Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers something for everyone. From its bustling cities to its breathtaking natural landscapes, there are plenty of places to visit that will leave a lasting impression. Remember to book your vacation rentals in Australia in advance to reserve the best accommodations.
Here are some of the best places to add to your itinerary when planning a trip to Australia.
1. Ayers Rock
Also known as Uluru, Ayers Rock is a rock formation located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. It is a sacred place for the Aboriginal Australians who call it “the navel of the world”.
Once you’re there you can do different tours. Most of them go around Uluru. You might be tempted to climb it, but be careful, it’s frowned upon by the locals, remember, it’s a sacred place, so don’t climb it, you might still be amazed looking at it from below and walking around it.
2. The Twelve Apostles
In Port Campbell National Park (in the state of Victoria) these limestone rock formations are battered by the sea. Now only 10 of the twelve “apostles” remain, but it is still impressive to see what the force of the waves can do. You can also take some impressive photos, especially if you are there early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
The park is about three hours from Melbourne and is a must on Australia’s most iconic road trips.
3. The Pinnacles
The pinnacles are formations found in Nambung National Park, 200 km north of Perth. The image is very curious because a bunch of mounds emerges spontaneously from the sand, like “here we have decided to leave and they won’t move us from here”. Once again, it is an example of how nature is the best architect we can imagine.
4. The Great Barrier Reef
We are going to the other side. This one is a must-see. The normal way to visit it is to take a boat from Cairns, but snorkeling alone is a great way to enjoy it because you can see incredible species at shallow depths.
It is the largest coral reef in the world and can be seen from space.
5. Fraser Island
It’s the largest sand island in the world and is reached by ferry from Hervey Bay, which is about three and a half hours from Brisbane. You can sleep on the island – there are some affordable accommodation options on Karta.com – or spend the day there and return. Be aware, though, that it’s quite large, so if you want to visit in peace and quiet, it’s best to stay a couple of days. Nature is brutal and you can swim in the natural lakes.
6. The Great Ocean Road
More than a place per se, the Great Ocean Road could be described as an iconic Australian experience. It’s a legendary road, built by former WWI soldiers (you can’t exceed 80km per hour) and 250km long, passing special places such as the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge (13 minutes from the 12 Apostles), and the Otway Forest.
Hire your car or van and enjoy! You’ll get some amazing snapshots and see landscapes that will blow your mind (in a good way).
7. Tasmania
Demons and much more… incredible beaches, lakes, mountains… in short… a natural paradise that many people don’t travel to when they come to Australia because being an island it’s quite far away.
Bear in mind that Tasmania is very cold, especially in the wilder areas, so be prepared to pack warm clothes and choose the Australian summer to visit it. But… if you have the slightest chance, don’t miss it, you’ll be amazed.
8. Byron Bay
Byron Bay is a small town south of the Gold Coast that has a lot of charm. Its population is around 4,000, but it’s very touristy, in a good way because it’s not a mass tourism destination. There is a mix of surfing and hippie atmosphere, the beaches are great and the beers on the terraces are great too.
These are just a few of the many places that Australia has to offer. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in this diverse and beautiful country.
