Australia's Longest Straight Road: A Driving Adventure

Hey guys! Ever wondered where you could just put the pedal to the metal and drive straight for miles and miles? Well, let me tell you about Australia's longest straight road! It's a truly unique experience and a testament to the vast, open landscapes of the Aussie outback. Buckle up, because we're about to take a virtual road trip!

The Eyre Highway: A Straight Shot Across the Nullarbor

The Eyre Highway is where you'll find this incredible stretch of road. This iconic highway connects Western Australia and South Australia, traversing the Nullarbor Plain. Now, the Nullarbor itself is something else – a vast, treeless, semi-arid landscape that stretches for about 1,100 kilometers (around 684 miles). It's known for its sheer flatness and seemingly endless horizons. Driving across it can feel like you're on another planet! The highway got its name in honour of Edward John Eyre, the guy who did the first successful east–west crossing of the continent via the Nullarbor. The original track that he forged was extremely difficult and slow to travel across, and so the Australian government decided to create a proper road in 1941, but the Eyre Highway wasn’t completely sealed (bitumen) until 1976, making it faster and safer to travel. The Eyre Highway isn’t just about getting from A to B – it's an experience. You'll see the landscape change subtly around you, from red dirt to scrubby bush, to seemingly nothing at all. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, too. You might spot kangaroos, emus, or even wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead. Make sure you fuel up whenever you get the chance, because the roadhouses are few and far between. These aren’t just petrol stations; they’re outback institutions, offering everything from fuel and food to accommodation and souvenirs. They're a great place to meet other travellers and hear some tall tales about the outback. Before you head out onto the Eyre Highway, check your vehicle. You should be prepared for a long drive across a very remote area. Make sure that your vehicle has enough fuel, water, spare tyres, and first-aid equipment, and take it for a service before you leave. Driving across the Nullarbor is an experience to behold, and well worth the travel.

How Long is the Straight Section, Exactly?

Okay, so here's the detail you've been waiting for: the longest straight section of the Eyre Highway stretches for a whopping 146.6 kilometers (91.1 miles) without a single turn! That's right, nearly 150 kilometers of dead-straight road. It's an amazing feat of engineering and a true reflection of the flat landscape it traverses. Imagine sitting behind the wheel, watching the horizon stretch out before you, knowing that you won't have to turn the steering wheel for almost an hour and a half! The Eyre Highway is long enough to experience something special and is a popular road trip destination, especially for those with their RVs.

Why So Straight? The Nullarbor's Flatness

The reason for this incredible straightness is simple: the Nullarbor Plain is incredibly flat. "Nullarbor" itself comes from the Latin words "nullus" (no) and "arbor" (tree), meaning "no trees." The landscape is so flat that engineers were able to lay down a perfectly straight road without having to navigate around hills, valleys, or other obstacles. It's a testament to the power of nature, and how it can shape not only the land but also the roads we build upon it. This incredible feat of landscape flattens can be appreciated by many, as more than 40,000 vehicles cross the Eyre Highway each year. The Nullarbor Plain was formed when the sea bed was raised, causing the sea water to evaporate and resulting in the flat, featureless landscape that it is today. It is comprised mainly of limestone rock, which is the reason that there are also lots of cave systems running underneath the plain. The caves are the reason that the Nullarbor doesn’t have any surface water. The rainwater runs through the porous limestone and into the caves below.

Driving the Straightest Road: Tips and Considerations

So, you're thinking of driving this amazing stretch of road? Awesome! Here are a few tips to make your journey safe and enjoyable:

• Stay Alert: This might seem obvious, but driving straight for so long can be hypnotic. Make sure you're well-rested before you start, take regular breaks, and consider sharing the driving with someone else.
• Watch Your Speed: It's easy to get complacent on a straight road, but speed limits still apply. Stick to the limit and be aware of your surroundings. The speed limit is 110km/h, so make sure you are not going over that.
• Be Prepared for Wildlife: Kangaroos, emus, and other animals can wander onto the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Be vigilant and slow down if you see any wildlife nearby. Collisions with wildlife are one of the biggest causes of accidents along the highway.
• Carry Plenty of Water and Supplies: The Nullarbor is a remote area, so make sure you have enough water, food, and other essential supplies in case of an emergency. It's a good idea to have a satellite phone or emergency beacon as mobile phone coverage can be patchy. Also consider bringing a paper map as you may find yourself without access to online maps.
• Check Your Vehicle: Before you set off, make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Check your tires, fluids, and brakes. It's also a good idea to carry a spare tire and basic tools.
• Plan Your Stops: Plan where you intend to stop for fuel and rest. As mentioned before, fuel stations can be far apart, so ensure you have enough fuel to get to the next service station.

More Than Just a Road: An Outback Experience

Driving Australia's longest straight road isn't just about getting from point A to point B. It's about experiencing the sheer vastness and beauty of the Australian outback. It's about challenging yourself, connecting with nature, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, add the Eyre Highway to your list. You won't regret it! And remember to take lots of photos! The unique landscape of the Nullarbor Plain and the novelty of driving on such a long, straight road are definitely worth capturing. Make sure to share your experiences with others and encourage them to explore the Australian outback for themselves.

Other Long Straight Roads Around the World

While Australia boasts this impressively long straight road, it's interesting to note that other countries also have their share of straight stretches of highway. For example, in Saudi Arabia, Highway 10 features a 240 km (149 mi) straight section. And in the United States, certain highways in the Midwest offer long, uninterrupted drives across flat landscapes. While not quite as long as the one in Australia, these roads offer similar experiences of endless horizons and a unique sense of freedom on the open road. It is important to note that the definition of "straight" can be subjective, and some roads may have very slight curves that are not immediately noticeable. Additionally, the presence of overpasses or underpasses can affect the perception of a road's straightness. Nevertheless, these long, straight roads around the world offer drivers a chance to appreciate the vastness and beauty of their respective landscapes.

Conclusion: Embrace the Straight and Narrow (for a While!)

So, there you have it! A deep dive into Australia's longest straight road, a testament to the country's unique landscape and a must-do for any road trip enthusiast. Remember to plan ahead, drive safely, and soak in the incredible scenery. Happy travels, guys! And keep an eye out for those kangaroos!