Australia by Car

I don’t think that there is anyone in Australia that hasn’t heard of Kakadu National Park! However, for those of you that must be living under a rock and haven’t, here is just a slice of what you can expect of Australia’s most culturally significant and well-known World Heritage Area.

Kakadu is managed jointly by its Aboriginal traditional owners and the Director of National Parks. Kakadu National Park is (after Uluru) the natural highlight of the Northern Territory of Australia, located in the far northern reaches of the country. It is situated approximately 200 kilometres east of Darwin along a sealed highway, which means that you can pick up your car rental from here and head out. When travelling from Darwin, you can enter Kakadu from the north via the Arnhem Highway, which offers a stunning outback drive that you won’t quickly forget.

The park spans 200 kilometres from the north to the south, and 100 kilometres from east to west. From rugged sandstone escarpments, to extensive woodlands and vast wetlands, this cultural landscape will simply take your breath away. The park gained world heritage status for its outstanding cultural and natural values, and this could not be any more apparent!

Highlights of Kakadu include a collection of some of the finest and most extensive rock art, in the world, the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre, which contains displays and information on many aspects of the Aboriginal culture of the region, and Gunlon, a stunning waterfall that can either be viewed from the plunge pool at the base or from the top, where you can explore the amazing stone country. The park is also home to some world-renowned walking tracks and a remarkable variety and concentration of native Australian wildlife. All these natural highlights will make your Kakadu experience one to remember for many years to come.

The best way to get to and around Kakadu National Park is with a car rental. This will give you the freedom to explore every inch, nook and cranny of this one-of-a-kind Australian masterpiece.

When it comes to the harsh Australian outback, there are few towns that will pleasantly surprise you and make you actually want to stay. However, the city of Broken Hill will do exactly this, as well as much, much more!

Broken Hill is a thriving community on the edge of the New South Wales outback and is situated approximately 1,100 kilometres west of the capital, Sydney. It is the economic and cultural hub of far western NSW, and although it is regarded as an isolated mining city, it is often regarded as the “Oasis of the West” and the “Capital of the Outback“. Renowned for its vibrant art community and many artists’ studios, Broken Hill places a strong emphasis on the artistic and the unique. The city also cherishes its heritage, which is evident through the lovingly restored historic buildings and monuments that line the city streets.

When travelling to Broken Hill, there are several options you can take. If you choose to fly in, there are a few car hire depots in the city from which you can pick up your car rental. Alternatively, you can brave the harsh outback and drive all the way from Sydney: guaranteed to be a road trip you will never forget. Continuing on with your driving adventure, while in town take some time to venture along “The Silver Trail”, a 40 kilometre self-drive tour that will take you at least 2 hours. This drive features 113 fascinating local sites that will capture your eye’s attention and give you an insight into the local history and way of life.

Another short drive, south-east of Broken Hill is the Kinchega National Park. This park is noted for its interesting collection of Aboriginal artefacts and abundant native wildlife. It is definitely worth the 110 kilometre drive, as some of the sights here will simply amaze you. The drive along is stunning, with desert statues and natural rock formations offering pleasant changes from the otherwise harsh plains.

The city of Broken Hill will surprise and excite you, in more ways than one and will leave you with a new found appreciation of our great country’s outback.

The New South Wales Northern Rivers are undeniably one of the most beautiful areas in the state and feature some of the country’s best river landscapes. The main commercial and entertainment hub of the area is the town of Ballina, and although it is often overshadowed by the popular tourist destination, Byron Bay, it offers something unique and different that Byron simply cannot compete with.

Ballina is centred on an island at the mouth of the Richmond River and is nestled amongst a total of 32 kilometres of stunning, white sandy beaches. Essentially, Ballina is a natural fun park for beach lovers, surfers, keen fishers, and eager boaties and eco-adventurers. There are so many beautiful beaches that the only difficulty you will have here is choosing which ones to visit. The great thing about the Ballina beaches is that they still enjoy the great surf and sheer beauty of the Byron beaches, but without all the crowds.

The river also plays a prominent role in the community and is the source of much recreational pleasure. Take a river cruise along the Richmond and you will be able to partake in a spot of fishing, spot some humpback whales or simply sit back and take in your stunning surrounds. If you want to put your fishing rod to further use, take a short drive in your car rental out to Flat Rock or Angels Beach, the area’s secret hotspots for excellent fishing.

If the beach and river is not for you and you would simply prefer to browse the shops and enjoy some local cuisine at a trendy cafe, than a stroll along River Street is sure to please. The street runs parallel to the river and is where you will discover some fantastic cafes, restaurants and boutiques. There are also two major shopping centres, which will further ensure your shopping experience in Ballina is one to remember.

Next time you are in the great state of New South Wales, you just have to take a few days to explore the wonder and beauty of Ballina. The best way to do this is by renting a car, and there are several car hire depots in the area that will make this experience simple. Whatever you choose to do here, you are guaranteed not to leave disappointed!

Situated over 1500 kilometres North of Perth and 850 kilometres south of Broome, lies the interesting township of Karratha. In the language of the local Aboriginals, this translates into ‘good country’, and this statement is certainly true. Karratha’s location in the Pilbara region means that it enjoys a close proximity to tranquil rock pools and beautiful picnic spots. This is a highlight of the coast you simply cannot miss!

Karratha is home to one of the busiest airports in Western Australia, which means that you can catch a plane in, pick up your car hire vehicle and then head out and start exploring this amazing area. Karratha is composed of 5 main suburbs, these being Bullgarra, Pegs Creek, Millars Well, Nickol and Baynton. However, it’s what surrounds Karratha that you will really want to see.

Karratha is right near the magnificent Millstream-Chichester National Park, Karijini National Park and the 42 islands of the Dampier Archipelago. This makes it the perfect base for exploration of these stunning natural wonders. You can also take a short drive out to Cossack, which was the first port of the north-west. It is located just east from Karratha and the coastal drive is simply stunning. You should also take some time to pay a visit to Hearson’s Cove to take a refreshing dip in the cool, fresh water. This will be a pleasant relief from the somewhat hot climate that Karratha experiences.

Back in town, take a trek along the Jaburara Heritage Trail and get a taste of some of the local Aboriginal history. This 3.5 kilometre walk will take you around the town, stopping at Aboriginal carvings, old quarries and shell middens. This is the perfect way to experience Karratha’s humble beginnings!

The best way to get around is in your car rental, as this will allow you to soak up all the amazing sights, sounds and experiences that Karratha has to offer. Enjoy!

When you first arrive in Tasmania, chances are you will be pulling into the coastal city of Devonport. Devonport is a thriving city on the north-west coast of Tasmania and is located on the mouth of the Mersey River. It is one of the major regional centres in the north of the state and is the major access point for the Bass Strait Ferry.

The city was named after Devonport in England in 1890, and was officially declared a city in 1981. Since then it has thrived and now diversity is a common theme that you will find throughout the entire area. Its location in the centre of the Mersey/ Fourth Valley makes it the perfect place to base yourself for exploration of the Tasmanian high country. Drive your car rental out to Cradle Mountain, where you will discover breathtaking views and simply amazing scenery. This is just one of the many stunning natural wonderlands that surround the city, but it is definitely one to visit!

Back in the city itself you will find many reserves and recreational activities that will keep the whole family happy! Pay a visit to the Parkland, which is positioned on the Coastal foreshore and the Don River Valley. Here you will find many walking and cycling tracks that will allow you to stretch your legs and breathe in the clean, fresh air.

For a taste of local culture, there are several attractions that are sure to please. The regional art gallery is home to a unique collection of Tasmanian artworks, ceramics, prints and photographs. The Maritime Museum exhibits an interesting display of historic shipping artefacts, which will broaden your understanding of Devonport’s shipping history. Other local attractions include the Don River Railway, Home Hill, the Tasmanian Arboretum and the Imaginarium Science Centre. You can also take a cruise on the calm waters of the Mersey River, allowing you to see the city from an entirely different perspective.

Devonport is where the city, coast and country come together. For more information on what there is to see and do in this amazing city, click here or simply visit and find out for yourself!

The city of Burnie is often forgotten about next to the larger cities of Hobart and Launceston, but it actually holds the status of the fourth largest city in the state. Burnie is located on the north-west coast of Tasmania and is positioned on the banks of Emu Bay. This pleasant city is the perfect place for your next holiday as it encompasses pleasant contrasts between city living and an abundance of natural attractions.

One of the main highlights within the city would have to be the Pioneer Village Museum. This stunning museum is home to a famous indoor street that is the exact replica of what the city looked like in the past. The village was designed to interpret the atmosphere of the period between 1890 and 1910 and allows visitors to gain an understanding of how the town has developed since its colonial settlement.

Burnie is also home to many natural wonderlands, with something to please the whole family. Take a drive out to Guide Falls in West Ridgley and you will discover an impressive waterfall that is brilliant all year round. Take some time to venture up to the Roundhill Lookout, where you will be able to view every angle of Burnie. The views from this platform are simply spectacular and you will not be disappointed.

For a fun afternoon out (especially for the kids), pay a visit to the Little Penguins at the Little Penguin Observation Centre. Here you will be able to view these fascinating animals in their natural habitat and you may even get the chance to interact with them. This is sure to be an unforgettable and enjoyable experience!

A visit to Burnie is best done on a driving holiday. Burnie is the perfect place to base yourself for day trips to some of the state’s most famous tourist drawcards. It is located just an hour’s drive from Cradle Mountain and Stanley and is only an hour and a half from the Wild West Coast. The best way to get to these amazing destinations is with a Car Hire. They will help you find the right deal that suits you! This will make your trip to Burnie one that you will remember forever.

Narrogin is a progressive rural community in the Wheatbelt South Region of Western Australia. It is the perfect place to stay for a few days while travelling between Perth and Albany. Located just 192 kilometres south-east of Perth, it is easy for you to pick up your hire car from Perth and be in Narrogin within a few short hours.

Narrogin is a regional centre for the central south region and is renowned for its value of country style and its rapid progression over the past few decades. Narrogin was first settled in the 1860’s and 1870’s by pastoralists but it was not until the development of the Great Southern Railway here, that this town really thrived. It is now one of the larger towns of the Wheatbelt region and is home to pleasant, tree lined streets and attractive, historical buildings that depict the days gone by. The most prominent of these is the Town Hall, which is regarded as the icon of Narrogin. This historic building symbolises the past and present significance of the town and is definitely worth your exploration.

To gain a better understanding the town’s past, embark on the Narrogin Heritage Trail, a guided tour which starts at the Old Court House Museum. This stunning building contains extensive displays of the town’s memorabilia and will broaden your knowledge of how this interesting town was discovered. This heritage trail encompasses most of the old properties and buildings of the region and makes for an extremely interesting day out.

Another tour that you can embark on is the Narrogin District Heritage Trail. This is when your car rental will come in really handy. This trail is a 117 kilometre drive that will take you through the entire Narrogin district. Pass through Doddum Farm, Hillside, Chuggamunny, Nebrikinning and Murrin Murrin. This pleasant drive through the pleasant countryside will be an enjoyable experience and hopefully one you won’t soon forget.

Narrogin comes to life in late October with the onset of the Narrogin Spring Festival. The gardens are in full bloom which means that you can enjoy a wide variety of garden styles and vibrant colours. The festival features open gardens, garden sundowners, market stalls and an art exhibition. This is one not to miss!

Narrogin is a truly unique and beautiful town that will surprise and entice you. It’s so lovely in fact that you may never want to leave!

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.

Take a two and a half hour drive inland from Sydney and you will come across the oldest inland settlement in Australia, Bathurst. This regional centre of New South Wales is one of Australia’s fastest growing modern cities and is best known for the Mount Panorama Racing Circuit which is the venue for the Bathurst 1000 Race, held each year in October.

Bathurst was originally occupied by the Wiradjuri Aboriginal people and it wasn’t until 1815 that it was founded by white settlement. The town boomed after the discovery of gold in the area’s river and since then, has continued to thrive into a bright and vibrant regional city of the central tablelands.

In 1938 the Mount Panorama Scenic Drive was opened to the public and it was at this point that Bathurst became the home of motor racing in Australia. The unique rural setting has made it one of the world’s top 3 racing circuits and home to the V8 Supercar Race Series. The year’s biggest event occurs from the 9th to the 12th of October, when the V8’s take to the track for the Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. This draws in thousands of motor racing enthusiasts and is an internationally recognised event.

V8 Supercars are not the only thing that Bathurst has to offer! Other notable attractions in the area include the Bathurst Observatory, Miniature Railway, Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, the Bathurst Courthouse and Gaol and Kings Parade. The city is home to excellent accommodation, restaurants and shopping, offering something for all!

Bathurst is easily accessible by car, which is made even easier by car hire. Take your time on the drive and soak up the inland beauty of the central tablelands of New South Wales. This is a trip that you won’t soon forget!