Our top city escapes around Australia.
Need a weekend getaway or just want to explore outside the major cities? We have compiled some easy trips from around the country to get you out and about.
Sydney: Blue Mountains bliss.
A scenic drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains await you with breathtaking views and charming towns like Katoomba.
Visit the famous Three Sisters rock formation and enjoy the fresh mountain air while exploring bush walks that take you to beautiful waterfalls and viewpoints.
Try the The ‘Three Sisters walk’ and ‘The Prince Henry cliff walk’ which both offer great views of the Blue Mountains National Park.
Melbourne: Mornington Peninsula escapade.
The Mornington Peninsula offers a variety of activities including exploring beautiful beaches, visiting world-class wineries, relaxing at hot springs, enjoying outdoor adventures, and experiencing vibrant markets and award-winning restaurants.
We recommend the thermal pools to relax into and a spa treatment at the Peninsula Hot Springs. You can also visit top wineries for tastings and good food. Families will have fun at the Enchanted Adventure Garden which has mazes and tree surfing!
Brisbane: Sunshine Coast adventures.
The Sunshine Coast is less than two hours from Brisbane, with both beautiful beaches and green countryside. The Glass House Mountains are a highlight of the area. With national parks and fun outdoor activities, it is a great choice for day trips and weekend getaways.
If you’re looking for lunch with a view, Kendalilla National Park, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve or Buderim Forest Park, home to the charming Serenity Falls, are perfect spots to set up a picnic lunch.
Perth: Swan Valley delights.
A visit to Swan Valley, just 25 minutes from Perth, offers a rich blend of natural beauty, gourmet indulgence, and cultural charm. This picturesque region is renowned for its award-winning wineries and artisanal food producers, but it also brims with diverse activities for every kind of traveller. You can sample handcrafted chocolates at the Margaret River Chocolate Company, enjoy wine tastings at Mandoon Estate, or sip craft beer at The Henley Brook. For a sweet twist, explore the House of Honey with its unique varietal honeys and mead tastings. Families will love Whiteman Park and the Children’s Forest, while nature lovers can hike the scenic trails at Bells Rapids. Whether you're indulging in local produce, exploring art galleries, or simply relaxing by the river, Swan Valley promises a memorable and flavourful escape
Adelaide: Barossa Valley wine country.
The Barossa Valley is just two hours from Adelaide and boasts an abundance of wineries, fascinating history and adorable towns.
Stroll through galleries, discover craft shops, and taste farm-fresh produce—perfect for wine aficionados and history enthusiasts alike. The Barossa Valley has something special for every season:
Spring (Sep-Nov): Rejuvenate with blooming flowers, walking, and cycling in mild weather.
Summer (Dec-Feb): Embrace alfresco dining, delightful picnics, and the spirited grape harvest season.
Autumn (Mar-May): Marvel at the breathtaking autumn colours while attending the Barossa Vintage Festival and enjoying the pleasant temperature.
Canberra: Southern Highlands retreat.
A short drive from Canberra, the Southern Highlands is known for beautiful countryside and delightful townships, like Bowral. The Fitzroy Falls waterfalls is a local highlight along with regional food markets and quaint cafes.
Make sure to visit the local markets, like the Colo Vale Village Market on the first Saturday of every month, and the Exeter Village Market at Exeter Park.
Hobart: Huon Valley haven.
A quick drive from Hobart will unveil the serene and picturesque Huon Valley, adorned with lush landscapes and charming apple orchards. Scenic routes and local produce markets contribute to a tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation.
Don't miss the beautiful views from Hartz Peak. You can see amazing sights of southern Tasmania. Also, check out the unique Sleeping Beauty Mountain range. From there, you can enjoy lovely valley views from Grove and Mountain River by the calm Huon River.
Road trip essentials.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, here are some essential items to bring along:
- a well-stocked first aid kit
- refillable water bottles to keep you hydrated
- an updated GPS or digital maps for precise navigation
- a phone charger and car adapter to stay connected
- a spare tyre and necessary tools
- In case of wildlife accidents, a wildlife car rescue kit can also come in handy
- and, of course, the right playlist to settle into the drive.
Our Greenhills branch has curated a list of our top 10 road trip songs to kickstart your musical adventure:
- Passenger by Iggy Pop
- Careless Whisper by George Michael
- It’s Tricky by RUN DMC
- Echo Beach by Martha and the Muffins
- April Sun in Cuba by Dragon
- Everybody's Free (to Feel Good) by Quindon Tarver
- Messy by Lola Young
- Little L by Jamiroquai
- Don’t Dream It’s Over by Crowded House
- Love Rollercoaster by Red Hot Chili Peppers
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