South East Splendour Self-Drive

Day 1

Sydney to Canberra (287km or 319km)

Once you’ve collected your car, you’ll have a choice of two routes to take. There’s a shorter one that journeys directly to Canberra via the highway, or you can take the longer yet more scenic route that travels through Royal National Park and along the spectacular coastal scenery of Grand Pacific Drive. Once you’ve arrived in Canberra, there are plenty of charming galleries and museums to wander through, as well as a visit to the artificially created Lake Burley Griffin.

Day 2

Merimbula (242km)

Today you will pass Queanbeyan and drive to the rural, Giorgian village of Braidwood before continuing to Batemans Bay, a pretty seaside village known for its delightful crayfish and oysters. You’ll then drive through Broulee to Moruya, carrying on to the small village of Tilba Tilba. The rest of the journey to Merimbula, a picturesque town nestled on the Merimbula Lake, takes you along beautiful coastal roads.

Day 3

Lakes Entrance (267km)

Your journey will start by travelling through Eden to discover Ben Boyd National Park and Eden Whaling Museum. The next part of your travels will pass Cann River and Orbost – located on the banks of the Snowy River – before arriving in Lakes Entrance, a special scene featuring lakes, rivers and lagoons joining 90 Mile Beach. The rest of the afternoon will be free for you to explore Metung.

Day 4

Phillip Island (312km)

The day will begin with a visit to Sale, a fascinating supply and residential area for the Bass Strait oil fields, before meandering through the luscious pastoral hills of Gippsland. You’ll then pass Wonthaggi and take a gorgeous coastal route all the way to Phillip Island, home to Australia’s Little Penguins. In the evening, witness the glorious ‘Penguin Parade’ – each sunset the Little Penguins return ashore and waddle back to their homes in the sand dunes (own expense).

Day 5

Melbourne (141km)

It’s just a quick journey to Melbourne this morning, a vibrant city full of fantastic restaurants, bars and shopping.

Your car is booked until the following day. To avoid an additional charge, your car must be dropped off at the city or airport by the same time as it was picked up on day one.