Wilsons Promontory was more than just a beautiful, natural habitat for almost seven thousand years it was the home and spiritual sanctuary of the aboriginal people. They loved and protected this place and still do today. However when the first European, George Bass, got there he had a different idea for the area and set to killing the seals to bring in money.

His goal was to find a way to make money and killing seals for their pelts was an easy way to attain that goal. He was not a naturalist and preserving anything was not his reasoning. But now this is a place of adoration and preservation for many that enjoy being out of doors. Those that come here often have given it the shortened name of The Prom and know that nature is waiting for them to visit.

As the largest coastal wilderness it is a destination for many during their vacation. Many hundreds of people plan ahead to come and spend time camping. Because of the demand one must plan ahead to make sure they can have one of the coveted camping slots.

Being mostly nature there is a small town, or rather a grouping of a grocery store, fish and chip stand, cafe, and an outdoor movie theatre that calls itself Tidal River. There are an number of Wilsons Promontory cottages to rent and almost five hundred camping spots here and this small hamlet caters to those spaces. The outdoor theatre is a huge draw for all those vacationing here and the line to get in is long.

The most popular outdoor activity here is hiking through the beauty and nature. An itinerary of walking to the Wilson Promontory Lighthouse will give you the unbelievable three sixty view of Bass Strait. It also will allow you to enjoy a building built by convicts.

Of course with all the nature you are going to have animals living there too. The charming koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and even emus can be seen as you meander through the changing landscapes. The birds and waders are in plenty and are a wonderful chance for any bird watchers visiting.

Camping is the only way to enjoy a lengthy visit to this area. Those that know this make sure that their traditions stay intact by planning ahead. They are drawn by the amazing coastline and pristine beaches. But there is more than that available, Mt. Oberon is waiting for those hearty enough to climb to the top and get a chance to see the area with the variations on the different landscape types.

A jaunt through the rain forest on the Lilly Pilly Gully Nature trail means gorgeous greenery and many deadly snakes. Or plan to spend a noisy day on Squeaky Beach. This beach is ground quartz which makes a sound as you walk upon it. Either way you will find stunning vistas and relaxing moments to yourself.

Those that love to spend time communing with nature know that Wilsons Promontory will bring them exactly what they desire, the opportunity to be one with the outdoors. It is all about being outside, climbing, hiking, swimming, and adoring the beauty of this place. You lose the outside world behind you as everything simplifies to where you are walking to that day or what movie will be seen on the outdoor screen. No matter what is a feeling you will heartily wish to repeat.

The Mornington Peninsula is a perfect and frequented vacation spot for everyone. With a nickname from the locals of The Peninsula, it is a chance for those that inhabit the city to head to some nature. Originally the aborigines called the Mayne-bulluk enjoyed the location. Now it is for the urban that seek out the rural.

The draw of a visit here is to get away from it all, appreciate the natural beauty of area from on of the many Mornington Peninsula accommodation options, or simply set up a camping ground and enjoy the beauty of the seashore. There is small amount of towns here but those are specialize in delicious food, art galleries, antiques, and shopping. A visit here is a chance to leave the world behind and simply exist in peace.

Once this land was filled with forests but when they built Melbourne they land was cleared and a new industry had to appear. Soon after the move to growing fruits and vegetables became the industry here. Now growth in grapes has brought a plethora of wineries creating delicious variations such as the pinot noir. Make sure and sample a taste or a bottle while you visit.

All the new visitors meant food and fare had to be expanded on. The city dwellers wanted to escape to the seaside and nature but they also wanted to do that with delicious food and drink. The island began growing organic to fit the new chefs coming from the cities to please the visitors. Now the cafes and restaurants are expanding and growing and so are the local honey, olive oil, chocolate, and cheeses. Try some on a picnic in Mornington Peninsula National Park.

Being that this peninsula has a point it would be assured that it would be utilized in the military protection of Australia. The Point Nepean National Park gives you the ability to see into the past while two World Wars raged around this island.

Where there are vacationers there is the need for golf. The Peninsula delivers with almost twenty courses to choose from. The vistas and views are only part of the lure of these courses as many of them have resorts where you can not only stay but sip a lovely glass of wine while unwinding after a game.

Set as it is with the sea around it nature is in huge supply here. The campgrounds that are available are set with beautiful sea side views. Relax by your tent of perhaps dabble in surfing, sailing, or scuba diving to enjoy the sea in front of you. Maybe hike through the Arthur Seat State Park and climb to the heights that show you more of the place you are visiting. As the stars come out perhaps you would like to hike under them and see the nocturnal animals showing themselves at the Moonlight Sanctuary walk.

Try something new and plan a trip to swim in the sea with seals or dolphins. Watch their sleek bodies and incredible movements firsthand. Take a short ferry ride to French Island where koalas hang from the trees and watch you as you watch them. The kangaroos and wallabies are bouncing their way through the wetlands and anticipating your arrival.

No matter how you spend your time you will find Mornington Peninsula affords you the opportunity to truly be away from it all. Taking in a drive in movie may bring back memories so pack up the snacks and head off to the movies. Take time to plan a picnic with tasty treats from local farmers and growers and find a secluded spot to while away your time.

Hepburn Springs gives you a strong indication of what you might find here. But this town is more than just the sixty plus natural mineral springs that await you. It is a wonderful blend of relaxation and cultural assimilation some fine Hepburn Springs accommodation and romantic restaurants.

Italian Swiss immigrants came here for the gold but found that there was a familiarity to this location with the natural springs. You can enjoy the influence and culture of these individuals brought with them to this area.

The hot springs were a real draw and could be able to bring a fortune their way even more than finding gold would. Coming from the northern regions of Italy they were well acquainted with the benefits of mineral water.

The Romans had their bathhouses that used the mineral waters to heal and relax them this process was called terme. The Italians that landed here decided to bring this idea to Hepburn Springs. They also brought the culture and food of Italy as well. The first pasta ever made was here at the Macaroni Factory. Still standing today you can tour the factory and view the beautiful frescos painted on the ceiling.

Coming to the area means experiencing the springs. The Hepburn Bathhouse is the perfect place to do that. The building has been here since the middle of the nineteenth century but has recently been completely redone. Now you can come and sit in communal baths, have a massage or body treatment in one of the thirty rooms, or simply relax in the cafe sipping on a latte.

The Swiss Italian influence has permeated the town and Parma House is the biggest example of the architecture that is popular in Italy brought here. They also brought farming of lavender as seen at the Lavandula Lavender Farm with the charming cottages and cobbled squares. But the epitome is the Swiss Italia Festival where all things Italian are celebrated every October.

There is more than just water here, Mount Franklin is an extinct volcano that allows for stupendous views and vistas to see the whole region. Hiking to the top is a chance to either do some camping or simply bring a picnic to enjoy. The Blowhole was a blast through quartz that left a hole where the water from a full creek blows through. It is fun and interesting to see.

The ambiance of Italy is definitive with the individuals who made this location a bit of home in Australia. They brought their love of dining and cafes and the city still shows that hospitality today. Even the ever increasing and popular wine region of Victoria was founded by the Italian immigrants. But the springs are the focus so enjoy learning about how they are formed by visiting Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve. You can walk through the volcanic rock that infuses the water with magnesium, calcium, silica and other nutrients and minerals.

However you plan your visit to Hepburn Springs you will find yourself swept away with relaxing and culture. Whether you enjoy the waters or walk throughout the beauty you will find enough to keep you wishing a vacation lasted forever.

Goulburn is Australia’s oldest inland city and was the first to be settled. This city is bursting with history which is waiting to be seen. As one of the largest cities with a population of 24,000 it also serves as the rural gateway for the areas agriculture. The city is host to many that wish to tour the Southern Highlands.

Many travellers will utilize the Hume Highway which connects Sydney with Canberra and Melbourne. To drive to Goulburn from Sydney it will take approximately two and half hours. If you are coming from Canberra it is approximately one hour.

The railway which has been in operation since 1869 is still a vital part of Goulburn history. At one time this stop was the southern most destination for the railway system and that status was held for about six years. Now you will find Countrylink system which provides daily service to Goulburn from Sydney. If you wish to travel on the Countrylink system advance reservations are recommended.

The local climate is not like that of other cities in the area. This city sits at the bottom of a valley which makes the weather a little more varied than in other parts of Australia. The summer temperature is anywhere from 10-40C (50-104F) and -5 – 18C (23-64F) in the winter. Because it sits in the valley it can get very windy and cold so dressing in layers is advised.

When visiting Goulburn one must visit the most famous tourist attraction know as the Big Merino. This concrete attraction measures 15m (49ft) tall and represents the towns significance to the local farming industry. Australia’s most common sheep breed is the Merino which is the reason for the representation in this obvious display of sheep farming. The building is host to not only a lookout point but also houses a gift shop. The lookout is currently closed for safety reasons.

The local parks include Victoria Park and Belmore Park. Home to a beautiful rose garden in the centre of the park, Victoria Park also houses a recreational children’s area. Many of Goulburn’s community events including the county fair are held at Belmore park. Belmore park is located on the North side of main street, Auburn street.

When visiting there are a few other attractions that may be of interest. The Goulburn War Memorial which was built on Rocky Hill in 1924 is set to honor the memory of those that lost their lives in World War 1. Even if you find the museum is closed it is worth the trip over there as you have a spectacular view of the city from that location. Outside the information centre you will find a host of sculptures set to pay tribute the many of the Australian Blues Musicians. Some of the other sites to visit may be St. Saviour’s Cathedral, Goulburn Court House, antique ships and the historic Waterworks Museum.

In mid February you can be entertained at the Australian Blues Music Festival which is one of the town highlights. In early October allow yourself to stroll the streets during the Lilac Festival. There you will find markets, floral displays and parades.

If you are on the search for some nice walking trails away from town head to Morton National Park. As you find your way through park you will discover in the upper area of the park Shoalhaven River as it makes its way to Nowra. Also worth the visit is Wombeyan Caves. These caves are accessed through the nearby town of Taralga. You can tour Wombeyan Caves via two wheel drive however, the roads are of poor quality. You are certainly to be please however, if you choose to make the trek there.

Looking for a taste of the local beer, meander your way to the Goulburn Brewery. Your choice of eateries will vary from a steakhouse to a variety of fast food chains. Let your appetite be your guide. Don’t be afraid to try new things. After all this region is a getaway filled with adventure.

As you enter town from the highway out of Sydney there is an array of Goulburn motel accommodations. Where you stay can vary from a motor inn to a bunkhouse on a local sheep farm. The latter of these stays will often include an opportunity to do some sheep shearing. Cost for accommodations will vary as much as the location.

There is something for everyone here. Whether you are planning a trip for the outdoors enthusiast or the antique shopper, even the beer critic you are bound to find something pleasing to all travel appetites. With the beautiful countryside adventures, abounding blues music and local historic attractions, this will be a vacation that will surely inspire others to visit Goulburn.

Hunter Valley is one of the world’s most acclaimed wine-producing regions. It is located in the Australian state of New South Wales. The valley is an extremely popular tourist destination and there are excellent accommodation facilities, plus lots to do and see. It is just an hour and a half drive from Sydney.  Making it a great location for a day trip or to stay a night or two in one of the many Hunter Valley Accommodation options available.

In 1797, European settlers accidentally discovered the Hunter River. The area was being searched by Lieutenant John Shortland for escaped prisoners. It quickly became a major supplier of coal and timber to steamships travelling to Sydney and its surrounding areas. By the year 1823, the region now known as Dalwood/Gresford featured 20 acres of vineyards that were planted on the river banks.

Following this, the valley began to flourish as many families turned to wine-making. These included the Wilkinson, Tyrrell and Drayton families, as well as the illustrious Dr Henry Lindeman. Still today, Lindemans wines are known all over the world. Each year they win national and international awards. The intriguing history of this early era can be seen at a number of historical villages and museums in the valley.

The winter months of April to October are the best times to visit Hunter Valley. The days are clear, sunny and cool, while the nights are chilly and crisp. After a busy day of sight-seeing, relax in a hot spa. Then enjoy a drink next to a roaring fire before dining by candlelight with a bottle, or two, of fine local wine.

Wine tours are obviously very popular. This region is best known for its superb Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz wines. Some of the best estates to visit are Pepper’s Creek, Tyrrell’s Vineyards, Lake’s Folly, Wyndham Estate, Lindemans, Rosemount Estate and Farrell’s Wines. Tasting a wine where it was made and chatting to the winemaker is something very special. Three other major estates are McWilliams, Rothbury Estate and Mt Pleasant.

The valley is also noted for its beautiful locally produced foods. The Tinker family, in addition to making wine, grows fantastic seasonal produce that includes avocados, figs, citrus, peaches, table grapes and nectarines. Everything is picked when perfectly ripe to ensure that no flavour is lost. These products can be purchased on site, along with many home-made jams, marmalades, pickles and relishes.

A perfect way to tour the valley is by horse-drawn carriage. Book a tour and relax as you travel through the gorgeous countryside. Spend the day wine-tasting and sampling locally produced chocolates, cheeses, olives and other delightful fare. Those with a more adventurous spirit can take a horse-back riding tour. This is a great way to experience the stunning scenery.

Apart from its wines, Hunter Valley is also noted for an award winning brewery. This is the Hunter Beer Company. For the last three years, it has received 13 bronze medals and 11 silver medals at the Australian International Beer Awards. Feel free to stop in any time and sample the beers, talk to the brewers or enjoy a relaxing Brasserie lunch in the beer garden cooked by fine chefs.

Think Australia and its sandy beaches and blue oceans come to mind. And the images spell ‘vacation’. Be it for a personal break or a family holiday, the quaint coastal towns in Australia are just what the doctor ordered. One such idyllic town is Nelson Bay. Situated at the centre of Port Stephens, New South Wales, its blue oceans make perfect backgrounds for those holiday snaps you cannot wait to send everyone.

If you are a snorkelling or scuba diving enthusiast, this town is your paradise. For a newbie, there are several diving schools whose facilities you can avail of. After a couple of days of the magical underwater world, you will never want to go back to any other way of life. For a first timer, the options are many. One can go swimming, whale watching or diving. If you would rather stay on terra firma, there are some places of historical interest that you can check out and some local events you can attend. But, beyond these, there are not many activities to be found on land. This town is basically water baby paradise.

The landscape is dotted with equipment rentals and diving schools. These are reasonably good and well priced. If you are on a diving expedition, it wont do to miss the Fly Point and Looking Glass in the centre of the island. It is a deep chasm that is like a hidey hole filled with the most amazing species of fishes.

Some of the other most well loved tourist activities here are whale watching and dolphin spotting. The yearly changes in the weather conditions and the water temperature cause the huge mammals to migrate to warmer climes. They move in hundreds and perhaps thousands. If you are lucky, some whales can be observed to be leaping out of the water, slapping the water with their tails and even spot calves. To see such an event is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You should definitely make time for this activity.

The best season to visit this town is in June and October. These are the months when migration is at its peak. To avoid being disappointed, do check in with the tour company and reserve spots beforehand.

Dolphin spotting is another very popular tourist attraction here. This is said to be the home of the bottle nosed dolphins. So, you will most definitely have positive sightings. Some tours also allow you to play with dolphins if they come near enough.

Another famous Port Stephens attraction is the lighthouse. It was built in the late eighteen hundreds and more recently was upgraded to solar power. It is now a heritage site and is a major tourist attraction. The views of the coastline from the lighthouse are simply breathtaking.

There are numerous Nelson Bay accommodation options to consider while choosing where you will stay in town. It is best to remember what all activities are on your to-do list and then choose an option close by. There are many bed and breakfasts and farm stays, that you will find, are just right.

The wineries are another reason to visit this town. During October, there are several music festivals held in the vineyard that will give a local flavour to your trip. A visit to Nelson Bay will not be complete without a trip to Anna Bay. If you are ready to give the camels there a try, do hop on. It will be one of the high points of your vacation.

If you want to fully understand the historic relevance of New South Wales and Sussex Inlet, just think that this large state includes Sydney, one of the most important Australian cities, where many different cultures manage to live together in harmony. The people who live in this part of the country are known as New South Welsh.

Now, the region in question boasts amazing towns, fantastic natural landscapes as well as important archaeological sites, such as Newcastle, Albury, Orange, Wollongong, Wagga Wagga, Coffs Harbour and so forth.

But why should one visit New South Wales, what is it in there that we can not miss? To start with, NSW has a coast that is considered among the most beautiful in Australia, not to talk about its breathtaking landscapes that tourists who are fond of all things natural always appreciate.

Returning to New South Wales, the region hosts towns that considered by many to be real Australian jewels, for they don’t count many inhabitants, yet attract many visitors, even though they are not actual touristic towns. That is probable because of the fantastic local wild life, the crystal blue rivers and the many wonderful spots. Water sports, for example, have made NSW quite famous all over Australia.

However, it seems that Sussex Inlet captures the special attention of a very particular class of tourists, which is composed of people who are in need of relaxation and wish to create a new contact with mother nature. That may be why the whole canal system of Sussex Inlet has become so popular and the business life of the town revolves around the so-called Island Township, which is also a very intriguing place to visit, so keep it in mind.

Over the last years, New South West has become a very suitable destination.

The Australian town of Sussex Inlet in particular has recently taken off, improving its touristic appeal, with a range of Sussex Inlet accommodation nsw including hotels, motels and cottages for renting. Of course, most visitors prefer to opt for a cottage by the sea than a hotel and/or a motel. That is probably because staying in such a beautiful place without enjoying its nature would be a total waste of time and money, considering that the best thing about this region is its wild life and not its cinemas, shopping centres and stores.

But lets see what things you can do once you have arrived in NSW: in the first place, there really is a plethora of water sports for you to choose from, such as canoeing, sailing, fishing and, of course, sightseeing. Just think that Sussex Inlet offers four boat ramps to let you go fishing whenever you like, no matter where you are.

The Swan Lake, in particular, is a beautiful place to go to and will enable you to enjoy the great calm and tranquillity of the water while watching the sunset. Moreover, Sussex Inlet boasts a long and interesting history which intrigues tourists who love to see the old fishers houses that were built many, many years ago.

Merimbula is located on Australia’s east coast. The small and secluded region is famous for swimming, surfing and fishing. It is a wonderful place to take a family vacation, a romantic trip away with a special person in your life or escape the rush of busy city life.

Finding somewhere to stay in Merimbula is easy because you can choose from a diverse array of Merimbula accommodation nsw. With opportunities to set up a camping site near the beach, stay in self contained 1 and 2 room apartments or relax in a luxurious resort. All these places are close to pristine beaches and right at the water’s edge. You will have spectacular views of the ocean where ever you stay here and the naturally welcoming environment puts the traveller instantly at ease.

The most economical way for a family to stay in this wonderful location is in a beach side cabin, which will give you access to lots of enjoyable activities. There is a distinct safe, calm and welcoming atmosphere present in this paradise, which provides the perfect setting for a family vacation. Children are safe to swim and play on the beach, while adults can partake in any number of exciting activities.

There is always something entertaining to do in Merimbula. Popular activities include Whale watching, swimming, surfing and walking along hiking trails through lush forests, offering the opportunity to experience unique vegetation and wildlife. An individual can also partake in many extreme water sports such as kite-boarding, scuba diving and reef or deep sea fishing.

This wonderful holiday paradise is only a day’s drive from one of two major cities, Melbourne and Sydney, where you can experience all the excitement a built up metropolitan city. Once a holidaymaker has experienced all that big city life can offer, it is a short car trip back to the secluded beach side town for a lazy afternoon beside the pool or on the beach.

The seafood found in this region is exceptional, with the freshest oysters available to those who enjoy this type of cuisine. An individual can even catch their own dinner, choose locally grown produce to accompany it, and then experience the pleasure of cooking it themselves on the beach while watching the sunset. The warm climate invites the guest to enjoy alfresco style dining at one of the many sumptuous restaurants in the area, catered by experienced chefs.

The best time of year to visit this wonderland is from October to February, allowing the traveller to experience a warm climate in which to sunbathe, swim and relax by the pool. The summer months are traditionally the peak time for visiting this area, however, when you visit during the winter, you will be amazed at the beautiful landscapes and rugged scenery a blustery day can offer.

When you are seeking a place to vacation that is relaxing or has plenty of adventurous activities, Merimbula is the location that you should visit. You will delight in the pristine beaches, lush forests and rugged coast line, all these features are distinctive to an Australian coastal experience.