The Ultimate Big Lap Itinerary – Your Guide To Travelling Australia in 12 months

Planning your Big Lap? Then you’ll need a bit of a plan!

When you speak to many people who are currently travelling Australia, or those who have done a Big Lap in the past, they’ll often tell you that your plans go out the window once you get on the road. And for good reason too. You find a place you love, you decide to take a detour or some unexpected event changes your route.

That’s the beauty of doing your Big Lap in the first place; the ultimate freedom to go wherever you want and do whatever you want, when you want!

That said, it’s good to have some sort of a plan. Even a rough itinerary of the areas you want to go to and when will help you plan your trip around Australia.

Key Reasons You Need A Big Lap Itinerary & Route Plan

A Big Lap Itinerary can help you in a number of ways. Although you don’t have to follow it to a tee, it can help you:

Be in the right places at the right time of year. Avoiding the intense heat of the north’s summer and the blistering cold of the southern winters is something that high on most Big Lapper’s lists
Not miss certain places. If you know what attractions and places are on your route, you’ll not bypass them and kick yourself later
Outline your ‘can’t miss’ places.
Find key events you want to go to on your trip.

The Week-By-Week Big Lap Itinerary & Route

This week-by-week guide has been carefully created to take into consideration weather, events and a whole host of other factors.

It’s also designed for those on a 12-month timeframe, and although we have many Big Lappers who don’t have a Big Lap timeframe, many people don’t have that luxury!

This route also shows you when you should set off based on your location. It begins in the first week of January, setting off from Melbourne, but if you live in Cairns, you might want to wait til later in the year – or just take the route whenever you like (who are we to tell you when to go!)

You might be in the heat or in the cold, or even miss some events if you do this out of sync to the itinerary below, but read through and see whether those things are dealbreakers for you so you can decide when to go for yourself.

So, while this itinerary doesn’t have you experiencing absolutely everything Australia has to offer, it does help you see as much of it as possible

Ready for the most comprehensive free Big Lap Itinerary? Let’s go…

Your Big Lap Itinerary Route Map

Week 1: Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula and Surrounds

Kick off the first week of the year in and around Melbourne.

Explore the coffee culture, cool laneways and amazing eats in Melbourne CBD. Take in some chilled Melbourne seaside vibes in St Kilda. Head down to Mornington Peninsula to check out great coastal campsites, wineries, unique attractions and cute little towns.

You can (and definitely should) head to Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs; it’s an experience unlike many others and it won’t break the bank.

If time permits, head over to Phillip Island to catch the penguin parade!

Week 2: Ballarat, Bendigo and Goldfields

This week is all about exploring the regional towns just outside of Melbourne and taking in their rich history from the gold-rush days. Visiting the famed Sovereign Hill is high on many a vistor’s priority list but there are so many museums, galleries and historical sites to check out too.

The area is also home to some lovely little regional towns that you will want to visit. Fresh produce and town pride reign supreme here.

For something a little different, you can go Medieval at Kryal Castle. Since we’re still in school holidays (if you’re following this route by date!), it will be open. Check opening hours if you go outside of school holiday periods.

Week 3: The Grampians

After a few weeks doing the more touristy things, it’s time to get back to nature! The Grampians is the perfect place to find epic camping spots and immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape. This area is a hiker’s dream but even if you’re not a big walker, some of the incredible places you’ll see will make you want to lace up your walking boots (or runners, at least!).

The Grampians is home to Victoria’s largest waterfall, Mackenzie Falls, and spots like Boroka Lookout, Reed Lookout and the Balconies and One Tree Hill provide the most breathtaking views.

You can also get out on the water at one of the many lakes for a spot of kayaking, swimming or waterskiing.

Not your thing? Head to the wineries!

Week 4-5: The Murray

Arguably one of the most picturesque spots in Victoria, you’ll spend the next two weeks by the mighty Murray. With so much to see and do, you’ll need that much time to explore but it also offers you some much needed downtime too.

The Murray is home of the paddleboat steamer, so make sure you take a trip down the river in one of these old monaliths! If you’re able to splurge, why not ditch your caravan for a week and play captain in a house boat?

There are some amazing riverside beaches to explore, year-round watersports and plenty of places to fish.

For the foodies, the Murray region is home to some unique riverside cellar door experiences and some absolutely incredible restaurants.

Week 6: High Country & Gippsland

This week, you’re finishing your countryside tour before you head back out to the coast. In the High Country, you can indulge in some of the finest cool-climate wines, enjoy some epic 4WDing, hit the hills by mountain bike and see the incredible wildflowers in bloom. Or, have your very own Man From Snowy River moment and discover the area on horseback

This region is usually visited by many a traveller during the winter months as it is home to some of Australia’s best ski resorts, but visiting in the summer or autumn will still provide you with plenty to see and do. Some of the ski resorts put on summer activities.

Once you’re High Country Adventures are over, head down to Gippsland via the Great Alpine Road, one of Australia’s greatest touring routes.

When you hit the coast, either relax on one of the incredible beaches (Ninety Mile Beach is a must-visit) or explore the surrounding lakes and waterways.

For foodies, this is another area you’ll love. Explore the wine region or take the Gippsland Food and Wine Trail.

Note: this is a lot of ground to cover so you might want to trim off a couple of days from your Murray weeks!

Week 7: South Coast NSW

Journey up the stunning South Coast of New South Wales, where you’ll find pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking national parks. Explore the white sands of Hyams Beach, kayak through the clear waters of Jervis Bay, and discover the historic charm of towns like Berry and Kiama. Be sure to visit the famous Kiama Blowhole and enjoy fresh seafood in the local eateries.

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Week 8: Canberra

Head inland to Australia’s capital, Canberra. Discover the rich history and culture at the National Museum, Australian War Memorial, and Parliament House. Wander through the beautiful Australian National Botanic Gardens and take a leisurely stroll or bike ride around Lake Burley Griffin. For art lovers, the National Gallery of Australia is a must-visit. Don’t miss the vibrant local markets and cafes for a taste of Canberra’s culinary scene.

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Week 9: Outback NSW

Venture into the heart of Outback NSW, where you’ll experience the rugged beauty and vast landscapes that define this region. Explore the iconic Broken Hill with its rich mining history and vibrant art scene. Visit the Living Desert Sculptures and the historic Silverton. For a unique experience, consider a visit to the opal mining town of Lightning Ridge. The starry night skies here are truly spectacular.

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Week 10: Blue Mountains and Sydney

Experience the natural wonders of the Blue Mountains, where you can hike through lush forests, visit the iconic Three Sisters rock formation, and ride the Scenic Railway. Enjoy the charming town of Katoomba and the stunning views from Echo Point. Afterward, head to Sydney to explore its world-famous landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. Don’t forget to take a ferry ride to Manly and explore the vibrant nightlife and dining scene.

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Week 11-12: North Coast NSW and Byron Bay

Spend two weeks exploring the beautiful North Coast of NSW, culminating in the iconic Byron Bay. Discover the stunning beaches of Port Stephens, the charming town of Coffs Harbour, and the pristine landscapes of the Tweed Coast. In Byron Bay, relax on the famous beaches, visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse for incredible views, and enjoy the laid-back, bohemian vibe of the town. Don’t miss the local markets and live music venues.

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Week 13: Gold Coast & Brisbane

Cross into Queensland and experience the excitement of the Gold Coast with its theme parks, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Head to Brisbane to explore its cultural precinct at South Bank, visit the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, and enjoy the views from Mount Coot-tha. Take a river cruise and discover the city’s dining and shopping hotspots.

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Week 14: Sunshine Coast

Relax and unwind on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Visit the popular beaches of Noosa, Mooloolaba, and Caloundra. Explore the Noosa National Park, enjoy fresh local produce at the Eumundi Markets, and discover the charming hinterland towns like Montville and Maleny. The Sunshine Coast offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle.

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Week 15: Fraser Island

Experience the natural wonders of Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. Explore the stunning Lake McKenzie, the Maheno Shipwreck, and the vibrant rainforest. Enjoy 4WD adventures along Seventy-Five Mile Beach and spot dingoes in their natural habitat. Fraser Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers unique experiences unlike anywhere else.

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Week 16-17: Outback QLD

Head into Outback Queensland for a true adventure. Explore the iconic landscapes and rich history of towns like Longreach, home of the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, and Winton, known for its dinosaur fossils. Visit the incredible natural formations of Carnarvon Gorge and experience the vast, open skies of the outback. This region offers a glimpse into Australia’s pioneering past and rugged natural beauty.

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Week 18: Mackay & Whitsundays

Return to the coast and discover the beauty of Mackay with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Head to the Whitsundays, where you can sail through the crystal-clear waters, snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef, and relax on the world-famous Whitehaven Beach. This region is a paradise for water lovers and offers unforgettable experiences.

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Week 19: Townsville & Surrounds

Explore Townsville and its surrounding areas, where you can dive the Great Barrier Reef, visit the beautiful Magnetic Island, and explore the Strand waterfront precinct. Townsville is known for its tropical weather, vibrant cultural scene, and access to natural wonders like the Paluma Range National Park and Wallaman Falls.

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Week 20: Cairns and Atherton Tablelands

Discover the tropical north in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. Enjoy reef cruises, snorkelling, and diving adventures. Explore the lush Atherton Tablelands with its waterfalls, crater lakes, and charming villages. Don’t miss the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for stunning views.

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Week 21-22: Daintree, Cooktown and Cape York

Venture into the ancient Daintree Rainforest and explore the beauty of Cape Tribulation. Continue north to Cooktown, a historic town with stunning landscapes and rich Aboriginal culture. For the ultimate adventure, journey to Cape York, the northernmost point of Australia. This remote region offers rugged beauty, unique wildlife, and unforgettable experiences.

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Week 23: Savannah Way

Travel along the Savannah Way, a scenic route through the heart of northern Australia. Discover the unique landscapes, wildlife, and outback towns along the way. Highlights include the Undara Lava Tubes, the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the stunning sunsets over vast savannah plains.

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Week 24: Alice Springs via Mt Isa

Head to the Red Centre, stopping at Mt Isa, a mining town with rich history and rugged landscapes. Continue to Alice Springs, the heart of the outback, where you can explore the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges, visit the Alice Springs Desert Park, and learn about Aboriginal culture at the Araluen Cultural Precinct.

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Week 25: Red Centre

Immerse yourself in the iconic landscapes of the Red Centre. Visit Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and Kings Canyon. Learn about the rich cultural significance of these sites to the local Anangu people. Enjoy the incredible desert scenery, unique wildlife, and stargazing opportunities in this spiritual heart of Australia.

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Week 26: Alice to Darwin

Travel from Alice Springs to Darwin, taking in the changing landscapes of the Northern Territory. Highlights along the way include the Devil’s Marbles, Mataranka Hot Springs, and the historic town of Katherine. This journey offers a true outback experience with diverse scenery and cultural insights.

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Week 27: Top End & Arnhem Land

Explore the Top End, including the vibrant city of Darwin, the stunning Litchfield National Park, and the wildlife-rich Kakadu National Park. Venture into Arnhem Land, a remote and culturally rich region with stunning landscapes and Aboriginal rock art sites. This area offers unique experiences and a deeper understanding of Indigenous culture.

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Week 28: Kununurra & Lake Argyle

Cross into Western Australia and discover Kununurra and the majestic Lake Argyle. Explore the stunning landscapes of the Kimberley region, including the Bungle Bungles, El Questro Wilderness Park, and the Ord River. Lake Argyle offers incredible boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities in a breathtaking setting.

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Week 29: Kimberleys

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Kimberleys. Explore iconic sites like the Gibb River Road, Mitchell Falls, and Windjana Gorge. Experience the unique landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture, and incredible wildlife of this remote region. The Kimberleys offer a true outback adventure with stunning scenery at every turn.

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Week 30: Broome & Surrounds

Relax in the coastal town of Broome, known for its stunning Cable Beach, vibrant pearling history, and unique natural phenomena like the Staircase to the Moon. Explore the surrounding areas, including the pristine beaches of the Dampier Peninsula and the rich cultural heritage of the local Indigenous communities.

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Week 31: Karratha

Continue your journey along the coast to Karratha, a town with rich mining history and stunning natural beauty. Explore the nearby Millstream Chichester National Park, the ancient rock art of the Burrup Peninsula, and the picturesque beaches and islands of the Dampier Archipelago.

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Week 32: Exmouth

Discover the wonders of Exmouth and the Ningaloo Reef. Snorkel with whale sharks, explore the pristine coral reefs, and enjoy the stunning beaches of Cape Range National Park. Exmouth offers incredible marine life experiences and breathtaking coastal scenery.

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Week 33: Carnarvon and Monkey Mia

Visit the coastal town of Carnarvon and its lush plantations, beautiful beaches, and unique natural attractions like the Blowholes and Quobba Station. Head to Monkey Mia to meet the friendly dolphins and explore the stunning Shark Bay World Heritage Area. This region offers incredible wildlife encounters and beautiful coastal landscapes.

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Week 34: Perth & Surrounds

Explore the vibrant city of Perth, with its beautiful parks, beaches, and cultural attractions. Visit Kings Park, the Perth Cultural Centre, and the historic port city of Fremantle. Take a trip to Rottnest Island to meet the quokkas and enjoy the stunning beaches and bike trails.

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Week 35: Margaret River

Indulge in the culinary and wine delights of Margaret River, known for its world-class wineries, gourmet food, and stunning coastal scenery. Explore the beautiful beaches, caves, and forests of the region, and enjoy the vibrant arts and cultural scene. Margaret River is a haven for foodies and nature lovers alike.

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Week 36: Esperance and Cape Le Grand

Discover the pristine beauty of Esperance and Cape Le Grand National Park. Relax on the stunning beaches of Lucky Bay, known for its kangaroos, and explore the rugged coastal landscapes. Esperance offers incredible natural beauty, from turquoise waters to dramatic granite peaks.

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Week 37-38: Nullarbor and Eyre Peninsula

Embark on the epic journey across the Nullarbor Plain, taking in the vast, open landscapes and unique roadside attractions. Arrive at the Eyre Peninsula, where you can explore the stunning coastal scenery, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience unique wildlife encounters, including swimming with sea lions and cage diving with great white sharks.

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Week 39: Outback South Australia

Venture into the Outback of South Australia, exploring iconic locations like Coober Pedy, the opal mining capital, and the stunning landscapes of the Flinders Ranges. Experience the rugged beauty and rich history of this remote region, with its unique underground homes and incredible geological formations.

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Week 40: Yorke Peninsula

Relax and unwind on the beautiful Yorke Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, charming coastal towns, and rich maritime history. Explore Innes National Park, enjoy fishing and water sports, and discover the local produce and seafood that make this region a foodie’s delight.

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Week 41: Adelaide, Hills & Fleurieu

Explore the vibrant city of Adelaide, with its cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and world-class dining. Head to the Adelaide Hills for stunning scenery, charming villages, and boutique wineries. Continue to the Fleurieu Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, gourmet food, and picturesque landscapes.

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Week 42: Kangaroo Island

Discover the natural wonders of Kangaroo Island, with its incredible wildlife, pristine beaches, and stunning coastal landscapes. Visit the Flinders Chase National Park, Seal Bay Conservation Park, and the Remarkable Rocks. Kangaroo Island offers unique wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery.

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Week 43: Limestone Coast

Explore the Limestone Coast, known for its stunning coastal scenery, ancient caves, and rich history. Visit the Blue Lake in Mount Gambier, the Umpherston Sinkhole, and the beautiful beaches of Robe and Beachport. The Limestone Coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

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Week 44: Great Ocean Road

Drive along the iconic Great Ocean Road, taking in the stunning coastal scenery, charming seaside towns, and famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant arts and culture of this world-renowned route.

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Week 45: North West Tasmania

Cross the Bass Strait to Tasmania and explore the stunning North West region. Visit the beautiful Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, the charming town of Stanley, and the stunning coastal scenery of the Tarkine. This region offers incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

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Week 46: Launceston and Surrounds

Discover the historic city of Launceston, with its beautiful parks, historic buildings, and vibrant food and wine scene. Explore the stunning Cataract Gorge, the Tamar Valley wine region, and the charming villages of the surrounding countryside. Launceston offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.

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Week 47: North East Tasmania

Venture to the North East of Tasmania, where you can explore the stunning beaches of the Bay of Fires, the lush landscapes of the Blue Tier, and the charming town of St Helens. This region offers incredible natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant arts and culture scene.

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Week 48: Derwent Valley & Midlands

Explore the beautiful Derwent Valley, with its stunning landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant food and wine scene. Visit the historic town of New Norfolk, the beautiful Mount Field National Park, and the charming villages of the Midlands. This region offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

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Week 49: West Coast Tasmania

Discover the rugged beauty of Tasmania’s West Coast, with its stunning landscapes, historic mining towns, and incredible outdoor adventures. Visit the historic town of Strahan, the stunning Gordon River, and the beautiful Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This region offers incredible natural beauty and rich history.

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Week 50: Huon and South

Explore the stunning Huon Valley and the beautiful South of Tasmania, with its lush landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant food and wine scene. Visit the beautiful Tahune Airwalk, the charming town of Cygnet, and the stunning Bruny Island. This region offers incredible natural beauty and unique cultural experiences.

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Week 51-52: Hobart and East Coast

Finish your journey in Hobart and the stunning East Coast of Tasmania. Explore the vibrant city of Hobart, with its historic buildings, beautiful parks, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Visit the stunning Freycinet National Park, the beautiful beaches of the East Coast, and the charming towns of the region. This area offers incredible natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.