Each year many thousands of travellers make the journey to Australia in order to enjoy the many pleasures, sites, and activities this diverse landscape has to offer. Any campervan enthusiast can tell you that this nation is easily one of the top destinations for road trips due to the sheer amount of rugged and scenic territory on offer. One of the top regions in Australia for road trippers is the southern tip of the continent which offers many miles of golden beaches, lush forests, vibrant cities, and laid back surfer hamlets. Taking a campervan hire journey across this area will no doubt be the road experience of a lifetime no matter where you make your stops, but keep the below in mind if you really want the ultimate southern Australian roadtrip experience.
Perth
A great starting place for your trip will be the great city of Perth, which offers a fine mix of outdoor beauty and urban coolness. The city itself is a thriving, colorful mix of young professionals, artists and hipsters, and surfers. There are plenty of funky boutiques to check out and the eats run the range from fine dining to high rated food trucks. This vibrant town is a fine place to spend several days and the ocean views are stunning. You can easily do a beach day at one of the local public beaches and then spend a night out on the town, which is part of that Perth magic that has been attracting travellers for decades.
Great Southern
Just a short drive from Perth, Great Southern is a fine destination to head next. The road will take you through some quant, gorgeous towns that may prove irresistible, so make sure to schedule in some time for unexpected stops. The Great Southern region itself is home to the stunning Stirling Range National Park, which is a must in wildflower season, and Porongurup National Park where panoramic views of the region await. There are also many miles of undeveloped coastline which many have claimed to be some of the most gorgeous stretches of coast in the world. Needless to say, the Great Southern region is essential for any traveller looking to gain a true perspective on what makes Australia’s southern coast so enticing.
Southern Forests
This is the region where your campervan hire trip will begin to really feel like an Australian adventure. All it will take is one stroll along the Valley of the Giants to see that you have entered the wonderland. Make sure to take a swim in the bay at Greens Pool, and sample some of the freshest produce and wines produced anywhere. The coastal roads in this region are highly recommended, as the contrast between the ocean and the surrounding forests is a sight to behold. These lush stretches of dense forest aren’t just for show either. This is some of the best hiking territory anywhere in the world, offering epic views and diverse terrain. Make sure to look up some local trails and to set aside the time to experience them.
Blackwood River Valley
In a region chalk full of scenic driving, Blackwood just may be at the top of the list. These long rolling hills and scenic valleys have long been known as some of the most gorgeous terrain in the South. The Blackwood River runs through this region, offering the opportunity for rafting and waterside hikes. Also recommended is the small town of Nannup, known as “Garden Village”, which has elegantly manicured parks all over its grounds.
Margaret River Wine Region
As the area’s name suggests, some of the best wines to be found in Australia are brewed here. Sample them at one of more of the dozens of wineries lining this region. You also have the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the stunningly beautiful Karri forest, and a large assortment of galleries and boutiques to browse. This is not to mention the warm, clear waters of Geographe Bay or the public limestone caves in the area.
Geographe Region
Here you will be greeted by miles of scenic orchards and even more miles of coastline where you can see schools of dolphins cutting through the waters. There are a great many breweries to be found here, so beer fans will find a lot to be desired, and the shopping is on par with the best in the nation. Don’t forget about Wellington National Park either, which lies in the area and offers a diverse and beautiful terrain to explore.
It’s no secret that Southern Australia is perfect for a campervan hire journey. There is so much here to see and do that it may be overwhelming to plan your trip. As long as you keep these destinations in mind you will be on the right course for the road trip of a lifetime in this lush and scenic region.
