If you’re jealous of your friends who are fleeing overseas this winter, this guide is for you.
You don’t need to travel to Bali or Europe to have a much-needed winter escape. There are plenty of locations right in your own back yard that allow you to relax, unwind or go crazy depending on which type of escape you’re after.
Below are Australian locations that we think you NEED to escape to during winter at some point of your life. The best thing is that they are all easily accesible from anywhere in the country so won’t break the bank!
Port Douglas, Queensland
What better way to escape winter than to head where it’s always summer?! The clear skies and stunningly blue waters look their finest during winter at Port Douglas, meaning that it’s the perfect time of the year to visit.
Not having to brave a long flight, currency exchange and the expenses involved with overseas travel makes a trip to Port Douglas the best options for Aussies we want a winter escape but don’t want to go to the usual locations such as Bali and Thailand. There are so many tropical activities like snorkelling and bushwalking to keep you occupied if you’re feeling adventurous, otherwise you can always relax and lie by the pool or at one of the gorgeous beaches.
Mt Buller, Victoria
Only three hours’ drive from Melbourne, Mt Buller is close enough for a day’s escape and also far enough away for a decent holiday.
Mt Buller Village is located picturesquely at the heart of the mountain, offering skiers easy accessibility to the ski fields, and positions those who just want chill out right next to a number of bars and restaurants.
If you like heading outdoors and are sick of being stuck on the couch during winter, then Mt Buller is for you! There are a number of great places to go hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowboarding and cycling.
If you’re not into skiing, then you’ll find nothing more relaxing than chilling out with a mulled wine, great company, and a good book in one of the luxurious resorts, chalets or hotels in the area. Winter bliss at its finest!
Sydney, NSW
Let’s be honest, Sydney’s winter is generally pretty glorious – for the most part, it’s brilliant blue sunshine and an average of above 17 degrees.
So, to make up for missing out on the bitter cold winter climate other parts of Australia cops (we’re looking at you, Canberra), Bondi hosts an ice skating rink every year!
Yep, it’s pretty much the only opportunity you’ll ever get to ice-skate by the sea.
Skate in sunshine, or even under the stars at night! As if Bondi isn’t awesome enough.
And when you’re done with your skates, hang them up and take a stroll along the Bondi to Bronte coastal walk, or sit back at for a beverage at Bucket List, and perhaps some fish and chips on the grass (with a blanket!!)
Darwin, Northern Territory
Australia’s north is often overlooked as a travel destination which is a shame as at is is so unique and different to anywhere else in Australia.
During Winter, the temperature in Darwin is for once bearable, sitting at an average of 26 degrees. Winter is also the ‘dry’ season in Darwin, meaning you most definately wouldn’t see the rain that cities like Sydney and Melbourne are sure to experience at the same time of the year.
There is nowhere else in Australia that you can hit the beach, check out the local markets, relax by the pool or explore the incredible national parks, right in the middle of winter, meaning that Darwin MUST be on your bucket list.
Margaret River, WA
Love food and wine? Hate crowds? If you answered ‘yes’ then Margaret River is for you!
This area is famous for premium wines, organic food and a variety of events and outdoor activiites throughout the year. Crowds all but disappear once winter hits, offering almost private access to coastal walks, mountain bike trails and many of the incredible hotels.
Noosa, Queensland
Widely considered as the best of the best of the Sunshine Coast’s many incredible beach destinations, Noosa is a must visit, even in Winter.
Even though it’s obviously colder than during the sweltering summer, you’ll still want to stroll down the picteresque beach and take some shots for your instagram. You’ll also get the opportunity to do things that you wouldn’t have thought to do during the summer such as checking out Australia Zoo or going craft shopping or wine tasting if you’re into the finer things in life.
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