Australia by Car

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!

South Australia’s Clare Valley is an authentic slice of Australian country and is the perfect destination for your next driving holiday. This working rural community upholds traditions that have been passed on for generations, giving it a loving heritage and culture. While visiting the Clare Valley you will not only enjoy the stunning scenery that surrounds you, but you can listen to stories of life on the land and soak up the festive harvest season atmosphere that lingers in the year all year round.

While exploring the winding country roads and stunning native bushland you simply won’t be able to help falling for the region’s natural charms. The Clare Valley is known as one of the best wine producing regions in South Australia, and is home to many award-winning wineries. Here you will learn about the meticulous craft and care that goes into making these amazing wines and you will be given opportunities to sample some of the local produce at a farmhouse tasting room. This is a place where wine and food means people, which add to the region’s warm, rustic flavour and a certain feeling of belonging.

The Clare Valley is home to a handful of lovingly restored heritage towns that will draw you in and welcome you with open arms. One of the highlights of the region is the township of Clare, which is a pretty country town at the centre of the premier wine region. Clare is home to fine dining, panoramic views and secluded accommodation, with a relaxed vineyard atmosphere hanging loosely in the air. Clare is also home to some of the country’s finest racecourses and is the perfect place to experience gourmet food and wine. Clare is the ideal place to base yourself when you are exploring the valley as you simply won’t be disappointed with the atmosphere and hospitality.

The best way to explore the hidden valleys of Clare is through car hire. The freedom of having your own car will allow you explore this enchanting region at your own pace and soak up the beauty that surrounds you in your own time!

The historic settlement of Lobethal is located just 33 kilometres from Adelaide, making it the perfect place to escape to on the weekend for locals and visitors alike. This pleasant township is an important centre in the agriculturally rich valley’s behind the Adelaide hills and is home to acres of orchards of stone fruits, grapes, apples and pears. There is also a large presence of market gardens and dairy and beef farms that give this town a very agricultural feel.

Another important atmosphere of Lobethal is the strong presence of historic churches and buildings. It is no wonder that Lobethal translates into ‘Valley of Praise’ as this is essentially what gives it its historical ambience. While strolling the pleasant streets the most noticeable feature you will find in town is the Lutheran Church Complex. This historically rich complex is home to the first Lutheran Seminary in Australia, the oldest original Lutheran church, the Lobethal Archives and a historical museum. Wandering among and through these historic buildings will give you an idea on how the town has developed and depict the strong presence of religion in the community.

If you are in town mid-October be sure to drop in at the Lobethal Grand Carnival. Here you will see up to 300 historically significant cars and motorcycles in controlled demonstrations on the Lobethal Circuit. This is a weekend not to miss out, drawing in thousands each year.

While staying in Lobethal you have two choices of accommodation. Choose to stay in the local motel or treat yourself and book into one of the quaint Bed & Breakfasts in the area. Wherever you choose to stay, you are sure to have a pleasant visit.

The best way to get to and around Lobethal is with a car rental. The friendly team will help you find the best deal which will essentially help make you trip to Lobethal a pleasant and comfortable one.

Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia and the fifth largest city in Australia. Enjoying a pleasant contrast between coastal and inland life, this thriving commercial centre rests just beside the Southern Ocean, adjacent to Adelaide Plains and west of the Fleurieu Peninsula. The regional area stretches 20 kilometres from the coast to the foothills and the city itself is surrounded by stunning parklands. The planned city of Adelaide is rich in festivals and food, art and culture and shopping and sports. The vibrant inner city districts are a shopping lover’s parade, with Rundle Hall the shopping heart of the city. Immerse yourself in the local culture and take a stroll down North Terrace. This cultural boulevard is home to amazing museums, interesting art galleries, luscious gardens and unique wine centres. The streets of the city are lined with sophisticated architecture and colourfully vibrant gardens. The sights of the city are simply stunning and leave you feeling refreshed and somewhat more culturally aware. Venturing away from the metropolitan heart of the city will allow you to discover the beach districts that span 30 kilometres of Australian coast. Enjoy the village feel and laid back atmosphere of the seaside districts as you enjoy a refreshing dip or dine at one of the many alfresco cafes, overlooking the ocean. The white sandy beaches and clear, blue waters capture the eye’s attention and create a pristine background! For further exploration of the marine highlights of Adelaide drive your car rental out to Port Adelaide. This is the maritime heart of the region and is sure to offer something for everyone! Explore the museums or watch in amazement as the dolphins pay a visit to frolic in the harbour waters. Port Adelaide captures the essence of Adelaide’s seaside atmosphere and the fresh, sea breeze is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and alive! The city of Adelaide encompasses everything a successful city needs to thrive; a cosmopolitan feel, seaside living and a relaxed and vibrant lifestyle. This makes it the perfect destination for your next driving holiday adventure!

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!

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 car rental and let them help make your trip to Whyalla, a holiday to remember!

In the Adelaide Hills just 28 kilometres south east of the centre of Adelaide lies the historic settlement of Hahndorf, often referred to as ‘Australias oldest German town’. Settled in 1839 its strong German roots make it an interesting historical place for a weekend or a daytrip away. Expect to indulge your senses in delighful German confectionary, and enjoy the stories of the descendants of the early German settlers in the pubs and cafes on the tree lined main street.

There are a number of places to stay, with accommodation ranging from bed and breakfasts to motels and caravan parks. To really get into the spirit of the town then book into the German Arms Hotel. Distinguished by its typically German flower boxes, it is right on the main street, so you can sit on the balcony and watch the crowds go by.

An attraction you cannot miss is the Cedars, the home and studio of the famous artist Hans Heysen for over half a century. Today it is open to the public, and there is a large collection of his art on display. Take a guided tour which runs daily, or enjoy strolling at your own leisure through the 60 ha of gardens. Have a read of this article to find out more things to do in the Adelaide Hills.

Another interesting place to visit is Beerenberg Farm, which has been home to over five generations of the Paech Family. Now world famous for their delectable jams, you can take tours of the farm and participate in activites like strawberry picking- always great fun for kids.

With so much to see and do in Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills, you will need a car rental to let you take it all in!

A lion roars and the chattering birds fall silent. Through the dry shrubs a herd of tall giraffes ambles along, eating leaves off the top of the trees. The prehistoric looking rhinoceros can be made out in the distance, heads down, munching grass. Isnt Africa beautiful? Well, this isnt Africa… this is the Monarto Zoo in South Australia, close to the state capital Adelaide.

Monarto is an incredible, 1000 hectare, open range animal sanctuary- the largest zoo in Australia! Its range of habitats provide a home to a large assortment of African and Asian animals. As well as those mentioned above there are ostriches, cheetahs, hyenas, deer, oryxs, camels and many more. A tour through the sanctuary is an incredible experience you will not be able to have anywhere else in the country. Tours are included in the entrance price, and there are also special ‘Behind the Scenes’ tours available that get you up close and personal with the animals.

The town of Monarto is the gateway to the Murraylands region, so you could combine your visit to the zoo with a holiday cruising down the Murray River on a houseboat. For more information on things to do in this region have a read of this article.

The zoo is open every day of the year from 9.30 in the morning to 5 in the evening (although there is no entrance after 3.15). It is reasonably priced for what you get to see and do- adults pay 24 bucks, children under 14 pay 14 bucks, and its 65 bucks for a family. The zoo is 70 kilometres outside of Adelaide, and if you need a reasonably priced car to get there then check out car hire.