Are you planning a Nullarbor road trip and wondering about the best places to rest your head? SIXT.VN understands the allure of the open road and the need for comfortable and convenient overnight stops. We’re here to guide you through the top spots, ensuring your Nullarbor crossing is an unforgettable adventure. Discover reliable travel tips and services to make your journey smooth and enjoyable, focusing on outback travel, road trip planning, and scenic routes.
1. Essential Preparations for Your Nullarbor Adventure
Before embarking on your Nullarbor crossing, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. This remote stretch demands a thorough vehicle check and awareness of the distances involved.
1.1. Vehicle Readiness: Safety First
Is your vehicle mechanically sound? According to the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), breakdowns are a common issue on the Nullarbor due to the harsh conditions. Ensure your car is serviced, tires (including the spare) are in good condition, and you have essential tools and fluids.
1.2. Stocking Up: Food, Water, and Fuel
Fuel stops are available at roadhouses every couple of hundred kilometers, but fresh food can be scarce. Plan your supplies accordingly.
1.2.1. Where to Buy Supplies
- West to East: Stock up in Esperance or Kalgoorlie (WA).
- East to West: Ceduna (SA) is your last chance.
1.2.2. Quarantine Restrictions
Be mindful of Western Australia’s quarantine restrictions when traveling west. According to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development WA, fresh fruit and vegetables are prohibited. Consume or dispose of these before crossing the border.
1.3. Understanding the Nullarbor’s Geography
The word “Nullarbor” means “no trees” in Latin, accurately describing the vast, treeless plain. The Eyre Highway, the road that crosses it, spans 1,200km (745 miles) between Norseman in Western Australia and Ceduna in South Australia.
2. Getting to the Nullarbor: Starting Your Journey
Most travelers incorporate the Nullarbor crossing into a larger trip, such as a lap of Australia or a Perth to Adelaide road trip.
2.1. Routes to the Nullarbor
- From Esperance: Head north to Norseman, then east.
- From Kalgoorlie: Head south to Norseman, then east.
3. Fun on the Nullarbor: The Nullarbor Links Golf Course
Looking for a unique way to break up the drive? The Nullarbor Links is the world’s longest golf course, with 18 holes scattered across the Nullarbor.
3.1. Playing the Course
- Cost: $70 for a scorecard.
- Registration: Visitor Centres in Kalgoorlie or Ceduna.
- Club Hire: Available at Visitor Centres.
3.2. A Unique Outback Experience
Playing a round on this quirky course offers a memorable experience and plenty of laughs. Watch out for the crow that steals golf balls.
4. Where to Stay: Best Overnight Stops on the Nullarbor
Choosing the right overnight stop is vital for a comfortable Nullarbor crossing. Options range from roadhouse motels to free camping spots.
4.1. Roadhouse Motels: Convenience and Comfort
Roadhouses offer basic motel accommodation with beds, showers, and meals. They’re ideal if you need to recharge or prefer not to camp.
4.2. Free Camping: Embrace the Outback
For those with caravans or campervans, the Nullarbor offers numerous free camping opportunities. However, be prepared for limited facilities.
4.3. Showers and Water Availability
Most roadhouses offer showers for a small fee (around $4). Water is scarce, so conserve it where possible. Cocklebiddy Roadhouse has a coin-operated tap dispensing 10 liters for $2.
5. Top Attractions: What to See on Your Nullarbor Drive
The Nullarbor isn’t just a long, straight road; it’s dotted with unique attractions and natural wonders.
5.1. Norseman: The Last Town
Norseman is the last town before entering the Nullarbor proper. Stock up on supplies, fuel, and water here.
5.2. Jimberlana Hill Rest Area
Located 6km outside Norseman, this free camp offers a basic but quiet place to rest.
5.3. Balladonia Roadhouse: Skylab Museum
This roadhouse features a museum dedicated to the Skylab space station, which broke apart and fell to earth near Balladonia in 1979.
5.3.1. Skylab History
Pieces of Skylab landed near Balladonia, and a local teenager, Stan Thornton, found several pieces, winning a $10,000 prize.
5.3.2. Museum Highlights
See pieces of Skylab, including sheet metal and wiring, along with media memorabilia.
5.4. 90 Mile Straight Sign: A Photo Op
The 90 Mile Straight is one of the longest straight stretches of road in the world (146 km). Stop for a photo at the iconic sign.
5.5. Central Western Time Zone: The Secret Time Zone
The Nullarbor has an unofficial time zone, Central Western Time (UTC + 8:45), observed east of Caiguna to the SA border.
5.6. Royal Flying Doctor Service Runways
Parts of the Eyre Highway serve as emergency runways for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). These are signposted with widened road verges.
5.7. Western Australia/South Australia Border
Crossing the border involves quarantine inspections, especially when heading west into WA.
5.7.1. Quarantine Regulations
No fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, plants, or soil are allowed into WA. Check the WA Government website for the latest regulations.
5.7.2. The Big Kangaroo
Take a photo with the Big Kangaroo at the Border Village, another iconic Nullarbor sight.
5.8. Bunda Cliffs: Breathtaking Coastal Views
The Bunda Cliffs are a highlight of the Nullarbor crossing, offering stunning views of the Great Australian Bight.
5.8.1. Whale Watching
Visit during winter (June to October) for whale watching. This area is a breeding ground for Southern Right Whales.
5.8.2. Free Camping on the Cliffs
Camp on the edge of Australia for a truly unforgettable experience. Look for tracks leading off the main road.
5.8.3. Safety Note
Be aware that the cliffs are unstable. Some campsites have been closed due to safety concerns.
5.9. Head of the Bight Whale Watching Centre
For a safer whale watching experience, visit the Head of the Bight Whale Watching Centre.
5.9.1. Facilities
The center offers boardwalks, lookouts, educational information, a café, and toilets.
5.9.2. Whale Season
Adult whales are most common in June and July, while calves appear later in the season.
5.10. Nullarbor Roadhouse: A Historical Stop
The Nullarbor Roadhouse, established in 1956, is one of the most iconic stops on the Nullarbor. The original building is now a museum.
5.11. Treeless Plain: The Heart of the Nullarbor
The actual Treeless Plain stretches for around 200km near the Nullarbor Roadhouse. Look for the signs marking the eastern and western ends.
5.12. Lake MacDonnell: A Pink Lake
Take a detour to Lake MacDonnell, known for its striking pink color.
5.13. Penong: Windmill Museum
Penong is the first town you reach heading east. Visit the windmill museum, featuring a large collection of windmills.
5.14. SA Quarantine Station
Before Ceduna, you’ll pass through the SA Quarantine station. Be prepared for inspections.
5.15. Ceduna: Seafood and the End of the Nullarbor
Ceduna is known for its seafood, especially oysters. It’s also the end (or beginning) of the Nullarbor Golf Link.
6. Essential Information for Crossing the Nullarbor
Here’s some essential information to help you plan your Nullarbor crossing.
6.1. Fuel Availability
Fuel is available at roadhouses along the Nullarbor. The longest stretch between roadhouses is 191km.
6.2. Food and Water
Fresh food is limited, so stock up beforehand. Water is scarce; conserve it and refill at roadhouses where possible.
6.3. Phone and Internet Service
Phone and internet service are patchy. Telstra users may find service at roadhouses.
7. Planning Your Itinerary: How Many Days?
How long should you spend crossing the Nullarbor?
7.1. Minimum Time
If you’re short on time, you could cross in two days.
7.2. Recommended Time
To enjoy the experience, allow 3-5 days. This allows time for exploring attractions and camping.
8. Best Time of Year to Cross the Nullarbor
Consider the time of year when planning your trip.
8.1. Summer
Summers can be very hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.
8.2. Winter
Winter offers more pleasant daytime temperatures, though nights can be cold.
9. Driving at Night: Not Recommended
Driving at night is not recommended due to the risk of encountering animals on the road.
10. Speed Limits and Road Safety
The maximum speed limit on the Nullarbor is 110km per hour. The road is one lane in each direction. Use a UHF radio to communicate with other drivers.
11. Continuing Your Journey: Where to Next?
After crossing the Nullarbor, where should you go next?
11.1. Eyre Peninsula
Explore the beautiful Eyre Peninsula in South Australia.
11.2. Outback Adventure
Head to Coober Pedy and the Oodnadatta Track for more outback experiences.
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13. Plan Your Adventure Today!
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FAQs About Crossing the Nullarbor
1. How long does it take to drive across the Nullarbor?
The distance from Ceduna to Norseman is 1200km. You could cross the Nullarbor in two days if you were pushed for time, but allowing 3-5 days lets you enjoy the experience, stay on the Bunda Cliffs, and visit historical spots.
2. How many fuel stops are along the Nullarbor?
There are 10 roadhouses along the Nullarbor, spaced out every couple of hundred kilometers. The longest distance between fuel stops is 191km. It’s a misconception that you need to carry extra fuel.
3. When is the best time of year to cross the Nullarbor?
Summers can get very hot, with daytime temperatures regularly over 30 degrees Celsius. During winter, the daytime temperatures are much more pleasant, although the nights can get very cold.
4. Can you drive the Nullarbor at night?
It’s not recommended to drive along the Eyre Highway at night. Like any outback road, there may be animals close to the road, posing a danger to drivers. Time your drive to arrive at a roadhouse or campsite before sunset.
5. Is there a speed limit on the Nullarbor?
The maximum speed limit on the Nullarbor is 110km per hour. The road is only one lane in each direction. If you have a UHF radio, consider using it to communicate with slower drivers you wish to pass.
6. What should I pack for a Nullarbor road trip?
Essentials include plenty of water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, and a reliable map or GPS device.
7. Are there any toilet facilities along the Nullarbor?
Toilet facilities are available at roadhouses and some rest areas. However, it’s advisable to carry your own portable toilet, especially if you plan on free camping.
8. What kind of vehicle is best for crossing the Nullarbor?
A reliable and well-maintained vehicle is essential. SUVs, 4WDs, or campervans are popular choices due to their durability and suitability for long distances. Ensure your vehicle is serviced before departure.
9. Is it safe to drink water from the roadhouse taps?
Water from roadhouse taps is generally safe but can have a strong mineral taste due to bore water. Consider bringing your own water filter or purchasing bottled water.
10. What should I do in case of a breakdown?
Stay with your vehicle, especially during hot weather. If you have a satellite phone or emergency beacon, use it to call for help. Otherwise, wait for another vehicle to pass and offer assistance. Roadhouses can also provide assistance.
