When Traveller published its list of all-time greatest Australian destinations last month, readers were quick to point out the hidden gems that were overlooked. These destinations, cherished by locals and travelers alike, offer unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes. Below, we share the voices of our readers, each of whom wins a copy of Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List: the Top 500 Travel Experiences… Ranked.
Untouched Beauty: Gippsland, Victoria
Gippsland, described by Duncan Hind from Paterson, Victoria, offers a glimpse of the state before the crowds arrived. Here, the landscape is vast and generous, with mountains giving way to dairy-green valleys and the sea crashing against empty beaches. Mornings begin with mist over Lakes Entrance, afternoons with winding bush roads through the Prom, and evenings with local wine beside a crackling fire near the Snowy River. Gippsland rewards curiosity rather than demanding attention.
Historical Adventures: Geraldton, Western Australia
Graham Bell from Austinmer, NSW, highlights Geraldton for its rich history and cultural experiences. The town is home to the monument commemorating the loss of HMAS Sydney in World War II and artifacts from the shipwrecked Dutch ship, Batavia. A short flight to the Houtman Abrolhos Islands offers breathtaking views of the islands and reefs, as well as a flyover of the Batavia wreck site.
Natural Wonders: Tasmania’s Three Capes Track
Tess Devine from Wentworth Falls, NSW, shares her experience on the Three Capes Track in Tasmania’s Tasman National Park. This 48-kilometer walk over four days offers spectacular views, diverse wildlife, and varied environments. The track, mostly boardwalks and good paths, is accessible to anyone with some bushwalking experience.
Foodie Paradise: Bright, Victoria
Janine Young from South Morang, Victoria, describes Bright as a foodie paradise just three hours’ drive from Melbourne. With dining opportunities, the Ovens River for swimming and kayaking, and a brewery with live music, Bright offers something for everyone. The nearby wineries and the scenic drive along “prosecco road” add to the charm.
Historic Reflections: Cowra, NSW
Kasia Quail from Mornington, Vic, brings attention to Cowra, a town with a poignant history. The site of the 1944 Cowra breakout, where 1104 Japanese prisoners attempted a mass escape, Cowra now hosts a museum and a beautiful Japanese Garden dedicated to this event.
Coastal Treasures: Jervis Bay, NSW
Glenn Larner from Freshwater, NSW, praises Jervis Bay for its stunning beaches and walking trails. Hyams Beach, Green Patch, and Murrays Beach are just a few of the beauty spots accessible in this area. The northern side of the Bay, near Currarong, offers additional scenic walks.
Alpine Delights: Mount Field National Park, Tasmania
Roxanne Le Blanc from Croydon, Vic, describes the Tarn Shelf in Mount Field National Park as a spectacular alpine area. The paths, dotted with tarns or small glacial lakes, reveal a unique landscape especially vibrant in autumn when beech trees display brilliant colors.
Volcanic Landscapes: Mount Gambier, South Australia
Michelle Stankiewicz from Pymble, NSW, finds Mount Gambier to be a showcase of Australia’s natural beauty. With crater lakes, sinkholes, and ancient volcanic landscapes, the area invites exploration and a closer look at its geological wonders.
Wild Freedom: Wilsons Promontory, Victoria
Amy Hiller from Kew, Vic, cherishes Wilsons Promontory for its rugged beauty and wildlife. Known for pristine beaches and abundant trails, it’s a place that always calls visitors back, offering moments like spotting a whale for the first time.
Historic Triangle: Cooma, NSW
Suzanne Dunning from Cooma, NSW, highlights her hometown as a central hub within a “magic triangle” of attractions. With galleries, museums, and bush walks, Cooma serves as a gateway to the Snowy Mountains and its many outdoor activities.
Island Retreat: North Stradbroke Island, Queensland
Mary Osborn from Lewisham, NSW, describes North Stradbroke Island as a therapeutic escape. A short ferry ride from Brisbane, the island offers birdwatching, whale spotting, and scenic walks along its cliffs and beaches.
Where Oceans Meet: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, WA
Hilary Johnson from Northcote, Vic, shares her experience walking the 132-kilometer Cape to Cape track. This journey between two lighthouses offers spectacular wildflowers, whale sightings, and the awe-inspiring meeting of the Indian and Southern Oceans.
Gateway to Wonders: Cairns, Queensland
Nola Tucker from Kiama, NSW, points out that while Cairns itself may seem unremarkable, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree, and other nearby attractions. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and proximity to natural wonders make it a family favorite.
Gorge-ous Views: Boodjamulla National Park, Queensland
Sharon Taber from Wonthaggi, Vic, praises Boodjamulla National Park for its stunning red sandstone gorge walls and emerald waters. The park offers walking trails, camping, and canoeing, with breathtaking views from the Indarri Falls lookout.
These reader-nominated destinations highlight the diversity and beauty of Australia’s landscapes, each offering a unique experience that deserves recognition. As one reader suggested, perhaps it’s time to expand our list to include Australia’s top 200 travel opportunities, showcasing even more of the country’s hidden treasures.
