
How long is the Buntine Highway?
Australia, oceania
570 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through the Outback on the Buntine Highway in the western part of Australia's Northern Territory. This isn't your typical Sunday drive, though. We're talking 570 km (354 miles) of pure Aussie adventure!
Starting near Delamere, you'll wind your way south and west towards the border with Western Australia. It’s named after Noel Buntine, a local legend who pioneered road trains and cattle driving. Think vast landscapes dotted with cattle stations and the occasional Indigenous community. It's like the Victoria Highway's cooler, less-traveled cousin.
Now, here's the deal: While a good chunk of the 336km is sealed (paved), there's still about 222km of mostly paved roads to contend with. A 4x4 is definitely your friend here. Keep your eyes peeled, because there are blind corners galore. And heads up: about 20% of the road gets a little dicey – narrow spots where even the massive road trains have to squeeze by each other. But hey, a little adventure never hurt anyone, right?
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Length
- 570 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in oceania
moderateHow to Get to Twin Falls in Kakadu by Car?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you’re craving a true Outback experience, you HAVE to check out Twin Falls in Kakadu National Park, Australia. Getting there is half the fun (and a real test for your 4WD!). We're talking about a 70km (44-mile) trek from the Kakadu Highway, south of the Bowali Centre, into seriously rugged territory. Think single-lane tracks, corrugations that'll rattle your teeth, and stretches of soft, drifting sand. This ain't a Sunday drive! But wait, there's more! You'll need to ford Jim Jim Creek – and trust me, this isn't just a puddle. It can get pretty deep, so you'll need a 4WD with a snorkel and you absolutely HAVE to check the water level at the Bowali Visitor Centre before you even think about crossing. This is only doable during the dry season (May to October), so plan accordingly. Once you arrive, park your beast and enjoy the amazing scenery, including a picnic area, toilets, and shade. The reward? Twin Falls itself: a 150-meter waterfall that plunges into a stunning pool. Swimming is off-limits (crocs!), but you can get up close to the base of the escarpment during the dry season when the flow slows. Remember your park pass to get into Kakadu! Allow 2-3 hours each way.
moderateHow long is the Cooloola Beach Drive?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along one of the world's *longest* beach drives, right here in Queensland's Gympie Region! We're talking about Cooloola Beach Drive, nestled inside the Great Sandy National Park. This isn't just any drive; it's a 60 km (37 mile) one-way adventure stretching from Noosa North Shore all the way up to Rainbow Beach. Imagine endless white sand beaches and the ocean breeze as you make your way up the coast. Now, heads up: this is strictly 4x4 territory. We're talking high-clearance vehicles only because the track can get sandy, rough, and prone to washouts. Also, you'll need to snag a Cooloola Recreation Area vehicle access permit (VAP) to legally drive these awesome beaches. Get ready for an unforgettable Aussie road trip!
hardHow long is the Barrier Highway?
🇦🇺 Australia
Okay, road trip fans, buckle up for the Barrier Highway! This epic stretch connects New South Wales and South Australia across 1,014 km (630 mi) of pure Aussie outback. The name comes from the dramatic Barrier Ranges, and believe me, the scenery doesn't disappoint. This A32 route is fully paved, so no need for a 4x4. However, it's also home to Road Trains – seriously massive trucks – so keep an eye out. Now, about the weather: think scorching summers and surprisingly chilly winters, so pack accordingly! Heads-up: phone reception is patchy, so download those playlists beforehand. You'll also be cruising through some seriously remote areas, so plan your fuel stops and bring extra supplies. Trust me, running out of gas in the middle of nowhere isn't the kind of adventure you want. One more thing: dusk and dawn are prime time for kangaroos and emus to be on the move, so it's best to avoid driving at night. Trust me, you don't want to hit one!
hardCan you drive to French Pass NZ?
🇳🇿 New Zealand
Escape to French Pass, a hidden gem in the Marlborough Sounds of New Zealand's South Island! This isn't just a drive; it's an experience. Starting from Ōkiwi Bay, you'll wind your way along 38.3 km (23.79 miles) of classic Kiwi road. Think gravel, one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and maybe a sheep or two grazing on the hillsides. Oh, and cattle stops galore! (Pro tip: secure anything loose in your car *before* you hit the first one). The road climbs to 413m (1,354ft), rewarding you with breathtaking views. Built back in 1957, this route offers a slow, scenic pace. Expect the drive to take between 1 and 2 hours without stops. What makes it special? Solitude! You might not even see another car. The scenery is next-level, with farmland, a unique mineral belt, lush native bush, and dramatic coastal vistas overlooking the French Pass and d’Urville Island, where you can witness some of the fastest tidal flows in the country. This isn't just a road; it's an adventure!