How Long Does It Take to Drive from Ballarat, Victoria to Melbourne, Victoria?
If you're planning a road trip from Ballarat to Melbourne, one of the first questions you might have is how long it'll take you to get there. The good news is that the journey is not overly long, with a variety of routes available. Here's what you need to know about the time it takes to drive from Ballarat to Melbourne.
Fastest and Slowest Routes
There are two main routes you might consider when driving from Ballarat to Melbourne: via the Western Freeway or via the Calder Freeway. The Western Freeway is the shortest route at just over one hour and takes you through beautiful countryside and past the Werribee Park Mansion. However, if you encounter heavy traffic during rush hour, this route can quickly become the slowest.
The Calder Freeway is slightly longer -- approximately one hour and fifteen minutes -- but typically quicker during peak traffic. This route takes you through historic gold rush towns and past the stunning Macedon Ranges. While these routes have differences in distance and driving time, both are picturesque drives and offer plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the surrounding areas.
Driving Times Based on Traffic Patterns
It's important to keep in mind that the driving times can be influenced by traffic patterns. The Western Freeway can be particularly slow during peak times, such as morning and evening rush hour. On the other hand, the Calder Freeway can be slow during weekends and holidays, when more people are on the road.
If you're trying to avoid heavy traffic, your best bet is to plan your journey outside of peak traffic hours. Weekends can also be slower, so you may want to consider taking time off during the week instead. Overall, it's important to be prepared for the fact that traffic can be unpredictable and can slow you down, regardless of the route you choose.
Final Thoughts
Driving from Ballarat to Melbourne is a quick and easy journey, with two main routes to choose from. The Western Freeway offers a shorter drive that can be slower during peak traffic, while the Calder Freeway is a slightly longer drive that can be quicker during peak traffic. Ultimately, the driving time will depend on factors such as traffic patterns and the time of day you're driving. Regardless of which route you take, be sure to enjoy the scenery along the way and make the most of your journey.