16 Regional Towns to visit this Summer
Summer road trips are about finding those hidden places that you didn’t know existed, making plans, and then changing them. They’re about finding that perfect view, unpacking your table and chairs, and dining on that fresh bowl of prawns you picked up at the local farmer's market!
If you’re busting to get out of the big city this summer, we’ve come up with 16 regional towns that to visit while on your motorhome holiday in Australia.
VICTORIA
Maldon, Victoria
Just under 2 hours from the Melbourne CBD is Maldon – a small & historic town in Castlemaine with plenty to see and do. Thanks to all the gorgeous 19th-century buildings and great antique shops, the streets are lovely to stroll.
Be sure to visit the famous Maldon Lolly Shop, which (much like the majority of Maldon’s exterior) remains true to its history. You’ll find a wide range of traditional and old-fashioned lollies here - which might just take you back down memory lane!
For the best view of the town and farmland, head to Mount Tarrengower Lookout. There is a safe climb up to the top of the tower, where you will find the most incredible 360° views. If heights aren’t your thing, it’s also a great place to stop for a picnic lunch.
Timboon, Victoria
If you’re touring the Great Ocean Road this summer, make a detour after seeing the 12 Apostles to visit the rural town of Timboon. This is the stop that will fill your motorhome or campervan with incredible fresh goods! Pick up some local dairy produce, taste some of their famous whisky at the Timboon Railway Shed, and pick some strawberries at Berry World.
For your all-important ice cream stop, be sure to visit Timboon Fine Icecream. The family-run business has been making their famous ice cream on their farm and property for over 18 years. The shop has all the classic flavours as well as distinctive Timboon flavours like Rhubarb and Raspberry or Whisky Cream!
Port Fairy, Victoria
Port Fairy is your final reward at the end of the Great Ocean Road trip! This stunning coastal town has excellent cafes, great walking tracks and a thriving arts scene.
Port Fairy boasts one of the best golf courses in the country, so be sure to have a round of golf in front of stunning ocean views. If you want to be even closer to the water – why not try a stand-up paddleboarding class!?
There is historic architecture and charming 1800s cottages throughout the town. Walk the Port Fairy Maritime and Shipwreck Heritage Trail to gain incredible insight into Port Fairy’s history.
Rhyll, Victoria
Like many of these towns listed, Rhyll is a bit of a hidden gem, which can be refreshing over summer if you like a more laid-back holiday, away from the Christmas crowds. There is an abundant amount of wildlife in Rhyll – you’re likely to have some incredible bird sightings and make friends with the local echidnas at your campsite!
This portside town has incredible seafood served straight from the water – take some away and park your vehicle next to the docs for a lovely summer lunch. For a different style of food, try some native bush food at the Outback Chef Wild Food Farm – this is also an excellent stop to find some gifts.
Take in the scenery with a walk through the Rhyll Inlet State Wildlife Reserve, where you can stroll along the incredible boardwalk and meet some wildlife.
NEW SOUTH WALES
Terrigal, New South Wales
This coastal village in Central Coast, New South Wales is perfect for a serene summer getaway. Here you will find golden beaches, boutique shops and maybe a pelican encounter or two. It’s certainly hard not to relax here – a day in Terrigal is usually spent by the seaside, surfing, eating seafood and trying all the ice cream.
One of the town’s most popular attractions is a unique one –if you like ice cream it’s certainly for you! At Terrigal Ice Creamery you can buy an actual sink full of it, adding up to 15 flavours! Once you complete the sink full of ice cream, you’ll be immortalised forever on their “wall of fame”.
Bellingen, New South Wales
Whether you want romantic strolls or adventure-filled days, Bellingen is such a great summer getaway destination. There are stunning heritage wonders to explore on Hyde and Church Street – be sure to stop for lunch at Cedar Bar and Kitchen, which is fitted out in a stunning 113-year-old church.
Bellingen is a vibrant community that is celebrated with its lively weekly markets. The Bellingen Farmers Markert is held every Wednesday where you can pick up fresh foods, organic sourdough and a selection of jams while enjoying some live entertainment. For the adventurous type, explore Dorrigo National Park by canoe or take a hike among the epic waterfalls in the world heritage listed rainforest.
Berry, New South Wales
Just 10 Minutes from the beach, and you will be in the charming country town of Berry. This cute part of town is home to many incredible restaurants and boutique shopping. This town is so picturesque, it looks as if it’s pulled straight from a cheesy romantic film - you know, the one where the big city girl moves to a remote regional town?
For a classic Berry practice, be sure to visit The Famous Berry Donut Van – where folk have been lining up for sugary treats for over 55 years! For a fun experience, take a cooking class at Far Meadow Table. After this, you will certainly be eager to cook up a storm in your motorhome kitchen!
Mudgee, New South Wales
Mudgee was once known as a quiet New South Wales town - visitors would make a quick pit stop on their road trip before moving on to the next town. Not anymore! While it hasn’t lost its friendly, rustic charm, it is now named one of the best wine regions in New South Wales.
The best thing about this region is how motorhome friendly it is! You will be able to find plenty of safe spots to park your home on wheels while you indulge in all of Mudgee’s delicacies. Be sure to spoil yourself with some take-home wine and cheese so you can enjoy an incredible platter in the comfort of your motorhome.
Walking through the beautiful streets of Mudgee is an experience in itself. There is no major shopping mall here. Instead, the CBD is full of prolific historic buildings made from sandstone and cast iron.
TASMANIA
Strahan, Tasmania
There is so much to explore in Strahan – forests, beaches and even huge sand dunes! Take a boat cruise on the incredible Gordon River or explore the World Heritage Rainforest via a historic rail line journey. Strahan is eerie in winter due to its dark and intriguing convict past, but this harbour-side village is a slice of paradise in summer!
A typical Tasmanian summer won’t get too hot, so a hike through Strahan’s beautiful natural wonders are unlikely to have you overwhelmed by the heat. Hogarth Falls is one of Tasmania’s greatest walks – an easy 1.2km walk full of gumtrees, hanging ferns and flowing waterfalls.
While in Strahan, be sure to also visit Zeehan. Both of these historic West Coast towns are soon to feature in a major ABC drama.
Huonville, Tasmania
If you love nature, fresh produce and apple cider – Huonville is the place for you! The drive to and from the Huon Valley is spectacular thanks to the rolling green hills, fruit orchards, farm animals and the cute roadside stalls scattered along the roads.
One of the most beautiful experiences is simply seeing Trestle Mountain & Collins Bonnet, which locals call “Sleeping Beauty” thanks to its uncanny resemblance to the princess. It has a magic glow about it during summer – while you should see it from the city centre, be sure to visit the Sleeping Beauty Mountain range lookout point.
Don’t miss out on stopping at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed; locals adore lounging around their incredible beer garden in summer. Taste their famous apple cider and buy some take-homes for the fridge! There is a local market hosted here every Saturday morning, boasting seriously cool and locally made gifts.
Binalong Bay, Tasmania
This picturesque coastal village is the summer holiday you never knew you needed – until you arrive - then you will never want to leave! This piece of Tassie paradise is the ideal place to call home while exploring the Bay Of Fires. There is a range of camping, fishing and driving routes on the coastal town, so you can relax or adventure how you please.
You may spot locals snorkelling in the rock pools – that’s because they are abundant with marine life! Animal lovers will have a ball here as you’re bound to encounter wallabies, wombats, echidnas and local birds.
For some of the most scenic free camping in the state, you can stay at Cosy Corner North Camping – where (if lucky) you will be situated in front of the glittering blue beach and its iconic orange rocks.
Stanley, Tasmania
If you’re looking for a relaxing summer holiday, it’s hard to look past this north-west coastal town.
Stanley is renown for its incredible colonial buildings and an epic volcanic plug that dominates the small town’s skyline. The seafood is so good here that people road trip for the fish and chips alone! This is thanks to a low population coastline and one of the least touched marine habitats on the planet.
Take a ride on The Nut Chairlift and bask in the incredible ocean views Stanley provides – don’t be afraid to look below! You might just spot some local penguins, seals or even a whale. Stroll through some of Australia’s most beautifully preserved buildings, marvel at the natural wonders and spend your nights watching the sunset with some fresh seafood.
QUEENSLAND
Stanthorpe, Queensland
Stanthorpe is the coldest town in Queensland, so it is an ideal summer destination for anyone trying to escape the state’s summer heat. Just two and a half hours out of Brisbane, this breathtaking town is abundant with apple orchards and wineries.
Grab a takeaway cheese platter from Brinx Deli and a famous apple Pie from Sutton’s Farm before having an unforgettable picnic lunch at Donnelly’s Castle.
A visit to Stanthorpe will see you fill your motorhome or campervan fridge with incredible cheeses and summer treats – like apples, grapes, peaches, pears and cherries! Visit Jamworks for an enormous range of local relishes and jams.
Tamborine Mountain, Queensland
Once you arrive at Tamborine Mountain, it’s hard to fathom that it’s just one hour away from Brisbane. This rainforest filled town feels like another world. It is the kind of place most dream of spending their summer.
See the rainforest via an incredible bridge at Tamborine Rainforest Sky Walk where you will see spectacular views among the treetops. For an unforgettable experience, take a tour of the Glow Worm Caves - you will feel like you’ve entered the set of Avatar or Sci-Fi film.
After a day of sightseeing, kick back and enjoy a local beer at the Fortitude Brewing Co. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover or thrill-seeker, you’re bound to have a fun-filled summer holiday here.
Mareeba, Queensland
Mareeba is a beautiful part of the Atherton Tablelands region, famous for producing 70% of Australia’s coffee crop.A select few don’t like coffee or chocolate, so unless you’re in the minority, be sure to stop at Coffeworks for its museum and fabulous selection of local coffee, chocolate, and gifts.
For a once in a lifetime opportunity, take a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands. There are quite a few operators in the Mareeba region due to it’s ever-growing popularity. And for a good reason – you will experience the best possible views of the mountains, waterfalls and wildlife.
Granite Gorge Nature Park is an incredible place to camp in the summertime. It is close to croc-free swimming holes, shady campgrounds and a massive amount of Mareena Rock Wallabies at your doorstep.
Monteville, Queensland
Enjoy a relaxing summer holiday in Montville, a rural town famous for its quaintness. It’s home to the cosiest coffee shops, unique shopping experiences and a cluster of galleries. Stroll here until your heart is content and admire the unique flora along the main strip.
Spend a day exploring all the lookouts the town has to offer – including Barron Lookout, Narrows Lookout & Obi Obi Gorge – before picnicking at the beautiful Barron Pocket Dam.
The town's most popular destination is Kondalilla National Park where you can walk among nature, hearing the calming sound of waterfalls and native birds. You will see locals cooling down with a dip in the swimming hole – so be sure not to forget your bathers!
From tiny convict towns in Tasmania to coastal beach towns in Queensland, Australia is full of incredible road trip stops! As you embark on your adventure, every new discovery is exciting as the last one. Take the time to swim in hidden waterholes, meet local wildlife and learn some incredible history along the way! So, if you haven’t considered a rural motorhome holiday yet, add it to your travel bucket list!