The Road to Wollongong: Navigating The Drive From Benalla

Are you planning a road trip to Wollongong from Benalla? Depending on the route you take and the traffic patterns, the driving time can vary greatly. In this blog post, we'll explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the driving time at both peak and low traffic times.

The Fastest Route

The fastest way to drive to Wollongong from Benalla is to take the Hume Freeway and then connect to the M31. This route is about 676 kilometers and takes approximately 8.5 hours to drive in low traffic conditions. However, this route can get quite congested during peak hours, leading to a delay in your travel time.

At peak hours, it is advisable to depart from Benalla early in the morning around 5 am. This helps to savour the advantage of the low traffic condition and allow you to arrive in Wollongong in about 9 hours. Also, the M31 Highway has several resting facilities where travellers can relax and stretch their legs during the drive.

The Scenic Route

Rather than taking the direct freeway, you can opt for a more scenic drive that runs through some of Australia's most scenic regions. You can route through the towns of Albury and Wagga Wagga along the Sturt Highway and then connect to the Hume Freeway at Gundagai. This route takes approximately nine hours and covers a distance of 951 kilometres, making it 100 kilometres longer than the direct route. You will also encounter several landmarks and towns, but the drive time can be longer due to the single lane highways and stoppages in the towns along the highway.

The Slowest Route

If you are in no rush and instead prefer to take advantage of the tranquil environment, you can take the slowest route to Wollongong from Benalla. This route takes you through smaller towns, where you'll experience more relaxed driving and beautiful scenery along the way. You'll travel through the towns of Yass and Goulburn, taking approximately 11 hours to travel the distance of 810 kilometers. However, you must note that the route is somewhat treacherous at times, and hence, you'll need to exercise patience and caution while driving.

In conclusion, the driving time from Benalla to Wollongong is a fusion of several factors: the route you take, the traffic patterns, and your travel style. While there are different routes to select from and each drive time has its perks and demerits, selecting your most preferred depends on your preference for safety, comfort, and speed. With this in mind, the scenic route offers a balance between beauty and driving time. Nonetheless, no matter your preferences, you can make the most of the journey with a little planning and some snacks.