Boranup Drive is a great road under the majestic karri trees

Boranup Drive is a great road under the majestic karri trees

Australia, oceania

Length

13.8 km

Elevation

222 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, road trip dreamers, listen up! If you're anywhere near the Margaret River region of Western Australia (think: three hours southwest of Perth), you HAVE to experience Boranup Drive.

This 13.8 km (8.5-mile) gem winds right through the incredible Boranup Karri Forest inside Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park. It's a gravel road, so while you can totally do it in a 2WD, be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride – we're talking corrugations, potholes, the works! Keep your speed down, though, because it's narrow, and you'll want to share the road.

You can tackle it year-round, and trust me, you should. The views are unreal! Cruise up to the Boranup Lookout (222m/728ft high) for panoramic vistas of the coastline, the towering Karri trees, and Hamelin Bay. It’s near the southern end of the road. Plus, the lookout's the starting point for some great bushwalks and has a perfect picnic spot.

Honestly, the forest itself is the star here. It is just magical. And hey, you're in the Margaret River region! That means wineries galore, plus caves, surf beaches, and nature trails. Basically, it's a paradise for everyone! Don't even THINK of leaving your camera at home!

Where is it?

Boranup Drive is a great road under the majestic karri trees is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -26.0820, 130.9899

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Road Details

Country
Australia
Continent
oceania
Length
13.8 km
Max Elevation
222 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
-26.0820, 130.9899

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