February 13, 2026 — 5:00am
When Traveller released its list of the greatest Australian destinations last month, readers were quick to point out the hidden gems that were left off the list. In response, Traveller invited readers to share their favorite overlooked spots, resulting in a diverse collection of destinations that highlight the rich tapestry of Australia’s landscapes and cultural heritage.
Here, we present the selected reader submissions, each earning a copy of Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Australia Travel List: the Top 500 Travel Experiences… Ranked. Although space constraints prevent us from publishing all entries, the enthusiasm for Australia’s lesser-known locales is palpable.
Gippsland: A Journey Through Untouched Beauty
Gippsland feels like a step back in time to a Victoria before the crowds. This expansive region offers a landscape where mountains gracefully transition into lush valleys, and the sea meets pristine beaches. Visitors are greeted with misty mornings over Lakes Entrance and winding bush roads through the Prom, culminating in evenings by a cozy fire near the Snowy River. The region’s modest towns and welcoming residents offer a genuine hospitality that rewards the curious traveler.
Duncan Hind, Paterson, Vic: “Gippsland doesn’t perform for attention, it rewards curiosity.”
Western Australia’s Coastal Wonders
Geraldton: A Historical and Natural Haven
Geraldton, Western Australia, offers a blend of history and natural beauty. The town is home to the poignant HMAS Sydney memorial and artifacts from the Batavia shipwreck. A flight to the Houtman Abrolhos Islands reveals breathtaking views of the islands and reefs, with a flyover of the Batavia wreck site, a haunting reminder of the past.
Graham Bell, Austinmer, NSW: “The view of the islands and reefs, as we approached, was breathtaking.”
Cape to Cape: A Walk Through Time
The Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park offers a life-affirming journey along the Cape to Cape walk. This 132-kilometre trek between two lighthouses is a feast for the senses, with wildflowers, whale sightings, and the dramatic meeting of the Indian and Southern Oceans.
Hilary Johnson, Northcote, Vic: “An uplifting physical and spiritual journey.”
Tasmania’s Natural Splendor
The Three Capes Track: A Wilderness Adventure
In Tasmania, the Three Capes Track offers a 48-kilometre adventure through diverse landscapes. From clifftops to forests, this walk provides stunning views and encounters with wildlife, making it accessible for bushwalkers seeking both challenge and beauty.
Tess Devine, Wentworth Falls, NSW: “The track is mostly boardwalks and good paths, relatively accessible to anyone.”
The Tarn Shelf: A Glacial Wonderland
The Tarn Shelf in Mount Field National Park is a spectacular alpine area dotted with tarns, or small glacial lakes. Visitors are treated to a unique landscape, particularly in autumn when the beech trees display a brilliant array of colors.
Roxanne Le Blanc, Croydon, Vic: “Paths of varying distances reveal a unique alpine landscape.”
Exploring Australia’s Heartland
Cooma: A Gateway to History and Adventure
Cooma, NSW, sits at the heart of a “magic triangle” with access to the Snowy Mountains, Canberra, and the NSW South Coast. The town offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and outdoor activities, serving as a base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders.
Suzanne Dunning, Cooma, NSW: “Cooma is also the home of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, a world-class achievement.”
Boodjamulla National Park: An Oasis of Serenity
Queensland’s Boodjamulla National Park, formerly Lawn Hill National Park, is a remote oasis offering stunning gorge landscapes and diverse activities. From walking trails to canoeing, the park invites exploration and provides a tranquil escape from the everyday.
Sharon Taber, Wonthaggi, Vic: “An ancient landscape of towering red sandstone gorge walls.”
Conclusion: Celebrating Australia’s Diverse Destinations
The reader submissions reveal a wealth of destinations that extend beyond the well-trodden paths of Australia’s more famous attractions. These overlooked gems offer unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes, underscoring the vast and varied beauty of the continent. As one reader aptly noted, a list of 100 destinations barely scratches the surface of what Australia has to offer. Whether it’s a quiet moment in Gippsland or an adventurous trek in Tasmania, these destinations invite travelers to explore and appreciate the hidden corners of Australia.
