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Published on Jun 15, 2026, 12:59 PM
Australia's Best Regional Road Trips
Discover the Country One Town at a Time
A regional road trip in Australia isn't just about the destination — it's about everywhere in between. Country towns, roadside cafés, historic pubs and unexpected lookouts turn a simple drive into the best part of the holiday.
This guide covers Australia's top regional road trip routes, the best towns to stop in along the way, and practical tips for planning your journey — plus where to find comfortable, locally-owned accommodation at every stop.
Why Choose a Regional Road Trip Over the Cities?
Regional Australia offers experiences you won't find in the capital cities:
● Friendly local communities and genuine country hospitality
● National parks and scenic, low-traffic drives
● Historic towns, museums and heritage architecture
● Award-winning wineries and farmers markets
● Independent cafés and classic country pubs
Choosing a regional route also means supporting small, local businesses — and getting a slower, more personal side of Australia.
Sydney to Melbourne: The Inland Route
Skip the busy Hume Highway and take the inland route instead, connecting some of NSW's most characterful country towns.
Best stops along the way:
● Goulburn – historic architecture and a classic country-town feel
● Young – the Cherry Capital of Australia
● Junee – home to the Junee Roundhouse Railway Museum, the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, and heritage streets perfect for a wander
● Wagga Wagga – riverside parks and a lively regional hub
● Holbrook – famous for its full-size submarine display
● Albury – gateway to the Murray River region
This inland route trades highway traffic for small-town charm, making it ideal for travellers who want the journey to be part of the holiday.
The Newell Highway: One of Australia's Great Touring Routes
Running through the heart of New South Wales, the Newell Highway connects Queensland, Victoria and South Australia — and it's lined with great overnight stops.
Popular towns along the Newell Highway:
● Coonabarabran – gateway to the Warrumbungles and stargazing country
● Coonamble region – classic outback NSW scenery
● Parkes – home of the famous radio telescope ("The Dish")
● West Wyalong – a convenient central stopover
● Hay – historic Riverina town
● Narrandera – riverside charm on the Murrumbidgee
Many Golden Chain properties sit right along this route, making it easy to plan a comfortable overnight stop without detouring far from the highway.
Country Victoria: Wine, History and Walking Trails
Victoria's regional towns pack in food, wine, history and nature within easy reach of each other:
● Bendigo – gold rush heritage and grand architecture
● Ballarat – historic streetscapes and Sovereign Hill
● Daylesford – spa country and boutique dining
● Gippsland – lakes, forests and coastal drives
● The Grampians – dramatic mountain scenery and hiking trails
● Murray River towns – riverside relaxation and paddle-steamer history
Western Australia's Hidden Regional Beauty
WA's regional drives combine dramatic coastline with welcoming country communities:
● Perth to Albany – forests, coastline and historic towns
● Coral Coast – turquoise water and marine life
● South West Wine Region – Margaret River wineries and gourmet food trails
Queensland Beyond the Beaches
Queensland's regional heartland offers a completely different experience to its coastline:
● Historic mining towns
● National parks and tropical tablelands
● Outback experiences and wide-open drives
A regional road trip through Queensland reveals a side of the state most visitors never see.
How to Plan the Perfect Regional Road Trip
How far should you drive each day? Most travellers find 300–500 kilometres a day strikes the right balance between driving time and sightseeing.
When is the best time to go? Spring and autumn generally offer the most comfortable temperatures and best scenery across most of Australia.
Planning checklist:
● Map out your overnight stops in advance
● Book accommodation ahead during peak periods
● Check road conditions before you leave
● Pack water and snacks for the drive
● Leave room in your itinerary for spontaneous stops
● Choose local businesses to support along the way
Where to Stay: Golden Chain Accommodation
Golden Chain has welcomed travellers across regional Australia for generations. Each property is independently owned, giving guests a more personal experience than a typical hotel chain.
What you can expect at a Golden Chain property:
● Comfortable, quality accommodation
● Friendly, knowledgeable local hosts
● Convenient locations near major regional routes
● Excellent value for money
● Local tips to help you make the most of your stop
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for a regional road trip in Australia? Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures and best scenery across most regions.
How far should I drive each day on a road trip? Around 300–500 kilometres per day is a comfortable balance between driving and sightseeing.
Why book direct with Golden Chain? Booking direct gives you access to the best available rates, direct communication with the property, and personalised local advice for your trip.
What are the best regional road trip routes in Australia? Popular routes include the Sydney to Melbourne inland journey, the Newell Highway through NSW, country Victoria (Bendigo, Ballarat, the Grampians), Western Australia's south west, and Queensland's outback and mining towns.
Start Planning Your Regional Road Trip Today
The best Australian adventures start when you leave the highway behind and explore the country towns that make the nation unique. Whatever the reason for your trip, Golden Chain Accommodation offers welcoming, comfortable places to stay throughout regional Australia.
Book direct with Golden Chain to access the best available rates and start planning your next road trip.
