Caravanning Australia
Posted: Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 10:35:04 AM EST by
We’ve been everywhere
Over the last few months we have covered destinations all across this great country of ours.
In this post we will summarise each state and the wonderful experiences that you could have visiting them in your Southern Cross Caravan or 5th Wheeler.
Queensland
There’s no place like it.
The Great Barrier Reef has to be a highlight. This world famous landmark is an absolute must visit if travelling through Queensland.
The other must do is a factory tour of the home of Southern Cross Caravans.
Finishing up the highlights in Queensland is Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter.
New South Wales
There are two standout driving itineraries from our outlook on New South Wales,
Greater Blue Mountains Drive and the Kosciuszko Alpine Way.
Both of these take you through breath-taking mountain ranges and world renowned landscapes.
Victoria
How could we not include The Great Ocean Road, perhaps Australia’s most famous road.
Worthy of second place behind The Great Ocean Road is the Murray River. A cruise along the mighty Murray is a must for those in Victoria.
South Australia
A stand out in South Australia would be a weekend on Kangaroo Island followed closely by a tour through the Adelaide Hills.
Western Australia
Two places that youmust see in Western Australia are Rottnest Island and the Bungle Bungle Range.
Northern Territory
No prizes for guessing the highlight in this state.
Uluru is the most recognizable Australian icon, so it outshines all the other attractions this state is host to.
Tasmania
Highlights in Tasmania where difficult to choose, they all appeared to be wonderful places to visit. But a decision was made.
Two places you must visit in Tasmania are Cradle Mountain and Warrawee Forest Reserve to view platypus.
We would love to hear your favourite place we looked at as we travelled across the country. Whether you have been there yourself or are planning on visiting soon leave a comment below or send us your story.
Caravanning Holidays - Tasmania
Posted: Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 3:07:20 PM EST by
Photo by msdstefan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stefan_heinrich/).
Caravanning Tasmania
Take your Southern Cross to a natural paradise.
Tasmania offers plenty of driving holidays perfect for the Southern Cross family. Some of the itineraries will take you through breathtaking countryside and amazing wilderness.
So here are 5 routes to explore Tasmania
The Convict Trail
This trail will lead you to amazing sea cliffs, some of the tallest in the world, and to Port Arthur, a World Heritage Listed convict site that is full of history.
Some of the highlights along this trail are the Richmond Goal, Sorrel Fruit Farm and The Cape Hauy Walk.
For more information, including a full itinerary, visit this website.
Cradle Country
This tour takes you and your Southern Cross through the Devonport Hinterland, where you can enjoy chocolates, cheeses and raspberries, through the murals of Sheffield and on to Cradle Mountain, a world heritage wilderness.
You will then visit gardens and cheese factories near Dove Lake before finishing up in Burnie where you can start the Great Nature Trail, which we will look at next.
Highlights along the trail to look forward to include, Cradle Mountain and Warrawee Forest Reserve Platypus Viewing.
For more information, including a full itinerary, visit the Cradle Country website.
Great Nature Trail
This tour picks up where the Cradle Country tour left off. Starting at Narawntapu National Park, near Burnie, you be able to explore the caves and coast near Ulverstone and also view the amazing flora of Rocky Cape.
In Stanley you will be able to go on a ghost tour as well as go on a cruise to visit an Australian Fur Seal colony. Then visit the northernmost point of mainland Tasmania, Woolnorth.
To find out more information, including a full itinerary, on the Great Nature Trail visit the website.
East Coast Escape
This is a must for seafood and wine lovers as you will be able to sample some of the best.
Leaving Hobart, the states capital, you will travel to Triabunna where you can catch a ferry out to Maria Island National Park and view the gorgeous beaches around the island.
On your way to Swansea you will be able to sample wines, berries and various artworks. Kate’s Berry Farm is a must visit.
Freycinet National Park is home to the picturesque Wineglass Bay, one of the world’s top ten beaches. This national park offers a range of activities from beach four-wheel driving to kayak paddling. There is something for everyone.
To get more information on the East Coast Escape, including a full itinerary visit the website.
Great Western Tiers
An aboriginal spiritual place, the Great Western Tiers is a place of rugged mountains, limestone caves.
This short, two-day trip really epitomises all that Tasmania has to offer.
The towns you pass through are rural working communities; however the houses and cottages you will see paint a very different picture. You will pass through Hadspen, home of the heritage listed Entally House before ending your trip exploring the limestone cave caves at Mole Creek.
To get a full itinerary and any other information on the Great Western Tiers, visit this website.
There are many more itineraries to which you and your Southern Cross can explore Tasmania, have a look at this website and find one that suits you. To get to Tasmania with your Southern Cross visit the Spirit of Tasmania website.
Register your interest today for the new 18 foot Southern Cross 5th Wheeler by filling out this form or leaving a comment below.
Caravanning Northern Territory
Posted: Monday, January 30, 2012 at 11:17:01 AM EST by
This week we are exploring the heart of Australia.
We will look at some amazing places for you to take your Southern Cross on your next adventure.
Darwin
Darwin has been voted one of the top ten cities to visit in 2012 by Lonely Planet. With beautiful waterfalls and vibrant nightlife you will surely agree with Lonely Planet. Darwin acts as the gateway to all of the beautiful national parks that the Northern Territory has on offer.
Darwin also holds its own as a travel destination. Here are three things to experience while in Darwin.
- Various Markets
- Sunset on Darwin Harbour
- Crocodile Experience (for the adventurous).
Kakadu and Arnhem Land
This region is abundant with Aboriginal artwork and culture. Start off at the Bowali Visitor Centre.
You can take a scenic flight over the Kakadu region through various tour groups offering aerial tours.
Another way to experience Kakadu is to take a Yellow River Cruise. This cruise will expose you to some amazing river systems, the biggest in the region, and not to mention the local wildlife that will definitely put on a show.
Tennant Creek
This is a must for the Southern Cross family using a 4WD to tow their Southern Cross Caravan. Tennant Creek spoils you for choice in 4WD tracks. There are tracks for the beginner through to the experts who are looking to test their ability and also their vehicles.
Northern Territory is home to some amazing rock formations, including the Devils Marbles. You will find the Devils Marbles 110 km out of Tennant Creek and scattered across 1802 hectares. For the best photo opportunities of the Devils Marbles be there at sunset.
Alice Springs
The heart of Australia is full of wonderful national parks and aboriginal history and culture.
There are so many things to do in Alice Springs so here are three to get you started.
Uluru National Park
The place that is familiar with all Australians is a must see on your trip to the Northern Territory. The most prominent landmark of this national park is its namesake, Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock. It stands 348 metres high, however the bulk of Uluru is actually underground, similar to the make-up of an iceberg.
There are other prominent Australian icons in the Uluru National Park. One is Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas. These 32 weathered rock formations sit just 40 kilometres west of Uluru.
Katherine
This pristine wilderness has plenty to offer those wanting to explore. Canoe along one of the region’s many gorges, take a helicopter flight to get an aerial perspective of an amazing piece of Australia, or take a leisurely bush walk along walking tracks that will guide you through some wonderful bush land.
So much can be done and explored in this region, so click here to view the website for more information on the Katherine region or any of the other regions we covered.
Travelling this great country is the dream of so many Australians. Do it in Australian made luxury. Do it in a Southern Cross Caravan.
Caravanning Holidays - Western Australia
Posted: Monday, January 30, 2012 at 11:17:58 AM EST by
There are five regions encompassing Australia’s largest state, for which we will be sharing some perfect locations to take your Southern Cross Caravan.
Australia’s North West
In this region you can’t go past the Kimberley. This pristine wilderness is the perfect backdrop to any camping adventure.
Other key attractions in this area are Cable Beach and the Bungle Bungle Range.
There are also many driving itineraries that would suit you and your Southern Cross Caravan. Click here to see which one takes your fancy.
Australia’s Golden Outback
The two main towns of the Golden Outback that stand out above the rest are Kalgoorlie and Esperance.
Kalgoorlie is still a thriving mining town with lots of history and heritage, whilst Esperance is wild coastline and picture perfect coves of pure white sand.
Just like the North West the Golden Outback has some fantastic travelling routes. Click to view them.
Australia’s South West
Two things you have to do in the South West: snorkel the HMAS Swan Dive Wreck and visit The Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory. Both are fantastic experiences that will not be soon forgotten.
With the Margaret River and a large array of wineries you won’t be wanting to leave Australia’s South West.
Click here to view the South West driving itineraries.
Perth
Being Australia’s sunniest capital city you will most likely be spending the majority of your time outdoors experiencing what this city has to offer.
Whether you are hiring a catamaran to sail on the Swan River, or visiting the multi-cultural city, there is so much of the outdoors to enjoy in Perth.
But you can’t visit Perth without spending some time on Rottnest Island. A glorious island paradise awaits your exploration.
To view the driving itineraries in Perth, click here.
Australia’s Coral Coast
All you have to do is look at the images of the Coral Coast and you will know that you will have a time to remember.
Here is just a handful of things to whet your appetite. The Pinnacles, swim with the Whale Sharks and Monkey Mia.
To view the driving itineraries for the Coral Coast, click here.
Southern Cross Caravans have the right caravan and 5th Wheeler to suit your travels around Western Australia.
View our range of 5th Wheelers and Caravans today.
Caravanning Holidays: South Australia
Posted: Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 11:47:10 AM EST by Southern Cross
The next stop on our around the country caravanning guide is South Australia. This part of the country is well known for its wonderful wineries and also the picturesque Kangaroo Island. To aid you in your travels here are 10 destinations in South Australia perfect for you and your Southern Cross Caravan.
Adelaide Hills
The Adelaide Hills resonates with relaxation. The country roads offer views that will set your mind far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
If you do venture up to the hills, stop in at the German town of Hahndorf. This pretty town has some wonderful little shops. If your trip is around lunch time, visit the German Arms Hotel and ask for The Arms Giant Hot Dog. Just be sure to do a few mouth exercises before eating, it’s that big.
There is much to do in the Adelaide Hills so click here to see if something’s going on when you’re passing through.
Barossa
As the food and wine capital of the country, Barossa will certainly satisfy your hunger for a well-produced wine.
Being world known, there is a lot to do, to try and to explore within the Barossa. Just make sure you don’t have to leave too early in the morning and pack the panadol.
To see what’s going on in the Barossa, click here.
Clare Valley
If you are searching for an authentic taste of country living, Clare Valley is for you. A worthwhile stop is the town of Burra. Be certain to take the Burra Heritage Passport tour for an authentic country experience.
For more information on the Clare Valley, view this website.
Eyre Peninsula
This region of South Australia caters for the water lovers amongst us. Whether you enjoy savouring fresh seafood or viewing several marine animals in their natural habitat the Eyre Peninsula is for you.
For those who are seeking some action, there is plenty of game fishing to be enjoyed or maybe even have a go at shark cage diving, or swim with dolphins if sharks aren’t quite up your alley. Or you can enjoy the comfort of your car and Southern Cross Caravan and take the drive across the Nullarbor.
To get more information about this amazing area of South Australia, click here.
Fleurieu Peninsula
The Fleurieu Peninsula is why caravans were invented. The region has some of the best outdoor experiences you can have with your Southern Cross Caravan.
There is so much to see and do that the only thing we can share is that you spend more than a day exploring the Fleurieu Peninsula.
One thing to do get you started is the Urimbirra Wildlife Experience.
To find out just how much there is to see and do, click here.
Flinders Ranges & Outback
This region is what comes to mind when you think of outback. Take your Southern Cross Caravan along the Oodnadatta Track or stop at the mining town of Coober Pedy.
The Flinders Ranges region really gives you the full outback experience.
To find out more go to this website.
Kangaroo Island
Definitely somewhere to spend a couple of nights, Kangaroo Island is a great place to explore untouched bush land and see wildlife up close in their natural surrounds.
There are a range of National Parks for you to explore, and also take time out to see the marine life. Try Seal Bay Conservation Park.
For more information on this tourist landmark go to this website.
Limestone Coast
This world heritage listed region is home to some of the most beautiful scenery you will lay your eyes on. The Mount Gambier Blue Lake is a must see as well as the Coorong National Park.
Limestone Coast Helicopters can provide you with an alternate viewing platform of this region of South Australia.
To see what else there is to do on the Limestone coast, click here.
Murray River
Something that you must do in this region is hire a houseboat and spend a while cruising along this country’s most popular river, The Murray. Be reminded of how life was once upon a time, when you see the ever popular paddle steamer coming down the river, or speed things up with a Jet Ski ride on the water.
There is plenty to see and do so the only questions you need to answer are, how long do we stay and where do we start.
To see all the things the Murray region has to offer click here.
Yorke Peninsula
The Yorke Peninsula is where you will find the Moonta Mines Museum. This museum displays the Cornish miner’s lifestyle and is packed with cultural history.
Being so close to the water the Yorke Peninsula is home to many fishing charter groups. So be sure to head out on the water and take a photo of your prized catch for the team at Southern Cross.
For more information about this region, go to this website.
With all these things to see and do you are bound to spend a lot of time on the road. Be sure to share your adventures with Southern Cross so that we can put it on our website for all our members to read and be inspired.
How else do you imagine travelling across this great nation other than with an Australian made caravan being towed behind you? One where comfort and quality workmanship is of the highest priority? Contact Southern Cross Caravans today to find the Caravan or Fifth Wheeler that suits your needs, or come into our Brisbane workshop and take a factory tour.
Caravanning Holidays – 10 Scenic Drives in Victoria
Posted: Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 11:47:04 AM EST by Southern CrossHome to, arguably, the best scenic drive in our country.
Victoria is host to some of the most breathtaking scenery this country has to offer. It would be near impossible to fit all of them in this post, so we compiled a list of 10 scenic drives that take you through some iconic Australian landscapes.
- The Great Alpine Road.
- Mornington Peninsula.
- Experience the Murray River.
- West Gippsland Hinterland Drive.
- Central Grampians Drive.
- Phillip Island Touring Route.
- Victoria's Goldfields.
- Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges.
- Pure Indulgence Touring Route
- The Great Ocean Road
There are also a large amount of four wheel drive parks in Victoria that make for a fantastic day trip, having parked your Southern Cross at a local caravan park.
Want to get out and see our country in style?
Talk to Southern Cross Today!
Feel free to comment on your favourite destination in Victoria or any other destination in our great country.
Caravanning Holidays in New South Wales
Posted: Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 11:46:51 AM EST by Southern Cross12 Road Trips and Scenic Drives in New South Wales
Instead of giving you an overview of the different regions of New South Wales as we did in our Caravanning Queensland post, we decided to give you a list of road trips and scenic drives that cover the vast majority of the New South Wales regions.
An exploration of a spectacular alpine region.
From national parks and rainforests to lush country side and wide open plains.
Travel the foothills of the iconic Snowy Mountains
Discover World Heritage scenery
Coast through seaside villages and glide through rainforests.
Experience the diverse beauty of the New South Wales outback.
Bask in these wide open spaces.
Meander through heritage listed rainforests.
Devour locally produced food on this 100 mile stretch.
Legendary Pacific Coast Touring Route
The best way to see the northern beaches.
Country lifestyle at its best.
Sydney Melbourne Coastal Drive
Explore the southern New South Wales Coast.
Whilst your travelling in New South wales there are many Caravan Parks for you to park your Southern Cross Caravan & Fifth Wheeler.
If you have any favourite places to vist in New South Wales we would love to hear about them, so comment below.
Caravanning Holidays in Australia
Posted: Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 11:46:45 AM EST by Southern Cross
As summer fast approaches you might hear the open road calling your name.
To add to your cravings and urges, over the next couple of months we will compile a state-by-state guide of caravanning holidays. Starting in far north Queensland we will work our way, clockwise, around Australia. We will mainly cover short weekend trips in each area but you can use these posts as a guide for a longer journey.
Queensland
North:
In far north Queensland you can’t go past the Great Tropical Drive. This fantastic drive gives you the opportunity to visit amazing sights such as the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Mission Beach, Hinchinbrook Island and Undara Lava Tubes. It would be so easy to stop for days in just one of these locations as there are so many sights and activities to see and enjoy. The Great Tropical Drive runs from Cairns and winds 2079km to Townsville with numerous experience trails for you to explore with your Southern Cross 5th Wheeler. For more information on the Great Tropical Drive click here.
Central:
It is hard to pin down one spot in central Queensland as there are so many fantastic places to travel with your caravan. You can enjoy paradise like Great Keppel Island and the Capricorn coast, get your urban fix by stopping at Rockhampton or head out to Mt Morgan and relive the days of the gold rush. A popular place for Southern Cross customers is the Carnarvon Gorge where you can see indigenous rock art and stroll along some beautiful walking tracks. There are plenty of caravan sites within central Queensland for both you and your Southern Cross to recharge.
Outback:
To continue our tour around Australia we suggest travelling along the Leichhardt Highway from Yeppoon to Goondiwindi. The Leichhardt winds through quiet country towns amidst amazing Australian country scenery. After leaving Yeppoon and Rockhampton make a stop at Biloela and take a look at the giant silo. This will provide you with an educational look at the agricultural industry. Leaving Biloela, head to Isla Gorge National Park as it is a truly great experience. Lake Murphy Conservation Park is a popular caravan site to spend the night just as Ludwig Leichhardt did in 1844. One place along the Leichhardt the ladies shouldn’t miss is Miles. The town of Miles is the wildflower capital of the Western Downs and boasts one of Australia’s best historical collections. Fellas, you will be getting her praise if you swing through this country town. Whilst you’re in the flora mood, have a look at Myall Park Botanic Gardens. These gardens have a worldwide reputation and showcase some rare and endangered species of Australian flora. The Leichhardt Highway continues through Goondiwindi and heads on to The Gums before you start to head to the home of Southern Cross Caravans, south-east Queensland.
South:
After the floods earlier this year the south-east is better than ever before, especially the town of Toowoomba. There are so many gardens to visit in Toowoomba, along with pubs and bakeries to fill the belly. From Toowoomba head slightly north-east to the Sunshine Coast. Get your toes wet on one of the beautiful beaches or spend a day at Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter. You can pick strawberries or climb the Glasshouse Mountains before heading to the capital of Queensland, Brisbane. A must for any caravan enthusiast in Brisbane is to book a tour of the Southern Cross Caravans factory. This is where quality and workmanship blend with comfort and design for your travelling pleasure. Brisbane is a hub for whatever suits your travel requirements. You can sail out on Moreton Bay, or enjoy a coffee in the Summit restaurant at the top of Mt Coot-tha with fantastic views of the city both day and night. We end our Queensland guide at the Gold Coast. There is so much to enjoy and explore on the Gold Coast, beach and bush, country and city. We recommend you head to Mount Tamborine and pick up some of the world famous Granny Mac’s fudge and then savor your fudge at the foot of Cedar Creek falls.
Queensland is so big and beautiful that no matter where you go or how many times you have been there, there is always something new to see and do.
We hope this has been informative for you. If you have a favourite travelling spot in Queensland or anywhere in Australia we would love to hear from you by filling in this form or commenting below.
