where to stop between adelaide and melbourne

The straight run from Adelaide to Melbourne is about 730 km, but your bladder and taste buds will demand better planning. On the inland Dukes/Western Highway, classic pit stops include Murray Bridge, Tailem Bend, Keith, Bordertown, Nhill, Horsham, Ararat and Ballarat—good fuel, coffee and the odd bakery that takes itself very seriously. Prefer the scenic coastal route? Try Meningie and the Coorong, then Kingston SE, Robe, Beachport, Mount Gambier, Portland, Port Fairy, Warrnambool, Camperdown/Colac and into Geelong. Figure roughly 8–9 hours direct inland, or a full day (or two) via the coast; either way, aim for daylight in roo country and keep the snacks within easy reach.