What better way to see some of natural wonders this summer than by foot. Here are five to ponder during your Australian road trip adventure.

The Pinnacle Lookout, The Grampians, Vic (a three hour drive north west from Melbourne on the Western Hwy) – Magnificent views await you along this 5.5km circuit. Cross rivers and pass amazing rock formations in this walker’s paradise. Park your wheels: Halls Gap Caravan and Tourist Park, powered campsites starting from $34 a night.

Emmagen Beach and Creek, Daintree Rainforest, QLD (a two and a half hour drive north of Cairns along Cape Tribulation Rd/Captain Cook Hwy) –Start your 5 hour journey from Cape Tribulation, passing through the oldest living tropical rainforest on earth, before being mesmerised by the stunning Emmagen Beach. Park your wheels: Cape Tribulation Camping, powered sites starting from $40.

Cradle Mountain summit, TAS  (a two hour drive north of Queenstown along A10) – An eight hour return hike for challenge-seekers. Starting at the marvelous Dove Lake, pass through Cradle Plateau before experiencing sweeping views from the summit. Park your wheels at Discovery Holiday Parks – Cradle Mountain, powered sites starting from $49.

Sacred Canyon Walk, Flinders Ranges National Park, SA (a six hour drive north of Adelaide along National Hwy A1) – a short walk, but you could spend hours admiring spectacular rock formations and Aboriginal art carved into this picturesque landscape. Park your wheels: Big4 Hawker Holiday Park, powered sites starting from $26.

Katoomba Falls walk, Blue Mountains, NSW – (a one and a half hour drive west of Sydney along the Great Western Hwy/National Route 32). This 2 hour return walk treats you to several small waterfalls cascading for 55 metres into the Jamison Valley. Park your wheels: Katoomba Falls Caravan Park, powered sites start from $36.

ROSETTA BAKER

Here are five to ponder, complete with recommended caravan parks where you can park your wheels.

SUMMADAYZE (January 5, Gold Coast)
If you have spent all winter rocking to the beats of Fedde LeGrand, Adrian Lux and Icona Pop, then don’t miss Summadayze this summer! Park your wheels: Gold Coast Holiday Park, Helensvale. Powered sites starting from $36.

BIG DAY OUT (Jan 18, Sydney)
What’s a good summer without a big day out? If you’re down for a party and a killer line up, including the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Bloody Beetroots, head to Sydney Olympic Park. Park your wheels: Bass Hill Tourist Park. Powered sites starting from $35.

PYRAMID ROCK FESTIVAL (December 29 – January 1, Phillip Island, Vic)
Party your way into the new year with the annual Pyramid Rock Festival at Phillip Island. You and your mates are sure to have a blast and cool down at the nearby beach when you’re not tuning into an incredibly good line-up that includes Kate Miller-Heidke, Pnau and Tame Impala. Park your wheels: Big4 Phillip Island Caravan Park. Powered sites starting from $32.

A DAY ON THE GREEN (Nov 24 – Dec 1, Coldstream, Vic)
A one hour drive from Melbourne along the M3 and Maroondah Hwy. A day on the green under the sun in the country is all you need for the perfect day of summer fun. Daryl Braithwaite, Lisa Mitchell, and Simple Minds are some of the big names starring in this festival running throughout the country from November through to March. Park your wheels: Big4 Badger Creek Holiday Park, Healesville. Powered sites starting from $45.

WoMAD (March 8 – 11, Adelaide, SA)

Here’s one that you have a bit of time to plan for. If you’re looking for a friendly family atmosphere in a lovely setting, then the WoMAD festival in Adelaide’s Botanical Gardens in early March is the place to be. Catch a glimpse of some street theatre, browse some charity stalls and enjoy some of the world’s best traditional and contemporary musicians and dancers. Park your wheels: Adelaide Caravan Park. Powered sites starting from $36.

SCOTT PODMORE & BRIANNA PIAZZA

CYNDI Lauper made the call back in 1983 and there’s no doubt one of the best ways for girls who wanna have fun Down Under is to head off on the great Aussie road trip. But where to go?

With Spring in the air and Summer just around the corner, I called upon five friends from five different Australian states and asked the question: What’s your ultimate girls’ weekend road trip getaway after you grab a car hire at the airport? Here are their answers …

VICTORIA

Daylesford. A 90 minute drive from Melbourne along Western Hwy/C141 (115km).

“No question, has to be Daylesford, the perfect road trip for girls as it’s not to far and once you get there it’s heaven. In this former gold mining town surrounded by mountains you will find Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa. Wow. It’s definitely a treat. Hepburn is known for its natural spring mineral spas, where you can treat yourselves to well-deserved massages and body treatments. It’s also great to take in the thick forest scenery from your window as you sit back and relax. You also have to dine out at Frangos & Frangos.” - Amy, 36, Bentleigh.

QUEENSLAND

Byron Bay. A 2 hour drive from Brisbane along M1/Pacific Hwy/National Route 1 (165km).

“It’s becoming a little bit more commercialised every year, but it still doesn’t mean Byron Bay is any less appealing. In fact, it’s still as amazing as ever with a really relaxed vibe. Byron has several spas to choose from, including the Kiva Spa and Bathhouse, which has a Southeast Asian atmosphere. Spend some time in Kiva’s spas, sauna and plunge pool before pampering yourselves with massages and skin treatment. After that, relax at Byron Bay’s world famous beaches, only 15 minutes away.” - Renee, 51, Brisbane.

NSW

Hunter Valley. A 3 hour drive north of Sydney along Tourist Drive 33 (220km).

“You’ve got to visit Chateau Elan, a $40 million spa retreat, which has an extensive spa menu where you and the girls can choose from a range of different massages, including Balinese Palming. With its French inspired café, a golf course and a hair salon, the girls are in for a treat!” - Sheree, 45, Pagewood.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Barossa Valley Wine Region. A 1 hour drive from Adelaide along Princes Hwy and Sturt Hwy (70km).

“If you feel like some delicious wine and a relaxing weekend away then then Barossa Valley is the place to go! Most definitely without question. Sample some wine at one of the several vineyards on the way to the Endota Spa, an award-winning franchise. Relax with the girls and enjoy all kinds of treatments fit for a princess.” – Lisa, 29, Glenelg.

TASMANIA

Freycinet National Park. A 3 hour drive north of Hobart along A3 (200km).

“Head straight to Tassie’s Freycinet region, home to Wineglass Bay, and you will find the Saffire Freycinet – it’s perfect for a girls weekend away in Australia. With the Freycinet National Park Campground not far away, the Saffire overlooks Great Oyster Bay’s pristine coast. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, venture out to the surrounding white sandy beaches to soak up the sun after your luxurious spa treatment.” Fiona, 41, Hobart.

SCOTT PODMORE

With hundreds of hotspots to park your wheels (and your beach towel), we dig up five great beach destinations within 2 to 5 hours away in your DriveNow car rental.

Apollo Bay, Vic
The journey: Only two and a half hours from Melbourne (along M1/ Great Ocean Road).
The lowdown: With lots of sunshine and warm weather, what better time is there to relax and enjoy the southernmost town on the Great Ocean Road? Both surfers and swimmers can enjoy the 3km beach that fronts the main strip of shops in Apollo Bay. A popular summer destination, if you are looking for an adventure you have the entire Great Ocean Road to explore further.

Minnamurra Beach, NSW
The journey: Not even two hours south of Sydney (along National Route 1/Metroad 5) and you will bump into Minnamurra Beach.
The lowdown: Also known as ‘Mystics’ Beach, this beautiful coastline has one of the best surf beaches on NSW’s south coast. If surfing in paradise isn’t enough, the area is also home to a rainforest as well as two famous blowholes that are a must-see for travellers. Everything you need for some summer fun.

Castaways Beach, QLD
The journey: Two hours from Brisbane (along Bruce Hwy/M1).
The lowdown: Castaways Beach is one of Noosa’s eastern beaches. Dog lovers and families will have a ball here as many sections of the beach are dog-friendly. Nestled between Sunshine and Peregian Beaches, other beach activities include fishing, surfing and, of course, soaking up the sun.

Bay of Fires, TAS
The journey: Three and a half hours from Hobart (along Midland Hwy/National Hwy 1).
The lowdown: This pristine coastal area showcases a dramatic landscape, full of wildlife and in an area steeped in history. Summer is the best time to witness its bright blue water and white sandy beaches. With a range of activities, this beautiful and untouched landscape promises to smack you in the senses – in a relaxing way, of course.

Red Banks, SA
The journey: Three and a half hour drive from Adelaide (along B23).
The lowdown: One of Kangaroo Island’s best-kept secrets, Red Banks will spoil you with a quiet beach and bright red and orange cliffs. We recommend you sit on top of the cliffs on a summer evening and watch the sun set. Be sure to have you camera ready as the last golden rays of the day shimmer over the bay and light up the magnificent cliffs for a sight not to be missed.

Brisbane to Caloundra

Tune in to the sixth annual Caloundra Music Festival (right) held over the September 28-30 weekend at Kings Beach.

Just over an hour’s drive north of Brisbane in your car rental, Kings Beach fires up to some of the best names in the Australian and international music industry. This year features acts such as The Living End, John Butler Trio and The Cat Empire. There’s a street parade, roving performers, beach-side carnival, buskers and children’s entertainment as well.

Roll up to the Sunshine Holiday Park at Dicky’s Beach or the Caloundra Waterfront Holiday Park and be only a couple of kilometres away from the action.

Check out http://www.caloundramusicfestival.com/

Melbourne to Deniliquin

Give yourself a leisurely four hours to get to Deniliquin in your Melbourne car rental. Get onto the Hume Hwy and then follow the long snake of utes making their way via Echuca, to the Cobb Hwy which takes you to Deni.

The Deniliquin Ute Muster and Play on the Plains Festival runs September 28 to 29 and appeals to all ages. Don your blue singlet to be a part of a world record count, then watch The Australian National Circle Work Championships, ute driving and show ‘n shine events. Kelly Clarkson, Lee Kernaghan and The McClymonts form part of the music festival line-up.
You didn’t rent a ute? Never mind, the festival site has camping for utes, cars, caravans, tents and campervans.

Check out http://www.visitnsw.com/events/deni-play-on-the-plains-festival-and-world-record-ute-muster

Sydney to Evans Head

Soak up some sun and nostalgia at the Annual Malibu Classic, held September 29 to October 1.

See 120 long-boarders from Victoria to the Sunshine Coast take part in this prestigious event and relive glory days as the “retro” divisions go through their paces. You’ll need to allow an eight-hour drive in your Sydney car hire  via the Pacific Hwy, so, if you’re in a camper, pull up at the Silver Sands Holiday Park when you arrive at Evans Head and take advantage of its relaxing facilities.

Check out http://www.visitnsw.com/events/malibu-classic

Adelaide to Wallaroo

Love to fish and then feast on the catch? Then check out the fourth Copper Cove Marina Festival on October 6 and 7.

About a two hour drive in your Adelaide car rental, the Wallaroo event combines the best products and produce from local boating, seafood and wine suppliers, all displayed at the multi-million dollar Copper Cove Marina. Stay nearby and enjoy the beach at Wallaroo North Beach Tourist Park.

Check out http://www.eventssa.com.au/south_australia/adelaide/eventssa_listings/2012_copper_cove_festival.html

QUEENSLAND

Where: Brisbane to Bundaberg. Grab your Brisbane campervan rental and jump on Bruce Highway (M1) for four hours for a cool Queensland road trip weekend escape.
What to do: Head for the Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour – and a tasting, of course – find out how our country’s famous rum is made, watch out for drop bears and pull up a stool at the bar to finish the day with some Bundy cocktails.
Park your wheels: At Bargara Holiday Park, only 10 minutes east of Bundy and on the beach. Close to cafes and restaurants, golf courses, fishing and surfing. Powered sites start from $32 a night.

NSW

Where: Sydney to the Hunter Valley. A couple of hours’ drive in your Sydney campervan rental on the F3 and then take the Cessnock exit.
What to do: Visit the Hunter’s only microbrewery, the Hunter Beer Co at Potters Hotel and Brewery. Join a tour, talk to the brewers or just sit back in the beer garden, have a meal and sip some award-winning beers.
Park your wheels: At BIG4 Valley Vineyard Tourist Park where you will find powered caravan and tent sites at $35 a night. For those who want to stay put, there is a BYO Thai Restaurant, resort pool and BBQ facilities.

VICTORIA

Where: Melbourne to Healesville, just an hour’s drive in your Melbourne campervan rental on the Maroondah Highway.
What to do: Think Alice in Wonderland and high-tail it to the White Rabbit Brewery, where tradition is mixed with imagination and the result is some amazing beer tasting experiences.
Park your wheels: At Big4 Badger Creek Holiday Park, five minutes away from the White Rabbit. Nestled in a bush and lake setting, the park offers great walks and fishing, and the wineries of the Yarra Valley are close at hand. Powered sites are $35 a night.

MAUREEN DOYLE

When it comes to choosing a Australian hire car, find a vehicle that is roomy and comfortable enough for several adults. You might even decide to stay in a holiday park, so a campervan may be the way to go.

So if girls just want to have fun, where do they go?

In your Melbourne car rental head for Daylesford. This beautiful town in Spa Country in Victoria has an excellent reputation for accommodation, restaurants and relaxing spa treatments. It’s a 110km (one and a half hour) drive from Melbourne taking the Western Freeway (M8) and getting off at the Daylesford exit at Ballan. On the way home you could take the Calder Freeway and explore Hanging Rock and Mt Macedon along the way. Park the car, have a relaxing walk around Lake Daylesford and then make your way to the Lake House, where you can enjoy a one night indulgence retreat package for up to four people, which includes wining and dining with your own personal butler services and magnificent spa treatments.

Margaret River, WA is 267km (just over 3 hours drive in your Western Australia car rental) south of Perth – State Route 2 and Bussell Hwy/State Route 10. You will find Yelverton Brook Luxury spa eco-chalets nestled in the area’s wine region. The “Girls Only Pamper Retreat” for four includes two nights in a two bedroom chalet, a large private “spa under the stars”, gourmet food, spa treatments and a five-star stretch limo winery tour.

In NSW, for a beautiful coastal drive and unique experience, Paperbark Camp in Jervis Bay (197.5 km, almost three hours from Sydney - Princes Hwy/National Route 1) is on the banks of the Currambene Creek, ideal for those who love being close to nature, but appreciate life’s little luxuries – accommodation is a safari style tent and freshly prepared food is provided.

For those up North, picking up a Cairns campervan rental and taking the short, half-hour drive to Kuranda Rainforest Accomodation Park, would allow you to set up camp in an ancient rainforest, be a 20-minute walk away from the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway, and get in some shopping at the renowned market precinct.

SO, you’ve packed the kids in a Brisbane campervan rental and you’re ready for adventure, but suddenly find you’re not quite sure to go from there? The answer is a no-brainer. Hit the motorway, head south for an hour, take exit No.60 and Gold Coast Holiday Park (www.goldcoastholidaypark.com.au) awaits.

Gold Coast Holiday Park is perfectly located in Helensvale, right in the heart of theme park territory, and it’s literally walking distance away from Movie World, Wet’n'Wild and the Australian Outback Spectacular, while only a short drive from Dreamworld, Whitewater World and Seaworld.

Park owner Theo Whitmont told me that one of the big bonuses for families staying at Gold Coast Holiday Park is the seamless way those families can score great deals and be organised for the theme parks the minute they arrive.

“Absolutely, simply let our Tour Desk arrange all your tickets and if you contact us before you arrive, your tickets will be ready to pick up on arrival and you can avoid the queues and walk right in through the VIP entrance,” Theo explained. “We have great packages, VIP access and offers – no one beats our ticket deals with the theme parks in Queensland.”

Gold Coast Holiday Park is a destination in itself. It’s the preeminent holiday park on the Gold Coast with a young, fresh, happy team who love the fact that they can bring people drea m holidays that they remember for years. Set on 32 spacious acres, there are accommodation options for all walks of life from camp grounds to powered sites and exceptional villas. The facilities are spotless and cater for everyone with a great camp kitchen, laundry, giant jumping pillow and buggy hire for the kids.

Just about everything in the place is brand new or beautifully renovated including a spectacular pool with a fantastic water slide and poolside cabanas, poolside alfresco dining, a great little cafe, 5 star villas that are out of this world, big rig sites and gorgeous riverside camping. You can hire a kayak, sink your fangs into free pancakes and sausages sizzles every week. There’s also a little moonlight cinema under the stars which lets you relax on a balmy evening with the family and enjoy an open air movie. For more info visit www.goldcoastholidaypark.com.au

SCOTT PODMORE

Gone are the days when pet-friendly accommodation consisted of mildew walls and flea ridden couches, or when you had to re-mortgage your home to pay the kennel to keep your beloved pooch fed, watered and entertained.

These days, there are a range of pet friendly holiday accommodation options that will ensure fun for all the family, two and four legged creatures alike.  Here are some of our favourites:

Puri Pantali Beach House – Byron Bay New South Wales

With pooch in your Gold Coast hire car, head for the hinterland and beach all rolled into one in the beautiful areas surrounding Byron Bay. Nestled on the exclusive Tallow Beach, Puri Pantali House affords absolute beachfront location in luxury Balinese style.  The house has four bedrooms, each with ensuite, catering for up to eight people comfortably.  Open plan living and a kitchen complete with state of the art appliances will ensure you feel right at home.   A private salt water solar heated pool will keep the kids entertained, while the stone paved pergola area and tropical gardens provide a romantic setting for adults.  Best of all, pets are welcome! $1000 – $2000 per night.

Cape Otway Cottages – Great Ocean Road Victoria

Providing creature comforts for four legged and two legged creatures alike, Cape Otway Cottages is a short drive in your Melbourne car rental along the famous Great Ocean Road.  The 60-acre property provides plenty of great walks for man and beast.  As you crack a bottle of champagne to celebrate your arrival, your pampered pooch will also have reason to celebrate, with a comfy bed next to the wood fire, silver service dog bowls and complimentary dog treats provided.  With an array of different cottage options of varying sizes, you are sure to find something that sill suit your family.  Prices start from $225 per night.

Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park, Queensland

Between Cairns and Townville lies Kurrimine Beach Holiday Park.  The quiet fishing village provides the perfect backdrop to a dream family camping escape as you scoot off in your Cairns hire car or Brisbane car rental and into paradise. The Park offers self-contained cabins and large private sites, set among long deserted dog friendly beaches, salt water swimming pool and an array of great fishing spots.  Self contained cabins form $65 per night, powered camp sites from $22 and unpowered camp sites from $19.

Peppermint Tree Lodge, Peppermint Grove Beach, Western Australia

Half-way between Bunbury and Busselton, Peppermint Tree Lodge offers oceanfront accommodation just 40 meters from the beach.  Choose from three uniquely designed houses and a spa villa, all air conditioned and with wood fires to keep you comfortable no matter what time of the year you visit.  Pets are allowed inside and there is a dog beach directly in front of the house.  Relax and keep an eye out for dolphins from the luxury of your own Jacuzzi style outdoor spa. Prices start at $250 a night.

By Scott Podmore and Karly Hickman