Destinations

Destinations are sorted alphabetically by state

Australian Capital Territory
Canberra: Welcome to the capital Territory of Australia and our parliamentary hub. Canberra is a small but very exciting city. Home to wonderful restaurants, art galleries and Australia’s history. A quick drive out of the city visitors will find themselves in the country surrounded by sheep, wheat or cattle farms. You can choose from a vast range of accommodation types from B&B’s, 5 star hotels, to farm stays. With everything grown and caught locally, the food is amazing. Indulge in some shopping adventures starting in the city and working your way outwards to some of the local country craft shops. Depending on your idea of adventure visitors can abseil, rock climb, take a hot air balloon flight, cycle, go caving or bush walking, alternatively there is also ice-skating, go-karting, horseriding and fishing, Canberra has a range of activities for all the family. Not to be outdone by the other winemaking regions, Canberra’s cool climate also makes it perfect for growing those award-winning grapes that make those award-winning wines.
Northern Territory
Alice Springs: In the centre of Australia surrounded by red desert lies Alice Springs. Once a remote outpost, Alice Springs is now the second biggest town in the Territory, with all the conveniences of a modern city. The original Alice Spring is still there - the permanent waterhole that clinched the location of the Overland Telegraph Station in the 1870s and named after the wife of Sir Charles Todd, Postmaster General of South Australia. The township was originally called Stuart but officially became Alice Springs in 1933 when only 400 people lived there. You'll be inspired by the scenery of the West MacDonnell Ranges that motivated artist Albert Namatjira to paint these landscapes and share them with the world. Washed in sunburnt oranges, maroons and purples, these rocky ridges contain chasms and gorges of rugged scenery, each with their own unique character and scenery. Visit Simpsons Gap, Stanley Chasm, Ormiston and Glen Helen Gorges, Palm Valley and the Finke Gorge National Park. Explore the gullies, sheer cliffs, gorges, rivers and ghost towns of the East MacDonnell Ranges, and to the north, the gemfields of Harts Range and the historic gold mining settlement of Arltunga. The East McDonnell's include the serene granduer of Trephina Gorge and John Hayes Rock Hole, the Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park, the aboriginal paintings of N'Dhala Gorge, and the historic Ross River Homestead. The Simpson Desert is real frontier country that is still as wild and untamed as it was for the first European pioneers 150 years ago. With it's eerie landmarks such as Chambers Pillar, undulating sand dunes and challenging desert tracks, this is 4X4 outback country at its best. Alice Springs is the hub of a truly magical part of Central Australia.
Arnhemland: Arnhem Land lies to the east of Kakadu National Park, over 365 kilometres from Darwin. This vast, remote land is only accessible by special permit from the traditional Aboriginal owners and extends east to the barramundi fishing areas of Nhulunbuy and the Gove Peninsula. Known as the 'escarpment country', Arnhem Land is rich in animal and plant life and allows a unique insight into Aboriginal life and culture.
Ayers Rock: 500 kilometres west of Alice Springs, Ayers Rock/Uluru rises 348 metres from the desert and has a girth of 9.4 kilometres. These statistics alone assure its star role as the world's most famous monolith, yet it is estimated that at least two-thirds of the Rock lies beneath the surface. The spectacular landscape and fascinating plants and animals of Uluru are a source of wonder and inspiration. With Aboriginal ownership there is a rare opportunity to discover a unique part of arid Australia through the eyes of two cultures, both working side by side to look after the land. New Federal Law in relation to consuming alcohol on aboriginal land came into force in September 2007. Please check with Northern Gateway to confirm how if will effect you if you are a "free and easy" style of traveller.
Borroloola: Borroloola is a great attraction not only to the keen fisherperson with it's great estuary, river & reef fishing, it is so much more. Borroloola's National Parks and Reserves abound with wildlife, bushwalking trails, excellent for birdwatching and photographic opportunities. In the heart of the Gulf you can enjoy it from the air with a scenic flight or on the ground in a 4WD to the more inaccessible spots. Experience in the Aboriginal Culture, history, the great Barramundi and all the Region has to offer.
Darwin: The scenic modern town of Darwin and its huge harbour take visitors by surprise. The unexpected lushness of the tropical city surrounded by blue water and sandy beaches make it an ideal place to stay whilst visiting the many beautiful natural attractions of the Top End. Darwin offers all the sophistication of an international city with restaurants, hotels, museums, art galleries, as well as nightlife. Yet Darwin's tropical boundaries are the glittering allure of the Timor Sea and the luxuriant greens of the tropical wetlands. The history of Darwin and the Top End is also on display with many historical reserves, museums and attractions charting the progress of the region. From the pioneering days of early settlement, the mining boom times, the war years of WWII, and the impact of cyclones and the natural environment. The endeavours of the spirited pioneers that made Darwin what it is today. Local attractions include the Mindil Beach, crocodile farms, Darwin Botanic Gardens, the Aviation Heritage Centre, Casuarina Coastal Reserve, NT Art Gallery, and the East Point Military Museum. Australia's only tropical capital city boasts a population of 77,000 with about 20,000 more in the combined satellite city of Palmerston and the surrounding rural area. Approximately half the Northern Territory population live within a 40km radius of Darwin and like the city itself, on average they are younger than the rest of Australia. It may be the city's relaxed lifestyle, the magnet of its attractions, the haunting majesty of the monsoonal storms, or the smell of the tropics, but people who experience Darwin never forget it.
Gove: Situated on the Gove Peninsula 650 kilometres east of Darwin, Nhulunbuy is a service and supply centre for the East Arnhem region. Mining of bauxite and refinery of alumina are the major industries and economic base of the area. This major industry has been operational since 1972 and supporting industries have also grown during this time. Surrounded by white sandy beaches, Nhulunbuy is a peaceful leafy town of 3,500 people with modern services and amenities. It provides easy access to the the 100's of cays, islands, reefs and pristine beaches of the Gove Peninsula, and it's strong Aboriginal heritage is evident in the range of arts and crafts available. The Peninsula itself represents the meeting point of the Arafura Sea and the Gulf Of Carpentaria, and the environmental conditions, the estuaries and the offshore features add up to some of the best estuary and sports fishing in the Territory. Depending on how serious you are, choose a dinghy or go all out with a professional charter. Gove Peninsula is accessible by either a 45 minute commercial flight from Darwin (no permit required), or a 4WD drive through Arnhem Land via Central Arnhem Road. A permit is required for road travel, the road has a weight limit, and it is usually only open during the dry winter months from May to October. It is recommended that you consider flying due to the distances involved, and the road conditions.
Kakadu National Park: Kakadu National Park is probably one of the world's most well known National Parks. Almost 20,000 square kilometres in size (the same size as Denmark or Ireland!) the park is almost three hours drive (257 kilometres) east from Darwin. Attractions include pristine waterfalls, spectacular scenery, a wide variety of bird and animal life, the ever present salt water crocodile and a rich, diverse plant life. Immediately to the north of Kakadu is a remote and beautiful coastal region that has only recently been established as a Park precinct. Gurig National Park and the Cobourg Marine Park are situated on the Cobourg Peninsula, just 220 kilometres north-east of Darwin as the crow flies but 570 kilometres by 4WD, and the area is perfect for bushwalking, nature photography, fishing, birdwatching and boating.
Katherine: Katherine is a modern regional service centre 317 kilometres south-east of Darwin and the focal point of an area rich in tradition, history and scenic beauty. Home to 10,500 people, Katherine is the major intersection between northern, southern and western routes, and is renowned for the spectacular scenery of its gorges, the most famous of which is Nitmiluk. 110 kilometres south of Katherine is Mataranka and Elsey National Park, with its thermal springs and panadanus forests. Just past the town's outskirts is Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park with numerous walking trails and tours allowing visitors to experience this natural wonder for themselves.
Kings Canyon: Equally as fascinating as Uluru, Kings Canyon is rapidly gaining popularity as an essential element to a holiday in the Centre. What makes visiting Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park so rewarding is the incredible range of sights and experiences on offer within such a concentrated area. A breathtaking walk around the rim of the Canyon allows you to gaze down in awe at the sandstone chasm plunging 270 metres to the Canyon floor. Venture down into the depths of the chasm, and you'll discover luxuriant cycads around the permanent water-hole in the exotic Garden of Eden. You'll also find the eerie, beehive-shaped rock formations, appropriately called the Lost City, fascinating.
Litchfield: 129 kilometres or 80 miles south of Darwin is the 143,000 hectare Litchfield National Park with its abundant waterfalls, swimming and picnicking areas. It's location makes it a perfect destination for a day tour from Darwin. This spectacular Northern Territory Park is only two hours drive away from Darwin. It is a great location for a day visit, however several days could be spent exploring the entire park. This 143sq km area was scarcely known until it was proclaimed a National Park in 1986. Today a quarter of a million locals and tourists each year make the journey to the weathered sandstone pillars of the Lost City, monsoon rainforest, perennial spring-fed streams, waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds and historic ruins of Litchfield National Park. The park features numerous waterfalls which cascade from the sandstone plateau of the Tabletop Range.
Outback NT:
Outer-Darwin: Darwin is the starting point for excursions to the Top End. To the north, the colourful religion and art of the Tiwi Islands. To the east, a number of options including untouched wetlands, birdlife and fishing in the majestic Mary River Wetlands, the waterfalls, wetlands and wildlife of World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, the untamed beauty of Arnhem Land and Gove, and sailing, gamefishing and scuba diving along the pristine Cobourg Peninsula. Just 129km south from Darwin is Litchfield National Park, a 143sq km area that was scarcely known until it was proclaimed a National Park in 1986. Today a quarter of a million locals and tourists each year make the journey to the weathered sandstone, monsoon rainforest, cycads, perennial spring-fed streams, waterfalls, magnetic termite mounds and historic ruins of Litchfield National Park. The immediate hinterland also provides tremendous opportunity for the visitor to experience the natural wonders of the Northern Territory, with Howard Springs, Berry Springs, Douglas Hot Springs, Fogg Dam and the Territory Wildlife Park all within easy reach. What better place to start your holiday! A tropical paradise just waiting for you to discover. Darwin boasts a relaxed lifestyle and its outdoor markets are world renown.
The Olgas: Uluru is literally only the tip of the iceberg. To the west, and standing over 200 metres taller than Uluru, are the gigantic domes of Mt Olga / Kata Tjuta, the traditional name meaning many heads. Uluru and Kata Tjuta both reveal the depth of their moods at the rising and setting of the sun. Witness a display of colours from gentle, dusky blues and purples to fierce oranges and reds.
New South Wales
Blue Mountains: Over one million hectares of land make up these magnificent mountain ranges and you can see why visitors come via road, train, coach, shuttles or private charter just for a glimpse of this world heritage area. Activities range from visiting Museums, Galleries, buying Antiques, bushwalking, eating out, Licensed Clubs and Hotels, Touring or golfing, monthly markets occur across the region and there is some wonderful flora and fauna.
Snowy Mountains: Is the home to New South Wales ski fields and is located south west of Sydney. Kosciusko National Park is the main attraction as it houses Perisher Valley, Thredbo, Blue Cow, Guthega and Charlotte's Pass in addition to 700 000 hectors of amazing scenery. However, not to be outdone is summer with a truly wonderful display of wildflowers. Although more predominately recognised as a ski destination, the area also produces fine wools, lamb and stud cattle and sheep.
Sydney: For years travelling to Sydney was synonymous with visiting Australia. Sydney was the magnet, Sydney was the gateway and Sydney was the place to be. In Fact Sydney WAS Australia. Even although all other states and territories have spent millions of dollars trying to change the mindset, little has changed. Sydney sits on a magnificent harbor and a harbor view room is a must. You know you have really arrived if you can also see both The Bridge and The Opera House (capitals intended) from your window. Life revolves around The Harbor. You dine at the edge of it, gaze at it, sail on it, cruise over it, fish in it and many travel to and from work or go sight seeing, by ferry across it. For those who love activities, they can visit the Taronga Park Zoo, do a Bridge climb, try the surf at Bondi, listen to opera in The Opera House, take a dinner cruise or cruise The Harbor listening to some really cool jazz. There are shops, modern shopping centers, grand old department stores, and arcades of shops and yet more shops. There is a hotel for every taste and budget from the super expensive to the super cheap. You can stay in a modern apartment with a view or stay in a hotel that is built in the old treasury building full of wrought iron looking inward into an atrium. You can try a bed and breakfast or a ritzy hotel by the water. Sydney can be all things to all people and every visitor to Australia should give it a try at least once. Images of New South Wales appearing on this website are compliments of Tourism New South Wales
Queensland
Brisbane: The jewel in the crown of Queensland has to be the capital city of Brisbane. Modern, multicultural, lean safe and very friendly is straddles the river and has lovely views and parks in all sorts of unexpected corners. The vibrant Queen Street Mall offers al fresco dining and great cappacinos all day and most of the night too. It is a shoppers paradise with huges department stores, shopping complexes and small specialty stores side by side. Hotels, homestays, holiday appartments and backpacker lodges offer all levels of hospitality from $25 a night to luxurious suites for $1000's of dollars. A must visit (and an easy walk over one of the bridges) is Southbank. It is a unique venue for just about anything with its own sandy beached swimming lake, weekend markets, great food outlets from snacks to silver service dining all surrounding and entertainment and convention complex that offers state of the art facilities and world class concerts. So if you a looking for a great place to have a holiday, Brisbane the capital city of the sunshine state of Queensland is the place to go.
Cairns: Cairns city is in the heart of the Tropical North. A modern, sophisticated city, it is an ideal base to explore the wider region with front door access to the Great Barrier Reef, rainforest and outback. The Cairns International Airport is located only several minutes drive north of the city centre. The city itself is where much of the accommodation is situated with international standard restaurants, boutique shopping, modern art galleries and classy nightclubs to keep visitors entertained.
Cooktown: Cooktown known as the gateway to the wilderness was founded in 1873 as the port for the Palmer River Goldfields. This was more than a century after Captain James Cook spent 48 days in 1770 on the banks of the Endeavour River repairing his ship. Every June the town celebrates Cooktown's status as Australia's first, if brief, European settlement at a Discovery Festival which includes a colourful re-enactment of Cook's landing. Walking tracks in the area allow for visitors to explore areas of beach, bush and mountains. Closer to town is Grassy Hill where one can share the same view as Captain Cook.
Kuranda: A scenic 30 minute drive northwest of Cairns is Kuranda. Kuranda is the aboriginal for 'village in the rainforest', and over the years Kuranda has taken on a distinctive character as a popular visitor destination in its own right. Famous for its markets, Kuranda is home to one of Queenslands most beautiful rainforests.
Port Douglas: Picturesque Port Douglas, hub of the Reef and Rainforest Coast, is just 70 kilometres north of Cairns International Airport along a spectacular scenic coastal drive. Holidaymakers relish Port Douglas' natural beauty and excellent year round climate. Its relaxed seaside village ambience blends superbly with the vibrant atmosphere of tropical style and sophistication. It captures visitors by the heart and has made Port Douglas a favourite international destination.
Toowoomba: Just 90 minutes from Brisbane, the lofty city of Toowoomba, overlooks the coastal lowlands laid out below. Over the Range, you ease into a place of flowers, sparkling mountain air, dignified buildings and breathtaking vistas. Toowoomba is Queenslands Garden City, and in spring, when the Carnival of Flowers is held, its a riot of perfume and colour.
Townsville: Townsville is a vibrant region that encompasses beautiful coastal towns, rainforests, rugged Outback and country terrain. But the appeal of this lovely region expands further from the city of Townsville&head in any direction and youll be rewarded. The Great Barrier Reef sprawls to the east, the Outback beckons to the west, islands and rainforest entice to the north while sugar cane and mango farming communities tempt in the south. The opportunities for exploration invite you.
South Australia
Adelaide: Adelaide offers award winning wineries with some fantastic tours available this really should not be missed. Home to great shopping and there is some wonderful river cruises to be experienced. Enjoy the markets, National Parks or just sit back and admire the spectacular scenery. Not to be outdone with its events, Adelaide hosts just about anything you would like to experience during the year. From cricket, tennis, car racing, to art shows, music festivals and boating shows.
Clare Valley: An enchanting region of historic homes, farms and old copper mines and of course famous wineries. Located 134kms from Adelaide, and not too far to visit the Clare Valley Country Club for 18 holes of spectacular golf. Accommodation ranges from resorts, to B&B’s, cottages; motels and meal options are just as varied.
Eyre Peninsula: Is a truly magnificent coastline of cliffs, beaches and sheltered coves. Stretching from Spencer Golf to the Western Australian border. Most popular for amazing surfing, beautiful beaches and marine breeding grounds. Visitors can view seals, whales and dolphins off the coast as well as do some amazing fishing. Travel through towns such as Port Lincoln, Whyalla and Ceduna and take time to visit some of the great attractions in each town, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the Air, Maritime Museum, and Whale watching.
Limestone Coast: Located about half-way between Adelaide and Melbourne the limestone coast received its name as it was once covered by the Southern Ocean which receded leaving tonnes of maritime sediments. Today the region is honeycombed with caves, layered with fossils and has some great Terrossa soil, which is accredited to the wonderful wines, produced in the region. Take your time to discover the real attractions of the Lime stone region as it has a number of unpublished experiences.
Outback SA: Extending the region southern Flinders Ranges to the States far north 1100kms from Adelaide. The area takes in some amazing towns and attractions including Wilpena Pound, Cooper Pedy, Simpsons Desert, Lake Eyre, Coongie Lake and some great aboriginal art on-route as well as Arkaroola and Mount Painter. A great opportunity for a self-drive holiday and a chance to visit some a unique way of life.
Riverland: The Riverland region is located a 2 hour drive east of Adelaide offering a relaxed lifestyle with great golf courses and some great sports and recreational activities. Riverland produces a large quantity of grapes as well as 90 percent of the state's citrus, stone fruit, and nuts. For the Rose lover visit Ruston's Rose Garden which houses 50 000 rose bushes of 7000 varieties. You might also like to make time to see Banrock Stations Wine and Wetland Centre and Port Morgan Museum.
Yorke Peninsula: Located between Port Broughton and Innes National Park, the area is dotted with some wonderful seaside towns. Discover great fishing, food, parks, coastal scenery, relaxing getaways and a rich Cornish heritage. An opportunity to get back to nature with Bushwalks, clifftop and shoreline discoveries, follow geology trails, birdwatching, history and heritage. Also being so close to the coast allows great fishing, shuck fresh oysters off the rocks, dive for crayfish and leave plenty of room for fresh cooked prawns.
Tasmania
Devonport: The City of Devonport is located on the Mersey River in the heart of the beautiful North West Coast of Tasmania. It is a river port and the home port of the Spirit of Tasmania, the luxury passenger and vehicular ferry which connects Devonport with Melbourne. Devonport airport, the third largest in Tasmania, is a jet standard facility with frequent scheduled passenger services to Tullamarine in Victoria. Whilst located close to the Tasmanian high country, including spectacular Cradle Mountain, Devonport is favoured with a temperate coastal climate influenced by the ocean. This maritime influence moderates all aspects of the climate and is evident in the small range between summer and winter average temperatures.
Hobart: Hobart is Australia's southern most capital. The city straddles the Derwent River, with Mount Wellington as it's awe inspiring backdrop. Hobart combines the charming old and the exciting new against a backdrop of mountain and sea. Hobart's historical centre is Salamanca Place, complete with cobble stone lanes, sandstone warehouses, arts and crafts shops, cafes and restaurants. Just 20 minutes from the city is Mt Wellington. It's 1,234 metre peak provides panoramic views of the city and estuary beyond.
Launceston: Launceston and its river valley blend history, scenery, creativity, adventure, entertainment and the superb flavours of fine food and wine. Launceston is a city of contrasts - a short walk from the graceful Victorian-era facades is the scenic Cataract Gorge Reserve, with its tree rhododendrons and peacocks, fern glades and spacious lawns. It’s an adventurous city - try rock climbing and abseiling in Cataract Gorge. For quieter experiences, there’s the acclaimed Wood Design Collection, while the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery at Inveresk and Royal Park holds a fine collection of colonial art.
Victoria
Gippsland: When it comes to experiencing Victorias coastal wilderness, Gippland has some of the state's finest landscapes on offer. Whether you want to hike through national forests, fish in pristine mountain streams, dine at stylish restaurants or explore spectacular touring routes, you can do it all in this beautiful region.
Grampians: Over a 1000 square kilometres The Grampians are Victoria’s largest National Park. There are over 50 walking tracks and visitors can enjoy the waterfalls, mountain peaks, rainforests and amazing lookouts. Visitors can pick the walking track that meets with the attractions they wish to see, and their level of fitness.
High Country: Come to the High Country for nature-based adventure in the alpine landscapes of north-east Victoria. History and gold rush towns, snow fields, waterways, and gourmet food and wine, offer a rich touring experience. And if you do something unpredictable, you can always blame the alpine air.
Melbourne: Melbourne sits on the edge of Port Philip Bay and is cut by the Yarra River which curls its way down from the mountains behind Warrandyte. The old adage that the Yarra runs upside down is no longer true and you can see kids sitting along the banks trying their luck, fishing rod in hand. The water sparkels clear in the sun. Melbourne is the city of parks and gardens. They are everywhere and in autumn the colors of the falling leaves on a misty morning makes you feel like you stepped into a painting. In spring the blossoms on the trees and the spring flowers everywhere add a layer of perfume to the air that you can smell no matter where you are. Summer days can be hot and the cool green shade under the trees is very welcome. Make sure you go to the theatre when you are in Melbourne. There is always a variety of shows on all the time so there will be a few to chose from. Try a dinner and show package, or maybe go to a show then head off down Lygon Street for a coffee and a grappa. Try the Tramcar restaurant and see the sights and enjoy a great meal at the same time. Southbank and the Crown Casino offer a wide variety of food styles and costs from casual dining to wonderful Epicurean delights. The Casino of course will offer you all sorts of games of chance - who knows you may even win! Using the city as your base makes sense as there is great sight seeing in every direction. Drive along Port Philip Bay, and over to Cowes to see the fairy penguin parade and the koalas in the trees, or head up into the hills and throw a snowball in winter. Visit wineries in the Yarra Valley or head down to the 12 Apostles and the amazing cliffs along the coast. Take a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train, see the platypus and Lyre Birds at Healesville Sanctuary or just wander around the museums and art galleries of the city centre. There are a great variety of hotels in the city ranging from the classic Windsor Hotel to the modern trendy boutique hotels with a Scandinavian touch. You can choose a Sofitel, a Hilton or a Hyatt they are all there. Or you can head out of town and try one of the smaller bayside hotels that offer budget prices and great counter meals. The choice is yours, just make sure you add Melbourne to you list of "must visit" places.
Phillip Island: Located 140kms from Melbourne, and boasts a wide range of restaurants and accommodation properties. Home to an abundance of wildlife such as Penguins on parade, the Koala conservation centre or visit some natural attractions such as The Nobbies or The Blowhole. For the thrill seekers Phillip Island also hosts Motor Cycle Grand Prix.
The Murray: Is one of our most famous rivers, visitors can choose from a river cruise down the river Murray, or horseback riding along the edge, hire a houseboat add some wine and a round of golf and you have a wonderful day out. Along with the cruising aspect of the Murray River, the Murray boasts some of the best golf courses. For the fisherman at heart they can try their hand at catching some of the river cod.
Western Australia
Broome: Broome, a unique, exotic town that is the southern gateway to the raw wilderness of the Kimberley. The town is a fascinating place with a mixture of cultures created by those who came in search of pearling wealth. Pearling still remains one of the town's leading industries. Wander through Chinatown, the original commercial centre, which is now home to some of the world's finest pearl showrooms. Purchasing a souvenir is a must. Daily tours are also available to the Willie Creek Pearl Farm where you can see a working pearl farm and learn more about the many interesting facets of the pearling industry. Broome is washed by the turquoise waters of Cable Beach. Said to be one of the most stunning beaches in the world, it stretches 24 kilometres (15 miles) along the coast and features clean white sand and offers some incredible sunsets. At Gantheaume Point nature has left a unique calling card. Dinosaur footprints, more than 130 million years old, can be seen at low tide embedded into the rock. It is also an ideal spot to view the red craggy cliffs of the Broome peninsula. Just outside Broome is the Broome Bird Observatory where you can see the thousands of migratory birds that visit there from September to March. The Observatory is the most well regarded bird watching site in the world and should not be missed by visitors to the area. Why not try a relaxing game of golf at the Broome Golf Club. It is the only 18-hole golf course with green greens and fairways between Geraldton and Darwin. All visitors are welcome. Broome, a perfect hideaway on the Kimberley coast.
Bungle Bungles: Situated in the Purnululu National Park the "bungles" as they are known locally are one of the worlds most unusual geological formations Thousands of beehive shaped hills and mounds rise up out of the plain, striped in red, orange and black bands these hills have been described as a wonderland that waited three hundred and fifty million years to be found. You can reach the "Bungles" by 4 wheel drive from April to December (camping only). They must be seen from the ground and the air. Fixed wing flightseeing trips operate from Kununurra and helicopter flights are available from the nearby settlement of Turkey Creek.
Central Kimberley: Wild and wonderful, the Kimberley is one of the world's last great wilderness areas. Covering more than 420,000 square kilometres (261,000 miles), an area three times the size of England, it is home to only 25,000 people. This means that there are fewer people per kilometre than almost any other place on the planet. Remote and rugged, its landscape is truly spectacular. With wide horizons, ancient gorges, picture-book rock pools and pristine beaches, it is a special place that will linger in your mind long after you have left. Take a trip into Purnululu National Park where you will marvel at the thousands of huge beehive-shaped mounds of the Bungle Bungle. Striped in orange and black colours, these sandstone mounds rise majestically from the red earth and are one of Western Australia's most significant natural features. Cruise the waters of the mighty Fitzroy River. See where it has cut deep into the landscape producing the wonderful Geikie Gorge that is bordered by sheer walls of yellow, orange and grey. On the coast is the township of Broome, a tranquil tropical spot, world famous for its pearling industry. Relax and unwind on the soft clean sands of Cable Beach, swim in clear turquoise waters. The beach extends 24 kilometres (15 miles) so you can choose a different spot every day and never get tired of the view. Travel further north along the remote and pristine Kimberley coastline and you will find the Buccaneer Archipelago or 'Thousand Islands'. Rugged red cliffs, cooling waters and white sandy beaches abound. The Kimberley has a tropical summer and dry winter and this diverse climate changes the landscape from season to season. Whichever season you choose you are sure to agree that Mother Nature was remarkable when she created the Kimberley.
Kununurra: Kununurra is the Kimberley's gateway from the east. It offers access to an enormous variety of unique and colourful Kimberley adventures. A pleasant, modern town, Kununurra is also one of the largest towns in the region with some 6,000 residents. Many local tour operators use this as a base for their Kimberley excursions and offer a range of exciting activity options. From Kununurra you can explore the 300-million-year-old sandstone cliffs of the Hidden Valley National Park which is also known as Miramar by the Aboriginals. Take a cruise on Lake Argyle. With its 1,000 square kilometres (386 square miles) it is more like an inland sea than a lake. This vast body of water has formed its own eco-system where you can find many examples of native flora and fauna. While in the area why not book a tour of the Argyle Diamond Mine. The mine produces some 34 million carats of diamonds per year... that's more than one-third of the world's total production and includes the rare pink Argyle diamonds.
Mid West: Incorporating Western Australia's Mid West region as well as the Gascoyne Coast. Where the desert meets the ocean. The fine beaches and small coastal towns have fascinating landscapes and a wonderous abundance of wildlife. Ningaloo Reef meets the beach at North West Cape. The 260km long virtually untouched barrier reef protects shallow lagoons with dazzling white sandy beaches. There are over 500 species of fish and 220 species of coral. A wonderful natural experience for young and old alike. Gateway to the Mid West (Batavia) Coast, the Abrolhos Islands, historical Greenough, unique wildflowers and the rugged Australian outback. On the way to the dolphins of monkey mia, the gorges of Kalbarri and the whale sharks of Ningaloo reef. An Outback holiday in the Mid West is ideal for those who want a change from the noise and hustle and bustle of the big cities. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in wildflowers and savour the sweet scent of everlastings and bush flowers that hang on the crystal clear night air.
Perth: Perth is the capital of Western Australia. Situated on the Swan River and only a few kilometres from the beaches, Perth enjoys a Mediterranean climate - with more hours of sunshine than any other Australian capital. The beautiful city of Perth overlooks the vast and tranquil waters of the Swan River which flows down from the Darling Ranges. Perth has a series of gardens, parks and reserves. Kings Park, just a short walk from the city centre is a bush parkland with views of the city and the river. The 400 hectare parkland is situated around the green slopes Mt Eliza and is a dramatic contrast with Perth's skyline and the distant blue hills of the Darling Ranges. The Swan River was named in 1797 by the Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh who was impressed by the number of beautiful black swans. It runs through one of WA's traditional wine growing regions and many different cruises along into waters are available. The bustling Port Fremantle lies 19km south-west of Perth where the Swan River meets the Indian Ocean. Fremantle offers a rich fabric of Australian heritage, a lively arts and crafts scene, sophisticated cafes and restaurants and a vibrant multicultural scene. 20km off the coast is Rottnest Island. Its crystal clear beaches and bays are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing, windsurfing, boating and fishing. There are no cars on the island - transportation is by foot or bicycle. The island is only 11km long and a maximum of 5km across. On the Swan River plain, 254 kms north of Perth, midway to Geralton lies the Nambung National Park. The park contains one of Australia's most fascinating landscapes - The Pinnacles Desert. The natural limestone sculptures can reach up to 5m high and display in a variety of colours. Nambung National Park is also reknown for it's wildlife of western grey kangaroos, brush wallabies and honey possums plus a wide variety of reptiles and a huge array of birds. it is an amazing area for birdwatchers.