If you’re in Australia at the moment you’re probably noticing the weather taking a turn for the chillier. Whether you’ve had the snow gear and rain jackets pre-packed for months or you’re still insisting that a sarong is a weather appropriate choice right now, here are the best locations to either embrace or escape those coming winter winds.
Port Douglas
If your dream winter involves mittens and mugs of hot chocolate, this is not the destination for you. Seriously, run as far as you can from this beautiful town nestled by the coral sea in the far north of Queensland that enjoys a tropical climate year-round. Known as the gateway to the Daintree rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef, wildlife lovers will find their paradise here. These beaches, waterfalls and stunning views are a guaranteed to stave off the winter blues.
The Kimberley
Why not bypass the extreme heat and explore the rugged Kimberley during the dry season? May through to October in the Kimberley is when you’ll enjoy the more moderate winter weather, as well as all the stunning views of the vast landscape without the drag of oppressive heat or flash flooding. Winter is the perfect time to explore the rivers, gorges and sandstone cliffs of wonderful rural Western Australia.
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Fraser Island
Queensland’s Fraser island might be the perfect getaway for travellers who aren’t ready to give up beach days throughout the winter months. With day-time temperatures averaging around 20°C, it never gets too chilly. Along with the beaches and rainforests there are some 200 lakes to be explored. Lucky hikers may spot whales, dolphins, sharks and even turtles from the coastal lookout points. If you’re looking for an Aussie paradise, this is it.
For those who wish to embrace the coming cold these may be best destinations for you.
Tasmania
While seeing the Northern Lights may be a stretch for some, seeing the Southern Lights can be as easy as skipping a ditch. Well, Bass Straight, anyway.
Rural Tassie is one of the best places in the world to see Aurora Australis. Boasting stunning overland tracks and rugged coastlines, Tasmania is also home to multiple midwinter festivals celebrating everything from music, cider, whiskey and chocolate. If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing snow fall over eucalypts or cozying up by a fire with a glass of mulled cider, Tassie is the winter get away for you.
Snowy slopes
What’s the most wintery activity you can think of? If, like most people, your answer is skiing or snowboarding, then the snowy slopes are the top spot for you. Ski fields across NSW and Victoria such as Mount Buller, Falls Creek, Thredbo, Mount Hotham and Perisher offer some of the best slopes in the country. If snow sports aren’t high on your list, don’t worry, there is plenty to do in the villages to keep you entertained. If worse comes to worst, there is always a snowman that needs building.
The Barossa Valley
Wine. Oh, you need another reason to visit this beautiful region in the calm and quiet winter months? Let me give you just a few. With winter farmers markets, creative classes, exhibitions, fine food and even a wine festival, don’t be fooled into thinking that the warmer months are better for exploring the beautiful Barossa valley. It’s time to enjoy some of the country’s finest foods and wines as you cuddle around the fireplace and tell stories, if you’ve been dreaming of the cliché winter fantasy, you’ll find it here.
When it comes to winter, are you a lover or a fighter? What are your favourite destinations in the colder months of the year?
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