Spending the Australian summer on the road was an unforgettable experience. From reuniting with family and friends to exploring breathtaking landscapes, every moment of this trip was packed with adventure and meaningful connections. If you're planning a similar journey, here’s a guide based on my travels from November to January, driving up and down the coast multiple times.
Getting There: The Long Journey from Vienna to Melbourne
My trip began with a 48-hour journey from Vienna to Melbourne. Since my partner had to delay her departure due to work commitments, I set off solo, taking a bus to Munich, then flights via Doha and Brisbane before finally reaching Melbourne. A best friend picked me up, and after a brief but meaningful reunion, I had just 48 hours in Melbourne before picking up a campervan for an epic 8-day drive to Brisbane as part of a collaboration with Indie Campers.
The Campervan Journey: Melbourne to Brisbane in 8 Days
The road trip was fast-paced and packed with adventure. Some highlights included:
Mount Buffalo National Park – Victoria’s highest point with stunning alpine scenery.
Murray River – Crossing the border into New South Wales.
Mount Kosciuszko – The tallest summit in Australia, offering breathtaking views.
Blue Mountains National Park – A special place where I reunited with my mum after a year apart.
Byron Bay – A laid-back coastal town with incredible beaches and a vibrant atmosphere.
Byron Bay, NSW
Quality Time in Melbourne
After the road trip, I returned to Melbourne for two weeks, catching up with friends I hadn’t seen in nearly three years. We made the most of the summer weather, spending a 40-degree day at Black Rock Beach, hiking through the Dandenong Ranges, and revisiting old favourites like Sherbrooke Falls and Olinda Falls. Family time was also a priority, reconnecting with my sister and enjoying a more relaxed pace before the next leg of the trip.
Back Up the Coast: Sydney, Brisbane & a Special Surprise
From Melbourne, I drove back up to Sydney for a brief stop before continuing to Brisbane, where I met up with my partner and I finally met my stepbrother for the first time. Together we drove north to Hervey Bay, where I surprised my dad after three years apart and after keeping my arrival in Australia a secret for over a month. His reaction made the wait worthwhile, and we had a fantastic Christmas together. I also got to meet another two of my step-brothers.
Exploring K'gari (Fraser Island)
One of the highlights of our time in Hervey Bay was a trip to K'gari (Fraser Island), the world's largest sand island. The experience included:
Driving along the sandy tracks and spotting wild dingoes.
Taking a scenic flight over the island – highly recommended!
Visiting the crystal-clear waters of Lake Mackenzie.
New Year’s in Surfers Paradise & Byron Bay for My Sister’s Birthday
We welcomed the new year in Surfers Paradise, watching fireworks on the beach and catching up with old friends. From there, we spent three days in Byron Bay, where we did the famous lighthouse walk and were lucky enough to spot some koalas. Byron was extra special as it coincided with my sister’s birthday, which we celebrated at an indie music festival called Spaced Out.
A Meaningful Return to Sydney: My Mum’s Wedding
One of the most emotional and meaningful parts of the trip was returning to Sydney for my mum’s wedding. She and her partner had a beautiful sunrise ceremony on the beach, followed by a relaxing day of brunch, pampering, and a reception filled with family and old friends. It was a day full of love and celebration, making the trip even more unforgettable.
The Final Leg: Sydney to Melbourne in 7 Days
The drive back down the coast was one of the best parts of the journey, filled with incredible stops:
Wattamolla Bay – Stunning coastal views and nature trails.
Jervis Bay – Home to the world’s whitest sand at Hyams Beach.
Narooma & Mystery Bay – Spectacular coastal scenery and playful seals.
Snowy Mountains National Park – A breathtaking landscape, even in summer.
Wilsons Promontory National Park – A standout highlight, with hikes, beaches, and even a wild wombat sighting.
Phillip Island – Visiting iconic spots like Cape Woolamai and The Pinnacles.
Moonlit Sanctuary – A chance to feed sugar gliders and see native wildlife up close.
Wrapping Up in Melbourne
The final few days were spent in Melbourne, introducing my partner to friends and showing her the places I grew up. Even though I was revisiting familiar places, this trip felt incredibly special—one I’ll cherish forever.
Accommodation & Travel Tips
We stayed in Airbnbs throughout the trip, except for one night in a motel in Merimbula. Most days were filled with adventure, and our accommodation was simply a place to rest before the next day’s explorations.
Final Tip: If you're planning a road trip like this, embrace flexibility! Some of the best moments came from spontaneous stops and unexpected encounters.
This trip wasn’t just about travel; it was about reconnecting—with family, friends, and the places that shaped me. If you’re planning an Australian summer road trip, I hope this guide helps inspire your adventure!
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