Parts of the Coastal Drive between Sydney and Melbourne were seriously impacted by bushfire between Nowra in NSW and Lakes Entrance in Victoria. The drive is now fully open right through. Some of the side roads remain closed. See the links below for the latest updates.
NSW: livetraffic.com and rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me
Follow our Facebook page for further updates: facebook.com/SydneyMelbourneTouring/
The magnificent stretch of coastline between Sydney and Melbourne is one of Australia’s most dramatic and naturally beautiful self-drive experiences. Along its length, the great waters of the Pacific Ocean, Tasman Sea and Bass Strait have carved out dramatic headlands and created beautiful coves and beaches. The ancient ranges that follow it inland are covered in vast expanses of national parks and forests protecting pristine lakes and rivers. Nestled amongst these natural wonders are dozens of quaint fishing villages, tiny colonial hamlets and thriving rural towns built by the country’s most adventurous settlers.
The coast provides you with the whole range of sensory experiences. You can surf the big Tasman swells, dive the many wrecks, do some blue water sailing, go whale spotting or share the beach with seals, dolphins and sea birds. Or take time out to enjoy the delights of its famous seafood.
As you move along it, the landscape constantly changes its character and moods – from the placid blues and pastoral greens of the NSW coast, to the brilliant white sands of Jervis Bay. Immerse yourself in the Coastal Wilderness of the Sapphire Coast. Experience a lush network of National Parks, dotted with heritage sites, dramatic mountains and waters that team with life. Visit the coastal town of Eden and follow Australia's most significant whale story as you travel on the fringes of a destination rich in culture and nature so precious parts have been declared a UNESCO world biosphere res. The massive, unspoiled wilderness of the Croajingolong National Park and the awesome breadth of Ninety Mile Beach and the Gippsland Lakes, Australia’s largest inland waterway.
The journey climaxes at Wilsons Promontory, the southern most point of mainland Australia, where you can explore small, hidden bays, see wildlife in its natural habitat, and visit the historic lighthouse. Then you gently wind your way to Melbourne via Phillip Island where you can see the famously cute little penguins parading along the beach. Moonlit Sanctuary is one of the many wildlife highlights between Phillip Island and Geelong and the Bellarine as you continue the drive along Victoria's coastline.
Drive the alternative inland route from Lakes Entrance to Melbourne via Walhalla taking in the beautiful green countryside, magnificent vistas, mountain scenery and historic villages. Walhalla became one of Australia's richest gold towns following the discovery of gold in 1863. Today, strolling past its lovingly restored period buildings provides you with an authentic experience of that golden era. Frozen in time, Walhalla is home to only to 20 people.
You may also start the drive from Melbourne where you can experience the Melbourne Star for awesome views over the city and Docklands, or take in the views over Melbourne Park, the MCG and the Botanic Gardens from the Eureka Skydeck. Take a journey on a 100 year old steam train on the family favourite Puffing Billy or walk through the authentic Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary. Another favourite Melbourne experience is the Sea Life Melbourne when you can see the marine life of the southern ocean.
When you commence your road trip to Sydney, take the five minute detour off the freeway to Chadstone The Fashion Capital. Not only is this Australia's largest shopping centre with over 550 retail stores, it's a great place to stock up with what you need for the road trip. Supermarkets, music stores, outdoor shops and of course fashion makes Chadstone your one stop shopping experience.
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1033 km (642 miles)