Self-Drive
Enjoy the sheer pleasure of the journey on an inspirational drive in New South Wales.
See panoramic views, wildlife, national parks packed with natural wonders, beautiful beaches the envy of visitors and country towns noted for their unique heritage and history. Add all the essential lifestyle ingredients such as great wine, beautiful regional dining and fantastic places to stay for a great holiday getaway.
The Legendary Pacific Coast
Cape Byron Bay Lighthouse, Byron Bay, New South Wales
Heading north from Sydney along the Pacific Ocean coastline to Brisbane, The Legendary Pacific Coast drive passes through some of the most striking landscapes in New South Wales. Accessible surf beaches, national parks and forests, a hinterland of rolling green hills and friendly villages make this a truly enjoyable drive.
Enjoy surfing world famous beach breaks, kayaking with dolphins and hiking through World Heritage rainforests. Alternatively, simply enjoy the region’s fine food and wine.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major Cities: Sydney, Newcastle, Port Macquarie,
Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay - Duration: 4-5 days
- Distance: 940 km (596 miles)
Highlights
- On the Central Coast, meet Australia’s native animals at a wildlife or reptile park.
- Take an early morning hot-air balloon flight over the vineyards of the Hunter Valley.
- Go quad biking on sand dunes and cruise with dolphins at Port Stephens.
- Take in the wonders of the Coffs Coast by kayaking, surfing or playing golf in a rainforest setting.
The Grand Pacific Drive
Sea Cliff Bridge, Wollongong, New South Wales
This southerly route from Sydney starts in the Royal National Park before heading south along the coast to Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama. Pass through rainforests and seaside villages along a sensational strip of coastline.
A highlight of the Grand Pacific Drive is Sea Cliff Bridge, offering panoramic ocean and escarpment views. From the end of the drive at Bomaderry, turn inland or head further south on the Sydney-Melbourne Coastal Drive.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major City: Wollongong
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Distance: 140 km (88 miles)
Highlights
- See koalas up close at Symbio Wildlife Park.
- Explore the Royal National Park, the second oldest national park in the world.
- Feel the exhilaration of skydiving over the beach near Wollongong.
- Enjoy amazing views from the Illawarra Fly treetop walk.
- Experience the Kiama blowhole as waves surge into an underground cave before exploding high into the air.
Sydney – Melbourne Coastal Drive
Australian Fur Seal, Montague Island New South Wales
The Sydney – Melbourne Coastal Drive joins the Grand Pacific Drive to travel the length of the South Coast of New South Wales and onto Melbourne. Winding through seaside towns and historic villages, past uncrowded beaches and marine reserves, this sensational drive unlocks the beauty of the region’s 30 national parks and rainforests. Along the way, tantalise taste buds with fine local produce from cheeses and wine to oysters and seafood.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major towns: Wollongong, Moruya, Bega, Merimbula, Eden
- Duration: 4-5 days
- Distance: 1,033 km (646 miles) – Sydney to Eden
Highlights
- Stop at Jervis Bay to enjoy the pure white sand beaches, marine life and a dolphin-watch cruise.
- Board a seaplane to observe Australian fur seals and native birdlife at Montague Island off the Narooma coast.
- Immerse into the world’s oldest living culture on a multi-day tour with Aboriginal guides from Yuin country on a Ngaran Ngaran cultural awareness trip.
The Greater Blue Mountains Drive
Three Sisters, Blue Mountains, New South Wales
The Greater Blue Mountains Drive includes 18 Discovery Trails, each one taking travellers on a unique adventure. The network of national parks and conservation areas that make up this World Heritage Area stretches from the Upper Hunter to Mudgee, Goulburn, the Southern Highlands and the Hawkesbury.
Discover small towns and villages, mountains, bushwalks, museums, wineries, wilderness and wildlife. Enjoy the spectacular views, country markets, botanical wonders and bush-lined waterways.
Journey snapshot:
- Nearest Major City: Katoomba
- Duration: 2 days
- Distance: 200-300 km (125-188 miles)
Highlights
- See the iconic Three Sisters and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the Jamison Valley from Echo Point lookout.
- Visit the Jenolan Caves and explore the labyrinth of limestone chasms carved by underground rivers.
- Explore the premium cool-climate wines of the Mudgee region.
- The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden in Mount Tomah is home to the Wollemi Pine – Australia’s own living fossil.
Driving in New South Wales
Royal National Park, Sydney, New South Wales
All major car rental operators have offices at Sydney Airport, in various Sydney city and suburban locations plus most have regional depots in major towns throughout the state. Many major roads into and out of Sydney are tollways and most do not accept cash payment. Major car hire companies will usually provide an e-toll solution as part of their rental agreement. Alternatively, short-term e-toll passes can be purchased. An eMU (Electronic Motorway User) Pass is a convenient way to travel on Sydney toll roads for a period of up to 30 days.
