Sure travelling overseas is incredibly exciting, but there’s plenty to see right here in our own back yard. From deserts to rainforests, and city-scapes to beaches, Australia has a lot of different holiday options that we forget about when we’re planning a holiday. And best of all, you can leave the passport at home!
Uluru & the Red Centre
Experience Australia’s iconic red centre and the rock that attracts hundreds of thousands every year with its incredible size. Cycle around Uluru, walk through Kings Canyon and the other natural wonders, then experience the magic of the Field of lights for an unforgettable desert getaway. Only 3 hours from Brisbane, you can take that Friday or Monday off and enjoy a long weekend escape.
Our pick: Intrepid have three-day itineraries that cover the Uluru, Kings Canyon and Alice Springs from $672pp.
Tasmania
Tasmania has something to offer everyone. From the adventurous nature-lovers to the foodies, there’s a holiday for everyone in Tasmania. Take a day trip from Hobart to the wineries, visit Australia’s oldest brewery, or see if you can spot the lovable Tasmanian Devil in the wild. The fresh oysters and salmon alone should have you booking flights ASAP.
Our pick: The Maria Island walk covers the active, nature element and pairs it nicely with gourmet dining and wines as you reach your camps each night. Spend four luxurious days enjoying the best life (and Tasmania!) has to offer.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia
There aren’t many places in the world where you can spot sea lions and their pups swimming playfully off the shore with such ease, but Seal Bay Conservation Park is one! Also you might not know, but there are 18 delicious wine labels growing on Australia’s third-largest island. For something with a little more kick, visit Kangaroo Island Spirits for Australiana-flavoured gin, vodka and liqueur.
WA – Rottnest & Margaret River
Western Australia often gets forgotten when it comes to thinking of holidays. The five-hour flight to Perth from Brisbane certainly reminds you you’re a little further away from home, and you don’t even need your passport! Visit the Quokkas on Rottnest Island, sample wines and delicious food in the Margaret River region or hire a car and cruise the West Australian Coast. Snorkelling is excellent at Shark Bay or Exmouth and far less crowded than the Great Barrier Reef.
Gold Coast Hinterland
Tucked away less than 30 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the beaches of the Gold Coast is a rainforest escape. The Gold Coast Hinterland has plenty to offer in terms of wineries, relaxing rainforest walks and cosy cottages. Stay in Mount Tambourine and discover Glow Worm Caves or for thrill-seekers, swing and zipline through the forest at the Treetop Challenge. Only an hour from Brisbane, there really is nothing in the way of a weekend trip!
