Sydney to Melbourne Road Trip, Australia

​Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

Self Drive Tour

The coastal drive from Sydney to Melbourne is quite spectacular. A stay at Phillip Island with its nightly penguin parade before a two night stay in Australia’s second city, Melbourne, enhances the self-driving journey.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • The clear blue waters and pristine sands of Jervis Bay, home to dolphins year round
  • The nightly penguin parade on Phillip Island
  • A water’s edge location when you stay in the fabulous Gippsland Lakes
  • The “real” rural Australia in Tilba Tilba
  • Melbourne for an eclectic mix of cultures and style

Flights to Australia are not included in the price but these can be arranged on request.

Day 1 : Sydney - Huskisson

Collect your car and drive south on Highway 1 before taking the turnoff to Jervis Bay in time for a late afternoon swim or surf. Jervis Bay is famed for its white sand, clear water and friendly dolphins; it has tranquil waters and great beaches.

Day 2 : Huskisson - Tilba Tilba

Continue south to arrive at the wonderfully preserved villages of central Tilba Tilba, an area renowned for its clean uncrowded beaches and beautiful forested mountains.

Day 3 : Tilba Tilba - Gipsy Point

Leave Tilba Tilba behind and continue to Mallacoota and Gipsy Point. Nestled in the heart of Croajingalong National Park, this amazing getaway is located on the water’s edge of Mallacoota Lakes near to the junction of the beautiful Genoa and Wallagaraugh rivers.

Day 4 : Gipsy Point - Metung

Continue on the Princess Highway towards Lakes Entrance and the stylish village of Metung. Set in the heart of the picturesque village of Metung, The Moorings is the only waterfront resort on Australia’s largest inland lake system, the Gippsland Lakes.

Day 5 : Metung - Phillip Island

Today you’ll head inland, passing through the country towns of Sale and Moe. Then you'll head south towards the coast and pretty Phillip Island. The first inhabitants of Phillip Island were the aboriginal Bunurong tribe, followed by a succession of ranchers who struggled due to the climate. For over 100 years chicory was the main product of the area and the remaining chicory kilns with their pyramid shaped roofs are a Phillip Island icon. Nowadays tourists come to see the daily penguin parade at Summerland beach. Be sure to get there before the sun sets and see the penguins waddle up the beach after a days fishing; it’s a truly amazing sight.

Day 6 : Phillip Island - Melbourne

Today you'll head for Melbourne, perhaps making a detour to explore the Mornington Peninsula with its vineyards, olive groves and historic country house hotels. Melbourne was at one time the nation's capital and still lays claim to being Australia’s most liveable city, rich in culture. After checking into your hotel the rest of the day is free to explore on your own. Melbourne is an exciting, creative, ever-changing city. Experience the essence of Melbourne’s cultural heritage, with its historic architecture, meandering lanes, resplendent gardens and vibrant riverbank. Explore the historic arcades, seek out the hidden bars, and enjoy the cuisine and European café culture.

Day 7 : Melbourne

You have your car until 5pm today. Perhaps head for the Yarra Valley and explore the vineyards, head south to Geelong for the day or maybe take the car back early and explore some more of Melbourne.

Day 8 : Melbourne Departure

Take a shuttle transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

INCLUDES

  • 7 nights standard hotel / B&B accommodation
  • 3 breakfasts
  • 7 days Hertz group S car rental with MAX cover & unlimited mileage
  • Airport transfer on final day

 

This is a suggested itinerary but your trip can be tailor made to your requirements.  Want to lengthen your trip or combine a self-drive tour with a guided tour?  Just ask!

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