Is there a sealed road around Australia?

The Myth of the Sealed Road Around Australia

The idea of a sealed road encircling the entire continent of Australia has been a persistent misconception for decades. However, the reality is that this road does not exist in its entirety.

While there are sections of the Silver City Highway that run through the outback, not all of these sections are paved. Travelers who wish to embark on a road trip around the continent without encountering any unpaved sections must take a slightly different route.

The Alternative Route

To avoid unpaved sections, travelers should follow the following alternative route:

1. Start in Charleville, Queensland: The inland town of Charleville marks the beginning of the sealed route.

2. Head towards Cobar, New South Wales: From Charleville, travel south to Cobar, passing through the towns of Cunnamulla, Bourke, and Nyngan.

3. Continue to Broken Hill, New South Wales: Cobar is connected to Broken Hill by the sealed Barrier Highway.

4. Finish at Adelaide, South Australia: From Broken Hill, follow the Stuart Highway to Port Augusta and then take the Eyre Highway to Adelaide.

This route ensures that travelers will encounter only sealed roads throughout their journey. The total distance is approximately 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles), and the driving time varies depending on stops and traffic.

Conclusion

The myth of a sealed road around Australia has been debunked. While sections of the Silver City Highway exist, they are not continuously paved. Travelers seeking a hassle-free road trip without unpaved sections should follow the alternative route outlined above.