Photo: Bahnfrend / CC BY-SA 3.0
Perched on the edge of the vast Nullarbor Plain, Nullarbor Roadhouse is a legendary outpost on the Eyre Highway that feels more like a frontier settlement than a mere pit stop. As you roll across the longest straight road in Australia, this oasis of cold beer, hearty pies, and red-dusted character offers a genuine taste of outback hospitality. The roadhouse is a lifeline for travellers crossing the Nullarbor, and its quirky charm—think camel rides, a golf course across the plain, and a museum of oddities—makes it an unforgettable detour.
Highlights & What to See
- Nullarbor Roadhouse itself: Soak in the eccentric vibe, grab a classic Australian meat pie, and browse the roadside memorabilia.
- Head of Bight: Just a short drive west, this dramatic cliff-top platform offers the best land-based whale watching in Australia (June–October) as southern right whales calve in the sheltered waters below.
- Nullarbor Plain vistas: Walk out onto the limestone escarpment for a humbling view of the endless, treeless plain—the world's largest single piece of limestone karst.
- Koonalda Cave: A mysterious limestone cave system with ancient Aboriginal rock art and a WWII-era history; accessible via a rough track (4WD recommended).
- Eyre Highway road trip: The journey itself is the attraction—drive the 90-mile straight, snap a photo at the 'Top of the Nullarbor' sign, and spot wedge-tailed eagles.
Suggested Time to Spend
Most travellers stop for 30–60 minutes to refuel, stretch legs, and grab a bite. However, to fully appreciate the otherworldly landscape, consider an overnight stay at the roadhouse's basic motel or campground. This lets you experience a Nullarbor sunset and sunrise, when the plain turns pink and gold. Two days gives you time to visit the Head of Bight and explore a cave or two.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Ceduna: The gateway to the Nullarbor, known for its oyster farms and Aboriginal art galleries.
- Eucla: A quirky former telegraph station with a museum and the ruins of an old jetty.
- Madura Pass: Dramatic escarpment views and the historic Madura Roadhouse.
- Yalata: An Indigenous community offering cultural tours and beach access.
- Great Australian Bight Marine Park: Protects the pristine coastline and its whale nursery.
- Bunda Cliffs: Stunning, sheer cliffs that drop into the Southern Ocean.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Uluru — Ek2030372672 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Kata Tjuta — Tourism NT / Attribution
- Ayers Rock Resort — Menphrad at English Wikipedia / Public domain
- Coober Pedy — qwesy qwesy / CC BY 3.0
- Glen Helen — PaulBalfe / CC BY 2.0