You don’t have to travel abroad to feel like you’re a world away. Australia is blessed with some of the world’s most stunning and diverse places to escape to. So, next time you’re planning a trip, save yourself the overseas plane fare and look at some of these home grown wonders. Here’s our pick of the top 7 wonders to explore down under.
Twelve Apostles
Fancy a coastal road trip? Victoria’s flagship attraction The Twelve Apostles is just one stop along the Great Ocean Road, which also features spectacular beaches to spend the day at, charming seaside towns to explore and a variety of foodie destinations to stop off at when you get hungry. You’ll find a variety of accommodation options in Lorne, ranging from the caravan park (book early) to backpackers’ accommodation, luxury holiday rentals and a wide range of hotels.
Uluru
Australia’s most iconic natural wonder holds great spiritual importance for Australia’s indigenous people. An Uluru Base Walk is one of the best ways to soak in its beauty. Join a guided tour to hear stories of the Dreamtime passed down by generations, see rock art sites and learn about the geology of the area often considered Australia’s spiritual heart.
The Great Barrier Reef
As precious as it is beautiful, The Great Barrier Reef is home to 400 different types of coral and 1500 species of tropical fish. Looking for an island getaway? There are plenty to choose from around the reef. You’ll find a luxurious eco resort on Green Island or more laid back camping opportunities on nearby Fitzroy Island. If you prefer action packed night life after a day exploring the reef, Cairns has plenty to offer and is a great place to base yourself.
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Want to really escape the hustle and bustle? How about a trip to the edge of the world, Tasmania, where you can lose yourself in the beauty of Cradle Mountain? Part of the Tasmanian World Heritage Wilderness Area, Cradle Mountain has a variety of walks, ranging from easy day trips to more difficult 5-day treks. Given it’s a wilderness area, there is no town but there are accommodation options ranging from cabins to luxury hotels.
Kangaroo Island
Known as nature’s playground, Kangaroo Island features raw and rugged coastline, impeccably clear waters, unique wildlife, world class food and wine and native bushland. You can ‘hop’ to this island on a sea ferry that takes roughly 45 mins from Cape Jervis or catch a Qantas Link flight. During the summer of 2019/20 Kangaroo Island experienced its worst bushfires in recorded history, but since then, the island has risen from the ashes. You can witness the amazing regeneration and regrowth for yourself on a ‘Kangaroo Island Road to Recovery’ tour.
The Outback
Swap your typical surf and sand holiday for the red desert, hidden waterholes, and otherworldly rock formations of Australia’s Outback. Found in five of our eight states and territories, The Outback is a vast and varied place that is best explored by road. In fact, everyone’s bucket list should include an iconic Outback road adventure. Whether it’s crossing the Nullarbor, visiting the Red Centre or driving the Outback NSW Loop, adventure awaits! Now to plan your itinerary.
The Pinnacles and Turquoise Coast
Speaking of otherworldly destinations, around 200kms north of Perth you’ll find yourself amongst the thousands of limestone rock formations and eerie landscape of the Pinnacles. Standing up to 5m tall, these structures have been formed over thousands of years and are made of broken-down seashells that have been blown inland. You can visit The Pinnacles in a day trip from Perth but why not explore the less known Turquoise Coast while you’re there? Here you’ll find secret beaches, sand dunes, surf and even unique wildflowers to spot if that’s your thing.
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