Each year, millions of people from across the globe make the trip to explore international destinations and experiences that many more dream of, and it’s all in our own backyard just waiting to be explored. Did you know you can travel the world right here in Australia.
Scotland on your list? Tasmania has more whisky, green villages, golf courses and fresh seafood than you could ever dream of
Enjoy a tour of Australia’s southernmost whisky distilleries (TAS)
With crisp fresh air and water, you can get a taste of some of Australia’s best whisky in Tasmania’s burgeoning distillery industry. Located in the rugged wilderness of the Tasman Peninsula, the cosy McHenry Distillery produces a range of smooth, uniquely Australian spirits. Don’t miss the Sloe Gin, crafted using berries foraged from the hedgerows around northern Tasmania. Meanwhile, in the heart of Hobart there is Lark Distillery, which has grown to be one of the top malt whisky distillers in the country, creating premium spirits with time-honoured methods. You can visit both cellar doors for a taste of their pure Tasmanian whisky and gin, including over 150 malt whiskies at Lark.
Hit the golf course in some of Australia’s most scenic settings (TAS)
Located along the wild and remote coast of Northeast Tasmania and ranked second in Australia, The Dunes Course at Barnbougle Golf Resort has gained a reputation as one of the world’s most impressive links courses. The fourth hole boasts the largest bunker in the entire Southern Hemisphere. Complete your trip with a day at Barnbougle Lost Farm, one of Australia’s most visually spectacular golfing experiences. Lost Farm Lodge offers stylish accommodation overlooking the golf course or the ocean, and the restaurant sources the finest Tasmanian produce and wines for memorable meals.
The Grand Lady of the Blue Mountains
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Stay at the Ship Inn in the quaint town of Stanley (TAS)
There’s never been a shortage of pubs in Tasmania, and at 170 years, the Ship Inn Stanley isn’t the oldest pub, but it is one of Tasmania’s newest lures. Welcoming guests since mid-2019, the Ship Inn is nestled at the base of The Nut and overlooking the panorama of the windswept bay of Stanley – possibly the most picturesque town on the state’s north-western coast. Built in 1849, the Ship Inn has reinvented itself as a unique guest house. The town itself is quaint and steeped in history with stylish antique shops, galleries and wine bars, and a renowned bakery.
Forget the English countryside at these quaint Australian villages
Escape to the mountains with a stay on the cliffside in Katoomba (NSW)
Located in the Blue Mountains, the town of Katoomba sits on the edge of a cliff, offering breathtaking views of the spectacular Three Sisters rock formation. It is also well known for its gorgeous Art Deco architecture and shopping. Browse antique stores, vintage emporiums and quirky thrift stores on the main strip, Katoomba Street. From here, it’s a five-minute car ride to the gorgeous garden village of Leura, where the shopping gets even better. Here, a selection of gorgeously Instagrammable cafés line the main street. Have a tapas-style lunch at Leura Garage, which does a fantastic cheese board, then return to Katoomba via the Blue Mountains Chocolate Company, where you can make your own hot drink from silky smooth couverture chocolate (check their website for up to date opening hours). Have dinner or cocktails at the luxe Carrington Hotel, and stay in style at the Victorian-era Lilianfels Resort & Spa or in the stunning old-world surrounds of the Hydro Majestic.
Unwind at the picturesque seaside town of Port Fairy (VIC)
Situated in a picturesque nook of the Great Ocean Road, the historic fishing township of Port Fairy is one of the most beautiful seaside villages you will find. Enjoy a stroll around the fisherman’s wharf and charming whitewashed cottages before sitting down for lunch at the cutting edge local restaurant, Fen – just be sure to book well in advance to secure a seat at this two-hatted restaurant! Spend your afternoon wandering through the array of boutique stores and art centres, where you can even watch glass blowing! After a day on your feet, settle in for afternoon tea at Time & Tide Tearoom (re-opening 27 June) or something a little stronger at the nearby Suffoir Winery, Brewery and Cidery, before enjoying a restful night at the boutique hotel, Drift House.
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Journey down Tasmania’s Wild Western coastline (TAS)
Tasmania’s spectacular western region is much more than the rugged and remote coastline it is renowned for. Leaving Hobart behind as you embark on your Western Wilds journey, take in the glacier-sculpted landscapes of Mount Field National Park, Russell Falls and Lake Dobson, Southwest National Park and Lake Pedder, before arriving at the ‘99 Bends’ between Derwent Bridge and Queenstown, which offer sweeping curves and magnificent views that are acclaimed as being some of the best in Australia. Views don’t get any better than the unique wilderness of Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area.
Experience the iconic Great Ocean Road (VIC)
The spectacular Great Ocean Road winds alongside 243 kilometres of the wild and windswept Southern Ocean. Home to craggy cliffs, empty beaches and bountiful wildlife, there’s an effortless affinity with nature along this iconic road. And with epic surf and unforgettable hikes, you’ll find plenty of adventure around every corner. You’ll see the famous Twelve Apostles, historic lighthouses, and visit waterfront cafés and hotels with sea views. Stay for a couple of nights at one of the seaside towns or do the return trip in a day.
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Featured image by Time & Tide Tearoom
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