A list of one-day Mother’s Day self-drive itineraries for families
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show appreciation for the special women in our lives, and what better way to celebrate than with a relaxing and adventurous day out on the open road? Whether you’re a local or an international tourist in Australia, a Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary offers the flexibility and freedom to explore the country at your own pace. From breathtaking coastal drives to charming country escapes, Australia has plenty of scenic routes and activities to make Mother’s Day memorable.
With Low-Cost Self-Drive, Australia’s leading reliable self-drive vehicle rental company, you can easily find the perfect self-drive car hire for your group, ensuring a stress-free adventure.
Let’s take a look at some of the best Mother’s Day self-drive itineraries across Australia.
1. A Scenic Day in the Hunter Valley, New South Wales
If your mum enjoys fine wine, stunning landscapes, and great food, a Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary to the Hunter Valley in New South Wales is a must. Just two hours north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is renowned for its wineries and picturesque views.
Start the day with a scenic drive through the valley, stopping off at some of the region’s most famous vineyards, such as Brokenwood Wines or Audrey Wilkinson. Enjoy wine tastings, indulge in local cheeses, and have lunch at a boutique winery or a charming local café. For a unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise for unbeatable views over the rolling hills and vineyards.
After a relaxing afternoon, head to the Hunter Valley Gardens for a stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens. You can even stop by the on-site spa for some pampering!
With Low-Cost Self-Drive, you’ll have the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace, making this the perfect way to spend Mother’s Day surrounded by stunning scenery, great food, and wine.
2. Great Ocean Road, Victoria
If you’re in Victoria, one of the most iconic Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary ideas is a day trip along the Great Ocean Road. This spectacular coastal route, stretching from Torquay to Allansford, offers some of the most stunning scenery in Australia.
Begin your journey early and drive along the rugged coastline, with plenty of opportunities for family photos and scenic stops. Visit the Twelve Apostles, the famous limestone formations that rise dramatically from the Southern Ocean. From there, take a short detour to Loch Ard Gorge, where you can explore the breathtaking rock formations and learn about the area’s maritime history.
Stop off at seaside towns like Lorne or Apollo Bay for lunch at a local restaurant with ocean views. Depending on the weather, you might also want to take a break at one of the beautiful beaches for a picnic or a swim.
With Low-Cost Self-Drive rental, you can enjoy this iconic route in comfort and convenience, making it a perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day in Victoria.
3. Barossa Valley, South Australia
For a Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary that combines relaxation, history, and gourmet food, look no further than the Barossa Valley in South Australia. Just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, this world-renowned wine region is the perfect spot for a day trip with mum.
Begin your day with a visit to some of the region’s historic wineries, including Penfolds and Seppeltsfield. Explore the cellars, enjoy a wine tasting, and indulge in some local delicacies like gourmet chocolates and artisan cheeses.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive through the valley, stopping off in charming towns such as Tanunda and Angaston. Visit local boutiques, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and treat Mum to some handcrafted goodies from the local markets.
End the day with a relaxing drive back to Adelaide, reflecting on a day of great wine, food, and memories. With Low-Cost Self-Drive, you’ll be free to explore at your own pace, ensuring a truly personalised Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary.
3. Coastal Adventure: Great Ocean Road
For a Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary that combines relaxation, history, and gourmet food, look no further than the Barossa Valley in South Australia. Just an hour’s drive from Adelaide, this world-renowned wine region is the perfect spot for a day trip with mum.
Begin your day with a visit to some of the region’s historic wineries, including Penfolds and Seppeltsfield. Explore the cellars, enjoy a wine tasting, and indulge in some local delicacies like gourmet chocolates and artisan cheeses.
In the afternoon, take a scenic drive through the valley, stopping off in charming towns such as Tanunda and Angaston. Visit local boutiques, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and treat Mum to some handcrafted goodies from the local markets.
End the day with a relaxing drive back to Adelaide, reflecting on a day of great wine, food, and memories. With Low-Cost Self-Drive, you’ll be free to explore at your own pace, ensuring a truly personalised Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary.

4. The Sunshine Coast, Queensland
If you’re looking for a more laid-back, coastal Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary, head to the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. The Sunshine Coast is the ideal destination for a family road trip with stunning beaches, lush hinterland, and vibrant local markets.
Start the day with a visit to Noosa, a trendy coastal town known for its pristine beaches and boutique shops. Take a walk along the Noosa National Park coastal track, which offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby headlands. Enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of Noosa’s many beachfront cafés.
From there, head to Montville in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, a charming town with stunning views, boutique shops, and cafes. Explore the local art galleries, or head to the nearby Kondalilla Falls for a peaceful walk through the rainforest.
Finish your day with a visit to one of the Sunshine Coast’s many beachside resorts for a relaxing evening with the family. Whether you’re enjoying a beach sunset or indulging in a spa treatment, it’s the perfect way to treat mum on Mother’s Day.
5. Tasmanian Wilderness Adventure
For nature-loving mums, a Mother’s Day self-drive itinerary in Tasmania is an unforgettable experience. Known for its stunning wilderness, national parks, and pristine lakes, Tasmania is a perfect escape for a one-day adventure.
Start your day by driving from Hobart to Mount Field National Park to explore the famous Russell Falls and the surrounding rainforest. Take a guided walk or enjoy a scenic picnic by the waterfalls.
If your mum is up for more adventure, head towards Cradle Mountain for a short hike or a scenic drive around Dove Lake. Tasmania’s unspoiled beauty provides the perfect setting for a relaxing day in nature, with plenty of options for picnics and wildlife viewing.
Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring the coastal roads of Victoria or indulging in gourmet food and wine in South Australia, there’s no shortage of unforgettable Mother’s Day self-drive itineraries across Australia.
With Low-Cost Self-Drive providing reliable and convenient self-drive car rental, your journey will be comfortable and hassle-free, leaving you with more time to create lasting memories with Mum. So book the car, hit the road, and make this Mother’s Day one to remember!