Australia is a country of incredible natural beauty and diversity. There is truly something here for everyone, but many holidaymakers tend to stay on the East Coast, close to the beaches and major cities. If you fancy something a bit different, why not stay a few nights in one of these unusual places?
The Outback
The majority of Australia’s vast interior is a barren, red desert and is breathtaking in its desolation. The main draw of the Red Centre is the mighty rock Uluru, but there are many other sights of natural beauty here, including the Olgas and King’s Canyon. Watch the sunset or enjoy a drink under the stars in Australia’s heart. The Australia New Zealand Central Reservations Office offers various packages, including this eight-day trip: http://www.anzcro.co.uk/destination/australia/itinerary/8-day-outback-explorer/
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Going Underground
Mining remains one of Australia’s largest industries, and Coober Pedy is a great example of a working opal mining town. The climate can be harsh, with temperatures rising above fifty degrees Celsius in the summer. To combat this, much of the town is underground, including shops, restaurants, bars and hotels. Try the Desert Cave Hotel for an underground sleeping experience. http://www.desertcave.com.au/
The Cowboy Way
Cattle farming is a way of life for many Australians and you can experience it too. Given the enormity of the country and the farms, cows are always on the move and there’s always an opportunity to join a cattle drive and get in touch with your adventurous side. Herd cattle on horseback, eat around a campfire and sleep under the stars to truly get away from the rat race. For more information on joining a cattle drive, click the following link. http://www.australia.com/explore/events/sa-outback-cattle-drive.aspx
Into the Jungle
Australia is home to several tropical rainforests, of which Daintree in northern Queensland is one of the biggest and most pristine. This one thousand square mile area contains thousands of unique species of plant and animal life and is a wonderful place to visit. Silky Oaks Lodge is an eco-friendly lodge offering various packages if you want to spend some time in the jungle. It’s also close to the picturesque town of Port Douglas and the spectacular Great Barrier Reef. http://www.silkyoakslodge.com.au/
Flower Power
Spend some time in Australia and it won’t be long before you spot a Wicked Campervan on the road. These colourfully decorated ‘hippy mobiles’ are an Australian institution, with each van featuring a unique pop culture icon, such as Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and even Chuck Norris. Hire a van for as long as you like and get on the road. Australia is a massive country and the best way to explore it is to drive. Go where you want, stop when you want and get a few hours sleep in your Wicked Campervan. Check their website for more details. http://www.wickedcampers.com.au/
