Caves Road Itinerary
The Caves Road Scenic Drive is an amazing road trip located in Australia that takes you from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin, a distance of approximately 73 miles. The best time to experience this drive is during the summer months when you can enjoy the wonderful landscapes and beaches along the route. Be aware that the roads can be quite narrow in some places, and the overall road conditions are not always ideal. But despite this, the Caves Road Scenic Drive is well worth the effort and will provide you with an unforgettable experience and memories that you will cherish forever. This road trip is suitable for any driver, and you can easily manage it on a moderate budget.
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number of days
117 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Cape Naturaliste
Distance 117 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
35.2 kWh
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Cape Naturaliste is an idyllic spot in Australia, located in Western Australia's south-west corner. It is the perfect start point for the "Caves Road Scenic Drive" road trip and offers a wide range of attractions which make it a great holiday destination. Nearby, travelers can explore the Ngilgi Cave and the Yallingup Maze, both of which offer unique experiences. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as surfing, fishing, bushwalking, and whale watching.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Perth Airport (IATA: PER). There are several car rental companies located at the airport, making it easy to start the "Caves Road Scenic Drive" from Cape Naturaliste.
Cape Naturaliste has something for everybody. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, you'll find plenty to do here. From exploring the nearby Ngilgi Cave and Yallingup Maze to enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy during your stay.
So, if you're looking for the perfect start point for your "Caves Road Scenic Drive" road trip, look no further than Cape Naturaliste. With its stunning scenery, exciting activities, and easy access from Perth Airport, it's the perfect destination for your next holiday.
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Cape Naturaliste
- Cape Leeuwin
Distance 117 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
35.2 kWh
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View map
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin? This journey of 73 miles will take you less than 2 hours to complete. Along the way, you will be able to enjoy the picturesque landscapes, the winding roads, and the historical sites. Pay close attention to the narrow sections of the road. You will be able to find a variety of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, so make sure to check the itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Margaret River, visit the world-famous Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, and explore the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Don't forget to take pictures of the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. End your trip at the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and enjoy a picnic at the nearby glen. This is one of the most beautiful road trips you can take in Australia. Enjoy your journey!
Cape Leeuwin - Australia - Oceania - Scenic Drive - Pixabay
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Cape Leeuwin
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Cape Leeuwin in Australia is the perfect destination for anyone looking to end their road trip on a high note. Located at the end of the famous Caves Road Scenic Drive, Cape Leeuwin is one of the most stunning coastal locations in the country.
The cape is the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet, making for spectacular sunsets and amazing views. The nearby Leeuwin naturaliste national park is home to incredible wildlife, and the lighthouse at the cape is one of the most iconic in Australia.
The town of Cape Leeuwin is a great place to explore, with its stunning beaches, unique shops and restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are plenty of wonderful options for accommodation, ranging from luxurious resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts.
For those traveling by car, the Caves Road Scenic Drive is the perfect way to access the area. The road winds through stunning countryside and coastal towns, with plenty of stops along the way.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Perth International Airport (PER). From there, it’s just a short drive to the cape.
Cape Leeuwin is the perfect place to end any road trip, and with its breathtaking views and incredible wildlife, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Caves Road at a glance
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Start:
Cape Naturaliste
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End:
Cape Leeuwin
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Distance:
117 km
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Stay:
1 day
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Caves Road Scenic Drive, an iconic 118 kilometers (73 miles) route winding from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin in Western Australia. This picturesque drive traverses the heart of the Margaret River wine region, renowned for its lush landscapes, premium wineries, and dramatic coastlines. Prepare to be captivated by the raw beauty of the Australian bushland, the turquoise allure of the Indian Ocean, and the untouched charm of the region's pristine beaches.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Cape Naturaliste: Starting point of the drive, offering sweeping ocean vistas from its lighthouse. The cape's gentle walking trails are perfect for spotting migrating whales during the season and a rich array of local flora and fauna.
- Cape Leeuwin: At Australia's extreme southwestern tip, this area is steeped in maritime history. The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse stands as a sentinel where the Indian Ocean meets the Southern Ocean. It's a prime spot for witnessing some of the world's most treacherous seas merging.
- Beaches: Discover an array of stunning beaches like the famous surf breaks at Yallingup and the tranquil waters of Hamelin Bay, where friendly stingrays often greet visitors in the shallows.
- Limestone Caves: Delve into the subterranean wonderland of ancient limestone caves. Jewel Cave is the largest show cave in Western Australia, Lake Cave features a tranquil lake and unique 'suspended table' formation, and Mammoth Cave offers self-guided tours through its fossil-rich chambers.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal time to take the Caves Road Scenic Drive is during the Australian summer, from December to February, when the region basks in sunshine, making outdoor pursuits more enjoyable. However, spring (September to November) is also a fabulous time to visit, with wildflowers in bloom and cooler temperatures.
Potential Risks:
- The road can be narrow and winding in places, requiring a focused driving approach.
- Be aware that road conditions can vary, with some stretches potentially rough or less maintained.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as kangaroos and emus, which may cross roads unexpectedly, particularly during dawn and dusk.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- This journey is considered moderately budget-friendly, with options for various accommodations and dining ranging from campgrounds to luxury retreats.
- Drivers across the spectrum, from novices to seasoned road warriors, will find the drive accessible and enjoyable.
- It's advisable to schedule stops and detours along the way, like visiting the Boranup Forest, to immerse in the towering karri trees or having a taste of the local viticulture at the Margaret River wineries.
A good choice for:
The Caves Road Scenic Drive is a quintessential Australian odyssey, encompassing a diverse array of landscapes and attractions that appeal to adventurers, gastronomes, and serenity-seekers. It's a journey that offers a slice of Australia's vast beauty, from the rugged coastline to the serene forests, with each turn revealing another aspect of this stunning corner of the world.