2020 has certainly challenged us in many new ways, including our beloved holidays. We’ve gone from the world is our oyster to the world is staying at home. Gradually as we emerge from varying Covid restrictions, the unattainable holiday is becoming a reality again, albeit not international yet. Fortunately, here in Australia we have access to so many unique, diverse and stunning locations, be it a tropical beach holiday, a winter wonderland getaway or a complete unplug escape. We can even travel ‘overseas’ and go cruising.
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Warm, sunny, resort style
If your idea of holiday is minimal, other than drinks and snacks by the infinity pool, perhaps a massage or two and maybe some local gift shopping, then consider one of these top Australian spots to relax.
Mindil Beach Casino Resort, Darwin, is your tropical go to for its aqua infinity pool leading to the private beach in front and chic weekend pool club experience. Plus, the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are a stone’s throw, in addition to daily sunset walks.
The spectacular Sails in the Desert, Uluru, is laid back luxury in the desert, complete with the Red Ochre Spa and a yoga session with the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park as the backdrop. Take home some unique Indigenous art from the stunning Mulgara Gallery and fabulous cultural learnings from the free outback experiences.
Villa Beach Palm Cove, tropical north Queensland, is just what the doctor ordered. With a hint of the South Pacific, these beautifully appointed suites are located beachfront with boutique shopping, dining and days spas a leisurely walk away. Or just relax by the lagoon style swimming pool amongst the lush greenery. Bliss.
Secluded luxury amongst nature
For the complete unplugged holiday, a degree of remoteness is often involved. Enter the off-the-beaten-track retreats that are nothing short of spectacular and still the epitome of luxury.
Situated in the dunes of the ruggedly spectacular Cape Range National Park, on the North West Cape of Western Australia, lies this incredible and exclusive beach safari camp, Sal Salis, ready to recharge your soul. Overlooking the vibrant Ningaloo Reef, home to colourful corals and a thriving marine life, this unique place has to be one of Australia’s best kept secrets.
Longitude 131° is the outback’s answer to rugged indulgence, situated in Uluru, with 15 luxury tents each offering views of the ancient monolith from the end of the bed. Spa Kinara offers a signature menu of treatments focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation, embracing the Red Centre’s native ingredients. Dining here is all premium, from grazing tables, dishes of the finest produce to dining under the stars. A timeless and immersive experience, with an emphasis on a lasting connection with the land.
Cool, Crisp and On-foot
Sometimes there’s not better way to explore a destination than on foot. And some fresh, crisp air always helps. Cradle Mountain Lodge, in World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Tasmania, is one such place. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, glacial lakes, icy streams cascading down rugged mountains, captivating scenery teeming with wildlife and some of the cleanest air you can take in.
Canberra, our country’s capital in the beautiful Australian Capital Territory, and is brimming with nature walks, in addition to its integral history, energetic culture, natural beauty and world class food and wine scene. Try the Centenary Trail, a 145 kilometre loop around the city incorporating Parliament House, and can be broken down into sections, the Mt Ainslie Summit Trail for fantastic city views or a leisurely stroll around Lake Burley Griffin, to get started.
Wine, dine and slow down
Known for its vast array of world-class wine regions, stunning natural beauty, deliciously fresh produce and gourmet delights, Adelaide’s surrounds are exceptional. The world-renowned Barossa Valley sits 60 kilometres north east of Adelaide with a myriad of high-profile and boutique cellar doors for tastings of world-class wines including the local specialty, Shiraz. Roughly a 30-minute drive outside the city you can escape to the Adelaide Hills where quaint villages and picturesque wineries are yours to discover. Then there’s McLaren Vale for more premium wineries than you’ll know what to do with or venture further afield to the beautiful Clare Valley and meander the Riesling Trail.
With world-renowned cellar doors and sweeping vineyard views at your fingertips, boutique shopping, stunning beaches and beautiful sunshine you’ll find yourself to be in the famous Margaret River region, just 234 kilometres south of Perth. Head to the Farmers Markets in Margaret River on a Saturday morning for fresh seasonal foods directly from the local farmers, local artisan produce, incredible coffee and cheeses to rival even the finest international equivalents.
Rail of a time
Step aboard for a quintessential train journey through the diverse landscapes of Australia. Enjoy the world class hospitality and dining with the famous Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin, the mighty Indian Pacific for a transcontinental expedition like no other between Sydney and Perth and the coastal and outback discovery between Brisbane and Adelaide with Great Southern. Each train offering their own unique and once-in-a-lifetime Off Train Experiences.
Discover the hidden treasures of regional New South Wales aboard the Aurora Australis as you are transported back in time on board a newly restored fleet of 1960’s ex-Southern Aurora sleeping carriages, returned to their original condition. Encounter breathtaking scenery and tour regional towns steeped in history, rich culture and welcoming people, together with old world charm and full on board service.
There are plenty of reasons why Queensland’s stunning coastline is one of the most popular holiday spots for both locals, interstate travellers and international guests alike. From relaxed, tropical townships to palm-lined beaches and expansive, lush rainforests – what’s not to love! One of the best ways to experience this paradise part of Australia is with Queensland Rail’s Spirit of Queensland train between Brisbane and Cairns or Spirit of the Outback train between Brisbane and Longreach. The tracks run deep within the history of the state, from moving soldiers during World War II to ferrying livestock and coal during Queensland’s massive resources boom.
Cruising around
Bespoke, small cruising is big for 2021. Still enjoy the creature comforts of inclusive meals plus a more personalised, immersive cruising experience.
How about a cruise along one of the longest navigable rivers in the world, the expansive Murray River. It’s rich in history and heritage and is dotted with an abundance of fascinating towns, regional hubs and some of Australia’s favourite golf courses. Float along on board the Murray Princess iconic paddle steamer to experience all this plus magnificent scenery, meals and entertainment.
Experience the unspoiled beauty and remote ruggedness of Western Australia’s Kimberley as Coral Expedition’s expert guides interpret 40,000-year-old rock art of this spectacular coastline. Later in the season, witness the Humpback Whales on their migration. Feel the thrill of riding the Horizontal Falls in inflatable Zodiac tender vessels, cruise the Prince Regent River and enjoy sunset canapes and drinks on the beach as dusk settles over the Kimberley.
Enjoy the remote and untouched Northern reefs of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef on board the stunning Coral Discoverer. Including opportunities to swim, snorkel or dive Osprey & Ribbon reefs, explore Cooktown, cruise up the Daintree River, discover Indigenous culture and enjoy a sundowner on a deserted cay plus more.
Still wanting to travel overseas……..
How about a serene island holiday to the surprising Norfolk Island for a new found adventure, a scenic rail journey through New Zealand’s famous alpine regions or a clean getaway to Australia’s secret island paradise, World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island.
Contact our friendly Holidays of Australia & the World team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au. For even more holiday inspiration, peruse our abundance of travel blogs and destination guides.
Image credit: Mindil Beach Resort, Voyages Resort, Journey Beyond, Graham Scheer (McLaren Vale), Tourism WA, Unsplash, Longitude 131, Sal Salis, DiscoverCanberra
