Archive for November 29th, 2008

The Port of Augusta is located on the east coast of the Eyre Peninsula in the state of South Australia. Positioned right at the head of the Spencer Gulf and within a close proximity to the Flinders Ranges, Port Augusta is a popular holiday destination for those seeking to explore some of Australia’s most beautiful natural landmarks.

Port Augusta sits 322 kilometres north of Adelaide, making it the ideal destination for a driving holiday. You will easily be able to find the car hire depot from which you can pick up your vehicle and then it is completely up to you where you start your exploration from.

This natural harbour town was first settled in 1852 and has thrived into a popular tourist hotspot for visitors from all over the world. It offers everything a modern city should, along with so much more! Popular points of interest include the Australian Arid Lands Botanical Gardens, which offer superb views of the Flinders Ranges. These gardens showcase an array of arid zone environments, along with many special conservation areas where you will be able to view the natural fauna the gardens pride themselves on. There is also an extensive network of meandering tracks, which will allow you to stretch your legs and embark on the nature experience of a lifetime.

The city itself is scattered with many pleasant parks and gardens, with something unique and interesting around every corner. There is also an abundance of shopping opportunities on offer, making it a place any shopaholic could only dream of.

If you want to venture outside of Port Augusta itself, the Flinders Ranges beckon your presence. This magnificent mountain range stretches for over 400 kilometres and is only a short drive away from the town centre. The drive is stunning and will be made even easier with your car rental.

Port Augusta is the “Gateway to the Outback” as well as the “Gateway to the Flinders Ranges“. It is the perfect place to visit to experience some of the country’s best natural highlights, and also to enjoy a holiday experience that you will remember forever!

Nestled in the renowned Cape to Cape region of the south-west of Western Australia, lies the picturesque town of Busselton. Its close proximity to the capital city of Perth, means that you can pick up your car hire vehicle here, then drive the 220 kilometres south until you reach Busselton.

Founded in 1831, by the Bussel family, Busselton has experienced fruitful economic and demographic growth and is now one the state’s top tourist towns. It is home to the Noongar Aboriginal people, who still hold strong ties with the land and whose presence is felt and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Enjoying a mild, Mediterranean climate, Busselton attracts thousands of visitors each year, who are seeking a break from the city and the chance to get back in touch with nature.

While visiting this unique and historic town, there are several sites of interest that you will be drawn to. The Busselton Jetty is perhaps the highlight of the town, and stretches for almost two kilometres out to sea. It is the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and is a great place for a spot of fishing or a leisurely stroll. The jetty is also the site of an underwater observatory and interpretive centre.

For a slice of the town’s history, pay a visit to Wonnerup House. This original homestead was built in 1859 by the Layman Family, the original settlers of Busselton. It depicts the colonial times and the trials and tribulations that were experienced in these times. Another historic site of interest is St Mary’s Church of England, which claims to be the oldest stone church in Western Australia. This stunning church showcases some of the area’s historical architecture and will take you a few steps back to Busselton’s days gone by.

Busselton is also home to some of the nation’s finest festivals and sporting events, including the Festival of Triathlon and Iron Man Championships. These events are a major drawing card of the region and are a lot of fun to watch.

Busselton is a place of pleasant contrasts, from tranquil waters to the rugged cliffs of the surfing coast, ancient caves to picturesque vineyards, and sprawling pastures to magnificent forests. It is truly the perfect place for your next driving holiday in Western Australia.