Australia offers diversity, beauty and plenty of unique places to take a holiday.
Perhaps some sun and sand takes your fancy, hiking through a national park holds appeal or the vastness of the Outback is beckoning. Maybe a city break where you can shop up a storm is more your scene. Whatever your preference, a holiday in Australia will fit the bill.
1. The Kimberley. Yes, it’s remote, but one of the best ways to see this region is by cruising around its ancient coastline, which is peppered with over 2500 islands. There are a range of sailing options from small charter yachts to large commercial ships. Alternatively, hire a 4WD and get up close to the local flora and fauna. You’ll see waterholes, wildlife, national park, beaches, craggy cliffs. Broome is a great place to visit and do the obligatory camel ride on the beach.
2. Tasmania. Hire a car out of Hobart and head for the Bay of Fires, Maria Island, the Freycinet Peninsula, Wineglass Bay, and holiday mini-mecca Bicheno. Wineglass Bay boasts one of the world’s best beaches, and the area is renowned for its seafood. This is one of the most beautiful places you will ever visit. Make sure you spend a couple of days in Hobart – this city has evolved into an artistic and culinary destination in its own right.
3. Red Centre. A trip to Uluru is on many people’s bucket list. Don’t miss the Sounds of Silence dinner, and Kings Canyon where the scenic rim walk is a must. A tour of the significant Aboriginal sites of the region is the best way to understand the Aboriginal connection to this land. Combine Uluru with Alice Springs, Darwin and visits to Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. There are many wonderful Aboriginal art galleries in this region to explore.
4. Great Ocean Road. One of the world’s best road trips, right on our doorstep. Explore quaint seaside towns, the 12 Apostles and enjoy selecting from the array of cute B&Bs and boutique hotels along the way. Port Campbell and Lorne aren’t to be missed. There are many local restaurants serving regional produce and unique boutiques and craft stores.
5. Kangaroo Island. Kangaroo Island is a top spot for some wildlife watching – sea lions, koalas, fur seals, and, of course, kangaroos. There is a thriving food scene and 18 wineries to choose from. Accommodation ranges from budget to the luxury Southern Ocean Lodge. We suggest combining a visit to Kangaroo Island with a self-drive exploration of the Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills or Flinders Ranges.
6. Melbourne. Arty, moody, changeable and eclectic. Melbourne is all this and more. Shop ‘til you drop, take in a show, dine in some of Australia’s best restaurants, and of course enjoy superb coffee. This city really is a gastronomic delight, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money to experience high-end dining.
7. The Ghan & Indian Pacific. These two trains offer a unique way to see our vast country. Board The Ghan and wind your way between Adelaide and Darwin with stops at Alice Springs and Katherine Gorge. The Indian Pacific traverses Australia from coast to coast. This epic journey of 4352km crosses the country from Perth to Sydney over four days, stopping at Kalgoorlie, Adelaide and Broken Hill where you can enjoy off-train excursions.
8. Lord Howe Island. This pristine island only has 400 visitors at any one time, so it will always be a peaceful place to visit. So if you’re looking for a holiday where you can be at one with nature, and have some genuine down-time, this is an excellent destination. The snorkelling is some of the best you’ll experience anywhere, ever.
9. The Whitsundays. Sip cocktails while watching the sunset, explore secluded beaches, sail on crystal clear water teeming with marine life – all this and more is on offer in The Whitsundays. There are many accommodation options from Hamilton Island to Hayman Island or Lizard Island to Bedarra Island. You may prefer to hire a yacht and spend the night wherever you sail to on the day.
10. Norfolk Island. With its origins as a penal settlement, then as the home of the Bounty mutineers, this island has plenty of interesting history. It also boasts stunning national parks, crystal blue lagoons and a thriving paddock to plate dining scene. A relaxed and easy-going holiday destination, with a good range of accommodation options from B&B style, to hotels and apartments.
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