Australia by Car

Kalgoorlie is the fifth largest region in Western Australia and is situated a vast 595 kilometres from the state’s capital, Perth. Sharing a close border with the town of Boulder, Kalgoorlie is the last town encountered before entering the vast stretch of the Nullarbor Plain. This makes it an essential stop to refuel, re-energise and explore this interesting and productive region.

Kalgoorlie is most famous for its gold mining history and the heritage buildings that line the streets depict the formation of this charming Australian town. Hannan and Burt Streets are the hub of activity and are home to modern cafes, restaurants, accommodation, hotels, clubs and watering holes.

Enjoying a dry climate, with hot summers and cool winters, Kalgoorlie is a popular holiday destination all year round. Perhaps its popularity is due to the annual events that are held each year, that offer fun for the whole family. The Australasian Safari is an off-road rally for 4WD’s, quad bikes and motor bikes and is held each year at the end of August. This motoring event attracts adventure enthusiasts from across the nation and offers a home-grown challenge that is guaranteed to be a fun experience.

Discover the Round is also another popular yearly event that attracts people from far and wide. Featuring horse racing, pacing, fashion and gambling, this event has gained recognition as a world class racing event and has truly put Kalgoorlie on the map.

The easiest way to explore Kalgoorlie is by car and a rental car is definitely the option. Let the team at Discovery Car Hire take care of all the hassles, leaving you to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the outback!

Although Tasmania’s is often Australia’s forgotten state, its capital, Hobart, is one of the most thriving cities in the nation. Located in the state’s south-east on the estuary of the Derwent River, the city is the commercial and cultural heart of Tasmania.

Originally founded as a penal colony, Hobart has grown into a vibrant city that boasts a strong historical essence and seaside culture. Home to Australia’s first legal casino, the building remains the largest in the city and compliments the lingering Georgian heritage buildings that line the streets.

The city is speckled with colourful parks and gardens, with the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens acting as the garden masterpiece of the area. The central Business District is located on the Western Foreshore of the Derwent River, adjacent to Sullivan’s Cove and this abundance of waterways is what makes Hobart the home port of the Antarctic activities of Australia and France. It is also the end point to the internationally famous boat race, The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

The skyline of Hobart is dominated by Mount Wellington, which in winter is often capped in pure white snow. The close proximity of this stunning mountain allows visitors to easily explore this natural attraction, with walking tracks and lookout points offering stunning views of the beautiful city of Hobart. Mount Wellington is accessible by travelling through Fern Tree, which is made easy for you with your rental car from Discovery Car Hire.

Hobart captures the spirit of Tasmania in its eminent history, abundant floral features and stunning mountainous terrain. It is easy to immerse yourself completely in the beauty and wonder of this city as the atmosphere makes you never want to leave!

Arnhem Land is one of the five major regions of the Northern Territory, located in the north-eastern corner. The area extends from Port Roper on the Gulf of Carpentaria, along the coast to the East Alligator River. This region is also home to Kakadu National Park, making it the ideal place to base yourself for the exploration of this famous Australian attraction.

Situated 500 kilometres from the Territory’s capital, Darwin, Arnhem Land is appropriately most famous for its remoteness. It is also one of the largest Aboriginal Reserves in Australia. The area is rich in Aboriginal culture with the locals displaying strong continuing traditions with the land. The local art centres are thriving with Indigenous art and there is also an abundance of Aboriginal rock-art within the region.

The major centres of Arnhem Land include Jabiru, Maningrida and Nhulunbuy. These areas are rich in indigenous culture and the art and craft here remains a potent force. What makes these areas so unique is the absence of high-rise buildings and crowds, allowing Arnhem Land to be one of the last wilderness areas left in the world. The coastline boasts long white sandy beaches, with tranquil blue waters and an abundance of native green vegetation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the pure environment while relaxing and enjoying the peace and quiet of these untouched areas.

The surrounding Wessel Islands, Bromby Islets and English Companys Islands are easily accessible by boat and the bays are perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. The well-preserved fishing spots are ideal for fishing lovers and the calm, clear waters are simply spectacular!

Driving in the Arnhem area is made easy with your hire car from Discovery Car Hire. To get there, simply drive 52 kilometres south of Katherine along the Stuart Highway and you will find Central Arnhem Road, which will take you to all of the exciting areas of this region. Be warned though that you will need a permit to travel in this area, but these can easily be obtained through the local council. Once you have this be prepared to discover this unique wilderness and the wonder and beauty that are eminent throughout.

Springbrook National Park is nuzzled between Lamington National Park and the coastline of Queensland’s Gold Coast. Located just 100 kilometres south of Brisbane, Springbrook is the ideal location for a weekend escape and a chance to get back in touch with nature!

Springbrook can easily be accessed via the Pacific Motorway by taking the Mudgeeraba exit and following the Gold Coast-Springbrook Road. This scenic drive takes you through lush, pristine, and untouched rainforest. Dominating the skyline west of Broadbeach, you can enjoy magnificent views of the coast while taking in the surrounding wonders of the Gold Coast Hinterland.

The National Park covers a total of three sections: Springbrook Plateau, Mount Cougal and the Natural Bridge. Explore the cascades and tumbling creeks as you trek along one of the many walking tracks which take you through the subtropical rainforest. Climb the plateau to experience the breathtaking views of this spectacular area. The park is ideal for a family day out, with new exciting things to see around every twist and bend of the tracks. Enjoy a picnic lunch in front of the Purlingbrook Falls and soak up the clean crisp air that you can’t find in the city!

The National Park is not the only drawing card of the Springbrook Region. The area’s rich soil and cool climate makes it the perfect spot for grape growing. Visit the Springbrook Winery and Vineyard and sample some exceptional local wine, while exploring the beautiful gardens. The Springbrook Glow Worms Research Centre is another of the area’s tourist attractions. The kids are guaranteed to be captivated by the incredibility of the clever little worms and the adults may even get a kick out of it too!

The Springbrook area is truly the hidden jewel of the Gold Coast Hinterland. Its easy accessibility can be made even simpler when you hire a car from Discovery Car Hire so you really have no excuse not to visit this spectacular rainforest destination!

The heart of the Northern Territory is home to Australia’s most inland town, Alice Springs. The ‘Alice’ is the third largest town in the Territory, and sits 30 kilometres south of the Tropic of Capricorn, 608 metres above sea level. The easiest way to access our country’s heartland is via the Stuart Highway, which is an ideal route for your campervan or car to travel along.

Alice Springs is the ideal base for a holiday in the centre, as it is the communication and services hub of central Australia. This regional settlement boasts year round blue skies, with stunning surrounding landscapes. The vivacious, diverse community give the ‘Alice’ its unique identity and the rich cultural heritage is eminent in the local traditions and historical buildings.

Alice Springs has a strong Aboriginal history with the local, original inhabitants displaying an evident traditional link to the land. Originally going by the name of Stuart, after its white discoverer, John McDouall Stuart, the town was renamed ‘Alice Springs’ in 1933. Achieving a population boom after the discovery of gold, the mining and pastoralism of the town remain the backbone of Australian economy.

Alice Spring acts as the base to the Larapinta Trail, one of Australia’s greatest walks. Stretching along 220 kilometres of central Australian wilderness, the trail is the perfect way to experience the wonder and beauty of our country’s outback. The track also has regular road access points, which make it easy for you to drive to your desired places of exploration.

If you are visiting in late August, be sure to check out the Assa Ably Henley-On-Todd Regatta, which is nestled on the Todd River bed. This is the world’s only waterless regatta, making it an original yet hilarious iconic event. This day out exhibits the true Aussie nature of hilarity and amusement.

Capture the heart and essence of our great country and visit the ‘Alice’. Driving through the heart of our nation is easy with a hire car from Discovery Car Hire. This driving experience is a once in a life time experience that will make you want to come back for more!

Australia’s first irrigation colony, Renmark, is nestled on the banks of the Murray River in South Australia. As part of the sundrenched Riverland region, Renmark boasts an idyllic setting, with the banks of the River Murray making it a perfect base for a boating and fishing holiday. Situated just 142 kilometres from Mildura and 254 kilometres from Adelaide, Renmark is perfect for that weekend getaway you have been longing to take!

Known as the oldest settlement on the Murray River, the historical atmosphere of this town is eminent in every bend and twist of the river. Visiting the Olivewood Historic Homestead and Museum will give you a greater understanding of the colony’s origins and allow you to gain an appreciation of the local way of life.

Visit the Frank Harding Gallery and experience Australia’s largest unique memorial depicting our country’s most famous bushrangers. The history and culture of Renmark abounds in the stunning art displays by local artists and enthusiasts.

Cruising the river on Big River Rumbler or reliving the steamboat era on one of the few remaining paddle-steamers, will allow you to experience the peace and tranquillity of this famous river, as well as discovering Renmark’s pioneer past. Alternatively, hire a dinghy and explore the stunning backwater environment of the Murraylands region. This will allow you to travel at your own pace and soak up the unique wonders of South Australia’s most prominent body of water!

The Riverland also boasts the largest grape producing area in Australia. Sample some of Australia’s finest wines at one of the local wineries, or take a guided tour to learn about how the grapes are grown and the wine is produced.

Discovering the historical, cultural and natural wonders of Renmark is made easy in your hire car from Discovery Car Hire. Cruise along at your own pace and soak up the sights and scenes that this traditional town offers!

Jervis Bay is the hidden jewel of the South Coast. Located in between Sydney and Melbourne, the Bay offers a quiet getaway destination for couples and families all year round.

This small, tourist town has certain magnetism to it, which is what draws in the thousands of tourists each year. Perhaps it is the pristine, blue waters or the incredibly spotless sand of the rugged beaches, which has become known as the cleanest and whitest sand within National Park and Marine Habitats in Australia. The hidden creeks and inlets offer quiet, secluded picnicking spots and the bushwalking tracks offer scenic routes of this virtually untouched area.

The unspoiled bays and beaches, rugged scenery, topographical mountains and crystal clear waterfalls offer an abundance of outdoor activities to the new visitor. Choose to kayak, fish or scuba dive in the pure and tranquil waters or take in the wonders of the ocean on a Dolphin Watch Cruise or a fishing charter. Jervis Bay is the friendly home to the most fascinating of marine life, including dolphins and whales, which regularly come to the surface for our viewing pleasure.

Immerse yourself in the rugged landscape on horseback, on foot or in the comfort of your car. Explore the scenic countryside and the tropical national parks, making sure to take notice of the natural flora and fauna that thrive in this unscathed environment.

Discover the charming small towns and chose from a variety of comfortable accommodation, ranging from caravan parks and camping to romantic Bed & Breakfast’s.

All the beauty and nature of Jervis Bay can be discovered from the comfort and style of your hire car from Discovery Car Hire . Travelling by car makes the experience in Jervis Bay an enjoyable and rememberable experience at any time of the year.

Our nation’s capital, Canberra, is located, conveniently, in the Australian Capital Territory. Formerly rich, Indigenous land with a strong farming heritage, the purpose-built capital has a unique contrast between nature and urban living, which is evident in the carefully planned structure of the town.

Commonly called a ‘city in the park‘, the planners designed the layout so that it transformed with each distinct season. Scattered amongst parks, gardens and a vast, green open space, Canberra is home to some of Australia’s most incredible natural marvels. The Australian National Botanic Gardens and the Canberra Nature Park are just a taste of the abundance of Australian flora and fauna on display. The man-made lake is also a centre point of the city, offering a recreational base for many of the adventure activities the city offers.

Australia’s history, culture and way of life shine through in the national museums, galleries and institutions. The transition from an Indigenous continent to a modern nation is evident through the high standard of displays and exhibitions, in these nationally acclaimed establishments.

The political history of our great country is also abundant, as Canberra is home to both Old and New Parliament House. Visitors can take guided tours and gain an understanding of the structure and running of Australia. Our war history is also an eminent part of the atmosphere and is heavily embedded in the Australian War Memorial. Visiting this historic site, gives a true sense of what the Australian soldiers endured and allows guests to gain a new found respect and understanding of our ANZAC history.

Although the cultural and historical elements of the city are what make visiting Canberra a truly rememberable experience, we must not forget about the other stimulating tourist attractions; shopping and entertainment. Canberra is known for its luxury boutiques, local designers and creative street markets. While browsing all of the fantastic shops relax in a stylish cafe or dine with a lake view.

Hiring a car from Discovery Car Hire is the perfect way to explore the national marvels of Canberra. The comfort and safety of a hired car means that you can take things at your own pace and stop at all of the amazing sights.

Whyalla is the largest city in the Upper Spencer Gulf Region, located on the Western foreshores. The small town is easily accessible and is situated just under 400 kilometres from Adelaide, the capital of South Australia.

Some say that Whyalla is where “the outback meets the sea”. This is most likely because of the untouched outback landscape and the vast coastline scenic views which encapsulate the essence of the city. Whyalla is a great holiday destination, rich in culture and heritage, with friendly locals and a welcoming feel.

There is an abundance of local activities available for the whole family to enjoy. The beaches, in particular the new Foreshore area, offer safe swimming and fishing, along with excellent BBQ and playground facilities. Visitors can also venture along the countless walking tracks, located along the coastline. The Flinders & Freycinet Lookout boasts spectacular views of the Upper Spencer Gulf, Southern Flinders Range and Middleback Range in the West. The local history shines through in the featured Memorial to Matthew Flinders, the original European Navigator of South Australia.

Whyalla’s history and heritage is dominant in the Whyalla Conservation Park. A feature of the park is Wild Dog Hill, which is packed full of native flora and fauna. The park is also an important landmark in Aboriginal history and the concept of Dreaming Stories.

Driving along the Northern Coastline near Whyalla, you will come across Fitzgerald Bay, which has impressive views of the Blue Gulf Waters and the Southern Flinders Range. While driving along the coast you will also notice the Shingle Beach Ridges, a geographical phenomenon of stone ridge man-made barriers.

Popular caravan parks in the Whyalla region include the Foreshore Caravan Park and Whyalla Caravan Park. Both offer comfortable accommodation to suit any budget and the Foreshore Caravan Park is complete beach front.

The best way to travel around Whyalla is by car as this allows you to take in the amazing sights and destinations with time and ease. To find a car that suits you, be sure to visit Discovery Car Hire and let them help make your trip to Whyalla, a holiday to remember!

Airlie Beach is known as the gateway to the Whitsundays as it is the focal point of activity on the mainland. The tropical holiday town is situated on the beachfront of Pioneer Bay and overlooks the wondrous Whitsunday Islands. Airlie Beach is easily accessible by car, by driving through Abel Point Marina, which is the home of the Meridien Marinas Airlie Beach Race Week, an annual, internationally recognised, sailing regatta.

Airlie Beach is perfect for those seeking either adventure and action or comfort and relaxation. The tropical ambience of the surrounds, the picturesque beaches and stunning rainforest tracks and waterfalls, offer endless beauty and enjoyment. Visitors can venture off the mainland and explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef on day cruises, while engaging in diving, snorkelling and fishing activities.

Airlie Beach is also the end destination of the Whitsunday Great Walk. The walk, which begins in at Brandy Creek, stretches through tropical rainforest with spectacular views of the islands throughout the entire walk. The walk is a challenge but allows visitors to travel at their desired pace.

Take a short drive inland and you will come across the “Sweetheart of the Whitsundays”, Proserpine. This rural town is the home of the key infrastructure of the Whitsundays and is often referred to as “Barra Country”. The town of Bowen is also popular for fishing lovers, with the scenic beaches offering great fishing “hot spots”.

Most visitors to Airlie Beach chose to stay at the Airlie Beach Hotel, which is situated in the heart of Airlie Beach. The resort-style accommodation encompasses direct water views and prides itself on offering three quality restaurants. The hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation which allows you to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

To explore Airlie Beach and surrounding areas in style and comfort, inquire about hiring a car at Discovery Car Hire. Enjoy!