See Australia: our ultimate guide
We grow up singing about our land girt by sea, abundant with nature’s gifts. But actions speak louder than words – it’s time to get out and explore your own backyard. There’s something for every traveller here in the land down under. Trust us, we’ll take you there.
Shimmering blue seas that glisten in the bright Aussie sunshine, towering cliffs that glow like golden paint in the afternoon light, wide open blue skies and hidden city laneways, brimming with wine bars and public art. This is Australia, where you really have to see our country’s beauty to believe it.
Whether you’re travelling with family, looking for the next delicious bite to fill your belly or itching for that bucket-list adventure out in the wide unknown, we have something for everyone.
Here are our top Aussie travel picks, for all traveller types.
4WD cruising along the Dampier Peninsula. Image: Getty
Adventure Seekers
4WD tour of Cape Leveque, WA
Home to pristine stretches of coastline and wild natural wonders, Western Australia is built for 4WD adventures. Part of the mesmerising Kimberley region, Cape Leveque is a bucket-list destination in WA. Accessible by 4WD, the area is a mysterious jewel in WA’s crown, and if you’re a keen off-roader, it’s definitely worth the extra distance. If you’d prefer someone else whisks you away to this wonderland, Kimberley Wild Adventure Tours offers a day tour with a return flight to Broome. You’ll get to take a look through the Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, visit Kooljaman at Cape Leveque, swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the undulating rocky coastline that’s as untouched as they come.
Kings Canyon. Image: Getty
Kings Canyon escape, NT
The ochre tones of the Northern Territory are like a painting come to life. See the NT at its most spectacular at breathtaking Kings Canyon. Best taken in on foot, the canyon is ideal for a hike. The views from the top will make the trek worthwhile, with sweeping views across the quintessentially Aussie landscape where vibrant red earth meets wide open blue skies. AAT Kings offers a comprehensive tour that takes you from Ayers Rock Resort, out to the canyon, where you’ll be able to explore with the aid of a guide. Take the canyon rim walk or venture along the creek bed. You’ll feel like Australia’s very own Indiana Jones.
Balloon Festival, Canberra. Image: Getty
Canberra from above, ACT
Home to incredible art galleries, historic and modern architecture, and bookended by sprawling national parks, Canberra is an unexpected delight. For something a little different, take it all in from above with a bird’s eye view. See the nation’s capital from an impressive 3000ft in the air, thanks to Dawn Drifters air balloon tours. Rise above the city as golden morning sun hits the streets and treetops below. You can even indulge in a glass of champagne at the end of your flight, at the luxe Park Hyatt Hotel.
Mornington Peninsula. Image: Getty
Foodies
Tastebud tour of Mornington, VIC
There’s no shortage of wineries dotted about Australia, from McLaren Vale in SA to Margaret River in WA, but when it comes to Victoria, Mornington Peninsula is a standout. Perched on the coastline just over an hour south of Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula is home to a collection of wineries, eateries and vistas sure to settle you into holiday mode in no time. This seaside mecca is perfect for a road trip, with plenty of cafés to start your day, wineries where you can sip local vino and enjoy a platter for lunch, and even a brewery if you need a refreshing ale in between. The scenery here is divine, too, with the ocean peeking through dense Aussie bushland at every twist and turn. Stay amongst the trees and wake up to birdsong, or rest your head and soak up the salty seaside air. If you’d prefer someone takes you there, hop on a tour direct from Melbourne and take in the highlights. Wine Hop Tours offers bus tours of the region, including tastings at 4 wineries and lunch at a local eatery.
Marino Meat and Food Store, Adelaide Central Market. Image: SATC/Julian Cebo