Sydney to Melbourne and Back: Accessible Stays for an Inclusive Road Trip Adventure
Discover a journey from Sydney to Melbourne, winding along the scenic coast and returning inland, staying at accessible accommodations every step of the way.
Whether you're looking for accessible swimming pools, serene views, or unusual stays, this itinerary highlights great options for travellers with mobility needs. All the options have a minimum requirement of step-free access, a step-free shower with grab rails and doors wider than 76 cm. Many have even more great accessible features, such as an accessible swimming pool and accessible activities on-site. Remember, there are heaps of options to choose from, each with 50 frequently asked ACCESSIBILITY questions, video tours and lots of pics.
Day 1: Sydney to Shoalhaven Heads (Driving Time: 2 hours)
Start your journey with a stay at the Bangalay Luxury Villas in Shoalhaven Heads. These two-bedroom villas combine elegance with accessibility, offering spacious rooms, open living spaces, and easy access to amenities. The villas are surrounded by lush landscapes, allowing you to relax in a serene setting after your drive from Sydney. Learn more HERE.
Day 2: Shoalhaven Heads to Tilba Tilba (Driving Time: 3 hours)
Head south to Mountain View Farm in Tilba Tilba. This charming accommodation offers breathtaking views of the countryside. Fully equipped with accessible bathrooms and a step-free shower with grab rails, it ensures a comfortable stay in a unique farm setting. Enjoy the local flavours, as Tilba Tilba is known for its artisan cheeses and heritage architecture. Learn more HERE.
Day 3: Tilba Tilba to Tanja (Driving Time: 1 hour)
Continue down the coast to Tanja Lagoon Camp, where you'll find wheelchair-friendly safari tents that bring you close to nature without compromising on accessibility. Each tent has been thoughtfully designed for easy manoeuvring and includes an accessible bathroom. Embrace the peaceful surroundings of the lagoon, where birdwatching and nature walks are nearby. They also have accessible cabins. Learn more HERE.
Days 4 & 5: Tanja to Nungurner (Driving Time: 4 hours)
In Nungurner, spend two nights at Teulu House Luxury Retreat. This luxurious retreat has ample space for everyone and gorgeous views, complete with accessible bathrooms and pathways. It's an ideal place to unwind and explore the nearby Gippsland Lakes. Teulu House is perfect for guests who want both comfort and style, providing a seamless blend of accessibility and relaxation. Learn more HERE.
Days 6 & 7: Nungurner to Inverloch (Driving Time: 3 hours)
From Nungurner, travel to Seahaven Inverloch on the Bass Coast. This stylish and fully accessible property offers a roll-in shower with grab rails and a commode, an electric hi-lo bed and a hoist, perfect for high physical needs. Inverloch’s stunning coastline and nearby parks make it an excellent base for exploration. Learn more HERE.
Days 8 & 9: Inverloch to Wilindi Estate (Driving Time: 90 minutes)
Just a couple of hours drive brings you to Wilindi Estate, where you’ll enjoy two nights of rustic luxury. The estate’s fully accessible design includes wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and spacious interiors. The nearby Mornington Peninsula Wineries as well as Phillip Island, make it a great stopover for day trips. Learn more HERE.
Day 10: Wilindi Estate to Melbourne (Driving Time: 1 hour)
Your coastal journey concludes in Melbourne at Le Meridien Melbourne. Le Meridien provides accessible rooms, a range of amenities, and a great location near Melbourne’s top attractions. After exploring the city’s vibrant arts scene, you’ll find this stay to be the perfect urban retreat. Learn more HERE.
Returning Inland
On your return journey, follow this accessible route through Victoria and New South Wales, showcasing unique stays and serene locations.
Day 1: Melbourne to Echuca (Driving Time: 2.5 hours)
Kick off your inland journey at Quest Echuca, which features accessible rooms and an ideal location near the Murray River. Explore Echuca’s riverfront and charming shops, knowing you’ll return to a comfortable, fully equipped apartment with a kitchen and accessible bathroom with a step-free shower and shower chair. Learn more HERE.
Day 2: Echuca to Deniliquin (Driving Time: 1 hour)
Head to the BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park, which has a spatially accessible swimming pool with a gentle decline and excellent facilities for all guests. We love the cabin overlooking the river. The park sits on the banks of the Edward River, with accessible picnic areas and beautiful views for a relaxed day by the water. Learn more HERE.
Day 3: Deniliquin to Griffith (Driving Time: 2.5 hours)
Spend your next night at Quest Griffith, a property designed for accessibility and comfort. Located near Griffith’s town centre, this accommodation offers easy access to local eateries and sights. The rooms are spacious, with accessible bathrooms and amenities for a smooth stay. Learn more HERE.
Day 4: Griffith to Orange (Driving Time: 4 hours)
In Orange, stay at Quest Orange, where you’ll enjoy accessible apartments with a full kitchen and accessible bathroom. Orange’s wine region and historical landmarks make it a charming stop on your journey. Learn more HERE.
Day 5: Orange to Kingswood (Driving Time: 3 hours)
Your next stop is Littomore Kingswood, a hotel offering fully accessible rooms and comfortable amenities. Located near Penrith, this hotel provides an excellent spot for resting and regrouping in a stylish apartment setting. Learn more HERE.
Day 6: Kingswood to Sydney via Taronga Zoo (Driving Time: 1 hour)
Take a detour to the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo. Here, you’ll find accessible rooms and the chance to explore the zoo’s exhibits with ease, thanks to its accessible pathways and viewing areas. Learn more HERE.
Day 7: Taronga Zoo to Sydney CBD (Driving Time: 30 minutes)
Complete your journey with a stay at Meriton Suites Sussex Street in Sydney’s CBD. With roll-in showers and accessible amenities, Meriton offers the perfect urban experience to end your road trip in comfort. But best of all, their indoor swimming pool is accessible, with a pool hoist! Learn more HERE.
This accessible road trip from Sydney to Melbourne and back offers a blend of coastal charm, countryside relaxation, and vibrant city experiences, with comfortable accommodations that cater to diverse accessibility needs. Remember, there are lots of filters, such as whether the accommodation has a hoist. You can filter by region to see other options listed. Go to the ACCESSIBLE ACCOMMODATION website and plan your journey with ease.
Safe travels!
Kerry