Are you looking for a road trip that you can enjoy from Sydney? Our trip from Sydney to Dubbo is a fantastic option for anyone who doesn’t want to dedicate days to travelling in a campervan/ Sydney to Dubbo takes around five hours of driving, but there are so many places to stop along the way that you can absolutely make it a road trip for all of the family to enjoy.
We have all the best places that you should stop along the way to make the most out of your trip!
Stop 1 – Sydney
Before setting off from Sydney, make some time to check out what the city has to offer. We recommend two stops here. The first is Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour, where you can enjoy some of the best ice cream in Australia. Annie’s uses fresh ice cream made daily, with a variety of flavours to choose from. They offer dairy and gluten-free options, too, ensuring that everyone is catered for.
It’s also worth spending some time at the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden. It is Australia’s oldest scientific institution and offers a chance to stretch your legs before your drive begins. There are plenty of native and imported plants to explore here, as well as walking trails to take advantage of.
Stop 2 – Leura
Take a break and explore Leura, especially the cascades. Leura Cascades are one of the most popular stops in the Blue Mountains, and you only need to walk a short trail to see the stunning waterfall. It’s a great place for a break, and there is a viewpoint at the top that is the perfect place to take a photo.
Fortress Ridge is another place that you should visit when you stop. It’s accessed by an easy walking trail where you will enjoy views of Grose Valley and Fortress Canyon, with a chance to spot some wildlife. If you want to enjoy a true adventure, visit Dr Dark’s Cave, a cave where Dr Eric Dark and his family spend time as their secret retreat. The cave has been preserved, and you can see some of their items left in the cave.
Stop 3 – Bathurst
Bathurst has plenty of sights to enjoy, including Mount Panorama Racing Circuit, where you can see race cars in action. There is a National Motor Racing Museum, too, where you can stop to enjoy some memorabilia and learn something about the sport.
You can also spend some time at the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum, which offers fun for the whole family. You can enjoy Australia’s largest collection of fossils and gemstones, allowing you and your children to learn something on your trip. The gift shop is packed with souvenirs to help you remember your trip, too!
Stop 4 – Orange
Stopping at Orange allows you to see some of the best vineyards in Australia. We recommend Rowlee Wines, where you can tour their vineyards, sample some wine, and take a private picnic, soaking up stunning views. They also offer a sensory wine experience where you are guided through different wines, looking over the vineyard estate.
Lake Canobolas is another excellent stop, where you can spot native wildlife and birdlife, exploring all the natural beauty that the area has to offer. There is a great cafe for lunch, too, specialising in local produce, so you can really get a taste of everything Orange has to offer.
Stop 5 – Parkes
As your road trip draws to a close, stop at Parkes to visit The King’s Castle Elvis Exhibit in the Henry Parks Centre. Here, you will find everything you want to know about Elvis, including items from his home, tours, and stage outfits. You can enjoy a guided tour and purchase exclusive memorabilia.
After you’ve learnt about Elvis, head to Cooke Park in the centre of town. This is the perfect place for some games, a picnic, or to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. The pine trees offer plenty of shade, and there are several murals and statues to enjoy while you walk around the park.
Stop 6 – Dubbo
When you reach Dubbo, there is a lot to see and explore. The Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a great place to stop. You can enjoy guided tours or see the Zoo at your own pace, enjoying the huge collection of Asian, African and Australian animals being cared for. There is also the opportunity to camp overnight at the Zoo, which can be the perfect way to end your trip.
Peak Hill is another great place to stop. North of Dubbo, it is one of Australia’s best-loved small towns. There are lots of tourist attractions like the Open Cut Gold Mine, the Flora and Flora Reserve Nature Walker and Bogan Weir.
Start Planning Your Campervan Roadtrip Today
Now that you have your itinerary and a list of places to stop, it’s time to start planning your road trip. The best way to see these sights is from the comfort of a campervan, where you can drive, eat, and relax without needing to pay for hotels. You can find the best rates on campervan hire in Sydney here to help you start planning your road trip to Dubbo!
About Peter C.
Peter is a digital nomad who largely writes from Asia, Europe, and South America. Always following the "vibe," he sets up shop in hostels and AirBNB's and continues to entertain us with wild stories from life abroad. Ask him anything in our community forum. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
