Adelaide to Sydney Southern Route: 7-Day Campervan Itinerary

From Wine to Waves—the Great Southern Road Trip

Over the course of this jammed packed seven days, you'll travel through some of the most beautiful and diverse regions of southeastern Australia. With your campervan as your home base you can choose to adjust the itinerary and stay on a bit longer in each place.

Take the stress out of finding a rental motorhome in Adelaide with Camper Champ. Alternatively, you can pick up a camper in Sydney and drop it off in Adelaide.

Day 1: Savour and Discover in the Barossa Valley

Begin your journey with a relaxed drive from Adelaide to the Barossa Valley, one of Australia's leading wine regions. Spend the day touring top wineries, tasting award-winning Shiraz, Riesling, and other varietals, and delving into the region's rich history and culture. Seize the opportunity to explore the enchanting town of Tanunda, boasting some of the region's oldest and most exquisite structures, and the Maggie Beer Farm Shop, where you can sample and buy some of the finest gourmet foods in the area.

Day 2: Volcanoes, Caves, and Blue Lakes in Mount Gambier

Today's stop is Mount Gambier, a distinctive region celebrated for its volcanic terrain, captivating cave networks, and vivid blue crater lakes. Visit Blue Lake, one of Australia's most astonishing natural marvels, and the Umpherston Sinkhole, a striking sunken garden in the city's heart. Explore the breathtaking limestone caves at Naracoorte Caves National Park for a memorable escapade. You'll uncover a fascinating underground realm filled with ancient fossils, rare creatures, and remarkable geological formations.

Day 3: Embracing the River City of Albury

Crossing the border from South Australia into New South Wales, relish the allure of the Murray River as you make your way to Albury. This iconic river stretches over 2,500 kilometers, ranking it the third-longest navigable river globally.

First, pause at the historic towns of Echuca and Swan Hill, where you can embark on a paddleboat excursion or learn about the river's past at the museums. Then, dedicate the day to discovering the city's lovely parks and gardens, such as the Albury Botanic Gardens and the Wonga Wetlands, home to a wide variety of wildlife and bird species. For history enthusiasts, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Albury Library Museum, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage and captivating narratives.

Day 4: Trekking and Adventure in Kosciuszko National Park

Prepare to hit the trails as you venture into the rugged and stunning Kosciuszko National Park, where Australia's highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, resides. With over 20 hiking trails, you can explore the gorgeous alpine landscapes, crystal-clear streams, and rare wildlife at your own pace. Additionally, don't miss the chance to ride the picturesque chairlift at Thredbo and take in the panoramic views of the Snowy Mountains and beyond.

Day 5: Seaside Serenity in Batemans Bay

Today's destination is Batemans Bay, a stunning coastal town known for its immaculate beaches, clear blue waters, and superb surfing conditions. Spend the day basking in the sun on the beach, riding some of Australia's best waves, and visiting the nearby Murramarang National Park, home to a diverse range of plant and animal life. Seize the opportunity to sample some of the freshest seafood in the area, including the famous Batemans Bay oysters, regarded as some of the country's finest.

Day 6: Coastal Bliss in Jervis Bay

Ready yourself for sun and fun as you head towards Jervis Bay, renowned for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters. Take a dip in the ocean at Hyams Beach, famous for its world-record whitest sand, or embark on a kayaking tour to explore the marine life in the bay. You can also walk to Point Perpendicular Lighthouse, to catch a last glimpse of the awe-inspiring panoramic coastal views before the last leg of this journey to Sydney.

Day 7 - Iconic Sydney

Finally, your journey concludes in the legendary city of Sydney. As you enter the city, make a stop at the Sydney Harbour Bridge, where you can climb to the top for a stunning view of the city and harbour. Wander through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden or head to the world-renowned Bondi Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the ocean. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Sydney Opera House, an architectural masterpiece and one of the most recognizable landmarks globally. From here, you can bid adieu to your campervan and immerse yourself in all that this vibrant city has to offer.

Campervan Itineraries