Australia’s East Coast Explorer

Board your overnight flight to Melbourne; generally this flight is overnight but in some cases you will travel over two nights.

Welcome to Australia! After your long-haul flight from the UK, you’ll arrive in Melbourne, a stylish and cosmopolitan city bursting with art, culture, and fantastic food. After checking into your hotel the rest of the day is yours to relax, stretch your legs, and enjoy a gentle walk along the Yarra River or sip a flat white in one of Melbourne’s famous laneway cafes. 

Melbourne offers the perfect balance of vibrant energy and laid-back charm. If time allows, explore the Royal Botanic Gardens - a haven for local biodiversity - or take a ride on the historic City Circle tram for a free, eco-friendly sightseeing loop. This evening, enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant before resting up for your journey ahead.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Quincy Hotel, Melbourne or similar

Enjoy a full day exploring this dynamic city. Visit Federation Square, wander through the laneways and arcades, or explore world-class museums such as the National Gallery of Victoria. If you’re a sports fan, a tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is a must. 

Food lovers will be in their element — Melbourne is famed for its coffee culture, wine bars, and thriving culinary scene, with many venues sourcing ingredients locally. In the evening, why not catch a performance at the Arts Centre or take a rooftop bar tour with city views?

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Quincy Hotel, Melbourne or similar

Collect your hire car and set off on one of the world’s most iconic drives - the Great Ocean Road. Today’s drive to Apollo Bay is around three hours, but you’ll want to allow extra time for scenic stops at Bells Beach, Torquay, and the charming seaside town of Lorne.

Apollo Bay is a lovely spot to spend the night, nestled between rolling green hills and a sweeping surf beach. Stretch your legs on the beach or take a short walk into the foothills of the Otway Ranges. Consider a visit to the Great Otway National Park for a low-impact nature experience supporting conservation of this unique ecosystem.

ACCOMMODATION: 3* Apollo Bay Waterfront Motor Inn or similar
DRIVING TIME: 3 hrs // 122 mi

Today’s drive offers some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on the route. Head into the Great Otway National Park, where towering trees and hidden waterfalls meet the sea. Make sure to stop at the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge - all world-famous landmarks shaped by wind and water. 

Continue on to Warrnambool, a regional city with maritime charm and coastal flair. Depending on the season, you might even spot whales just offshore. This evening, enjoy a relaxed meal and perhaps catch the Shipwrecked Sound and Light Show at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Deep Blue Hotel and Hot Springs, Warrnambool or similar
DRIVING TIME: 2 hr 20 min // 100 mi

Leaving Victoria behind, you’ll cross into South Australia today, heading toward the fascinating regional city of Mount Gambier. Break up the journey with a visit to Port Fairy or the coastal wetlands of Nelson for birdwatching or a riverside walk.

Mount Gambier is known for its extraordinary natural attractions, including the vivid blue waters of Blue Lake, the Umpherston Sinkhole (a sunken garden in a collapsed cave), and the volcanic landscape of Mount Schank. It’s a unique and intriguing stop full of geological wonders.

ACCOMMODATION: 3* Delgattie Estate, Mount Gambier or Colhurst House or similar
DRIVING TIME: 2 hr 30 min // 129 mi

Today’s drive takes you through the Limestone Coast and Coonawarra wine region as you make your way north to Adelaide. If you’re a wine enthusiast, consider stopping for a tasting or cellar door lunch among the vineyards of Coonawarra.

Arriving in Adelaide, you’ll be greeted by wide boulevards, historic buildings, and a relaxed, sunny vibe. Check into your accommodation and enjoy a laid-back evening exploring the East End, with its lively pubs, wine bars, and open-air restaurants. You’ve earned it after covering one of Australia’s best driving routes.

ACCOMMODATION: 3* Ibis Adelaide or similar
DRIVING TIME: 5 hrs // 284 mi

Take today to explore South Australia’s elegant capital. Start at the Central Market, one of the Southern Hemisphere’s best food markets, or wander through the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Art lovers will appreciate the Art Gallery of South Australia, while history buffs can explore the nearby Migration Museum.

Alternatively, if you prefer to get out of the city, take a half-day tour to the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale wine regions - both within easy reach. Adelaide’s charm lies in its blend of culture, heritage, and easy-going appeal. It’s the perfect place to end this first leg of your journey before flying north.

ACCOMMODATION: 3* Ibis Adelaide or similar

Leaving Amarillo you will pass Midpoint Café in Adrian, the halfway point of Route 66 and as you approach New Mexico you will travel through the historic ghost town of Glenrio. Stop for lunch in Tucumcari, renowned for its vintage motels and neon signs. In Santa Rosa, explore the Blue Hole, a stunning natural swimming hole.

Arriving in Santa Fe, immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage, from the historic Plaza to the vibrant art galleries and Pueblo-style architecture.

ACCOMMODATION: 3* The Lodge at Santa Fe or similar

DRIVING TIME: 4.5 hrs / 284 mi

Get back on the road for a drive to Hervey Bay, a laid-back coastal spot known for its calm beaches and access to K’gari (Fraser Island), the world’s largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Once in Hervey Bay, stretch your legs with a stroll along the 17km coastal path or out onto the Urangan Pier at sunset. In the right season (July to November), it’s also one of the best places in Australia to go whale watching, with humpbacks resting in the bay during their migration.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Mantra Hervey Bay or similar
DRIVING TIME: 4 hrs // 237 mi

Depart Hervey Bay for a drive to Brisbane, Queensland’s cosmopolitan riverside capital. Depending on your pace, you might stop in Noosa for a coffee and a quick beach walk, perhaps visiting Noosa National Park’s scenic coastal track.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and head down to South Bank, a riverside cultural precinct with gardens, cafes, and even a city beach. If you’ve still got energy, ride the Wheel of Brisbane or stroll along
the Story Bridge for skyline views at dusk. 

Many of Brisbane’s attractions are walkable or accessible via the CityCat ferry service, making it easy to explore while reducing your carbon footprint.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Novotel Brisbane South Bank or similar
DRIVING TIME: 3 hrs // 178 mi

Spend today exploring Brisbane at your own pace. Take a river cruise to see the city from the water or visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and Queensland Museum. Animal  lovers might enjoy a visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where you can meet koalas and kangaroos up close.

The city has a thriving food scene, so it’s also a great day to enjoy brunch, sip coffee at a local roastery, or enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of the many riverside restaurants. Brisbane blends urban culture with outdoor living in a uniquely Queensland way.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Novotel Brisbane South Bank or similar

Today’s drive takes you across the border into New South Wales with a short and scenic journey to Byron Bay. This iconic surf town is famous for its beaches, bohemian vibe, and lighthouse walks. En route, you might stop in the Gold Coast for lunch or a beach break.

Arriving in Byron, explore the eclectic shops, artisan markets, and chilled- out cafes. The main beach is perfect for a dip before sunset, or you might head to Wategos Beach or The Pass for something quieter. Byron Bay is a place to slow down and enjoy the moment.

ACCOMMODATION: 5* Crystalbrook Byron or similar
DRIVING TIME: 1 hr 50 mins // 102 mi

Start your day with the Cape Byron Lighthouse Walk, a scenic trail leading to Australia’s most easterly point. The views are stunning, especially at sunrise, and you might spot dolphins or even migrating whales offshore. Afterward, refuel with a beachside brunch and a browse through Byron’s many independent boutiques.

The rest of the day is yours - join a surf lesson, explore nearby hinterland towns like Bangalow, or simply enjoy Byron’s mellow rhythm. The food scene here is excellent, with everything from organic cafes to high-end dining. It’s easy to see why so many fall in love with Byron.

ACCOMMODATION: 5* Crystalbrook Byron or similar

Continue south to Port Macquarie, a charming coastal town with historic roots and one of Australia’s best koala hospitals. The drive can be broken up with scenic stops in Coffs Harbour or Yamba.

Once in Port Macquarie, you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the Breakwall, visit a local winery, or head to Town Beach for sunset. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Koala Hospital, where rescued koalas are rehabilitated and cared for by passionate volunteers.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* Mantra The Observatory, Port Macquarie or similar
DRIVING TIME: 4 hrs // 239 mi

Today marks your final big drive to Sydney, Australia’s most iconic city. En route, consider short breaks in Newcastle or the Hunter Valley if time allows. The road takes you from lush farmland into bustling metro life.

Arrive in Sydney by the afternoon and get your bearings with a sunset walk around Circular Quay, where the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge provide a truly memorable backdrop. After days of road tripping, arriving in the harbour city feels both exciting and rewarding.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* PARKROYAL Darling Harbour Sydney or similar
DRIVING TIME: 4 hr 10 mins // 244 mi

Spend the day soaking up all that Sydney has to offer. Take a ferry ride to Manly Beach, walk the scenic Bondi to Coogee coastal path, or explore the historic laneways of The Rocks. Art lovers will enjoy the Art Gallery of NSW, while shoppers can head to Paddington Markets or Queen Victoria Building. 

Wrap up your journey with a celebratory dinner at a waterfront restaurant - perhaps with views over the harbour.

ACCOMMODATION: 4* PARKROYAL Darling Harbour Sydney or similar

Spend your last day in Sydney at leisure before heading to the airport to return your hire car and check in for your flight home.

From Melbourne’s hidden laneways to the Great Barrier Reef and the golden beaches of New South Wales, you’ve just completed one of the world’s most epic road trips.

Note: Depending on the flight you have booked, you will arrive back in the UK on the same day or the next day, after an overnight flight.

The best time to travel is during spring (September–November) or autumn (March–May), when the weather is warm and pleasant along the east coast. These months avoid the peak summer heat and tropical wet season, making destinations like Palm Cove, the Whitsundays, and the Daintree Rainforest more enjoyable. Wildlife viewing is excellent, including humpback whales off Hervey Bay and koalas in Port Macquarie, while popular tourist spots are less crowded, allowing for a relaxed and immersive road-trip experience.

Please note that to rent a car, the lead driver must have a credit card in their name; debit cards are only accepted in some cases. GPS is automatically included when available; otherwise, it can be confirmed and paid for locally. We will advise at the time of booking whether GPS is included. An excess may apply to car rentals in Australia, and this will be confirmed when you book. You may wish to include rental car excess cover in your travel insurance policy, or speak to one of our team about an additional policy that can be added to your holiday. A one-way fee will apply to the car rentals for this itinerary. The exact amount will be confirmed prior to booking and is payable locally.

British passport holders require an eTA to enter Australia by air. Please visit the FCDO website for more information.

Please note that there are no mandatory vaccinations required to enter Australia. However, we recommend consulting your GP or a travel health clinic before you travel to ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date and to receive any personalised health advice