Here’s the official top ten BEST places to visit in Australia this year, with a surprising destination topping the list.
More than ever, we’re being encouraged – forced even! – to explore more of our own backyard before wandering beyond the borders.
For one, it’s way less stressful due to the whole COVID crisis, but more importantly Australia is home to some of the most beautiful places on earth!
If you’re not sure where to start your travels, Wotif have just announced their annual Aussie Town Of The Year, with an unexpected but undoubtedly delightful destination sitting atop the list of ten finalists.
The Aussie travel provider announced the winner on their Instagram, “This just in! The Wotif Aussie Town of the Year for 2022 is… Launceston, Tassie!”.
“With it’s gorgeous historic cityscapes, stunning natural beauty, and incredible food and wine, Launceston really showcases Australia’s natural beauty. We love you, Launnie!”.
Yep, beating out sparkling Queensland beaches and rugged rocky NT parks, Tasmania’s Launceston took out the esteemed title.
According to Daniel Finch, Wotif’s Managing Director, Launcestion is tickling the fancy of many future travellers.
“Launceston’s fresh produce, renown sparkling wine, and commitment to great food is world-famous,” he said.
“With some of Tasmania’s most spectacular natural landmarks just a short drive away… it’s no surprise that demand for the city has grown by over 125 per cent on Wotif.com.”
Here’s the full Top Ten for Wotif’s Aussie Town Of The Year
10. Busselton, WA
Sitting on the southwest tip of Western Australia is the stunning beachside city of Busselton.
Highlights include the 2km long Busselton Jetty, Tuart Forest National Park and Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse.
9. Batemans Bay, NSW
Perched on south coast of New South Wales is the coastal beauty of Batemans Bay.
Highlights include kayaking on Lake Durras or the Clyde River, Birdland Animal Park, and Honeysuckle Beach Walking Track.
8. Halls Gap, VIC
This rugged Victorian village marks the gateway to Grampians National Park.
Highlights include the Venus Baths loop, The Pinnacle, Reed Lookout, and Silverband Falls.
7. Hervey Bay, QLD
You’ll have a whale of a time in Queensland’s Hervey Bay with beaches and boat trips galore!
Highlights include a whale-watching cruise, a day trip to Fraser Island and a stroll along The Esplanade.
6. Bright, VIC
The gateway to both Mount Buffalo National Park and Alpine National Park, Bright is a Victorian town best visited in Autumn!
Highlights include the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail, Bright Brewery, and Canyon Walk.
5. Adelaide Hills, SA
To the east of South Australia’s capital sits the sunny Adelaide Hills.
Highlights include the small towns of Stirling and Hahndorf, climbing Mount Lofty Summit, and wine tasting at McLaren Vale.
4. Yarra Valley, VIC
Nestled alongside the Yarra River, the Yarra Valley is home to some of Australia’s most equisite wineries and breathtaking views.
Highlights include hot air ballooning, wine sampling at a vineyard (or two!) and Healesville Sanctuary.
3. Tamworth, NSW
While you might know Tamworth for it’s Big Golden Guitar and Country Music Festival, there’s a lot more to this regional city in northeast New South Wales.
Highlights include the sprawling views from Oxley Scenic Lookout, walls and walls of memorabilia at the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame and endless trails along Chaffey Dam.
2. Caloundra, QLD
Swim, sip and shop in the Sunshine Coast’s most southernmost town of Caloundra.
Highlights include Kings Beach, the Caloundra Street Fair every Sunday, a day trip to Australia Zoo, and the pristine waters of Pumicestone Passage.
1. Launceston, TAS
This riverside city in Tasmania is the perfect culmination of panoramic views, earthy hiking trails and 19th century history.
Highlights include Cataract Gorge Reserve and the vineyards of the Tamar Valley.
Images: pen_ash, AimHighAustralia, fietzfotos, randersen & thefollowmg / pixabay
