7 amazing things to do in Australia's great outdoors before your croak it

AUSTRALIA'S landscapes are so vast and diverse, with so much to offer travellers who love an unforgettable outdoor experience. Hit the road and explore the great outdoors (and underground!) with one of these exciting adventures.

1. Hang gliding in one of Queensland’s popular seaside towns

Where: Port Douglas, 67km north of Cairns

Hang gliding is probably the closest you’ll ever come to experiencing what it’s like to fly like a bird. Admire Port Douglas’ stunning beaches and blue waters from above, while enjoying the thrill of take off and landing.

2. Horse riding in the Snowy Mountains

Where: Bago State Forest, 240 km south west of Canberra

Explore a stunning landscape on horseback with Mountain Ash Trails’ half day and full day rides. Ride through the gorgeous Tumbarumba region and spot kangaroos, brumbies and kookaburras along the way.

3. Cave exploring in Gippsland

Where: Buchan, 355km east of Melbourne

Underground a wonderland of ancient caves awaits, formed nearly 400 million years ago as rivers cut through limestone rock. Guided tours take you to see some of the amazing limestone formations, including Fairy Cave’s decorative stalactites and stalagmites, and the Royal Caves calcite-rimmed pools.

4. Walk the Bay of Fires (pictured)

Where: 275km north east of Hobart

Famous for its white beaches, turquoise waters and large boulders dusted with orange, Tasmania’s Bay of Fires is a must see on every traveller’s list. Take your time to stop and admire the breathtaking views of this untouched wilderness at every opportunity, because you’ll never see anything like it again.

5. Canoe along the Coorong

Where: Coorong Wetlands, 85 km south west of Adelaide

Take in the natural beauty of the Murray River, Lakes and Coorong with a kayak trip through the Coorong Wetlands, one of South Australia’s ‘best kept secrets’. You’ll also learn about the area’s fascinating wildlife and its importance to Indigenous culture.

6. Snorkelling in crystal clear waters

Where: Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, 47 km south of Perth

This marine park’s beautiful limestone islands, shipwrecks, reefs and sea life provide for excellent snorkeling and diving. Swim near bottlenose dolphins, spot little penguins, sea lions and also seabirds, which are rarely seen on the mainland.

7. Camel trekking in the Red Centre

Where: Alice Springs, 1,500 km south of Darwin

Marvel at the unique beauty of the Red Centre with Pyndan Camel Tracks’ sunset camel ride. Trek along the intriguing Ilparpa Valley, looking out for some of Australia’s iconic animals such as dingoes and kangaroos. All against a backdrop of stunning mountain ranges.

Scott Podmore

Award-winning writer, editor, photographer, videographer and owner of October Grey Media. Specialising in travel and lifestyle content and a full member of the Australian Society of Travel Writers. Has contributed regular content for the NewsCorp stable of newspapers and magazines, TravelTalk mag, The Departure Lounge and many more publications in Australia and internationally. Follow on Twitter & instragram #scottpodmore

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