Drive from Sydney to Melbourne

Q: We are considering driving the coastal route from Sydney to Melbourne. We had expected to complete the journey as an overnight trip, but I have seen a number of recommendations to take up to five days for the journey. What do you say? Any tips would be appreciated. - Sandy Simpson

A: It depends on how much time you have and how thoroughly you wish to investigate the many sightseeing opportunities en route. The distance of the coastal drive is 1160kms and usually takes around 14 hours. As it is much easier and quicker to fly between the two centres, it seems odd to rush through the journey with only one overnight stay when the whole point of doing the drive is to spend some time checking out the attractions. If you are the type of tourist who likes to arrive at your daily destination, check into accommodation and then leisurely explore the surroundings, then a four or five night trip might be best. However, if you prefer to check out sites of interest as you travel and then overnight wherever you find yourself at the end of the day, then you could do it in two or three nights. There are some excellent websites highlighting the various options for the journey and sightseeing opportunities on the way. I suggest you plot your journey according to your fields of interest and discover how long it takes you. After a quick check, my feeling is that I would be happy doing it as a three day, two night trip. Some of the websites you can explore are www.sydneymelbournetouring.com.au, www.goway.com and www.australia.com. (21 June 2010)