What highway goes all the way around Australia?

Highway 1: Encircling the Australian Continent

Australia’s vast coastline, spanning over 25,760 kilometers (15,970 miles), is a breathtaking natural wonder. Encircling this coastline is a remarkable feat of engineering known as Highway 1, an extensive network of roads that traverses the entire continent.

Highway 1 is a continuous highway that circumnavigates Australia, forming a colossal loop that connects major cities, coastal towns, and remote outposts. While some sections of the highway deviate from the coastline, it remains the primary artery for overland travel around the country.

Key Features of Highway 1

This extraordinary highway boasts several key features:

• Coastal Deviations: While predominantly hugging the coast, Highway 1 occasionally ventures inland to navigate geographical obstacles or connect major population centers.
• Varied Landscapes: The journey along Highway 1 exposes travelers to a breathtaking array of landscapes, from towering rock formations to lush rainforests, expansive deserts to pristine beaches.
• Major Cities: The highway connects major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, and Darwin, providing convenient access to urban centers and their amenities.
• Historical Significance: Highway 1 played a vital role in the development of Australia, facilitating trade, communication, and exploration. It has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations and has become an intrinsic part of the country’s history.

Sections of Highway 1

The highway is divided into several sections, each with its unique characteristics:

• East Coast: The eastern section of Highway 1, known as the Pacific Highway and Princes Highway, offers stunning coastal views and connects major cities along the eastern seaboard.
• South Coast: The southern section, known as the Princes Highway and Great Ocean Road, showcases rugged cliffs, ancient rainforests, and world-renowned surfing beaches.
• West Coast: The western section, known as the Eyre Highway and Northwest Coastal Highway, traverses vast deserts and remote coastal towns, providing glimpses of the outback and Indian Ocean.
• North Coast: The northern section, known as the Stuart Highway, Gibb River Road, and Savannah Way, navigates the rugged terrain of the Top End, passing through national parks and Aboriginal communities.

Experiencing Highway 1

Driving Highway 1 is an unforgettable Australian adventure. It offers the opportunity to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, witness its rich history, and connect with local communities. Whether you choose to embark on the entire circuit or tackle individual sections, Highway 1 provides a unique and unforgettable journey around the continent.