5 Unforgettable Road Trip Ideas for the Australian Spring School Holidays

As the chill of winter gives way to the warmth of spring, Australia comes alive with blossoming flowers, milder temperatures, and an inviting atmosphere perfect for road trips. The spring school holidays offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of this beautiful country, from sun-kissed beaches to lush rainforests and rugged outback. Here are five unforgettable road trip ideas that will make your spring holidays truly memorable.

Family enjoying a motorhome road trip

1. Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Distance: Approximately 664 km round trip
Duration: 3 to 5 days
Highlights: Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Otway National Park, Bells Beach

The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic drives, and spring is the perfect time to experience it. The journey begins in Torquay, just an hour and a half from Melbourne, and winds along the southern coast of Victoria, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, rugged cliffs, and lush rainforests.

Day 1: Torquay to Lorne
Start your journey by renting a motorhome in Melbourne and drive towards Torquay, the surfing capital of Australia, and stop by Bells Beach, famous for its world-class waves. Continue to Lorne, a charming seaside town, where you can take a stroll along the beach, enjoy fresh seafood, and explore the nearby Erskine Falls.

Day 2: Lorne to Apollo Bay
On your way to Apollo Bay, make sure to stop at Kennett River, a great spot to see koalas in the wild. Upon reaching Apollo Bay, relax on the sandy shores or venture into the Otway National Park for a walk among ancient trees and beautiful waterfalls.

Day 3: Apollo Bay to Port Campbell
This stretch of the road offers some of the most stunning views, including the famous Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge. These natural limestone formations are particularly beautiful at sunset. Spend the night in Port Campbell and enjoy the tranquility of this small coastal town.

Day 4: Port Campbell to Warrnambool and Return
On your final day, visit the charming town of Warrnambool, where you can explore the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village or spot whales at Logan’s Beach. Then, begin your journey back to Melbourne, perhaps taking a different inland route to experience the countryside.

2. Sydney to the Blue Mountains, New South Wales

Distance: Approximately 150 km one way
Duration: 2 to 3 days
Highlights: Three Sisters, Scenic World, Jenolan Caves, Leura Village

The Blue Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage site known for their dramatic landscapes, steep cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls. Just a short drive from Sydney, this road trip is perfect for a quick escape into nature.

Day 1: Sydney to Katoomba
Hire a motorhome from Sydney in the morning and head towards Katoomba, the heart of the Blue Mountains. Your first stop should be Echo Point, where you can see the iconic Three Sisters rock formation. From here, take the Scenic Skyway at Scenic World for panoramic views of the Jamison Valley.

Day 2: Explore the Blue Mountains
Spend the day exploring the Blue Mountains. Visit Wentworth Falls, where you can take a hike to the waterfall and enjoy the surrounding bushland. In the afternoon, explore the charming village of Leura, known for its beautiful gardens and boutique shops.

Day 3: Jenolan Caves and Return
Before heading back to Sydney, take a detour to the Jenolan Caves, one of the oldest cave systems in the world. The guided tours offer an unforgettable experience of the underground rivers and limestone formations. Afterward, make your way back to Sydney, reflecting on the natural beauty you’ve just explored.

3. Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast, Queensland

Distance: Approximately 200 km one way
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Highlights: Noosa National Park, Glass House Mountains, Eumundi Markets, Australia Zoo

The Sunshine Coast offers a perfect blend of beachside relaxation and hinterland adventure, making it an ideal destination for a family road trip during the spring holidays.

Day 1: Brisbane to Caloundra
Start your journey in by picking up your motorhome rental in Brisbane and head north towards Caloundra. On the way, stop at the Glass House Mountains for a short hike and spectacular views. Once in Caloundra, relax on the beach or explore the coastal walkways.

Day 2: Caloundra to Noosa
Drive to Noosa, one of the most popular destinations on the Sunshine Coast. Spend the day exploring Noosa National Park, where you can walk along coastal trails, spot koalas, and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants along Hastings Street.

Day 3: Eumundi and Australia Zoo
On your third day, visit the famous Eumundi Markets, where you can shop for local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs. Later, head to Australia Zoo, made famous by the late Steve Irwin, and spend the afternoon learning about Australian wildlife.

Day 4: Noosa to Brisbane
Before heading back to Brisbane, spend a leisurely morning on Noosa Main Beach or take a boat ride along the Noosa River. This final day allows you to soak in the Sunshine Coast’s relaxed atmosphere before returning to the city.

4. Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, South Australia

Distance: Approximately 210 km one way (including ferry)
Duration: 4 to 5 days
Highlights: Seal Bay, Flinders Chase National Park, Remarkable Rocks, Vivonne Bay

Kangaroo Island is a nature lover’s paradise, offering pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. This road trip from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Day 1: Adelaide to Cape Jervis
Pick-up your motorhome from Adelaide and early and drive south to Cape Jervis, where you’ll catch the ferry to Kangaroo Island. On the way, stop at the McLaren Vale wine region for a quick tasting of some of South Australia’s best wines.

Day 2: Explore Kangaroo Island’s North Coast
Begin your exploration of Kangaroo Island with a visit to Seal Bay, where you can walk among a colony of Australian sea lions. Then, head to the north coast to visit Stokes Bay, known for its beautiful hidden beach accessed through a rock tunnel.

Day 3: Flinders Chase National Park
Spend a full day exploring Flinders Chase National Park. Don’t miss the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch, both offering incredible photo opportunities. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and echidnas.

Day 4: Vivonne Bay and Little Sahara
Head to the south coast to explore Vivonne Bay, considered one of Australia’s best beaches. In the afternoon, visit Little Sahara, where you can try sandboarding down the massive dunes. Finish the day with a relaxing walk along the beach or a swim in the clear waters.

Day 5: Return to Adelaide
After a leisurely breakfast, catch the ferry back to Cape Jervis and drive back to Adelaide, perhaps stopping at a few more wineries along the way to cap off your trip.

5. Perth to Margaret River, Western Australia

Distance: Approximately 270 km one way
Duration: 3 to 4 days
Highlights: Busselton Jetty, Cape Naturaliste, Margaret River wineries, Mammoth Cave

Margaret River is known for its world-class wineries, stunning coastal scenery, and gourmet food. A road trip from Perth to Margaret River is perfect for those looking to indulge in good food, fine wine, and natural beauty.

Day 1: Perth to Busselton
Pick-up your motorhome from Perth in the morning and drive to Busselton, home to the famous Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a walk along the jetty or ride the train to the end, where you can visit the Underwater Observatory. Afterward, continue to Dunsborough and spend the night there.

Day 2: Cape Naturaliste and Margaret River
Start your day with a visit to Cape Naturaliste, where you can take a lighthouse tour and enjoy the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Continue your journey to Margaret River, stopping at a few wineries along the way for tastings and lunch. Spend the evening in Margaret River, exploring the town’s boutique shops and enjoying a gourmet dinner.

Day 3: Explore Margaret River
Spend the day exploring the Margaret River region. Visit Mammoth Cave, a limestone cave with fascinating formations, or head to the coast for a walk along the Cape to Cape Track. In the afternoon, visit more wineries or enjoy a chocolate-tasting session at one of the local producers.

Day 4: Return to Perth
On your final day, drive back to Perth, perhaps stopping at a few more coastal towns or wineries along the way. Reflect on the beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and fine wines that made this trip so special.

Conclusion

Australia’s spring school holidays provide the perfect opportunity to hit the road and explore some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re seeking coastal beauty, lush rainforests, or rugged outback adventures, these five road trip ideas offer something for everyone. If you need recommendations with your motorhome rental, feel free to reach out to our friendly team members at [email protected] or call +61388665585