Slow Roads and Small Towns: A New Way to Explore
Slow Roads and Small Towns: A New Way to Explore
You don’t need to chase the big-ticket stops to have a memorable road trip. Sometimes, the best experiences come from turning off the main highway, rolling into a quiet main street, and seeing where the day takes you. Australia’s small towns are full of unexpected charm—especially when you take the slow road to get there.
Table of Contents
Why Slow Roads Make for Better Drives
Fast roads get you from A to B—but slow roads let you see what’s in between. Taking your time on less-travelled routes makes space for conversation, curiosity, and connection. You’ll notice the landscape change, spot roadside stalls, and stumble across tiny galleries or bakeries you’d never find otherwise. It’s not just about the destination; it’s how you get there.
The Joy of Small-Town Discoveries
Small towns have a different rhythm. Things open when the locals are ready. People have time to chat. Cafés are filled with stories, not schedules. And whether it’s a general store that still sells everything or a pub that doubles as the post office, there’s a warmth that’s hard to replicate in the big cities.
NSW Routes to Take it Slow
The Bylong Valley Way
One of NSW’s best-kept secrets, this route connects the Hunter Valley to the Central Tablelands. The drive is scenic, winding through farmland and sandstone cliffs, with quiet stops like Rylstone or Kandos that are well worth a stroll.
Gerringong to Berry (via backroads)
Skip the Princes Highway and take the scenic farm roads. You’ll pass rolling green hills, roadside honesty boxes, and views of the sea in the distance. Perfect for a Sunday with no fixed plans.
Gundagai to Tumut
A beautiful inland drive where the Snowy Mountains edge closer with each kilometre. Detour into Tumblong for heritage charm, or just enjoy the peaceful pace of the river towns.
Quiet Tassie Drives Worth Every Turn
The Midlands Highway Detour
Instead of sticking to the main road from Hobart to Launceston, veer off to explore towns like Ross, Oatlands, and Campbell Town. Each has its own quirks—convict history, working windmills, and antique shops that feel like time capsules.
Cygnet Loop via Huon Valley
This one’s for foodies and artists. The loop through Cygnet and Franklin is packed with produce stalls, wood-fired bakeries, and hand-thrown pottery. Take your time—it’s meant to be savoured.
Scottsdale to Derby
Once known mostly for timber, this area now attracts mountain bikers and art lovers alike. It’s a slow, forested drive with locals happy to share a story (or direct you to the best pie).
What to Expect When You Detour
Spotty signal, stronger conversations. You might lose your phone reception, but you’ll gain uninterrupted time.
Limited menus, excellent meals. No QR codes—just chalkboards, seasonal produce, and someone who knows your coffee order by the second visit.
Shorter hours, longer memories. Be patient. Small-town businesses don’t follow city hours—but when they’re open, they’re gold.
Final Thoughts
Taking the slow road doesn’t mean wasting time—it means using it well. Small towns aren’t just pass-through places; they’re living, breathing parts of Australia with their own stories and rhythms. So next time you’re planning a drive, resist the urge to rush. Let curiosity lead. Let the road wander.
We’ve got the car ready when you are.
