Pristine coastal vistas leading to ancient, fascinating outback landscapes is an element of most states or territories in Australia. The south-eastern corner of the country is no different and provides a wonderful platform for this journey of discovery, travelling from ocean to outback through panoramic scenery, integral history and the towns that hold its past, present and future together. Below are some of the highlights of this spectacular part of Australia that should be on everyone’s list.
MILDURA
Sitting on the banks of the Murray River, the regional town of Mildura is well known for its paddle steamers and houseboats, riverside bars, restaurants and citrus farming. It is also a gateway to many of the region’s surrounding attractions such as the fascinating World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park, rich in Aboriginal history and unlike anywhere else in Australia due to its Mars-like scenery. Also, just outside of Mildura, is the Australian Inland Botanic Garden which is home to a range of Australian natives and exotic plants and the first semi-arid botanic gardens in the Southern Hemisphere.
BROKEN HILL
The mining town of Broken Hill reveals its most fabulous side at the iconic Palace Hotel, made famous by the cult classic movie ‘The Adventure of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’. Visit the oldest regional art gallery in New South Wales for an extensive display of Australian colonial works and excellent collection of Indigenous works. You will be delighted by Broken Hill’s much-loved attraction, the ‘Big Picture’, the world’s largest acrylic painting by a single artist housed in the Silver City Mint and Art Centre. More must-dos include the Line of Lode Miner’s Memorial, Albert Kersten Mining and Mineral Museum and the Pro Hart Gallery.
FLINDERS RANGES
Experience the splendour and sheer vastness of South Australia’s ancient Flinders Ranges from above on a scenic flight and get back to nature by staying in a luxury glamping Ikara safari tent. Explore the wonders of this breathtaking landscape via a multitude of 4WD tracks and walking trails and delve deeper into Indigenous culture with an experienced guide. Explore the spectacular panorama of its dramatic gorges and spectacular peaks including Wilpena Pound and Pugilist Lookout.
ADELAIDE
The city of Adelaide surprises many tourists thanks to its continued explosion of new laneway bars, cafes and incredible restaurants along with further international hotels popping up around the city. Wander along North Terrace and marvel at the historic architecture of the Art Gallery of South Australia, University of Adelaide and South Australian Museum. Head to the historic and bustling Adelaide Central Markets for superb local produce and eateries, tour the iconic Adelaide Oval or enjoy a leisurely walk through the stunning Adelaide Botanic Gardens. Not far from the city itself are numerous beautiful beaches such as Glenelg, Henley and Semaphore, each with their own inviting seaside cafes, restaurants and shopping.
KANGAROO ISLAND
An intriguing ferry ride or short flight from the South Australian mainland begins the journey to this island sanctuary with over a third of the island consisting of protected nature reserves. The remainder, a perfect blend of unspoiled coastline, gourmet local artisan produce, world class wineries, abundant roaming wildlife, spectacular raw scenery at every turn and that unmistakable country air and hospitality. Iconic Flinders Chase National Park is rugged wilderness at its best. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, various walking trails and the world-renowned Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Award winning Seal Bay offers a rare opportunity to watch the seals in their own habitat, plus, visits to the island’s production sites are a must including Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery and Clifford’s Honey Farm, to name a few.
LIMESTONE COAST
Explore the ancient beauty of South Australia's only World Heritage-listed site at Naracoorte Caves National Park or take a guided tour around the burgeoning wine region and visit popular wineries. Get a photo at tourist icon - the striped Robe Obelisk and take a drive down 17 kilometres of pure white sand on the aptly named Long Beach. In the heart of Mount Gambier discover the renowned Blue Lake and the underground oasis, Umpherston Sinkhole. The Limestone Coast is also home to the stunning Coonawarra wine region with around forty cellar doors to tour through. Penola is the major town here, being a hugely important location in the life of Australia’s first saint, Mary McKillop.
PORT FAIRY
Voted one of the world’s most liveable towns in 2012, the picturesque town of Port Fairy, on the Great Ocean Road route, is abundant with pretty cottages and buildings, some dating back to the early to mid 1800’s when the town was first settled. Originally called Belfast, it was then renamed Port Fairy after a ship, the Fairy, that had sheltered in the harbour, and currently has a population of around 3000 very friendly locals. Enjoy the maritime history, architecture, boutique shopping, antique stores and selection of great restaurants and cafes.
Click here for our escorted small group tours, featuring our ‘Outback to Ocean via Road’ departure, or contact our Holidays of Australia team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for further information.
Image credit: Destination NSW, South Australian Tourism Commission, Adam Bruzzone, Ockert Le Roux
