Australia by Car

Looking to visit a thriving, culturally and historically rich city in New South Wales, but want to avoid the crowds of Sydney? If you answered yes, then Newcastle is just the place for you to visit on your next driving holiday. Located just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, it is easy for you to pick up your car rental in Sydney and then take the 162 kilometre drive in style.

Newcastle is the second largest and most populated city in the state and is known as the capital and economic centre of the Hunter Region. It is Australia’s only city that is bounded by pristine beaches and an active working harbour. Situated on the mouth of the Hunter River and reaching out to the sea, this is the largest coal export harbour in the world.

However, the coal industry is not the only thriving aspect of this amazing city. Newcastle is also home to the oldest theatre districts in Australia and the main streets of the city are still lined with many prominent historical buildings. This gives the city an authentic charm, which is further emphasised by the strong sense of art and culture in the community. The local art galleries play a significant part in the region’s tourism industry and attract people from far and wide who are in search of stunning Australian art.

The metropolitan atmosphere of the city shares a nice contrast with the natural bushland and stunning beaches that abound on the outskirts of the region. Home to 10 magnificent beaches, Newcastle offers ample opportunities for visitors to take part in recreational activities of all kinds. This makes it the ideal holiday destination for the whole family!

The lush, green hills that surround Byron Bay are home to the quaint, rustic town of Bangalow. Positioned on the spectacular north coast of New South Wales, this hideaway is the perfect place to stop for a while and even spend the night.

Having driven this route many times, I can honestly tell you that driving in this area will simply take your breath away. This section of the Pacific Highway is marked by windy, mountainous roads, densely, rich forest and spectacular views of the stunning coastline. The best way to take in the natural ambience here is in the comfort of your car, and hiring a car has never been so easy thanks to Car Hire.

Once you arrive in the actual township of Bangalow, you will find a relaxed, yet stylish village. The main street is lined with Federation-era facades, creating a quaint and historical charm to this humble abode. It is here that the Bangalow Music Festival comes to life, each year at the end of August. Experience some true Australian music and gain an appreciation of the local culture and traditions.

If you are lucky enough to be passing by on the fourth Sunday of the month, be sure to check out the Bangalow Markets, where you will find an abundance of local arts, crafts and food. Browse the interesting displays and who knows, you may even find your own little piece of Bangalow to keep.

Before you head into the seaside haven of Byron Bay, you simply must take some time to explore the charm of Bangalow. The country feel to this quaint township will welcome you with open arms and leave you feeling fresh and invigorated!

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 car rental 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 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 car rental. 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 go through 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 car rental. 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 with car hire. Cruise along at your own pace and soak up the sights and scenes that this traditional town offers!