15/02/2025
Longest straightest road in Australia. The 90 mile straight ๐ฆ๐บ ๐ฃโ๏ธ๐
โThe **90 Mile Straight** is one of Australia's most iconic and awe-inspiring stretches of road. Located on the **Nullarbor Plain** in South Australia, it holds the title of the longest, straightest stretch of road in the country, and one of the longest in the world. As the name suggests, the road is an impressive 146.6 kilometers (or approximately 90 miles) long, and it forms part of the **Eyre Highway**, which connects the cities of **Perth** in Western Australia to **Adelaide** in South Australia.
Geography and Significance ๐ฆ
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The 90 Mile Straight cuts through the desolate and flat landscape of the **Nullarbor Plain**, a vast arid region that is famous for its minimal elevation changes and endless, uninterrupted views. The Nullarbor, derived from Latin meaning "no trees," is a vast expanse of desert and semi-desert that spans across southern Australia, from the Great Australian Bight in the south to the inland areas of Western Australia. The Nullarbor Plain's terrain is largely composed of limestone, creating a unique, barren landscape with sparse vegetation.
This remote road is not just a feat of engineering but also a striking visual experience for those who travel on it. The straightness of the road gives drivers a rare sensation of being able to see for miles ahead, with the horizon often appearing as an unbroken line. The flat, expansive horizon coupled with the sparse population makes the journey both serene and daunting. Itโs a road where there are few rest stops, and services such as fuel, food, and accommodations can be few and far between, requiring drivers to be well-prepared before setting out.
Historical Context and Construction
The Eyre Highway, including the 90 Mile Straight, was first built in the 1940s to connect the eastern and western states of Australia, facilitating better communication and transportation between the remote regions. Prior to its construction, travel across the Nullarbor was slow and treacherous, often taking weeks to cross by camel or horse-drawn vehicle. As car travel became more popular in the mid-20th century, the need for a direct route became essential for the economic and social connectivity of the region.
The 90 Mile Straight itself was a notable engineering achievement, as it required a route that was essentially level and straight, avoiding the rugged terrain and geographical challenges that would have made it more difficult to establish a smoother, winding path. The decision to make the road straight was partly due to the vast emptiness of the landscape and the relative ease of building a flat, direct route in this particular part of the Nullarbor.
Unique Aspects
- **Unbroken View**: The road is remarkably flat and straight, providing drivers with an unparalleled visual experience of the horizon stretching on endlessly. The lack of curves gives a feeling of isolation and vastness.
- **Wildlife and Nature**: Despite the barren appearance of the region, the Nullarbor Plain is home to a surprising amount of wildlife. Travelers may encounter kangaroos, emus, camels, and a variety of bird species, all of which can sometimes appear unexpectedly near the roadside.
- **Isolation**: The 90 Mile Straight crosses one of the most isolated parts of the Australian outback. Drivers can experience a profound sense of solitude, with little to no signs of civilization for long stretches. As such, itโs important to be prepared for the journey with plenty of water, fuel, and supplies.
Modern-Day Relevance
Today, the 90 Mile Straight is still a significant part of the Australian road network. It serves as an important route for travelers crossing the Nullarbor Plain, whether on road trips, freight transport, or for long-distance travel. Despite the growing number of alternative routes and modern infrastructure, the Eyre Highway and the 90 Mile Straight remain symbols of the vastness and remoteness that define the Australian outback.
The 90 Mile Straight continues to fascinate travelers and road enthusiasts alike, offering a unique opportunity to experience one of the longest and most iconic straight roads in the world.
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