The five best Aussie road trips

NOTHING quite beats the feeling of the freedom of an open road and there’s nowhere better to take a road trip than right here in Australia.

Drive past Tasmania’s famous Wineglass Bay.

NOTHING quite beats the feeling of freedom of an open road — your favourite tunes, great mates, family or that special someone to share an adventure with.

The humble road trip is the stuff memories are made of and a great way to explore at home or abroad. If you believe the old adage that getting there is half the fun, then road trips are probably your ideal getaway.

Road trips also lend themselves to a spontaneous weekend away, where you can literally pack a bag, jump in the car and figure it out along the way.

HotelQuickly, the last-minute hotel booking app, has selected their favourite Aussie road trips to try on a whim.

The Great Ocean Road

One of the most loved road trips by Victorians and visitors alike, this stunning 250 kilometres of winding road that hugs the coastline, providing breathtaking views of the wild Southern Ocean. With quaint seaside towns to base yourself in, such as Lorne with it’s surf beach, river and emerging foodie scene, and some must-have photo opportunities like the 12 Apostles at Port Campbell, the Great Ocean Road is a road trip you’ll never forget, and want to do again and again.

Kosciuszko Alpine Way

A trip best reserved for the warmer months (unless you’re really adventurous), head to the Kosciuszko National Park via Jindabyne and experience some of Australia’s most spectacular alpine scenery with the backdrop of our tallest peak. Head up to Thredbo Village to discover this winter playground in it’s summer condition. With a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, white water rafting and abseiling available to help you enjoy the incredible surrounds, this is a great trip for those looking to get active between driving legs.

Pacific Coast — Sydney to Brisbane

In between two of Australia’s biggest cities are some of our most loved holiday spots, such as Byron Bay and The Gold Coast, which ensures this road trip has something for everyone. Though it is ideally suited to a slightly longer break if you can manage it. Whilst travelling along the NSW central coast, stop in Coffs Harbour and get up close to dolphins, seals, little penguins and more at Dolphin Marine Magic.

Launceston to Hobart

Tasmania arguably has Australia’s most rugged and beautiful scenery, so there’s no better way to see it than from top to bottom. Avoid the main highway and head towards the coast for a stop at the incredible Wineglass Bay. On approach to Hobart visit historic Richmond, and once you’ve made it to the city, make sure you head to Tassie’s number one attraction — MONA.

Perth to Margaret River

Head south towards Busselton and take a stroll down the jetty. If you time your trip well there are some great dolphin and whale watching opportunities to take advantage of. Continue on to Margaret River and sample some of Australia’s most loved wines, explore Mammoth Cave, or head to the region’s famous beaches for some great surfing conditions.