9 Tourist Places in Australia That Even Locals Miss

February 17, 2017

With the recent Australia day festivities, there is no doubt you’re feeling patriotic. Perhaps then, this is the perfect time to go on an adventure to experience some uniquely wonderful parts of Australia, which even as a local you may not have experienced.

If however, you’ve just used up your annual leave over the recent Christmas period, then why not start to plan for your holiday for later in year. There are so many great airfare sales and early bird deals available this time of year.

Keep reading for some best-kept Australian travel that even many locals may have missed. Go watch some horse racing outback style, or get lost in a new city. Pack your hiking boots and getaway for some timeout in nature, admiring its beauty. No matter what you choose, there’s plenty of tourist places in Australia to explore…even as a local! Let’s review our 9 tips for the great land down under.

What is one of the best tourist places in Australia for locals and visitors alike? A horse racing weekend in Birdsville

At the beginning of September, the small town of Birdsville located in far central west Queensland becomes crowded with horse racing enthusiasts. Since its opening in 1882, the special event has grown immensely to a 13-race program, and a trophy for the fastest rider. Come revel in the atmosphere of horse racing and enjoy great entertainment in the heart of the country.

Experience a race day like no other in outback Australia to put Melbourne Cup day to the test. Buy a flight, along with a new suit or fascinator, and make sure that you have a horse race weekend in Birdsville booked, during your Australia tours.

The 12 Apostles on the Great Ocean Drive is one of the tourist places in Australia not to miss

Many tourists have climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge – but have you?

Sometimes called the coat hanger, because of its arch-like design, there is no better way to experience Sydney than by seeing it from the Harbour Bridge. Many choose to see Sydney from the bottom of the bridge, but if you are courageous enough, climb the ladders to the top of the bridge for an unbeatable view.

Find an ATAS accredited travel agent today for Sydney flights.  Or if you’re after more ideas for your time in New South Wales, check out our other blog articles. See what else there is to do in the great city of Sydney, or its neighbouring states.

Fancy yourself a bit of a wine connoisseur? Then you will enjoy this next tourist place in Australia. Come wine tasting in Barossa Valley

Renowned for its fantastic wines and delicious food, tourists and locals all agree – there’s something special about the Barossa Valley in South Australia. It is guaranteed to be one of the best holidays you’ve ever taken (and that’s not just the wine talking). The locals are known for their warm hospitality and their passion for fine food and wine. And with celebrations and festivals all year long, it truly makes it a unique place.

Pencil in the Barossa Vintage Festival, held over April 24-28 in 2019. This biannual event started in 1947, where locals celebrate the end of vintage, and visitors pour in to enjoy events showcasing the region’s wine, food, art and culture. Whether bespoke cosy tastings or multi-town gatherings, there’s over 100 options to select from, in over 5 days. And it’s all located just over an hour from Adelaide’s CBD, in Tanunda.

So, as quoted by Shakespeare, come and crush a cup of wine! As only the truly best pastimes are still as popular to this day. Prepare for this intoxicating getaway now.

Photo credit: Barossa Vintage Festival

Want to get lost in Australia? The Mornington Peninsula is for you 

Melbourne is one of the top tourist cities to explore during your visit to or around Australia.. But why not hire a car, and venture out an hour or so, to see the spectacular ranges and coastline of the Mornington Peninsula. From the natural opulence of the peaceful Peninsula Hot Springs, to the amazing hedge mazes – you’ll almost feel like you’re in New Zealand, or the English countryside!

For a decadent week or weekend away from the bustling city, the options are endless. No matter what time of year, there’s always something to do in Melbourne and the marvels beyond. Just give yourself the time to unwind and delve deeper.

Buy a flight today through an industry accredited travel agents, and be on your way to a fantastic experience that you’ll remember fondly.

Blairgowrie Beach, Mornington Peninsula
Photo credit: http://www.visitmorningtonpeninsula.org

Walk along one of the prettiest tourist places in Australia – from Bondi to Coogee


If you have followed our travel suggestions, then you may’ve already booked a Sydney flight? If that’s the case, the walk from Bondi to Coogee is a great way to enjoy some active travel! The 6 kilometre walk will not only make you feel refreshed (if your resolution for this year is health), but also gives you amazing panoramas.

Access smaller less crowded beaches and bays, like Gordons Bay or Bronte. And if you get hungry on the way, there are plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat, and soak in the fab views.

No matter what, this is guaranteed to be a fun day in your adventure travel plans in 2019. And a cool escape if things heat up again this weekend, with the record recent heatwaves Sydney’s experienced.
 

Cycling around Rottnest Island

Photo credit: thesweetwanderlust.com

Summer is here, so it’s the perfect time to explore the popular Rottnest Island. Rottnest Island is known for its salt lakes and beautiful beaches, and best of all it’s just a short 25-minute ferry ride from Perth.

Explore the Island on bike for a unique experience. A full loop of the island is about 25km, and there are plenty of bike hire rentals available, so why not include a picnic on the other side of the Island So if you travel to Perth make sure you set aside at least one day for Rottnest Island where you can scout around the secluded spots for some well-deserved rest and relaxation.


 

Explore the stunning caves in the Margaret River Region – a tourist place in Western Australia full of organic wonder

When you travel Australia the Margaret River region located 3 hours south of Perth is a must visit destination. It is home to over 150 limestone caves in the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge.

If adventure travel is your style, then this is well worth the visit. Formed approximately 1 million years ago, go on a spellbinding tour of the caves and learn how they were formed, as well as the aboriginal dreamtime stories surrounding them.


Mammoth Cave, Margaret River WA
Photo credit: www.margaretriver.com

What is the next tourist place in Australia you should check off your list? The Blue Mountains of NSW

The Blue Mountains are the idyllic way to spend time enjoying Australia’s flora and fauna. Its many hiking trails and gullies enable the visitor to immerse themselves in its natural beauty. No matter what time of the year you are planning on travelling either as a local, interstate, or international backpacking Australia, the Blue Mountains will welcome you with open arms.

Located just two hours west of Sydney by car or train, the Blue Mountains are perfect for either a day trip, overnight stay or a weekend escape. The region covers over one million hectares of World Heritage-listed bushland. It boasts more than 140 kilometres of walking trails, hundreds of bird varieties, dozens of reptile and amphibian species, and mammals found on no other continent.

Many villages in the region offer award winning restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, antique emporiums and galleries. The vibrant arts community includes some of Australia’s best painters, sculptors, musicians and writers – with their muse this exceptional landscape.
Three Sisters at Echo Point in Katoomba – Blue Mountains
Photo credit: James Horan

There you have it, that’s 9 ideas to help you plan the best holiday ever. Why not start mapping out your own adventure travel with and ATAS travel agent.

Categories – TRAVELLING IN AUSTRALIA LEISURE TRAVEL

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