This journey offers beautiful sights and explorations
Driving is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Australia. If time is no object, there is no better way than to hit the road and see as much of the country as you possibly can. Driving from Melbourne to Perth via Kojonup, for example, you will witness some of the natural and man-made wonders that Australia has to offer.
From beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets to quaint towns and heritage museums, there are places to see for all travellers to tick off some bucket list items. So, make sure you set aside at least 9 days for this once-in-a-lifetime road trip.
What you need to know before driving from Melbourne to Perth
The drive from Melbourne to Perth is nearly 5,000 kilometres long so, it is recommended that you plan it with your favourite humans. Make sure you get along and can stand each other’s company for 9 to 14 days, depending on your itinerary, although there’s so much ground to cover, you can be assured of amazing attractions and an experience that is hard to forget.
Here is an interesting fact that you should know about this road trip: You will gain time when driving from Melbourne to Perth, and you will lose time when driving back. That’s because you’ll be going through three time zones. So, make sure you consider this when making arrangements for or after your trip to avoid confusion.
Your road trip itinerary
From Melbourne, you’ll be driving mostly on sealed roads, so it doesn’t matter if you have a 4WD ute or a trusty old van to reach these destinations. Here are some of the highlights of this route.
Point of origin: Melbourne
Victoria’s capital, Melbourne, has a lot to offer. You’ll be able to find great things to do no matter your interest:
- Wander around various markets.
- Enjoy quirky street art.
- Relax on St Kilda beach.
- Marvel at the beautiful State of Victoria Library and its collection of more than two million books.
When you have had your fill of this charming city, you can get on with your road trip.
The Great Ocean Road
If there is one thing that the Great Ocean Road is famous for, it is the Twelve Apostles but there is more to this scenic route spanning from Torquay to Nelson. Some of the highlights include:
- Hopetoun Falls, Otways. A 500-metre walk down the stairs will allow you to see probably the most picturesque waterfall in the whole of Victoria at eye level.
- Loch Ard Gorge, Twelve Apostles Coast. This protected sandy beach nestled amongst cliffs, turns a glassy turquoise blue when calm.
- The Razorback, Twelve Apostles Coast. This enormous slice of limestone sticks out above the Southern Ocean. Apart from being great for photography, the Razorback is also the best place to catch the sunset and see the remaining three Apostles that are not visible from Castle Rock.
- Griffiths Island Lighthouse Walk, Port Fairy. Head further down the Great Ocean Road to reach the lovely fishing village of Port Fairy. It houses the photogenic Griffiths Island Lighthouse, where you can spot wallabies. If you are lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of a Southern Right Whale out at sea from June to October.
Mount Gambier
Located between Melbourne and Adelaide, Mount Gambier offers both the liveliness of a big city and the comforts of a small town. It is famous for the Blue Lake, which colour changes from steel blue to a brilliant turquoise in November to March. The city is also popular amongst tourists for its sinkhole right in the middle of the town. Known as the sunken garden, it is often covered in blooming flowers.
Adelaide
Adelaide has everything to offer every tourist that comes its way. From chic boutiques, amazing metropolitan beaches, world-famous restaurants and sea-side beach bars, the city is a mecca for fashionistas, beach lovers, and foodies. It is also home to some of the top wineries in Australia.
Just 20 minutes by car from the city, the Adelaide Hills can be explored in one day. You can choose from the more than 60 wineries to visit, many of which are known for Sauvignon Blanc. Meanwhile, McLaren Vale to the south of Adelaide, and the Barossa Valley to the north, are known for their Shiraz.
The Nullarbor
The Nullarbor means “no trees.” As the name implies, the Nullarbor Plain is one huge empty space. You will endure 1,200 kilometres of hot desert road and live to tell the tale. It is an experience like no other and will make you realise just how big Australia is. The Nullarbor plain covers two Australian states and features breathtaking sights, such as the Great Australian Bight.
Albany
Western Australia’s second-largest city, Albany, boasts of a beautiful ANZAC memorial, fantastic views and interesting natural phenomena, such as The Gap (a crevice between two cliffs) and blowholes. You can enjoy whale watching if you visit between June and October.
Kojonup
Just 3 hours south of Perth is a bustling country town steeped in history. Kojonup is a popular rest stop for travellers going to Perth from Albany. Tourists make a beeline for the Black Cockatoo Cafe, Kojonup Country Kitchen and Royal Hotel, three of the town’s most popular restaurants. Also, don’t forget to visit the award winning The Kodja Place to learn about Kojonup’s links to the Noongar Aboriginal people.
Enjoy a restful night in Kojonup
You will need more than a few hours to visit all the exciting places in Kojonup. So, why not spend a night in town? Cornwall House Accommodation will ensure that you get a restful night’s sleep to safely and happily continue your road trip feeling refreshed. Our 10 rooms are clean, well-appointed and have reverse cycle air-conditioning. Check our availability and book your room today. Call us up on (08) 9831 0214 or email your enquiries to stay@cornwallhouseaccommodation.com.au for more information.
