The winter season is a time for the slow, balanced and regular process of alteration in weather. Many Aussies avoid this cold season by spending their holidays in the Northern Hemisphere, only to end up burning a big hole in their pocket. With plenty of options to explore, why not stay in Australia and make the most of this season? Here are a few winter destinations worth considering, and if you want to make it a fun event, you can book a party bus in Australia to heat up the travel journey!
The Victorian Alps Or The Snowy Mountains
It’s a tough choice between the two, but you shouldn’t really be wasting much time deciding which region has more snow. Just strike the ski field closest to you and indulge yourself in a snowy experience. Victoria’s Falls Creek has few of the steepest expert terrains in Australia, with Mt Hotham being the powder capital, Mt Buller with Toboggan runs and Mt Buffalo with some great downhill skiing and snowshoeing.
On the other hand, The Snowy Mountains has the highest mountain range in Australia, Mount Kosciuszko. Situated at the base is the Thredbo mountain range famous for its spectacular alpine village, impressive snowy terrain and a variety of adventure activities. The snow-capped mountain has all levels of experience including the beginners to advanced skiers, with almost twice the vertical drop of any other resort.
Bunya Mountains, Queensland
Queensland region is not really known for snowfall, but has sufficient chill to get you going in the winter season. Reconcile into your warm cottage surrounded by ancient bunya pines and curios wallabies, identifiable by their pineapple –shape cones and rounded tops. Enjoy delectable bunya nut cake along with a glass of reddish wine by the fire at night.
During the daytime, temperature is moderate enough to hit the walking tracks of the Bunya Mountain, ranging from 500 m to 10 km long. The famous 4km Scenic Circuit Walk will take you through giant strangler figs, natural grassland, Tim Shea Falls, eucalyptus forest, rainforest and to Pine Gorge Deck with expansive views. Crack down into the valley for some wine tasting, or enjoy the spectacular wilderness range of Bunya Mountains National Park.
Blue Mountains, NSW
The Blue Mountains of New South Wales is reminiscent of the US Grand Canyon, covered with lush green forest and undulating landscape. Discover the best kept secrets of this region, by taking your time to sit back and soak up the ambiance. The Blue Mountains has a profundity greater than the Three Sisters and Sandstone escarpments. The coachwood trees and towering sassafras block the sunlight, while the ferns stretch crossways through the forest floor.
Linger over the early morning stare on the valleys covered with rainforest and hit the hiking trails later, when the cool and crispy mountain air hits the sky. This place offers exceptional dining, cosy pubs, cafes, fresh local produce, adventure and relaxation.
Barossa Valley, South Australia
Known for the eclectic variety of Shiraz and Shemillon, the Barossa Valley region is an ideal winter escape for the wine lovers. There are more wineries in the area than residence, setting up an ideal atmosphere for people to taste some exquisite drinks in winter. Kellermeister and Pindarie are the vineyards to watch out for, along with the Yelland and Pappas tasting room.
Take a trip to Seppeltsfield to taste wines right from the barrel, which was produced even before you were born. Take a ride on a coach and explore some of the top spots including Chateau Tanunda, Maggie Beers Farm Shop, Langmeil Winery and Barossa Valley Brewery.
Cradle Mountain National Park
Winter hiking is a different kind of an adventure, and that too with snow hurdling the way. During the peak winter times, the summit alongside the Overland Track receives a good amount of snow dust, transforming the Cradle Mountain National Park to a white wonderland.
Key highlights of the track include frequent snowfalls, freezing lakes and crispy winter air changing the entire vista of surrounding landscape. You can also spot Tasmanian devils, wallabies, echidnas and wombats along the trail.
Broome, Western Australia
Broome is certainly one of the best travel destinations in the country for a temperate winter holiday. You get that energetic vibe of an outskirt coastal town, supposedly the most isolated region for winter getaway. The town is a diverse pot of bohemian and grunge with an edge of sophistication creeping in. You will find everything from restaurants and cafes to shopping and nightlife.
There is a good deal to take pleasure at the Cable Beach, which is ranked as one of the best in the country with flat and wide sweeping beach perfect for building sandcastles, meditation, long walks, polo and beach cricket. And then you can easily escape to one of the most stunning and diverse natural beauties of the Kimberley region, with exceptional vistas, boabs, wilderness, waterfalls, beaches and rich culture.
Hervey Bay and Fraser Island
Great time for whale watching, Hervey Bay is one of the top-rated winter locations on the eastern coast of Australia. Prior to making their way towards the south, the Humpbacks dip into the relaxing and calm waters of the Hervey Bay, while you can watch a whale sail from there itself to witness lots of breaching whales just off shore from Fraser Island or 75 Mile Beach.
With sandy long white beaches, plenty of freshwater lakes and ancient rainforests, the Fraser Island has got to offer a pleasant daytime temperature around the mid-20s. Don’t forget to pack your scarf and beanie, as it can get really cold sometimes.
The Island has got to offer an excellent opportunity for driving enthusiasts, kids and families. Enjoy driving down the rough inland tracks, watch panoramic sunset view and the beautiful countryside from the Jetty Bar, watch wild dingoes from afar and visit swimming places such as Champagne pools and Lake Mackenzie.
Remember, if you are travelling in a big group looking forward for an entertaining commute to the abovementioned destinations, hire a party bus today for an unforgettable journey!