There’s something unforgettable about the drive across Australia’s southern coastline, especially when you find yourself atop the breathtaking Bunda Cliffs. These towering limestone cliffs stretch for over 200 kilometres along the Great Australian Bight, providing a dramatic end to the Australian continent. It’s not just the scale that’s impressive—it’s the feeling of standing on the edge of the world, where the land drops away into the Southern Ocean.
For 4X4ers, the Bunda Cliffs offer a unique opportunity to experience one of Australia’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. And the best part? They’re not far off the main highway, making them an ideal stop on a long haul across the Nullarbor Plain. But be warned—this isn’t just another tourist stop. The cliffs demand respect, with their sheer drops and windswept edges offering both danger and beauty.
Getting There: A Short Detour with Massive Rewards
If you’re making the long trek across the Nullarbor, a detour to the Bunda Cliffs is a must. While the cliffs are just a short drive off the Eyre Highway, the moment you turn off, you’ll feel like you’ve left the world behind. One minute, you’re cruising through the vast emptiness of the Nullarbor, and the next, the horizon opens up to reveal the sheer drop of the cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters below.
Josh nailed it when he said, “It felt like we’d come so far from the coast that I’d forgotten it was even there. And then, just a little turn left, and we’re right back on it.” That’s the magic of the Bunda Cliffs—just when you think you’ve seen all the Nullarbor has to offer, it delivers this unexpected masterpiece.
The Majesty of the Cliffs: Nature at its Finest
There’s something about the raw, rugged beauty of the Bunda Cliffs that stays with you. The towering limestone faces have been battered by wind and waves for millennia, creating an imposing but strangely calming sight. Standing on the edge, with salt spray rising from the crashing waves below, it’s easy to forget everything else. It’s a place where you can truly feel the power and scale of nature.
Our crew couldn’t stop talking about the cliffs’ beauty, with Josh telling us he wishes he could take photos with his eyes, just to capture how special the moment was. And he’s right—there’s something about the light, the sea mist, and the sense of space that no camera can truly capture.
4X4 Access: The Best Views Come with a Challenge
While the cliffs are accessible via a short drive from the highway, taking your 4X4 down the rough tracks along the top of the cliffs adds a whole new level of adventure. The tracks can be narrow and exposed to the elements, so make sure you’re confident with your vehicle and prepared for changing conditions. But the reward? Some of the best coastal views in Australia, and a sense of isolation that’s hard to match.
And if you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of some local wildlife. The Southern Right Whales are often seen off the coast during their migration, and birds of prey can frequently be spotted soaring above the cliffs, riding the thermal currents.
Why You Should Go
If you’re planning a trip across Australia, the Bunda Cliffs should be high on your list. They’re more than just a photo opportunity—they’re a reminder of the scale and beauty of the Australian landscape. As Pat said, “You never get sick of the Bunda Cliffs. There’s something so magnificently majestic about them.”
Whether you’re watching the sunset over the ocean, with the cliffs bathed in a golden light, or standing in awe as the waves crash far below, the Bunda Cliffs are one of those places that will stay with you long after the trip is over.
So, next time you’re cruising across the Nullarbor, don’t just drive past. Take the time to stop, take in the views, and let the magic of the Bunda Cliffs remind you why Australia’s wild places are worth the trip.
