Melbourne to Sydney Coastal Drive

Marvel at the multicultural metropolis of Melbourne, one of Australia’s most loved cities. A good place to start exploring is Flinders Square, right in the heart of the action. Grab a cappuccino in one of the cafes, browse the galleries or watch the live street performances before taking a walk through Melbourne’s lively Laneways, or riding the tram down to the seaside suburb of St Kilda and scaring yourself silly on the rollercoasters in historic Luna Park, built in 1912.

Accommodation at 5* Peppers Docklands

Set off on your self-drive adventure as you head to your first stop, Phillip Island. Known for its wildlife watching opportunities, you can spot koalas and wallabies at the Koala Conservation Centre, watch sheep shearing at Churchill Island Heritage Farm and, for the grand finale, watch the penguin parade, a procession of little penguins returning to their nests after a hard day at sea.

Accommodation at 4* Ramada Resort by Wyndham Phillip Island

Continue to Lakes Entrance where, as the name suggests, the Gippsland Lakes flow into the sea, creating a peaceful, picturesque landscape best explored on the water. Choose from swimming, paddle boarding, sailing and rowing, or take a walk along the sand. When you fancy a break, head down to the family-run Wyanga Park Winery and sample the fine wines and cheeses, dine out on a tasty lunch, or take part in a winery cruise.

Accommodation at 4* Coastal Waters Motor Inn

Cross the state border into New South Wales as you swing by Merimbula, known as the Jewel of the Sapphire Coast. A beachy town with a sweep of white sand, Merimbula’s crystal clear turquoise seas are the perfect spot for a swim, while the boardwalk, taking you along the shoreline, is a great place to get a vantage point of the lake and oyster beds. Alternatively, try a coastal walk or join a cruise and head out to sea to look for humpback whales.

Accommodation at 4* Coast Resort Merimbula

Head on to the mouth of the Clyde River and Batemans Bay, a popular weekend getaway for those from Australia’s capital, Canberra. Join a river cruise, shop for arts and crafts, learn to surf or explore nearby Murramarang National Park. If flowers are more your thing try the Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens, where 42 hectares of forest houses local plants, trees and shrubs and where you might be lucky enough to spot kangaroos, wallabies, possums and myriad birds.

Accommodation at 4* Lincoln Downs Resort Batemans Bay Bw Signature Collection

Continue to Jervis Bay where you can chill out on Hyams Beach, officially the whitest sand in the world, or take a walk to the Point Perpendicular Lighthouse and look out for dolphins on the way. If you’re here between May and November you can head out on a whale watching cruise and look for humpback whales. If beaches and the outdoors appeal then you could also head to Booderee National Park, with its beautiful beaches and coastal walks.

Accommodation at 4* Dolphin Shores

Just 90 minutes from Sydney, Kiama offers fishing and swimming galore. The coastline here is simply beautiful – look out for The Blowhole, which dramatically sprays seawater high up into the air, or head down to Cathedral Rocks to take some photos of the rugged formations. Or you could explore the Pilots Cottage Museum, where the restored building, erected in 1881, tells the tale of the local cedar industry and basalt quarries.

Arrive in Sydney and drop off your car. Spend the day relaxing and exploring the city, including the iconic Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Take to the glittering waters of Sydney Harbour to see the bridge in all its glory, or better yet climb to the top for far reaching Opera House views. Once you’ve wandered the city, browsed the shops and sampled the restaurants, be sure to head down to the world-famous Bondi Beach where you can try your hand at surfing.

Accommodation at 4* Parkroyal Darling Harbour Sydney