Australia by Car

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!