Myrtleford
Myrtleford
Lismore
Lismore
Driving

Myrtleford to Lismore

Updated: 27 May 2026

The trip from Myrtleford to Lismore is a significant cross-country journey of approximately 1450 km. You will head north through the Hume Highway before transitioning to the Pacific Highway (A1) near Sydney or Newcastle. This route takes roughly 16 to 18 hours of driving time. It is recommended to break this trip into two days to ensure safety. You will pass through diverse environments, from the Victorian Alps to the lush Northern Rivers of NSW.

Total Distance: 1450 km driving distance; 1100 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest option; public transport would take over 24 hours with multiple connections.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the most practical and cheapest way to reach Lismore from Myrtleford.
Compare Myrtleford to Lismore Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
17 hours
Avg Price
$300 - $400 fuel
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
M31 Hume Highway to M1 Pacific Motorway.

The Pacific Motorway is fast but watch for speed cameras.

Travel Tips
  • Break the Trip
    Stop overnight in a coastal town like Port Macquarie or Coffs Harbour.
  • Traffic
    Avoid the M1 near Sydney during peak morning and afternoon hours.
  • Tolls
    Ensure you have an active E-Toll account for the Sydney motorway network.
  • Fuel
    Fuel is cheaper in larger regional centers; avoid filling up in small highway towns.
  • Weather
    The Northern Rivers region experiences heavy rain; check for flood warnings.
Safety Tips
  • Fatigue
    Do not attempt to drive this distance in one go; it is dangerous.
  • Speed Limits
    The Pacific Highway is heavily monitored by speed cameras.
  • Visibility
    Coastal roads can be misty; keep your headlights on during the day.
  • Emergency
    Ensure your mobile phone is charged and you have a physical road map.
People Also Ask
  • How long is the drive?
    It is approximately 17 hours of driving time.
  • Is there a train?
    No direct train; you would need to travel to Sydney and then take a bus or train/bus combo.
  • What is the best route?
    The M31 and M1 Pacific Motorway is the most efficient route.
  • Are there flights?
    You can fly from Melbourne to Ballina, then drive 45 minutes to Lismore.
  • Is Lismore prone to floods?
    Yes, the city center is located on a floodplain; check local weather alerts.
Quick Info
  • From Myrtleford, Victoria, Australia
  • To Lismore, New South Wales, Australia
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Autumn or Spring to avoid the humid summer heat of the Northern Rivers region.

Things to Do in Lismore
1
Lismore Regional Gallery
A vibrant space showcasing contemporary art and local Northern Rivers talent.
2
Wilsons River
Enjoy a walk along the riverbank, which offers peaceful scenery and birdwatching opportunities.
3
Nimbin Village
A short drive from Lismore, famous for its unique counter-culture history and colorful street art.
4
Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens
Features walking tracks through restored rainforest and local native plant species.
Tags
Myrtleford to Lismore Pacific Highway route driving to Lismore Victoria to Northern NSW long distance travel Australia Lismore travel guide Myrtleford road trip NSW coast travel