On your doorstep: the top six Australian destinations

21 Apr 2016

There are plenty of holidays right here on your Australian doorstep, and the best ones are often off the beaten track.

Undara Lava Tubes, Queensland

It may look like a pathetic excuse for a volcano, but Undara has so much more to offer. Head beneath the surface and you’ll find a treasure trove of wonder. Considered some of the largest lava tubes on the planet, the underground caves are absolutely spectacular. It’s said that about 190,000 years ago, 23 billion cubic litres of lava spewed from the Undara Volcano, forming the lava tubes. If you go during breeding season, you can even witness the microbats and night tigers at war. You can even sleep cocooned inside an antique railway carriage. 

Karijini National Park, Western Australia 

A giant playground created by nature, the Karijini National Park is full of gorges, natural swimming pools and ridiculously scenic walkways. There are loads of waterfalls to enjoy and plenty of wildlife to keep you company including kangaroos, echidnas, geckos and goannas. The walking trails are categorised by difficulty so if you do one, make sure you’re up for the challenge before setting off. 

Keep River National Park, Northern Territory

Right on the border of Western Australia, the Keep River National Park is a strange sight. With 100ft-tall palm trees and dome-shaped cliffs emerging from a flat landscape, visitors are often left wondering just exactly how these things got there. And of course, because of its location, it’s unbelievably remote and peaceful. Not somewhere to go on a daytrip, you’re better off spending a full couple of weeks exploring the area. Keep in mind the trip takes around four days from either Darwin or Broome. There is a campsite and some easy walking trails to enjoy the natural scenery, plus ancient Aboriginal rock art. 

Glenworth Valley, NSW 

Just an hour north of Sydney, there’s plenty on offer in Glenworth Valley, from kayaking to camping and even abseiling if you’re feeling adventurous. You can even watch a horse muster, similar to a scene straight from the Westerns; hundreds of horses rounded by a motorbike, thundering past as they head to the horse yards. There’s 3000 acres of unspoiled wilderness to enjoy and it’s perfect for the whole family. 

The Great Alpine Road, Victoria

Not as long as the Great Ocean Road but definitely just as scenic, the Great Alpine Road takes you through Victoria’s High Country. Start your road trip in Wangaratta, stop off in Bright, trek up into the Victorian Alps and pass by Mount Hotham. Then head on to the town of Omeo before going on to Bairnsdale in Gippsland. Best times to drive? Through Autumn and Spring and the colours change and the hills come alive. 

Blue Lake, South Australia

A popular visitor’s spot in Mount Gambier, the Blue Lake’s beauty lies in its colour change. From December to March, the lake changes to cobalt blue, an uncanny sight for the eyes. By April however, it has returned to its normal steel grey. Other than changing colour, the Blue Lake also offers unrivalled scenic views around Mount Gambier and a walking trail directing visitors to each of the viewing platforms.