Australia by Car

New South Wales truly does have some of the most beautiful townships in Australia! One of these would have to be the large town of Port Macquarie which is situated on the mid-North Coast of the state. This picturesque settlement is nestled 390 kilometres north of Sydney, and 570 kilometres south of Brisbane, which means that you can pick up your car rental from one of these major cities and embark on a scenic road trip.

Port Macquarie sits at the mouth of the Hastings River and enjoys Australia’s best climate. It is one of the country’s best loved holiday destinations and this comes as no surprise because it offers everything your ultimate holiday destination should. Home to glorious bays and beaches, precious island walkways, stunning rainforest pockets and evergreen hinterland, Port Macquarie enjoys the best of coastal and natural living.

Port Macquarie offers such a diversity and wealth of scenery and activities that it is the ideal place for any holiday you may wish to take. Whether it is a fun filled family holiday, a weekend getaway, an active adventure vacation or simply an opportunity to explore the many surrounding National Parks, State Forests and reserves, Port Macquarie is sure not to disappoint.

While visiting, take some time to enjoy the stunning coastal walks, surf some of the amazing waves, swim in the crystal clear waters, spot some whales in the distance or even brave a camel ride. There are over 15 local beaches and most of these are patrolled so you can be sure the whole family will be safe.

The historical highlight of Port Macquarie would have to be Timbertown, an entire, re-created village that is nestled in 87 acres of natural forest. Timbertown demonstrates the struggles and achievements of our pioneers and is definitely not one to miss for any keen history buff!

The best way to get to and around Port Macquarie is with a car hire vehicle. This will allow you to explore all the wonder and beauty that this amazing town has to offer.

When it comes to coral, brightly coloured fish, hundreds of tropical islands and miles of pristine beaches, there really is none better than the Great Barrier Reef. As the largest coral reef system in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is often labelled as one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, and this is no mistake as it truly is spectacular.

The reef stretches for a total of 2,600 kilometres and is situated in the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Queensland. If you ask me, the best way to see it all is to take a driving trip up the coast, starting anywhere from as south as Bundaberg. The best way to do this is to pick up a car rental from your starting destination and than head north, sticking to the coast.

Some of the best places to base yourself for exploration of the reef would have to be Cairns, Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. Cairns has all of the ingredients for an idyllic tropical holiday and also enjoys the perks of city living. Port Douglas is just 70 kilometres north of Cairns along a spectacular scenic drive, which will be made easy in your car hire vehicle. Port Douglas has a distinctive tropical charm and is the perfect place to relax, take it easy and explore some of the country’s most breathtaking beaches.

The Great Barrier Reef itself supports a diversity of life, including many vulnerable and endangered species. The reef is scattered with beautiful tropical islands and thousands of coral cays. It is essentially the best place in the world to go snorkelling and scuba diving and is even more popular for reef cruises. Stretching for as far as the eye can see, the reef is alight with colour and life and is undoubtedly the state icon of Queensland.

The Great Barrier Reef is a must-see for any Australian or visiting tourist. It is the quintessential highlight of the state and one of the best natural features of our great country!