Flights from Melbourne to Sydney may seem cheaper than the other option of travelling by Campervan, but slowing down along the way and visiting some of the beaches or forests that are not crowded with tourists is worth every penny. If travelling at your own pace and discovering some of the hidden treasures Australia has to offer sounds like your kind of trip, then a campervan might be the right way for you to go!
Travelling from Melbourne to Sydney there are lots of insta worthy spots your camper van can take you that the overnight buses, trains or flight can’t. And these often become the best memories you’ll make.
Inland Route info…
The most direct route and the one that the bus takes, from Melbourne to Sydney is the Hume Highway, approx. 9-hour drive straight through – and not alot to see unless road houses are your thing lol. If you do decide to go inland and want to see something there are many great areas along the way.
Driving Inland Melbourne to Sydney…to do…
Melbourne to Bendigo (Approx 150km)
Climb to the top of Hanging Rock for great views over the countryside.
Get a fun introduction to gracious Bendigo’s history on a vintage ‘Talking Tram’.
Take an underground tour at Central Deborah Gold Mine.
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
Make your own pots at Bendigo Pottery, Australia’s oldest working pottery.
Take a leisurely walk around the city and admire the rich European architecture.
Bendigo to Yarrawonga/Mulwala (Approx 230km)
Wander along the Murray Esplanade at Echuca which is lined with quaint cafes and old-time shops.
Take a historic paddlesteamer cruise on the Murray River.
Go fishing for a Murray Cod, the largest freshwater fish in Australia, at a relaxing spot along the river bank.
Take an eco-guided Murray River cruise with Kingfisher Cruises and learn about the myths and legends of this area.
Tee off on one of the many magnificent golf courses along the Murray River.
Yarrawonga/Mulwala to Albury/Wodonga (Approx 100km)
Enjoy kayaking, swimming and waterskiing on the picturesque Lake Mulwala.
Trail around the cellar doors in the Rutherglen wine region which is renowned for its rich fortified wines and robust reds.
Experience Wonga Wetland’s abundant bird life.
Visit the National heritage-listed Bonegilla Migrant Experience and see first-hand what life was like as a post-war migrant.
Grab some fresh local produce and enjoy a picnic on the banks of Lake Hume.
Check out some interesting exhibitions at MAMA – Murray Art Museum Albury.
Enjoy the magnificent views of Albury from Monument Hill Lookout.
Albury/Wodonga to Canberra (Approx 340km)
Take a moring walk and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm at Albury Botanic Gardens.
Cycle along the banks of the Murray or follow the Wagirra Trail to see some perfect examples of outdoor and indigenous art.
Venture into the delightful and fascinating display of meticulously crafted miniature buildings at Cockington Green Gardens in Canberra.
Explore some of the major attractions in the capital city, including the National Museum of Autralia, National Library, and the Australian War Memorial with the moving Last Post ceremony.
Canberra to Ulladulla via Batemans Bay (Approx 200km)
Take a sunrise hot air balloon fly and view the ‘bush captial’ from high above.
Cycle and just scroll along the purpose-built trail around Lake Burley Griffin.
Sample award-wining cool climate wine at more than thirty wineries within the the Canberra District wine region.
Go behind the scenes at AIS – Australian Institute of Sport and discover Australia’s sporting powerhouse with an elite athlete as your guide.
Follow the Kings Highway to Batemans Bay and enjoy charming views of rolling hills and national parks along the way.
Take a quick detour to Pebbly Beach to see kangaroos congregating on the sand.
Relax and enjoy a succulent seafood feast at Ulladulla.
Ulladulla to Sydney (Approx 250km)
Take a cruise at Jervis Bay to see dolphins, seals and perhaps even a whale or two during their migrating season.
Enjoy a swim at Hyams Beach, where you fill find the world’s whitest sand.
Follow the Grand Pacific Drive and enjoy the stunning coastal views and villages along the way.
Drive over the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge before stopping at Bald Hill Lookout for a spectacular view of the bridge and the Pacific Ocean.
Enjoy the lush green forest view and stop while driving through the Royal National Park, the second oldest national park in the world.
Enjoy dinner by the iconic Sydney Opera House in the world’s most famous harbour city.
Driving Coastal Route Melbourne to Sydney…to do…
Going via the coast means you get to see the Amazing Wilsons Prom which is geographically similar to Tasmania. So if you dont have a chance to get over there make sure you get to Wilsons Prom.
Mornington Peninsula
If traveling by coast to Sydney, your first stop should be the Mornington Peninsula, followed by Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory. Surf beaches, hiking trails, wineries, hot sprints and an enchanted maze are just some of the things you’ll experience along the way.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Kangerong Holiday Park, Foreshore Camping
Phillip Island
Phillip Island is an absolute must on your road trip. The penguin parade is a unique experience where you can watch hundreds of small penguins return from the sea in the evening. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Big4 Phillip Island Caravan Park, a Maze ‘N Things Holiday Cabin Park
Wilsons Promontory
Once you’re on your way from Phillip Island, stay a night at Wilsons Promontory. There’s no lack of hiking tracks or wildlife to in the area. It also has plenty of accommodation for all budgets, so whether you want to spend the night camping under the stars, or prefer access to showers and bathrooms, Wilsons Prom has something for every traveller.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Yanakie Caravan Park, Franklin River Reserve Campground
Lakes Entrance
Your next stop and last stop in Victoria is Lakes Entrance, VIC. A cute seaside town located on the edge of the 90 Mile Beach offers many fun coastal activities. You can hire a paddle boat, visit the Buchan Caves, take a winery cruise or have a picnic at the beach. For a more unique experience take a sunset camel ride along the beach!
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Lakes Entrance Recreation & Camping Reserve, North Arm Tourist Park
New South Wales
Merimbula
Make your way through the Coopracambra National Park to Merimbula, the heart of the Sapphire Coast. Merimbula is surrounded by stunning beaches and has plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you busy. Be sure to try out the seafood – locally grown oysters, mussels and crayfish. On your way to Merimbula, you can stop by Eden, a similarly beautiful beach town.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Hobart Beach Campground, Gillards Campground
Batemans Bay
Up next is Batemans Bay – or really anywhere along the Sapphire Coast. You can’t go wrong with any of the small NSW towns along the Sapphire Coast. The beaches just get better and better the farther north you travel! There are also plenty of camping and campervan spots along this route.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Batemans Bay Bowling Club Park, Currowan Creek Camp Area
Canberra
If you’ve got an extra day to fill and want to visit the capital of Australia, head west to Canberra. Explore significant Australian sites such as Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial. Canberra offers a variety of cultural and historical sites important Australia.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Canberra South Motor Park, Woods Reserve
Jervis Bay
Back on the coast, your next stop should be Jervis Bay. White sand and turquoise blue waters are waiting for you here – so much so that Hyams Beach was recently voted the whitest sand beach in the world! We recommend spending more than one night here. With no shortage of gorgeous beaches there is plenty to do in the area. From scuba diving, whale and dolphin watching to wineries, and quaint cafes and shops you can easily fill a couple of days in the area.
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Warri Camping Reserve, Yass Soldiers Club
Detour before Sydney: Blue Mountains
Before arriving at Sydney, take a break from beautiful beaches and scenic ocean views and head to the Blue Mountains just west of Sydney. Dazzling views of deep cliffs and rainforests make for many picturesque views. Take a journey on the Scenic Skyline for an aerial view of the Three Sisters and if you’re feeling adventurous you can abseil down waterfalls!
Caravan Parks and Campsites: Army Camp, Yalwal Campground, Bummaroo Ford campground
Campervans allow you to explore a side of Australia you wouldn’t get to see when flying or on an organised bus trip.
Sydney
You’ve made it! And with no shortage of possible activities, you won’t run out of things to do in Sydney.
When traveling between Melbourne and Sydney by campervan there are plenty of scenic places to see and campsites to stay for free or cheap. Campervans allow you to explore a side of Australia you wouldn’t get to see when flying or on an organised bus trip.
