We live in such a beautiful country, with vast scenic landscapes, unique wildlife and a rich Indigenous culture. From the rugged coastlines, to the flat red sandy deserts and the abundant green rainforests – there is an adventure for all types of travellers in Australia!
With the recent restrictions placed on travel all over the world, we know that a holiday at home is at the top of most people’s bucket list in the near future. After months at home, the possibility of hitting the open road and enjoying the great outdoors is truly inviting.
In preparation for this time, we’ve put together some of our favourite places to visit (outside of South Australia) within Australia, to give you some fresh air and show you how truly beautiful our home is.
The Kimberley
The Kimberley region spreads over the tip of Western Australia, more than 423,000 square kilometres in size it is known for its rugged landscapes, dramatic gorges, freshwater pools, isolated coastline, diverse wildlife and mix of arid land and National Park’s. The region is also home to unique indigenous culture and history. There is so much to do in this region, whether by boat, air or land (or a combination of the three) it will leave you in awe of its natural beauty. Some of our favourite highlights include a stay at the magnificent El Questro Homestead, an exclusive retreat situated on a cliff overlooking the Chamberlain River in El Questro Wilderness Park; a visit to the Bungle Bungle Ranges, where you can partake in a scenic flight for a birds eye view of Lake Argyle, the Osmond Ranges and the spectacular gorges along the way; admiting the spectacular King George Falls (pictured in the main image of this blog post); and for those wanting an adventure on sea, there are a fantastic range of small ship options to explore the incredible coastline with a mix of travel styles and duration available.
El Questro Homestead. Photo provided by The Kimberley Collection.
Broome
Technically Broome is part of The Kimberley’s mentioned above, but we think this beautiful coastal town deserved its own section. Just looking at photos of this picturesque beach resort town in Western Australia is enough to make anyone want to visit! Take in a glorious sunset by camel at Cable Beach, enjoy a day kayaking around the coast on the lookout for turtles and for the adventurous you can even head off on an exhilarating hovercraft experience over very low water, tidal flats and sand bars. If you would like to hire a car, there are plenty of other places to visit from Broome such as Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, Lombadina, Roebuck Bay and many more. Whether you are looking for a family holiday or a getaway for two, there are accommodation options to suit everyone.
Camel experience in Broome. Photo provided by The Kimberley Collection.
Maria Island Walk
Tasmania is a beautiful destination to visit year-round, with unique wildlife and picture-perfect scenery and some of the finest local food and produce. Our recommendation, especially for those who enjoy a more active holiday is to embark on one of the travel industry’s most awarded and special walks; The Maria Island Walk. Starting and finishing in Hobart this 4-day walk is the perfect short break (or addition to a longer Tasmanian itinerary). The walk is conducted in a small group, with the company of two warm and knowledgeable local guides. You will explore this fascinating world heritage listed, island national park, with its “Noah’s Ark” of rare Tasmanian birds and animals and fascinating history. Each day, gentle walking with light packs is complemented by gourmet dining and elegant accommodation as you make your way around the island exploring pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and constant magnificent scenery!
View from Skipping Ridge. Photo provided by The Maria Island Walk.
Daintree Rainforest
If you love the serenity and peace that comes with being in nature, then a visit to Tropical North Queensland should be on your to-do list. The tranquil Daintree Rainforest is one of the most complex ecosystems on earth – home to unique ancient plants and thousands of species of birds and other wildlife. Did you know the Daintree is estimated to be 180 million years old, that’s older than the Amazon! You can choose to walk through the rainforest on hiking trails and for the more adventurous you can climb high above the canopy on ziplines. There’s even the opportunity to paddleboard along the Mossman River. The Daintree is great for a day trip or spend a couple of nights in eco luxury accommodation and explore the surrounding areas (including the remote and stunning Cape Tribulation) for a few days.
Daintree National Park
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Perhaps one of the most iconic landscapes in the Australian Outback, seeing the sunrise and set over Uluru is a moment that will last with you forever. Much more than just a tourist attraction, this is a highly sacred site to the local Anangu people, the traditional owners of the land, and one that they have been fighting to protect for many years. Climbing Uluru is now banned, but the true beauty is in seeing it from the land, hearing about the history and meaning of this sacred rock and its surroundings from the locals themselves and discovering the spiritual importance of this part of Australia. Whether you choose to walk with a traditional owner, join a camel tour or self-drive you’ll leave with a connection to the land affectionately knows as ‘The Red Centre’ of Australia.
There are many ways to visit Uluru from your base in Alice Springs, for those a little more adventurous looking for a guided experience, Intrepid have a wonderful 3 day camping trip to Uluru.
Whether you want to travel independently, on a small group tour, or would like us to put together a tailor-made package; our consultants are here to help make your Aussie adventure one you will never forget!
