Driving the Scenic Route: Canberra to Melbourne without Tolls
It’s not every day that we embark on a 665 km journey from Canberra to Melbourne, especially one with the purpose of picking up our beloved Sniffy from the Mickleham post quarantine facility. As we prepared for the trip scheduled on the 5th of December 2024, we decided to take the scenic route to avoid tolls and enjoy some iconic stops along the way. Herein lies our journey, not just about getting from point A to B, but savoring the experiences in between.
Our Memorable Stops
1. The Dog on the Tuckerbox
Our first stop was a legendary Australian icon, the Dog on the Tuckerbox [Google Maps](https://goo.gl/maps/DDvJQQJcEf52). At this fascinating stop, we stretched our legs and took in the folklore and charm of the countryside. Located just outside Gundagai, this monument stands 8 km from the town and is a testament to the pioneer spirit of the 19th-century settlers.
2. Ettamogah Pub
Next, we found ourselves at the quirky Ettamogah Pub [Google Maps](https://goo.gl/maps/5YTSGbDeA9y). Renowned for its cartoonish architecture and eccentric vibes, the pub’s history is etched into popular culture, making it a must-visit. We enjoyed a quick snack and some refreshing drinks here, surrounded by a lively collection of memorabilia and entertaining displays.
3. Ned Kelly Discovery Center
Delving into history, our third stop was the Ned Kelly Discovery Center in Glenrowan [Google Maps](https://goo.gl/maps/NVWEFXz5f2t). Renowned for its detailed exhibits on the infamous bushranger, this center provided a deep dive into a pivotal part of Australian history. Engaging displays and informative narratives kept us intrigued as we reflected on the life and times of Ned Kelly.
An Overnight Stay in Benalla
After a day filled with exploration and discovery, we made our way to Benalla, where we spent the night unwinding and preparing for the final stretch of our journey. Located midpoint between Sydney and Melbourne, Benalla offered us comfortable accommodation and was perfect for a restful evening amidst beautiful street art and tranquil lakeside views.
Key Takeaways from Our Journey
- Opting for the toll-free route offers numerous enriching stops that encapsulate Australia’s culture and history.
- The entire journey, approximately 665 km, welcomed us with scenic country views fostering an authentic travel experience.
- Taking breaks at unique locations not only broke the monotony but also allowed us to explore intriguing parts of the route.
- Benalla served as an ideal overnight destination to recharge before completing our journey.
Final Leg to Mickleham
With the lush countryside behind us and Melbourne on the horizon, we drove the final kilometers to the Mickleham post-quarantine facility [Google Maps](https://goo.gl/maps/sHbSg5pykZw) with anticipation. Sniffy’s eagerly awaited reunion warmed our spirits just as much as our enriching journey from Canberra to Melbourne.
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