What could be more liberating than to hit the open road and be surrounded by extraordinary landscapes? A self-drive holiday in Australasia, by car or motorhome, is cost-effective, flexible and offers the chance to go at your own pace. Happily, the quality of the roads, the signposts and the style of driving of the locals in both countries are very similar to those in the UK – they even drive on the left.
Here’s our pick of the routes you really shouldn’t miss
1. Great Ocean Road, Australia
This remarkable 243km stretch of road offers drivers rugged oceanic splendour, raw seascapes and superb rock formations around every twist of the road. With many a sandy beach to choose from, simply stop at the side of the road whenever you tire of driving for a refreshing dip. Otherwise, divert from the main road and head inland to the Cape Otway lighthouse for great views and a snack – try spotting wild koalas lazing in the trees surrounding the road on the way up. Whatever you do, don’t miss a stop at the famous Twelve Apostles, the cliffside limestone stacks rising up out of the water.
2. The Milford Road, New Zealand
The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound in the South Island is nothing short of spectacular, with lakes, mountains, waterfalls and wildflowers. Winding its way through the lush Fiordland National Park, there are plenty of places to stop and admire the views or to take a short walk – Eglinton Valley, the Mirror Lakes and Lake Gunn are just some options. Another highlight is driving through the Homer Tunnel; cut through solid granite, it took twenty years to construct. And while Milford Sound is the ultimate destination, the journey getting there is just as impressive.
Copyright © 2014 by A Luxury Travel Blog. This article was written by Katie Parsons and originally published at A Luxury Travel Blog
