Whether you are looking for adventure in the heart of the continent, following in the footsteps of the pioneers of the Old Telegraph route, whether you want to discover the oldest living culture on Earth or whether you do not get tired of the blue from the ocean… Australia will seduce you.
The proof with these two road trips.
From Adelaide to Darwin, the explorers' route across the continent
Let's go for three weeks of adventure in the heart of the southern continent.
Departing from Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, we take the direction of one of the most prestigious wine regions of Australia, the Clare Valley, to allow ourselves a relaxing break with a small wine tasting in one of the famous properties in the area.
The route continues towards the Flinders Ranges mountain range, including Wilpena Pound, a vast natural amphitheater surrounded by breathtaking scenery located in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park.
After a night in Port Augusta, we take the road again towards Coober Pedy, an underground city which is worth the detour for its opal production and its organized way of life sheltered from the light… and the crushing heat.
Kangaroos at Wilpena Pound Archie Sartracom Tourism Australia
On the way to the iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta
On the mythical Stuart Highway, you will then reach the spiritual epicenter of Australia, an almost magical place that stands out for its unmissable rock formations: Uluru, the legendary monolith, and Kata Tjuta, a set of 36 giant domes.
The opportunity to learn more about Aboriginal culture through the stories that local guides will tell you during walks at sunrise or sunset.
More confidential, the Kings Canyon, located in the Watarrka National Park, will also bring its share of “instagrammable” landscapes with its imposing slope and its breathtaking views from the top of the canyon.
Sunrise at Uluru Sean Scott Tourism Australia
Next stop ?
Alice Springs, Central Australia's urban hub, promising a return to city life while offering a wealth of Aboriginal galleries and historic sites such as the former Telegraph Station and the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum (former 1939 airbase for medical services).
land of nature
Over the next few days, on the road to Katherine, we will take the time to visit the site of Karlu Karlu, these massive granite blocks sacred to the Warumungu people – but also to stop at pubs and roadhouses with unusual charm.
Arrived at Katherine, we quietly explore the nearby Nitmiluk National Park with its impressive system of gorges, unless we prefer to fly over it in a small private plane or hang-glider.
Finally, the Northern Territory, just before the tropical city of Darwin, promises an ultimate adventure with a visit to Litchfield National Park, known for its many waterfalls and refreshing natural swimming pools.
Litchfield National Park Nicholas Cavo Tourism Australia
From Sydney to Cairns, sunsets, endless beaches along a sparkling ocean
Fancy white-sand beaches, ocean breezes and rainforest walks?
The route that criss-crosses the coast from Sydney to Cairns is for you.
We start in style with a visit to Sydney and in particular its emblematic views of the port and the architectural opera house.
On the road to Brisbane
To the north, the seaside resort of Port Stephens promises remarkable sightings of the local dolphins while a stopover in Port Macquarie will allow you to visit the first Koala Hospital devoted to the care of this emblematic animal of the country.
In Byron Bay, one of the most popular seaside towns in Australia, you can learn about the surf culture between trendy cafes, vegan restaurants and shops with organic stalls while taking care to plan a hike in one of its nearby rainforests.
Equally relaxed, Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, offers a pleasant city experience, especially with its ideally placed artificial beach.
Sydney Harbor Daniel Tran Tourism Australia
Postcard-worthy islands
We then leave the city for Noosa and its sunny coast embellished with national parks before reaching Hervey Bay, the Australian whale watching center which allows you to contemplate the impressive mammal from May to September.
Also plan three days to visit one of the largest sand islands in the world, Fraser Island (K'gari) which combines deserted beaches, freshwater lakes and virgin forests.
The next step ?
The Whitsundays archipelago, islands discovered by Captain Cook in 1770 between the mainland and the Great Barrier Reef, which today stand out as a paradise for sailing enthusiasts… and fine sandy beaches, such as Whitehaven Beach.
Humpback Whale, Hervey Bay, Queensland Mark Fitzpatrick Tourism Australia
To finish beautifully
Leaving the Whitsundays, pause in Townsville and visit the Museum of Underwater Art – the Western Hemisphere's first underwater museum.
On the road to Cairns, idyllic beaches and lush forests will punctuate your journey before concluding your epic by exploring Daintree, the oldest tropical forest in the world, alongside an Aboriginal guide who will introduce you to the fauna and to the flora of the place like no one else.
For more information: www.australia.com
A trip like no other |
Explorers Way (explorers-way.com)
