(Big skies, bigger memories – and maybe a cold beer too.)
Not all vanlife photo ops are created equal.
Sure, anyone can snap a beach sunrise or a kangaroo in a paddock…
But you? You’re about to level up with some proper Aussie country pub shots.
Here’s five incredible, off-the-beaten-track pubs where you can park up, pull out the camera, and capture a slice of true-blue Australia.
1. Carinda Hotel – Carinda, NSW
Why it’s legendary:
David Bowie filmed his Let’s Dance music video here — yes, seriously.
This dusty, iconic pub still feels like a time capsule of Aussie life in the ‘80s.
📸 Photo Tip:
Park your van out front under the old pub sign, kick up some dust, and recreate your own Bowie moment.
🎵 Bonus points: Bring a speaker and blast Let’s Dance while you snap your shots.
2. Theebine Hotel – Theebine, QLD
Why it’s legendary:
Built in 1909, it’s one of Queensland’s oldest pubs — and it looks every bit the part.
Classic country pub out front, rolling green pastures out back — perfect for that “freedom of the open road” vibe.
📸 Photo Tip:
Capture your van with the sprawling pub veranda in the background for serious vintage road trip feels.
3. The Rabbit Trap Hotel – Albert, NSW
Why it’s legendary:
Tiny town. Huge heart. The Rabbit Trap Hotel is classic outback Australia — warm welcomes, cold beers, and wide, open skies.
📸 Photo Tip:
Pull your van up just as golden hour hits — the light bouncing off the wide, flat landscape here is something else.
4. Goorambat Railway Hotel – Goorambat, VIC
Why it’s legendary:
A stone’s throw from the famous silo art trail, this pub has character coming out of its weathered bricks.
It’s an absolute gem for artsy vanlifers chasing country charm.
📸 Photo Tip:
Pair a photo of your van outside the pub with a shot of the nearby silos for a killer story post.
5. Balldale Hotel – Balldale, NSW
Why it’s legendary:
Tucked away in a tiny village, Balldale Hotel serves up friendly country vibes, historic architecture, and that feeling like you’ve found a secret only locals know about.
📸 Photo Tip:
Look for the warm tones in the pub walls and set your van slightly angled for that classic old-world-meets-vanlife photo magic.
Roadtrippers, It’s Time to Be Legends 🚐🍻
Every photo you take at one of these pubs isn’t just a memory — it’s a way to keep Aussie country towns alive and kicking.
Tag @WikiPubsAustralia and use #WikiPubsVanlife to get featured.
👉 Found another great spot? Add it to WikiPubs here! ➔
