Friday, November 4, 2011

Getting Back to Nature in Australia


Let’s face it, of all the reasons people travel down under, the incredible nature and wildlife has to be up there with the most compelling arguments. Add to this the fact that our thriving cities are never more than a few hours’ drive away from the rugged bush land we’re so famous for and you have a recipe for tourism bliss. If you’re considering a visit down under, or you’re an Australian wanting to get out and experience the beauty of this great southern land, we’ve got a range of tips that will help you make the most of the great outdoors. From day tours to self-guided bush walks and idyllic beaches, we’ve got the lowdown on how to enjoy it all.


Bush Walks

Hiking (or ‘bushwalking’ as we call it in Australia) is a popular pastime and a great way to see the vast landscapes and forests in Australia. From rainforests to deserts and tropical beaches, Australia’s terrain is as diverse as its population, so a good set of walking shoes, plenty of water and a spirit of adventure will take you a long way when it comes to discovering the great Aussie outdoors. Around Sydney there are some fantastic harbourside walks through the national parks that occupy the foreshores, so even if you’re staying in the biggest city in the country, you can lose yourself on a beautiful walk in nature.

Beaches

It’s no great surprise that Australia has incredible beaches, but it still amazes first-time visitors to see the sheer size and number of gorgeous stretches of sand in this country. If you’re looking to enjoy the surf and sand, highlights would definitely include Bondi Beach in Sydney, Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsunday Islands, Lake McKenzie on Fraser Island and Cottesloe Beach in Perth. For a great sunset you really can’t go past Cable Beach in Western Australia’s Broome, and if you’re looking to try your hand on the waves that get the professionals excited, Bells Beach along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria is a must.

Outdoor Attractions

As far as natural attractions go in Australia, we’re pretty lucky. One of the most iconic images of Australia is of course Uluru, the grand red rock rising majestically from the earth in the middle of the desert. To see Uluru is to be awed by the scale of nature, and if you take the time to listen to the stories of the local indigenous people who explain its spiritual significance to their people, you’ll be awed even more. From the desert to the sea, and one of the other jewels in Australia’s tourism crown is the Great Barrier Reef, classified as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Not only is it home to a dizzying array of plants and animals, but because of pollution and climate change it is slowly disappearing, so get in while you can and enjoy it in a sustainable and responsible way.

Whether you’re sunning yourself by the pool in Surfer’s Paradise accommodation or camping out under the stars in the desert, Australia’s nature will infect you with its beauty. 

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