Winter in Australia doesn’t mean staying indoors. From alpine adventures in the Snowy Mountains to scenic drives along the Tasmanian coast, winter is one of the best seasons for exploring Australia’s diverse landscapes. This guide to the best Australian road trips for winter offers scenic, cultural, and adventure-packed experiences.
1. Snowy Mountains Drive – Best Australian Road Trip for Winter in NSW
When winter arrives, the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales come alive with snow-capped peaks, ski resorts, and cozy mountain villages. This drive stretches from Canberra to Cooma, Jindabyne, and ends at Mount Kosciuszko National Park.
Highlights:
- Snow sports at Perisher and Thredbo
- Yarrangobilly Caves and thermal pools
- Wildlife spotting on the Alpine Way
Why it’s one of the best Australian road trips for winter:
Fresh snowfall transforms this area into a European-style winter wonderland, perfect for skiing or warming up by a fire.
Travel Tip: Carry snow chains and check local road conditions. 4WD is recommended.
2. Great Alpine Road – Classic Australian Road Trip for Winter
Spanning from Wangaratta to Metung in Victoria, the Great Alpine Road offers a mix of alpine and coastal scenery. It’s Australia’s highest year-round accessible sealed road and particularly breathtaking in winter.
Highlights:
- Snowboarding at Mount Hotham
- Autumn foliage that lingers into early winter
- Gippsland Lakes at the coastal end
Why it’s one of the best Australian road trips for winter:
The mix of crisp mountain air and snow-covered peaks make this drive ideal for quiet retreats and cozy cafés.
Affiliate Tip: Promote ski gear, snow chains, and thermal wear here.
3. Cradle Mountain Loop – Scenic Winter Road Trip in Tasmania
This loop begins and ends in Launceston, passing through Sheffield, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, and back via Mole Creek.
Highlights:
- Winter hiking around Dove Lake
- Stay in alpine lodges
- Tasmanian devils at Devils@Cradle sanctuary
Why it’s one of the best Australian road trips for winter:
Tasmania’s cool climate and frequent winter snowfalls create a unique, wilderness-heavy winter adventure.
Travel Tip: Days are shorter in winter—plan hikes early and bring waterproof layers.
4. Blue Mountains to Mudgee – Cozy Country Road Trip from Sydney
This underrated winter escape combines nature, food, and wine. Start in Sydney, detour through the Blue Mountains, then head to Mudgee.
Highlights:
- Echo Point and the Three Sisters
- Winter gardens in Leura
- Red wine by the fire at Mudgee wineries
Why it’s one of the best Australian road trips for winter:
Crisp air, misty valleys, and fewer tourists make this an ideal slow-travel experience.
Affiliate Tip: Recommend winery tours, regional Airbnb retreats, or warm outerwear.
5. Coral Coast Drive – Warm Winter Road Trip in Western Australia
Escape the cold with a drive from Perth to Exmouth. This road trip combines national parks, pink lakes, and snorkeling with whale sharks.
Highlights:
- Pinnacles Desert
- Hutt Lagoon (Pink Lake)
- Ningaloo Reef snorkeling (June–August is whale shark season)
Why it’s one of the best Australian road trips for winter:
Unlike the southern states, WA’s winter is mild—ideal for beach drives and marine adventures.
Travel Tip: Book Ningaloo snorkel tours early—whale shark season is in high demand.
Final Thoughts: Which Australian Road Trip Will You Take This Winter?
Whether you’re chasing snow in the southeast or sun in the northwest, these best Australian road trips for winter offer memorable escapes from June to August. From wine regions and ski slopes to reefs and rainforests, winter in Australia is full of contrasts.
External Resource: Australia.com official road trip guides
Internal Link: Hidden Gems of the Great Ocean Road