Why Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs Is Ideal for Starting a Road Trip

When planning an adventurous road trip from Melbourne, selecting the right starting point can set the tone for the entire journey. Based on our experiences, we’ve found that Hawthorn serves as an exceptional base for beginning a long road trip. Located in the inner suburbs, Hawthorn offers accessibility, convenience, and a variety of amenities.

The Strategic Location of Hawthorn

One of the key reasons we choose Hawthorn as a base is its strategic location. Located just 6 km east of Melbourne’s central business district, Hawthorn allows easy access to major highways, such as the Eastern Freeway and the M1, making it simple to head in any direction. According to Wikipedia, this suburb’s central position facilitates a swift escape from the city hustles onto the wide-open roads.

Amenities and Services

Starting our road trip in Hawthorn means we have a variety of services and amenities at our disposal before we hit the road. Here’s what we consider essential:

  • Fuel Stations: A variety of petrol stations are available, ensuring that you can fill up your tank at competitive prices.
  • Grocery Stores: Stock up on snacks and supplies from supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths.
  • Automobile Services: Several car service providers can give your vehicle a quick check-up.
  • Dining Options: Grab a meal from the diverse selection of cafes and restaurants to kick-start your journey with a satiated appetite.

Accommodation Choices

Whether you’re coming from out of town or just looking to relax before hitting the road, Hawthorn offers a range of accommodation options:

  1. Hotels: Affordable and comfortable options, such as the Quest Hawthorn, provide excellent lodgings.
  2. Airbnb: Discover unique local accommodations that often provide a more home-like feel.

Staying Connected and Prepared

In today’s digital age, staying connected is crucial, even on the road:

  • Mobile Coverage: Hawthorn is well-covered by major Australian telcos, ensuring a stable connection for the first part of your journey.
  • Wi-Fi Hotspots: Many public spaces and cafes offer free Wi-Fi, ideal for downloading any last-minute maps or playlists.

Checking our route and ensuring connectivity became an effortless task during our last trip, allowing us to navigate confidently as we departed from Hawthorn. For precise directions, you can explore the map here.


In conclusion, Hawthorn’s strategic location, comprehensive amenities, diverse accommodation options, and reliable connectivity make it a great base for beginning a long road trip from Melbourne. This vibrant suburb equips road-trippers with all the essentials needed for a successful journey, easing into the inaugural miles with comfort and convenience. Our journeys from Hawthorn have consistently reinforced our belief in this wonderful starting point, setting a positive precedent for the adventures that lie ahead.


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