The Great Australian Road Trip

steve_irwin · Joined: 23 Feb 2005 Posts: 30

This road trip will take you along some of Australia's most spectacular scenery and colorful cities, moving along the east side of Australia. You can rent a car, or use a combination of car/train. The best time to go is during summer (when it's winter in the northern hemisphere).

1) Begin in Darwin, one of Australia's wildest regions. You'll find plenty of kangaroos and various native wildlife in this area (not in the city, mind you).

2) Drive east to Cairns for a suntan, or admire their unspoiled rainforests and beaches.

3) As you drive south towards Brisbane, try scuba diving amongst the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most colorful tropical reefs, filled with exotic fish and creatures.

4) Brisbane and the surrounding regions is home to Australia's largest theme parks, so here's one for the kids. Alternatively, you could just relax on the beach in Surfers Paradise.

5) Drive south towards Sydney, Australia's largest city. After wandering this city you'll probably want to head west to the Blue Mountains for a hike.

6) Australia's little-known capital is Canberra, a few hours drive south-west of Sydney. Here you can find the Parliament House and War Museum.

7) Head further south towards Albury-Woodonga, and take a river boat cruise along the Murray River.

8) Go south to end you trip by relaxing in Melbourne, one of Australia's most friendly cities. Have a coffee by the Southbank cafes, or visit some of the art galleries and museums.

If you're adventurous you can head west to Adelaide and Perth, but getting to the other side of Australia is a few thousand miles!