The continent that has been unseen by the western world until just a few centuries ago hides a myriad of treasures for both the eyes and the mind. It’s a melting pot of cultures, thanks to people coming from all over the world and establishing themselves in here and also a kaleidoscopic spectacle of amazing landscapes. Both man and nature did a great job in sculpting this fantastic Continent. We decided to give you a glimpse of what that means by presenting you 10 of the most beautiful places Australia has to offer.
1. Kakadu National Park, Alligator Rivers Region, Northern Territory
Almost 20,000 square kilometres of wildlife surrounding The Ranger Uranium Mine (one of the most productive in the world) are waiting to be explored by curious and adventurous eyes. Four major river systems, six major landforms and a remarkably rich variety of flora and fauna make of this Park a real natural treasure. The site is also renowned for its richness in aboriginal sites of cultural importance. Thus, it’s not a surprise that it has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Gunlom Falls - Kakadu National Park, Australia
Jim Jim Falls during the wet season, Kakadu National Park, Australia
Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park,Kakadu, Australia
Kakadu - Northern Territory
Salt water Crocodile - Kakadu National Park, Australia
2. Daintree Rainforest, Queensland
The largest continuous tropical forest region on the continent, growing right on the edge of the sea, named after a geologist and a photographer of the 19th century. The climate and the topography of the area contributed to the development of one of the most complex ecosystems on Earth. The place is home for some of the rarest and most primitive species of plants. Magnificent sceneries and sparkling waterfalls make it a must see spot!
Australian rainforest at Silky Oaks Lodge
Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours, borders the Daintree National Park
Map of Daintree Rainforest
Silky Oaks Lodge, Daintree Queensland -Australia
3. Tasmania
If getting muddy is your thing, than start backpacking and go straight for Tasmania’s wilderness. Seeing Mount Roland shaping the horizon from the comfortable position offered by a hotel should be just the starting point of your adventure. You should really not miss the opportunity of trekking and rafting at the Cataract Gorge, to then take a break and feel rejuvenated at Hastings Thermal Pools, while also visiting the surrounding caves. Feel both the natural and the anthropological diversity at Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, a place hosting not only myriads of plants, but also supporting many local artistic festivals.
Sunset over the Bay of Fires at Binalong Bay, Tasmania
Explore sea caves and rugged coastline on a Bruny Island Cruise in Tasmania
Tasman Island, Tasmania
4. Uluru/ Ayers Rock
We are talking about a famous large sandstone rock formation dominating the softly shaped landscape of the Northern Territory, a natural wonder considered sacred by the aboriginal people of Anangu. Ancient paintings decorate the rock caves, while the plethora of springs function as a source of serenity for the species inhabiting this incredible natural landmark. An inselberg shaped by the winds and the generous rainfall.
Aboriginal Warrior, Uluru
Ayers Rock in Uluru
Ayers Rock in Uluru
Waterfall at Uluru
5. Melbourne, Victoria
The second most populous city in Australia, Melbourne is well known all around the world for its cultural impact and the interest for music festivals and art exhibitions. It has also been ranked the world's most liveable city since 2011, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if you decide to stay for more than just a while, once you see all its beauty and the high standards of living. A city that will definitely impress you with its passion for art, the high level education and some of the most advanced research facilities in the world. Come here and start living into the future!
Melbourne Chinatown, Victoria, Australia
Mount Macedon, Melbourne, State of Victoria, Australia
Sunset Beach Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
The Crags, Port Fairy, Victoria, Australia
6. Sydney, New South Wales
The most populous city in the whole Oceania, Sydney also features one of the largest natural harbours in the world. Multicultural is the word that best describes its fragrance. Radiocarbon dating suggests that the area has been inhabited since at least 30,000 years ago, the evidence of the ancient aboriginal civilizations now being available for the public at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Among the most visited architectural beauties of the city, we must certainly mention the Sydney Opera House, spreading music over the oceans.
Bare Island Sunrise, New South Wales, Australia
Macquarie Lighthouse, Sydney, New South Wales
Underground Jenolan Caves in Blue Mountains, New South Wales
7. The Great Barrier Reef
The world’s largest coral reef system, a marvellous aquatic rainbow. It’s the largest single structure made by living organisms and it can really be seen from outer space. More than 2000 species of animals inhabit its waters, including many vulnerable or endangered species, like the dwarf minke whale and the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin.
Blue Starfish, Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
Hayman Resort Great Barrier Reef, Australia
8. The Grampians National Park
It’s one of the richest aboriginal rock art sites, not to mention its natural outstanding beauty. The unspoilt landscapes are perfect for the bushwalkers and the rock climbing enthusiasts. A fortress of low-angled stones.
MacKenzie Falls Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia
MacKenzie Falls Grampians National Park, Victoria, Australia
The Organ Pipes National Park, Victoria, Australia
9. Fraser Island
Mangrove forests, swamps, eucalyptus woodlands and rainforests surrounded by one of the most beautiful beaches on Earth make of this island a must see for sure. Dingoes wondering in their natural habitat act like a mascot for the place, being one of the main reasons people reach the area.
The SS Maheno ship wreck Fraser Island.
10. Dampier salt flats of Pilbara
Otherworldly, really. A mirror for the skies, a mirror for the souls. No matter if you reach them by foot or admire them from the air, these salt flats will paint your way on a voyage to another universe. You will feel like losing yourself in the abyssal blue of the skies reflected on the lands.
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