Sydney-Melbourne Heritage Drive
This inland drive features the mighty Murray River, fabulous wineries, lush national parks and Australia’s capital city, Canberra.
Come face-to-face with the legacy of Australia’s goldrush, learn about the resilience of early settlers along the mighty Murray, sample the freshest local produce at colourful country towns and discover one good thing after another at Australia’s diverse capital, Canberra.
At a glance
- Day 1 – Melbourne to Bendigo (150 km, 2 hours)
- Day 2 – Bendigo to Echuca-Moama (90 km, 1 hour)
- Day 3 – Echuca-Moama to Albury-Wodonga (250 km, 3.5 hours)
- Day 4 – Albury-Wodonga to Canberra (340 km, 3.5 hours)
- Day 5 – Canberra to Batemans Bay (150 km, 2 hours)
- Day 6 – Batemans Bay to Sydney (300 km, 4 hours)
The Journey:
- Nearest major city: Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney
- Duration / Distance: 6 days (1,280 km / 795 miles)
- Mode of Transport: Car
Day One
Bendigo, Victoria
Day 1 – Melbourne to Bendigo
Just a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, Bendigo boasts grand heritage from one of the world’s greatest gold rushes. Rich in history as well as modern culture, this region offers a huge selection of unique experiences and attractions for every visitor to enjoy.
Highlights
- Get a fun introduction to gracious Bendigo’s history on a vintage ‘Talking Tram’.
- Take an underground tour at Central Deborah Gold Mine.
- Visit The Great Stupa, home of the largest gem quality Jade Buddha in the world.
- Follow the Food Fossicking guided or self-guided tour and discover some of the best restaurants, local produce and passionate food leaders in the region.
Day Two
Murray River Paddlesteamers, Echuca-Moama, Victoria
Day 2 – Bendigo to Echuca-Moama
Echuca Moama is located on the banks of the mighty Murray River and home to the famous paddlesteamers and colonial attractions. It also has one of the largest riverboat fleet in the world. This is the ideal spot for nature lovers looking for a relaxing spot of fishing, an adventurous hike through the bush or a fun picnic on the banks.
Highlights
- Wander along the Murray Esplanade at Echuca that is lined with quaint cafes and old-time shops.
- Take a historic paddlesteamer cruise with Murray River Paddlesteamers.
- Go fishing for a Murray Cod, the largest freshwater fish in Australia, at a relaxing spot along the riverbank.
Day Three
Albury-Wodonga, Twin City, New South Wales & Victoria
Day 3 – Echuca-Moama to Albury-Wodonga
Travel through ‘Sun Country on the Murray’ and stop to taste some of Australia’s finest gourmet produce and a view of the picturesque Lake Mulwala. Continue to Albury-Wodonga, where the great outdoors meets urban culture, proud heritage and fresh sophistication. Wander through a farmers’ market or explore an art gallery. Cycle along the Mighty Murray River and eat in a top restaurant. Everything is here, easily accessible and with unexpected discoveries around every corner.
Highlihts
- Take an eco-guide Murray River cruise with Kingfisher Cruises.
- Follow the Sun Country Farm Gate Trail to sample award-winning local produce at Rich Glen Olive Estate and Byramine Homestead Brewery.
- Experience Wonga Wetland’s abundant bird life.
- Take a leisurely walk or cycle through Yindyamarra Sculpture Walk along the Murray River featuring some unique Aboriginal sculptures.
- Explore interesting exhibitions at MAMA - Murray Art Museum Albury.
Day Four
Parliament House, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Day 4 – Albury-Wodonga to Canberra
Experience one good thing after another when visiting Australia’s capital city – Canberra. Boasting award-winning food and wine, iconic attractions that hold and share the essence of the nation and a plethora of native wildlife surrounded by beautiful national parks. Canberra is a perfect self-drive destination with no tolls, minimal traffic, ample and affordable parking and a range of world-class attractions all located close to each other.
Highlights
- Venture into the fascinating display of meticulously crafted miniature buildings at Cockington Green Gardens.
- See more than 150 skeletons and skull displays and realistic robotic dinosaurs at the National Dinosaur Museum.
- Take the ultimate museum tour at National Museum of Australia and learn about Australia’s history.
- Go behind the scenes at the Australian Institute of Sport and discover Australia’s sporting powerhouse with an elite athlete as the guide.
Day Five
Batemans Bay, South Coast, New South Wales
Day 5 – Canberra to Batemans Bay
View Canberra from high up with a sunrise hot air balloon flight, then take a scenic drive to Batemans Bay with charming views of rolling hills and national parks along the way. Once at the coast, it’s time to discover the beautiful beaches, native wildlife and the freshest seafood that Australia is famous for.
Highlights
- Enjoy a sunrise hot air balloon flight with Balloon Aloft and view the ‘bush capital’ from above.
- Take a short detour to Pebbly Beach or Maloneys Beach to spot wild kangaroos.
- Venture out on kayak with Region X to explore the pristine waterways and hidden coves.
- Sample a variety of local produce and fresh seafood, especially the Clyde River oysters.
Day Six
Jervis Bay, South Coast, New South Wales
Day 6 – Batemans Bay to Sydney
Start early and drive to Jervis Bay to explore the pristine water, beach and wildlife. Then continue driving along the coast before reaching Sydney, where dinner awaits at the world’s most famous harbour city.
Highlights
- Cruise with Jervis Bay Wild to see dolphins, seals and even a whale or two during their migrating season.
- Walk on the world’s whitest sand at Hyams Beach.
- Follow the coast and drive over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge and stop at Bald Hill Lookout for a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean.
- Enjoy the lush green forest view while driving through the Royal National Park, the second oldest national park in the world.
