Australia is an incredible destination, and increasingly becoming more affordable and accessible, but its vast – so youre best to explore a couple of regions well and what better two than Victoria and the Northern Territory!
Flying Down Under has never been easier with Qantas, allowing you to get to all of your dream locations across Australia, giving you a one-stop shop to make sure your transfers get you from A-B and then C and more without a hitch, with a service you can rely on and ensure that your holiday starts from the moment you hop onboard. Qantas Explorer fares connect Melbourne with Alice Springs, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Darwin affordably and easily, with daily flights and saving those Aussie dollars for the good times while you do it.
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So where and what is a must-see when you head to Australia?
1. Phillip Island
Just 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is home to an abundance of wildlife, a rugged coastline and the famous Penguin Parade where hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle home to the sand dunes.
Each night you can watch this magical procession from a nearby elevated platform.
While on the island stop off at the Koala Conservation Centre, where you can stroll through the woodland on the tree-top boardwalk and get an up-close glimpse of the koalas in their natural habitat.
2. Yarra Valley
Immerse yourself in the Yarra Valley, Victorias oldest wine region, less than an hours drive from Melbourne.
With a global reputation for its chardonnay and pinot noir, get lost among the vineyards and peep behind cellar doors. Hop on a winery tour or enjoy a private tasting complete with gourmet treats.
With plentiful wineries in the region, be sure to include Domaine Chandon on the itinerary. As part of the Champagne house Moët & Chandon, you can experience a drop of French tradition merged with the Yarra Valley.
Or visit TarraWarra Estate best known for exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, its subterranean cellar door fabulous restaurant with its inspired by its kitchen garden and fresh local produce
3. Great Ocean Road
One of the worlds most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road is a feast for the eyes. Get behind the wheel and drive along this iconic route to discover beautiful beaches, temperate rainforests and an abundance of wildlife on the way.
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And it wouldnt be complete without taking in the awe-inspiring sight of the Twelve Apostles. Once connected to the mainland, these limestone pillars rise out of the Southern Ocean and through environmental factors over the years have created a unique rock formation.
Catch a birds-eye view by taking a scenic flight or helicopter and capture that golden shot.
4. Tantalise the tastebuds in Melbourne
With its vibrant laneways, rich art culture and charming suburbs, Melbourne is a city bursting with cafés and bars waiting to be discovered. Renowned chef David Chang enjoyed one of his favourite dishes ever at the acclaimed restaurant Attica, but theres plenty of options to whet the appetite, from Asian fusion to luxe local fare.
While youre there, why not taste some of the best coffee in the world? Beating competition from the likes of Italy and Vienna, trendy coffee brewers Patricia on Little Bourke Street is a must. The cookie-cut coffee shop with standing-room only demands a queue but trust us, its worth the wait!
5. Mornington Peninsula
Just an hours drive from Melbourne, you can find a piece of the Mediterranean Down Under.
With its olive groves and vineyards, seaside villages and farmers markets, this area, located south of Melbourne, evokes a sense of Italy or Southern France, but with a distinct Australian twist.
Dont miss the Peninsula Hot Springs, a natural hot springs and day spa centre where you can soak in warm natural thermal mineral waters, or try some of the spa treatments like the Ice Cave and Australian Aboriginal-inspired kodo full body massages.
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6. Ormiston gorge
This imposing gorge, located in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, is a favourite among visitors to Australias Northern Territory not only because of its natural beauty, but also because it is an amazing place to swim in the naturally occurring waterhole.
If you fancy stretching your legs a little more, the Ormiston Pound Walk, is a three to four hour circuit that follows the rocky slope into the flat expanse of the pound and back along the gorge and allows you to see some of the flora and fauna of the area.
7. Take a hike
Feel the outback come alive on the Larapinta Trail, which stretches over 200km along the spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges from Alice Springs. The full, supported hike usually takes around 12 days, but there are lots of shorter walks available from one day to six or seven days. The trail is dotted with luxury camps where your guides will prepare dinner and allow you to relax under the star filled outback skies after a great days walking. But if that sounds like too much hard work, you can watch kangaroos, brumbies and camels roam beneath you as you glide through the sky in a hot-air balloon from Alice Springs.
8. Sounds of Silence dinner
No, this isnt anything to do with Simon & Garfunkel. The Sounds of Silence dinner is a truly unforgettable experience at Ayers Rock Resort.
As your gaze falls upon Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and Uluru (Ayers Rock), the sun sets while you enjoy sparkling wine and canapes before tucking in to a barbecue buffet which includes some of Australias favourite dishes that you might not get to try elsewhere. On a clear night, youll be able to point out the stars as a local storyteller and astronomer points out constellations and tells stories of the regions history.
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9. Kakadu National Park
If you fancy yourself a Crocodile Dundee wannabe, then Kakadu National Park is not to be missed. An easy three-hour drive from Darwin, the majestic and ancient landscape gives you a real look at Australias wildlife and culture.
Ancient rock art offers a glimpse at the rich indigenous history, while the Warradjan Cultural Centre also tells the story of Aboriginal life in the area. A trip down the rivers and billabongs will have you on the hunt for saltwater crocodiles. If you fancy a swim, stick to the hotel pools as Kakadus waterways are home to many of these impressive creatures.
10. Sunset Cruise on Darwins harbour
Feel the warm tropical breeze on your face and catch one of the best sunsets Australia can offer aboard a sunset catamaran cruise in Darwin. Sample fresh local produce including seafood during the buffet dinner on board, if you can tear yourself away from the views. .
As the waves lap beneath you, with glass in hand, you can hear all about Darwins history while you kick back and relax. After all, what are holidays for?
Experience all of these for yourself with Trailfinders, the No.1 Tour Operator Down Under, with 13 night holiday from just £999. Click here to find out more.
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