along The Murray