Detour-Worthy Drives You Won’t Regret Taking

The best road trips aren’t always about getting from point A to point B. Sometimes, the real magic happens when you veer off-course—whether it’s chasing a coastline, finding a hidden pie shop, or rolling into a one-pub town with unbeatable views. In this post, we’re spotlighting those spontaneous, off-the-main-road detours that are 100% worth the extra fuel and time.

Table of Contents

1. Why Detours Make the Drive

The thing about a detour is that it shifts the whole vibe. Instead of staring at the GPS ETA, you start paying attention to what’s around you—open paddocks, old farmhouses, roadside stands. These unscheduled turns often lead to the most memorable parts of a trip: random wildlife sightings, surprise beach access, or a lookout that makes you pull over just to breathe it all in.

Road trips shouldn’t feel rushed, and detours are the perfect reminder that the journey is the destination.

2. Classic Aussie Side Routes You’ll Love

A few tried-and-tested detours that deliver:

The scenic loop from Hobart to Richmond via Grasstree Hill Road
A quieter road with rolling hills and wine stops.
Great Ocean Road’s Cape Otway turnoff
Less crowded than the main strip—think lighthouses, koalas, and rugged coast.
Detour from Sydney to Blue Mountains via Bells Line of Road
A winding, scenic alternative with farm shops and apple pie stops.
Old Pacific Highway between Sydney and Newcastle
Twists, turns, and old-school roadhouses with decent coffee and great views.

Each adds time—but none of it feels wasted.

3. Tips for Spotting a Good Detour

Here’s how to know when to trust your gut and take that exit:

Look for brown tourist signs – often point to national parks, historical sites, or scenic lookouts.
Follow the food – if there’s a regional bakery or farmer’s market, it’s usually worth the turn.
Trust the locals – quick chat at the servo or café can reveal hidden gems nearby.
Check road quality – dirt roads can be fun, but make sure your vehicle (and tyres) are up for it.

A good detour feels like an adventure, not a headache—so don’t push it if the conditions look rough.

4. What to Pack for a Worthwhile Side Trip

Detours are better when you’re ready for them. Keep these on hand:

A full tank (or at least a solid half).
Offline maps or screenshots—mobile service can be patchy.
Snacks, water, and that emergency sausage roll from earlier.
A sense of humour, in case the road is slower than expected.

Bonus: a camera or phone with space for new photos. You’re likely to see something worth snapping.

Conclusion

Taking the long way doesn’t just add kilometres—it adds stories. The detours you take on a whim often become the ones you remember most. So next time your map suggests a longer route, or you see a sign for something unexpected, say yes. Regret doesn’t live on scenic backroads.

Want a car that’s road trip-ready and detour-approved? Start your next journey with YesDrive and explore the roads less travelled.