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Melbourne to Perth in 24 Days: The Great Southern Road Trip

Set out on an unforgettable Australian escape as you journey by motorhome from Melbourne to Perth. Over 24 days you’ll travel through wine country, coastal havens, rugged outback, and towering forests, discovering just how diverse Australia’s southern landscapes can be.

Activities On Your Southern Road Trip

This road trip from Melbourne to Perth is more than just a drive — it’s an experience into world-class wine regions, wild coastlines, charming country towns, and star-filled skies. With the comfort of a Cruisin’ Motorhome, you’ll have the freedom to chase hidden gems, indulge in local flavours, and create stories that will last long after the wheels stop turning.

Here are some highlights of this 24-day Road Trip:

  • Great Ocean Road
  • Grampians National Park
  • Stunning Lakes
  • Sandy white beaches
  • Swimming with Sea Lions
  • Renowned wine regions
  • Surfing and Snorkelling
  • Cross the legendary outback highway
Melbourne to Perth in 24 Days: The Great Southern Road Trip

ITINERARY

Day 1
Melbourne
Distance : 16.2 Kms Time : 23 Minutes

Morning: Kick off your journey by collecting your motorhome from the Cruisin’ Motorhomes Melbourne branch. Once you’ve settled in behind the wheel visit the CBD. Melbourne is famed for its coffee culture – so grab breakfast or brunch at one of the city’s many trendy cafe’s.

Afternoon:  Spend the afternoon wandering through the iconic Queen Victoria Market. Browse fresh produce, artisan goods, quirky souvenirs, and international street food.

Evening: As evening falls, head to the historic Old Melbourne Gaol for the spine-chilling Hangman’s Night Tour. This immersive experience takes you through shadowy corridors, eerie cells and bone-chilling tales of the prison’s grisly past.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: BIG4 Melbourne Holiday Park, 265 Elizabeth St, Coburg VIC 3058. Powered site.

Queen Victoria Market

Image: Queen Victoria Market

Day 2
Melbourne to The Great Ocean Road
Distance : 209 Kms Time : 3 Hours

Morning: Start your day with breakfast made right in your fully equipped Cruisin’ Motorhome. Once you’re fuelled up, hit the road and begin the next leg of your journey along the world-famous Great Ocean Road.

Afternoon: By the afternoon, you’ll reach the Twelve Apostles, the crown jewel of the Great Ocean Road. These towering limestone stacks rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean, sculpted by millions of years of wind and waves

Evening: After a day of exploring, make your way to your campsite and settle in for a relaxed evening. Try your hand at catching some fresh fish — nothing beats a campfire-style dinner you’ve sourced yourself in the comfort of your motorhome kitchen.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Princetown Recreation Reserve, 93 Old Coach Rd, Princetown VIC 3269. Powered site.

Sunset at Twelve Apostles

Image: Sunset at Twelve Apostles

Day 3
The Great Ocean Road
Distance : 82.4 Kms Time : 1 Hour 20 Minute

Morning: Just a short drive from the Twelve Apostles lies Loch Ard Gorge, one of the most dramatic and historic spots along the aptly named Shipwreck Coast. Wander the walking trails, soak up the history, or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Afternoon: Continue your journey to the laid-back coastal town of Johanna, near Apollo Bay. Known for it’s wide-open beaches, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop to recharge and enjoy a leisurely lunch at the much-loved Café 153.

Evening: As the day winds down, make your way to Apollo Bay to catch a spectacular sunset. After exploring the harbour and beach, settle into one of the local eateries for a delicious dinner — the perfect way to wrap up a day on the Great Ocean Road.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: BIG4 Apollo Bay Pisces Holiday Park, 311 Great Ocean Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233. Powered site.

Loch Ard Gorge

Image: Loch Ard Gorge

Day 4
The Great Ocean Road to Grampians National Park
Distance : 274 Kms Time : 3 Hours 23 Minutes

Morning: Continue your road trip with a scenic drive into Grampians National Park. After the journey, take a break to refuel and whip up a relaxed brunch in your motorhome, surrounded by nature.

Afternoon: Visit the iconic MacKenzie Falls, one of Victoria’s largest waterfalls, flowing year-round. From Bluff Lookout, enjoy sweeping views of the gorge and the MacKenzie River as it cascades dramatically through the landscape.

Evening: Finish the day with a climb to Mount William, the park’s highest peak. Time your visit for sunset — an unforgettable way to wind down your day.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Breeze Holiday Parks, 26 School Rd, Halls Gap VIC 338. Powered site.

MacKenzie Falls

Image: MacKenzie Falls

Day 5
Grampians National Park to Mount Gambier
Distance : 224 Kms Time : 2 Hours 36 Minutes

Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Livefast Café, then make sure your motorhome is fuelled and stocked before hitting the road to Mount Gambier.

Afternoon: On arrival, enjoy a relaxed stroll through the city centre. Mount Gambier is the retail hub of the region, with hidden gems. Browse boutique stores, homewares, and specialty shops for a taste of the local style.

Evening: Round out the day by venturing into Mount Gambier’s dormant volcano to explore its famous crater lakes. The lakes are framed by dramatic volcanic walls, scenic trails, and a surrounding conservation park.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Pine Country Caravan Park, 2/16 Kilsby Rd, Moorak SA 5291. Powered site.

Mount Gambier

Image: Mount Gambier, Offroad Images

Day 6
Mount Gambier
Distance : 0 Km Time : 0 Hour

Morning: Kick off your day with a tour of the ancient Tantanoola Cave and Conservation Park. Inside, you’ll find striking stalactites, stalagmites, shells, and fossils, while a short 500m hike up the cliff offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and its rich wildlife.

Afternoon: Cool off at the Little Blue Lake, a natural water-filled sinkhole loved by both locals and tourists. With steps and a floating pontoon for easy access, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear water.

Evening: As the sun sets, take a peaceful stroll along the shoreline to Cape Banks Lighthouse at Carpenter Rocks. Perched on a rugged headland, this striking lighthouse rewards you with sweeping views across the wild Southern Ocean.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Pine Country Caravan Park, 2/16 Kilsby Rd, Moorak SA 5291. Powered site.

Little Blue Lake

Image: Little Blue Lake, Ockert le Roux

Day 7
Mount Gambier to Adelaide
Distance : 440 Kms Time : 4 Hours 47 Minutes

Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Limestone Coast Pantry. Make sure to stock up on fuel and road trip snacks before hitting the highway toward Adelaide.

Afternoon: After the long drive, roll into Adelaide’s CBD and enjoy a late lunch. With endless cafés, restaurants, and eateries to choose from, it’s the perfect chance to unwind and sample the city’s vibrant food scene.

Evening: End the day at Glenelg, Adelaide’s beloved city beach. As the sun sinks, the sky explodes in shades of red, orange, and gold. Stroll the foreshore, explore Jetty Road’s restaurants, or settle into a beachside bar with your toes still in the sand.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Adelaide Showground Caravan Park, 38 Leader St, Wayville SA 5034. Powered site.

Glenelg Beach

Image: Glenelg Beach, Hayley Hays Photography

Day 8
Adelaide
Distance : 0 Km Time : 0 Hour

Morning: Begin the day at the Adelaide Botanic Garden, a 50-hectare oasis in the heart of the city. Wander tree-lined avenues, admire elegant architecture, and don’t miss the iconic wisteria arbour in bloom.

Afternoon: Head to the bustling Adelaide Central Market, a must-visit for food lovers. Here, stalls overflow with South Australian produce — from cheeses and honey to fresh fruit, breads, and small goods — alongside authentic global street food.

Evening: Wrap up the day with the Adelaide Oval RoofClimb, an unforgettable twilight adventure. Scale the stadium’s rooftops and historic stands for sweeping city views, catching the sunset from one of Adelaide’s most spectacular vantage points.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Adelaide Showground Caravan Park, 38 Leader St, Wayville SA 5034. Powered site.

Adelaide Botanic Garden

Image: Adelaide Botanic Garden, South Australian Tourism Commission

Day 9
Adelaide
Distance : 0 Kms Time : 0 Hours

Morning: Kick off the day with a visit to Adelaide Zoo, an inner-city sanctuary home to over 250 species from around the globe. From native wildlife to exotic favourites, it’s a fun way to start your morning.

Afternoon: See the city from a new perspective with an Adelaide City Kayak Tour. Paddle along the River Torrens and glide past the city’s highlights, including the iconic Adelaide Oval and scenic riverbank precinct.

Evening: Wrap up your time in by diving into its buzzing bar scene. Whether it’s hidden speakeasies, rooftop cocktail lounges, or quirky bars, the city is packed with cool spots to sip, relax, and toast the day’s adventures.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Adelaide Showground Caravan Park, 38 Leader St, Wayville SA 5034. Powered site.

Adelaide Oval

Image: Adelaide Oval, South Australian Tourism Commission

Day 10
Adelaide to Barossa Valley
Distance : 76.8 Kms Time : 1 Hour 4 Minutes

Morning: Take a short detour from Adelaide to the Barossa Valley, world-renowned for its wines, flavours, and rich culture. Start your morning with breakfast in the charming village of Seppeltsfield.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Seppeltsfield Winery & Estate, enjoying tastings of whites, rosés, reds, and fortified wines. Join a behind-the-scenes tour and then grab lunch at the acclaimed Fino Seppeltsfield restaurant.

Evening: Wrap up the day by picking up a favourite bottle from one of the valley’s wineries. Back at your campsite, unwind with a glass of Barossa’s best and a motorhome-cooked dinner as you relax into the evening.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Discovery Parks – Barossa Valley, 1F Murray St, Tanunda SA 5352. Powered site.

Seppeltsfield Winery

Image: Seppeltsfield Winery, South Australian Tourism Commission

Day 11
Barossa Valley to Eyre Peninsula
Distance : 624 Kms Time : 6 Hours 45 Minutes

Morning: After a hearty breakfast in your motorhome, set off toward the Eyre Peninsula. It’s a long stretch of road, so plan a few pit stops along the way — grab a coffee, stretch your legs, and soak in the ever-changing scenery.

Afternoon: On arrival, refuel with a late lunch at L’Anse French Café, a much-loved local spot perfect for unwinding after the drive.

Evening: Ease into the evening with a visit to Greenly Beach, a favourite among locals for its surf and swimming. Whether you hit the waves or simply relax on the sand, it’s the perfect place to end the day by the water.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Cummins Caravan & Cabin Park, 2/10 Roe St, Cummins SA 5631., Powered site.

Greenly Beach

Image: Greenly Beach, City of Port Lincoln

Day 12
Eyre Peninsula
Distance : 0 Kms Time : 0 Hour

Morning: Begin the day at the Whyalla Maritime Museum, which showcases naval history, BHP shipbuilding, and the region’s maritime heritage. The highlight is the HMAS Whyalla, South Australia’s first modern warship, now resting on dry land just two kilometres from the sea.

Afternoon: Next, dive into one of the Eyre Peninsula’s most unforgettable experiences — swimming with sea lions. Nicknamed the “puppies of the sea,” these playful, curious creatures will dart, twist, and twirl around you in the sparkling blue waters.

Evening: For thrill-seekers, cap off the day with a great white shark cage dive. South Australia is one of the few places in the world where you can safely come face-to-face with these incredible predators in their natural habitat — a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Cummins Caravan & Cabin Park, 2/10 Roe St, Cummins SA 5631. Powered site.

Swimming

Image: Swimming with Sea Lions, King Roberto

Day 13
Eyre Peninsula to Nullarbor
Distance : 563 Kms Time : 5 Hours 49 Minutes

Morning: Before hitting the highway, stop at From Salt & Soil, a much-loved local food truck known for fresh seafood and great coffee — the perfect spot to grab a bite before your long drive.

Afternoon: After the journey across wide open roads, take a well-earned break at the Nullarbor Roadhouse. Here you can refuel, stock up on road trip snacks, and enjoy a hearty lunch at the on-site restaurant.

Evening: With supplies replenished, settle into your campsite for a relaxed evening. Cook up a simple dinner in your motorhome, then step outside and look up — the remote Nullarbor offers beautiful skies perfect for stargazing.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Yalata Roadhouse and Caravan Park, Eyre Hwy, Yalata SA 5690. Powered site.

Nullarbor Roadhouse

Image: Nullarbor Roadhouse, Michael Waterhouse Photography

Day 14
Nullarbor
Distance : 0 Km Time : 0 hour

Morning: Start the day with a round on the Nullarbor Links, the world’s longest golf course. The 18-hole course has you teeing off across the outback and along rugged coastline — often with kangaroos, emus, or bush turkeys nearby.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Fowlers Bay Conservation Park, the perfect spot to reconnect with nature. Watch for whales from the cliffs, take a boat tour to meet playful sea lions and fur seals, or stretch your legs with a hike across the vast sand dunes.

Evening: End the day by reeling in a fish at the park for dinner and cook it up back at your motorhome campsite and unwind.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Yalata Roadhouse and Caravan Park, Eyre Hwy, Yalata SA 5690. Powered site.

Nullarbor Links

Image: Nullarbor Links Golf, Carly Kruger

Day 15
Nullarbor to Albany
Distance : 353 Kms Time : 3 Hours 40 Minutes

Morning: Fuel up for the next stretch of your adventure by stocking up on essentials and refuelling your motorhome. Cook up a filling breakfast before hitting the Eyre Highway, one of Australia’s most legendary self-drive routes.

Afternoon: Continue your journey along the Eyre Highway, each kilometre bringing you closer to your destination. Along the way, soak up the breathtaking scenery of the Great Australian Bight, where dramatic sea cliffs drop into the endless blue of the Southern Ocean.

Evening: End your evening at Mundrabilla Roadhouse, the perfect stop to recharge before tackling the next stretch of your road trip. Kick back with a meal at the restaurant, unwind with a drink in the bar or beer garden, and enjoy a well-earned rest before hitting the road again.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Mundrabilla Roadhouse, Eyre Hwy, Mundrabilla WA 6443. Powered site.

Roadhouse

Image: Mundrabilla Roadhouse, Amelia E

Day 16
Nullarbor to Albany
Distance : 453 Kms Time : 4 Hours 36 Minutes

Morning: Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Mundrabilla Roadhouse, fuelling up for another big day on the road.

Afternoon: Drive along Australia’s longest and straightest road — a 147 km stretch between Balladonia and Caiguna. Be sure to stop for a photo at the famous wildlife road sign, a classic Nullarbor moment.

Evening: End the day in Balladonia, where you can stretch your legs in the world’s largest temperate woodland. Enjoy dinner, restock supplies if needed, and then head to your campsite to relax and recharge before tackling the next leg of your journey.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Balladonia caravan and camping park, 22 Eyre Hwy, Balladonia WA 6443. Powered site.

Eyre Highway

Image: Eyre Highway, South Australian Tourism Commission

Day 17
Nullarbor to Albany
Distance : 507 Kms Time : 5 Hours 31 Minutes

Morning: Start the day with breakfast at the Balladonia Hotel Motel before getting back on the road for the long drive toward Albany.

Afternoon: Arrive in Ravensthorpe by late afternoon and treat yourself to a delicious meal at Ravy Country Kitchen.

Evening: After the drive, head to your campsite and relax in the comfort of your motorhome. Rest up and recharge for the next day.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Green Haven Tourist Park, 2 Elston St, Ravensthorpe WA 6346. Powered Site.

Road Signs

Image: Eyre Highway Road Signs

Day 18
Nullarbor to Albany
Distance : 294 Kms Time : 3 Hours 11 Minutes

Morning: Start the day with breakfast made in your fully equipped motorhome before getting on the road again.

Afternoon: Arrive in Albany by late afternoon and treat yourself to a fresh seafood lunch at Ocean and Paddock, a local favourite known for its seasonal catch and classic fish and chips.

Evening: After the drive, head to your campsite and relax in the comfort of your motorhome. Rest up and recharge for a full day of exploring Albany tomorrow.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: BIG4 Middleton Beach Holiday Park, 28 Flinders Parade, Middleton Beach WA 6330. Powered site.

Aerial view

Image: Aerial view of Albany, Amazing Albany

Day 19
Albany
Distance : 84.9 Kms Time : 1 Hours 8 Minutes

Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the Granite Skywalk. The hike takes you through towering Karri and Marri forests, where you may spot some of the 78 bird species and over 700 flowering plants along the way. At the top, the lookout rewards you with sweeping views across the landscape.

Afternoon: Spend your afternoon at The Gap and Natural Bridge, two of Albany’s most dramatic coastal landmarks. From the lookouts, you’ll get incredible views of the Southern Ocean and rugged cliffs. Bring along a picnic and enjoy lunch by the shore with the sound of crashing waves in the background.

Evening: Wrap up the day at the serene Greens Pool, a sheltered swimming spot framed by giant granite boulders, turquoise-green water, and soft white sand. Perfect for a late swim or a peaceful stroll.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Parry Beach Campsite, Parry Rd, Parryville WA 6333. Powered site.

Greens Pool

Image: Greens Pool, Tourism Western Australia

Day 20
Albany
Distance : 0 Km Time : 0 Hour

Morning: Begin the day with the famous Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk — a 600-metre-long suspended walkway high among ancient tingle trees.

Afternoon: Albany sits in the heart of the Great Southern Wine Region, renowned for its cool-climate wines like chardonnay, riesling, and pinot noir. Stop in at Singlefile Wines for a tasting, then linger over a relaxed lunch paired with a glass of the region’s best.

Evening: Finish the day with a sunset stroll along Little Beach, one of the area’s most beautiful coastal gems. With soft white sand and turquoise waters, it’s the perfect spot to unwind before returning to your campsite to rest.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Parry Beach Campsite, Parry Rd, Parryville WA 6333. Powered site.

Valley

Image: Valley of the Giants, Tourism Western Australia

Day 21
Albany to Margaret River
Distance : 302 Kms Time : 3 Hours 34 Minutes

Morning: After arriving in Margaret River, kick off your day with a late brunch at The Good Egg. Serving all-day breakfast with both hearty classics and creative bites, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up after your travels.

Afternoon: Spend a relaxing afternoon at Meelup Beach, one of the region’s most photogenic spots. With white sand, turquoise water, and shady grassed areas, it’s ideal for picnics, swimming, and of course, those Instagram-worthy shots.

Evening: For an unforgettable finish to the day, join a sunset whale-watching tour. As the sky glows and the whales breach and play in the open ocean, you’ll have a front-row seat to one of Margaret River’s most magical natural experiences.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Margaret River Tourist Park, 44 Station Rd, Margaret River WA 6285. Powered site.

Meelup Beach

Image: Meelup Beach, Frances Andrijich

Day 22
Margaret River
Distance : 0 Km Time : 0 Hour

Morning: No Aussie Road trip is complete without catching a wave. After a light breakfast in your Cruisin’ motorhome, head to Gas Bay, an exposed reef break known for its reliable surf — especially in the summer months.

Afternoon: Swap the ocean for the forest with an adrenaline-filled off-road quad bike tour. Guided rides take you deep into the towering trees of Margaret River, where you’ll learn about the region’s natural history while keeping an eye out for the local wildlife — from kangaroos to reptiles.

Evening: Round out the day with a visit to Lake Cave, one of the region’s most enchanting underground wonders. A fully guided tour will lead you beneath the karri forest, where clever lighting reveals the cave’s delicate formations as your guide shares stories and geological insights.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Margaret River Tourist Park, 44 Station Rd, Margaret River WA 6285. Powered site.

Lake Cave

Image: Lake Cave, Tourism Western Australia

Day 23
Margaret River to Perth
Distance : 282 Kms Time : 3 Hours 2 Minutes

Morning: Make the final drive into Perth’s city centre and reward yourself with a relaxed brunch at one of the city’s cosy cafés — the perfect way to unwind after the long journey.

Afternoon: Spend your afternoon exploring Kings Park and Botanic Garden, one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner-city parks.

Evening: For your last night on the road trip, treat yourself to an unforgettable fine-dining experience at Balthazar. With bold flavours, a carefully curated menu, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

CAMPSITE RECOMMENDATION: Perth Central Caravan Park, 34 Central Avenue, Ascot WA 6104. Powered site.

Kings Park and Botanical Garden

Image: Kings Park and Botanical Garden, Tourism Western Australia 

Day 24
Perth
Distance : 7.5 Kms Time : 8 Minutes

Morning: Ease into your last day with breakfast at Teeter Bakery, where the buttery croissants have earned a reputation as some of the best in Perth.

Afternoon: Spend your remaining hours wandering through Perth’s city centre, picking up a few last-minute souvenirs or simply soaking up the city vibe. When the time comes, head to the Cruisin’ Motorhomes Perth branch to return your motorhome before 3:30 pm, marking the close of your incredible journey from Melbourne to Perth.

Perth City

Image: Perth City Center, City of Perth

Packing tips for your great southern road trip

  • Clothing: comfortable clothes, layers for varying temperatures, lightweight jacket or raincoat.
  • Swimwear
  • Shoes: hiking shoes, walking shoes, tongs
  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Plenty of food, snacks, and water
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Maps, journals
  • Camera, phone, charging cables, power banks
  • Personal toiletries and hygiene items
  • First aid kit
  • Picnic rug & thermos
  • Head torches for night beach walks
  • Binoculars for spotting dolphins, whales and birds
  • Board games, Pack of cards

Feeling inspired for your own adventure? Then let’s start organising your motorhome holiday!

Visit our website to see what vehicles are available at our branches, or call our reservation team on 1300 664 485 and we’ll help you book your Perth motorhome road trip today!